Evidently Facebook doesn't consider the closed group "K D Waldo Fights" in violation of its policies. They supposedly reviewed it and found no objectionable content.
What "LIES" ahead is a very appropriate title. Let's hope that there is a quick end to the LIES that District employees like MARTIN FELTES tell and cost our taxpayers and ultimately the students money. FIRE of all the LIARS and District 131 may have a chance in 2015.
The reason Waldo, is doing nothing about this is that it is new policy of administration, to do nothing. Cyber bullying became law this month in Illinois, but the district and our union will look the other way.
Drugs are being sold in hallways everyday.
Fights have no negative consequence.
Mod action is no longer enforced.
Weapons are no longer a expellable action.
Rival gangs have taken over the Freshman Center 2nd and 3rd floor.
Gloztbach and Byrd looked the other way when a chair nearly missed hitting a teacher in the Dreams program.
Advice to the parent at Waldo; If you rent find another district today. If not, sell your house this is a horrible district. The teachers care, but the administration is the problem. When you read of maintenance scandals not being addressed you should try to teach.
After months of coverups I would be outraged as a taxpayer of 131. To not even get given a written response shows what is going on. The only way to change 131 is to change the current board.
Hull, Peryea, Garfalo and Garza are running in support of eachother. Although Garfalo and Garza are new Garafalo is the sister of the lawyer who is a long time neighbor of Feltes and involved in making excuses. when looking her up Feltes and Garafalo live on the same block Donna Ave. Garza had petitions circulated by Hull. This is reason enough not to elect her.
Lies ahead are a coverup between Popp, Feltes and Tyler. The only ones who can put a stop to it is the BOE. With his best friend Leonard on the BOE don't look for that to happen. I am very disappointed by Strand and Peryea they claimed transparency and it turned into their greed, power and ego. Hull has always been crazy and his insults towards white teachers alone should have had him thrown off the BOE.
It is good to know about Garfalo and Garza. Darby has kids in school and has attended every board meeting. Lewis was always responsible. I will be looking into the backgrounds of the others and will not allow myself to get fooled again.
Jan 8 2015 Matthew Hanley, FOIA Officer East Aurora School District 131 417 5th Street Aurora, IL 60505
Re: FOIA Request for Documents
Dear Mr. Hanley
1 All purchase orders, invoices and other justifying documents for business conducted with Sunbelt Rental, Aurora Il for the calendar year 20104.
2 All purchase orders, invoices and documents pertaining to the December 2014 work performed at the Urban League office. Reports, Inspections, Service calls, to be included.
3 All emails to PCS Industries from and to Marty Feltes and David Rana for the months of Sept Oct Nov Dec 2014.
I understand that the Act permits a public body to charge a reasonable copying fee not to exceed the actual cost of reproduction and not including the costs of any search or review of the records. I am asking that any fees be waived per 5ILCS140/6(c).
I wouldn't be too quick to judge Garza just for using Hull to get her petition signed. She is very active in her community and has children in three EA schools. My vote is with her. She has vested interest besides her kids, she was raised and works in Aurora. Lewis was part of the beginning of the downfall and moving backwards from transparency. Johnson wants her control and Lewis is a willing puppet.
Living in and working at East I closely follow both districts. It makes one wonder if many of these problems are not related to Tyler, or Tyler working with a bad Superintendent.
West Aurora had a 75 million referendum and meanwhile East Aurora nearly passed a 32 million referendum in 07. Quickly, West was spending more than they took in. Tyler mismanaged the average daily attendence numbers and West Aurora was fined. West had the same insurance as East. East eventually discovered fraud and got new insurance. Today West is broke and running a referendum. Since Dr Popp East is going broke and spending more than they are taking in. I also read of problems with proverty reporting. Does the proverty not fall under Tyler?.
My observations in working at East is the rank and file are very vigilant and will report corruption. The past leadership under Roberts did not allow it once discovered. The district also has a Mr Padron and at least one honest Board member (Johnson) . As a footnote the new Superintendent at West cleaned up the insurance and is working on other financial issues. At East we now have a bad Superintendent and Tyler along with a bad board. However, we still have a vigilent community with many people running that want good things for EA. I think that is good news for East.
The last two years have seen positive change in 131 with the cleaning up of financial chaos. It seems Popp is unwilling to continue the same pattern. If Garza is working with Hull and was not motivated to get her own names she is be beholding to him and would not be a good candidate. I seen her at her first meeting Monday and was not impressed. Mr Darby however comes to every meeting and did all his own work petitioning for the position. He currently serves as Band parent president and spoke against corruption many times. We do not need a puppet for Hull.
To another two cents worth. Don't forget Lewis was the one who made the board get the list of bills on the board packet in the name of transparency. She was not part of the downfall. That happened when hull, strand and peryea got to elect a new superintendent from D204 and bring in his friends. She was always a huge band supporter, pushed to get the gifted program back and many new extra curricular opportunities at the schools.
I read the article on West it is interesting they need 94 million. East Aurora added 3 building and expanded the HS under the past administration. The schools also had many programs returned and building did receive major repairs. Over 200 teachers got hired and wages increased. Then came Hull and Popp. Now teachers are threaten with job loss told they can't educate the kids and programs are on the chopping block. it was announced at a board meeting that art programs could get cut. They blame it on the State. Taxes in the district will also increase over 9%.
Ms Garza may be a fine person but she has not attended board meetings to understand the distruction of Hull. Darby has along with Lewis. Arroyo has been working in the EA community for years along with Laesch. Both have attended many school meetings perhaps they have a better understanding anyone who is associated with Hull and Juanita Wells will not get my vote.
Feltes does not use a computer so Rana logs in as Feltes and approves all purchase orders. Before Rana it was Roger Carlson. To this day the man does not know how to attach a file to a email. He is illiterate and everyone knows it. What he does know is how to pick up the phone and call outsiders or cronies of his in to his job. He goes around and before they can assign certified maintenance workers to fix a problem and calls his cronies. Daily maintenance workers show up only to find the job completed or a crony working on it. He has never filled out a work ticket or closed one. Since Feltes started over 4 million in repairs have been spent on outside cronies. At the last board meeting he and Tyler were asked why is approved capital improvements over budget by one million. He could not answer that. We will tell you why. He managed all the projects and creates change orders with nobody's approval. His budget is a reflection of him. the Kinder center almost did not open because of him and his change orders. Every project he has touched has had problems. He stold money from the kids track for a $400,000 humified closet in the basement of East. why, because of cronies
Popp and Hull know this and have done nothing. Johnson lost her board position because of him. Leonard did not like Roberts reigning him in. It was revealed at the time he started doing what he was accused of doing now. To this day Feltes calls Johnson a b**ch and Roberts a lazy a** well you fill in the blanks. If everything is wonderful why has nobody stopped him.
If anyone goes to board meetings this has been going on with Feltes and the the List of Bills a couple months after Feltes started. Popp or the six board members have no excuse
On Monday a maintenance budget was presented it was interesting in that Tyler did all the talking. She claimed I don't know. She prepared the budget and approves the bills so that is a lame excuse. I have no confidence that Dr Popp can lead or manage the districts money. It seems to the audenience if you go over budget nobody is going to question you.
Question: What does Feltes do that warrants a one hundred and thirty thousand dollar salary?? He can't even send an email! Not to mention he has been caught stealing from US the taxpayers! Who on G-d's green earth is not getting this?? 1-3-0 to do nothing...NOTHING BUT CHEAT AND STEAL! Wake up District Board of Education! Is ANYONE in charge NOT corrupt? What is so freaking special about this idiot?! Does he have dirt on someone...? UGH!
Feltes is a freind of Leonard that is why the Board keeps him. He also lives in Ward One were people come out to vote. He spends his days at the social clubs there. Look for him to campaign for Hull, Garza, and Peryea. Garafola is sister to the crook lawyer and will help these fools also get elected she is a neighbor of his.
They can try but many of us also work at the SSC or the Hill and live there also and have spread the word about our Board. A new Board needs to be committed to a cleanup "period". We are sick to our stomachs our tax money and reputions are part of this district. Dr Popp has been told by many about Feltes instead of taking action he has punished us. Hanley was caught snooping around our desks. Mr Ali resigned because he would not spy on our emails.
Candidates you will get asked about cleanup and that is who we will endorse Mr Darby has already committed to change. We will not support Garza because of Hull. Garafalo is a true conflict and neighbor to Feltes. We were lied to once by Stand and Peryea never again
If the school board were not corrupt enought I noticed they are hiding board meeting information now. For years it was under BoardBooks on the first page. That button was removed within the last week. After hunting I have found it under board of education. A simple note and link on Facebook would have been nice for the worthless Mr Hadley.
Feltes does not realize everyone knows he is there because he was a crony to the Board. That said
Feltes turned 65 this August and plans to retire at the end of his contract. A deal is in the works with Glotzbach to retire him with full pay in June. He has boosted his retirement with high earnings. If the district fires him now he will not get his 100 days in with IMRF. Again, another loser collecting off the taxpayers. Allowing him to approve purchase orders is a joke. Staff has constantly told Popp. He also has hostile work claims filed against him. They have never been resolved. In fact Tyler now has meetings without Feltes present to create a better work enviroment. Any other employee would get displined if the hostile work claims were proved.
Dr Popp is about coverup the community needs to know and with the current situation on the board we are heading into a very dangerous period. In fact the old timers will tell you the serial bully days are back times ten .
While Dr Popp still talks about a Administrative Center and how he is going to sneak one past the community his old district plans on air conditioning buildings. They ponder something good for kids he ponders something good for himself. The residents of 204 are laughing all the way to the bank on getting rid of this bozo.
In fact if he had been so great why didn't they hire him? Why was he never promoted to Asst Superintendent? During election we want answers from Peryea and Hull. How can the board allow him to promote a Administrative Center?
KD Waldo fights shows the school district for what it is. It has links to Latin Kings and Queens. Where is the school district and parents. Do the parents even know what the kids are doing. I have left messages with Mr Popp and all I get is messages to call Thrackerburg. He will not return a call talk about a run around. I hate this school district. Just a bunch of do nothing's
My kids attend Waldo there are at least three to five fights a day. Before school let out they had a fight involving over 100 kids all started by girls.
To: Dr Michael Popp (Superintendent) Christi Tyler (Asst Superintendent Finance) District 131 East Aurora
From: Ralph Padron
Subject: Inquiry of Marty Feltes Application & Dist 131 Mishandling of Hiring Purchasing Agent
I would like to bring to your attention several observations made upon examining Mr Feltes’s employment application.
1 It is apparent he is NOT computer literate. Was a skills test given to validate his claim.
2 Regarding “Purchasing Experience”, placing orders and purchasing are two different tasks. IF he is qualified to be a Purchasing Mgr, why is it necessary for Bernie Weiler to train the new employee?
3 Reference the attached “Job Description” it can be proven that there are multiple violations in not adhering to many of the responsibilities REQUIRED.
4 The most obvious questions are as follows A Did anyone do a background check/test to validate Mr Feltes’s qualifications? B When the job title/responsibilities changed to Director of Bldg & Grnds, the salary went from $85K to $120K annually, how could this be justified and what warranted this description to be changed? It is obvious the key parts were customized to accommodate his hiring.
5 With the recent “Purchasing Scandal” surfacing publicly, evidence has been presented to prove many of the responsibilities required have been violated and in many cases warrants criminal charges.
6 There appears to be a movement to “Cover Up” and not respond to inquiries and public comments which have been presented to the Superintendent despite the claim of Total Transparency for District 131.
With the recent hiring of a totally inexperienced person for the position of Purchasing Agent, I find this appalling that Taxpayer money be used for someone to be trained in an important position with no purchasing qualifications. What is even more disturbing is the employee was a co-worker with Ms Tyler at West Aurora Scholl District 129. Certainly appears that this position will be under the control of the Asst Finance Director.
Does the Job Description match up with the person’s experience? Obviously not, and why wasn’t this position advertised correctly as “Trainee for Purchasing Agent”.
Finally I hope that pay scales have been adjusted in the B&G department and STIPEND’s terminated for those being compensated.
When the Melody Hiring was called into question with evidence of “Lying” on her application and no action was taken, I am requesting a written response to these very disturbing issues.
Today A long time employee will get fired because he blew up at Feltes. Rana and Byrd claimed the employee was going to hurt Feltes. Glotzbach told him you have witnesses against you. He claimed he has angry at Feltes but did not do it.
Joan then suspended him. Joan then said we will not go to the police if you leave. Meanwhile no discipline for Feltes who steals millions. The latest in district setups. The employee was not represented when talking with Glotzbach be careful administration is sending everyone a message they can set you up at any time. Medina is selling us out. the employee setup worked here over 15 years without a problem.
At tonight's meeting Ray Hull was calling teachers names again He now says his daughter education was so terrible he is able to share. He called teachers lazy and claimed they did not care about children. Who is he to talk he is full of hate but calls himself a Minister.
He also stated is happiest time is when he is away from the board. Please do us a favor Mr Hull keep your racist self far away from children. They do not need your poison.
It is IL State Law that anyone working in a School District get a background check and be finger printing. Did he get finger printed. All these board members are corrupt and we as voters can do something about it and not vote for the ones running.
Gloztbach did not do a background check or finger printing checks. Is was also revealed The former business manager claimed bankruptcy. Glotzbach allowed him to handle millions at one point the district also had missing cash from student fees again no investagation when office staff told her. Under Popp Glotzbach was awarded by being named second in charge even though she does not have a Superintendents endorsement.
The Board paid a $80,000 payment for Glotzbach's mistakes. Hull and Peryea lead the charge. It is time everyone really look at the way your tax dollars are spent.
Teachers please review the BOE meeting minutes of Raymond Hull from Yesterday's BOE meeting. He makes its very clear how much he hates the teachers of East Aurora. It is time the Community elects a Board that does not have a racist and a bigot on it. Ms Peryea your remarks also leave much to be desired. PLEASE ELECT A NEW BOARD. LISTEN WATCH HEAR
Teachers- since Ray Hull has nothing good to say about us but racist slandering, let's contact the EEOC and put in a formal complaint- none of his comments would be tolerated if he were white-- He is supposed to be the leader of all of us and just because we are white we are lazy--It wasn't right when it happened in Selma, Ray, and it isn't right now-- breaking and separating us on the basis of race- Ray this is ILLEGAL and since all of your comments have been videotaped, we have plenty of fodder to get rid of you-- you may be an interesting individual Ray but you are no leader for a diverse district.
Because of all the FOIA requests Dr Popp gave orders to all administrators to be careful what we write via email. He now says text message is the way to go. It becomes much harder to recover those. Administrators then instructed staff members. We all know Dr Popp has something to hide what is it?
The information you have given is helping us greatly in gathering the facts we need to prove without a doubt the corruption and other nefarious things going on in District 131.
All info. is kept strictly confidential!
Please keep sending it here:
ralphpadrontips@gmail.com
La información que han dado nos está ayudando mucho en la obtención de la información que necesitamos para demostrar sin lugar a dudas la corrupción y otras cosas nefastas en el distrito 131.
Read a great editorial in the Voice today regarding corruption in East Aurora Schools. The Beacon should do their job and report this also. Handley is using his old pals at the Beacon to sensor the news. Too bad the Beacon is such a rag.
Thank you for writing to East Aurora School District 131 with your request for information pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.
On Jan. 14, 2015, you requested the following documents: - All Michael Popp emails to or from Bernie Weiler and the Board of Education regarding “list of bills” from Aug. 1, 2014 to Nov. 1, 2014
Your request is denied for the following reasons:
There are no documents responsive to your request.
You have a right to have the denial of your request reviewed by the Public Access Counselor (PAC) at the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). You can file your Request for Review with the PAC by writing to: Public Access Counselor - Office of the Attorney General 500 South 2nd Street Springfield, Illinois 62706 Fax: 217-782-1396 E-mail: publicaccess@atg.state.il.us
You also have the right to seek judicial review of your denial by filing a lawsuit in the State circuit court. 5 ILCS 140/11.
If you choose to file a Request for Review with the PAC, you must do so within 60 calendar days of the date of this denial letter. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). Please note that you must include a copy of your original FOIA request and this denial letter when filing a Request for Review with the PAC.
Matt Hanley Assistant Director of Community Relations East Aurora School District 131 (630) 299-5534 mhanley@d131.org
Thank you for writing to East Aurora School District 131 with your request for information pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.
On Jan. 14, 2015, you requested the following documents: - All Michael Popp emails to or from Bernie Weiler and the Board of Education regarding “heat exchangers” from Aug. 1, 2014 to Nov. 1, 2014
Your request is denied for the following reasons:
There are no documents responsive to your request.
You have a right to have the denial of your request reviewed by the Public Access Counselor (PAC) at the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). You can file your Request for Review with the PAC by writing to: Public Access Counselor - Office of the Attorney General 500 South 2nd Street Springfield, Illinois 62706 Fax: 217-782-1396 E-mail: publicaccess@atg.state.il.us
You also have the right to seek judicial review of your denial by filing a lawsuit in the State circuit court. 5 ILCS 140/11.
If you choose to file a Request for Review with the PAC, you must do so within 60 calendar days of the date of this denial letter. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). Please note that you must include a copy of your original FOIA request and this denial letter when filing a Request for Review with the PAC.
Matt Hanley Assistant Director of Community Relations East Aurora School District 131 (630) 299-5534 mhanley@d131.org
Hmm? Mysterious missing documents? So much for transparency in District 131.
I hope people are starting to realize what happens with their taxes is directly related to the corruption, lies and outright theft by employees like Marty Feltes and supported by others like Dick Leonard, Dave Rana and Christi Tyler. Biggest offender- Dr. Popp for letting it all happen. All taking advantage of the students and taxpayers!! I don't think it gets much lower than that....
Hull is Popps main protector and he is proud off that. He has used his racist remarks to call staff names and allow coruption to continue. Hull was well aware of what was going on in maintenance and to keep his power look the other way.
Peryea's only message is things are better with Dr Popp. We all get along except for one . Last year she solicited feed back now she tells us I can't talk with you. This women is totally corupt and another who during the last campaign took our money and told us things will get better.
Then you have Leonard well I guess we all know. He distroyed many good men just to get his freind a job. He accused us of stealing. He have worked hard for this district. A degreed Architech was fired who saved the district millions only to hire his freind without ability
Then you have Strand who ran on the staff and students need better working conditions. She allows Hull to insult us because we are white. She allows Feltes to swear at us and steal. If asked now tells us donate to church and I have to support Popp.
Tursa and Gonzalez are do nothing rubber stamps is the Superintendent. The picture of Tursa patting Popp on the face says it all.
Then we have Johnson who only cares about the money and taxpayers. She has voted no and seems to try to stop coruption single handed but she is so bitter. Staff now thinks she is are only hope.
Thank you for writing to East Aurora School District 131 with your request for information pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.
On Jan. 8, 2015, you requested the following documents: - All purchase orders, invoices and documents for business conducted with Sunbelt Rental from Jan. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2014.; - All purchase orders, invoices and other documents for work done at the East Aurora Extension building from Dec. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2014. - All emails to or from Dave Rana to or from PCS Industries from Sept. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2014.; - All emails to or from Marty Feltes to or from PCS Industries from Sept. 1, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2014.
Under the Freedom of Information Act, a public body may extend the time to respond to a request by up to 5 business days for a limited number of reasons. 5 ILCS 140/3(e).
East Aurora School District 131 is extending the time to respond to your request by five days for the following reason(s):
(v) the requested records require examination and evaluation by personnel having the necessary competence and discretion to determine if they are exempt from disclosure under Section 7 of this Act or should be revealed only with appropriate deletions;
The public body asserts the following facts in support of the above reasons for an extension of time:
The requested documents require a review by attorneys to determine if redactions are necessary.
You can expect our response on or before Jan. 23, 2015.
Sincerely,
Matt Hanley Assistant Director of Community Relations East Aurora School District 131 (630) 299-5534 mhanley@d131.org
From: Marty Feltes Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2014 7:20 PM To: Jesse Vargas Subject: Today's tasks Jesse, Exactly what have you accomplished today???? I have left you phone messages and you have not responded. Are you not having any luck finding another job?? If you need a letter of recommendation I will gladly wright it for you. It is obvious that you are not part of the B&G team . Sent from my iPhone 193
As a resident of EA I have not followed the goings on of EA other than to see they voted a big tax increase in. Now I read the Voice today and read about all the mismanagement of our tax dollars. Last week in The Voice they talked about just looking at the budget now. This again is after a big tax increase was voted on. Really? and then it was one member questioning it. Now this? Why is the board not asking about all these purchasing scandals? Better yet why is the Hanley ( another waste of tax payer dollars) stopping Mr Padrons request for emails. These are not his private emails they are the taxpayers of this district. I am more angry everyday that this is being allowed to continue.
The value of my house has fallen and my taxes have gone up and now this. Please board show some morality and either clean it up now and turn over all emails to the public for viewing of resign.
While writing a blog comment this pops I wonder what other emails they are hiding? Really Board turn over the taxpayers emails of the last year or resign. If not I will be working very hard to fire Peryea and Hull. At least Turza and Gonzalez showed some ethics and resigned.
I sorry but Johnson knew about some of these things and now that she isn't in charge she votes no. What has she done to stop these things except to vote no. If as a board member I had facts about these things I would talk to the ROE and if nothing is done find the right source to stop it.
Johnson, agreed was to slow about cleaning things up and protected Roberts. What Johnson did do is clean up the credit cards and insurance eventually. That is better than six other board members who do nothing. I would rather have her who is willing to vote no than someone who is a rubber stamp. In calls to the ROE my experience is they are also do nothing's but the community needs to hold officals accountable.
I have reviewed the people running and will not support Garza for sure. She had Hull petition for her. We need a new board that will commit to this cleanup. I think the public should get to know the candidates. I hope that they have a group of debates that will focus on transparentcy, education and general questions.
The ROE has had a long history of covering up for the district. They should have been abolished years ago. Look at the numberous issued revealed by teachers in ROE audits. We get punished and no support by talking to the ROE. They have no purpose but to take fingerprints. When it was reported the former business manager had no fingerprints they did not enforce that rule either. If you do not have a board to enforce the rules you are screwed in Illinois.
The board in EA has allowed Hull to insult us they need to go.
Johnson only took the credit cards from them she did not make them pay back the money they stole from the district by using them for personal stuff. In fact one person paid their phone bill with the card at about $750.00. One paid for their parking at the Casino. She only took them because The Beacon did a story on it. No one board member can run the district. All of them are at fault.
Today employees are harassed in maintenance daily. This is how he writes but how he speaks is worse. We are constantly attacked, he has wasted millions, bids have been violated, crimes are being committed and kick backs are happening. PCS industries has a personnel relationship with Rana, Feltes hangs out with district contractors who he pushs business to. Now Leonard got a union member put on leave. Everyone on the board is well aware and although Johnson votes no that is not enough. Hull promised us a better working enviroment along with Strand and Peryea. it is more out of control than ever. PLEASE HELP THE KIDS OF AURORA and elect a new board.
As we see it Hull is allowed to use abusive language regarding the staff so that's why Feltes think he can Please AURORA HELP THE STAFF elect a new board
wow Ralph dodging, bobbing and weaving, they are shredding and deleting like crazy over there!!It really looks bad Matt, when you deny these requests, because it makes it look as if there are some terrible malfeasances going on..... Where there is smoke there is fire..
Why doesn't tge BOE speak up and turn over the Emails. They claim to to be sooooo transparent. I have heard Peryea say at every meeting the are getting more information than every before. I guess it's ok if you are on the BOE but the he** to the public. Sad
What do you have a Union for if they do nothing. There is also the Whistle Blower you can use. You employees are the ones with the information about what is going on. This district has the same problem it has had for awhile and that is the board thinks it should run the district not their one employee.
Only 60 students at the Quad County Urban League building. WOW! would I like to teach there. Staff at EAHS "the white middle class teacher" works in a building that is so overcrowded during passing period the hallways back up so bad they stop and lines form just to turn a corner. We have a Dreams program currently, plus Alternative Ed classes going on at EA. The building is running until 8 pm with no PPAs. We complained because our worthless (IFT) would not stick up for us. They claim the BOE has no more money to hire them. Stupid question? Why are these students not at the Quad? Some building management! It was reported the BOE paid their mortgage payment, utilities, insurance and repairs. The Quad is also allowed to continue operations in a building 131 pays for. Then I read, they paid a new alarm. The Tech. staff was there for weeks making improvements. This while most computers have connection issues and run so slow students refuse to use them at EA. Tech also reports more new computers sitting idle at Quad. Why are kids who follow the rules not given the same rights? I appears to be another BOE blunder or Hull paying off the Afro American community. It also shows the poor leadership running this district. What a difference a year makes. I bet d204 was happy to get rid of Popp, Truckenbrod and Brown. All worked at 204 and rejected from 204.
Up until now, I have given Dr Popp the benefit of the doubt., Feeling he needed time and in a effort to keep peace with Leonard he went along with Feltes. I was one of a silent Minority that still hoping the new administration would take hold.
Now, I read about stopping the FOIA requests for emails that is troubling. It has come to a point that Feltes should have received some displine or get fired outright. Then to read another brewing issue. Denying emails. Really?
If THIS is what Feltes does to the employees of the district in ONE email, can you imagine what the others contain!? The Facts are right in front of you BOE! Yeah, I would guess they are devoting someone to deleting the emails off of the server full-time. More law suits to come is what I have heard. You can't bully, lie and steal without expecting the public will find out about it eventually, thanks to people like Mr. Padron.
hull needs to reflect on the true meaning of Dr King. dr King would never group people he would believe in equality. It is because of people like Hull there is still racial divide in the USA.
From: R Padron (ralphpadron@hotmail.com) Sent: Fri 12/19/14 3:13 PM To: Michael A Popp (mpopp@d131.org); Christi Tyler (ctyler@d131.org) Hi again Mike
In other words you will not give me a written response which is vital to insuring the issues are "black and white" as is the districts position/answers to many a controversial topic.
Reference the trash bags and box, I am willing to pay for these. That would insure taxpayer resources are not being compromised.
Please give me the cost and I will send a check Look forward in resolving these issues Ralph ________________________________________ From: MPOPP@d131.org To: ralphpadron@hotmail.com; ctyler@d131.org Subject: RE: 2nd request Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2014 21:05:22 +0000 Hi Ralph, My preference is to speak with people who present questions during public comment so that I, or one of my staff members, can answer any other questions that may come up during the dialogue. I have practiced this with my cabinet members since April, and will continue to do so as I believe it is more productive in developing a relationship. The trash bags and carton were purchased with tax-payer dollars; in a different circumstance, I am sure that you would agree that we shouldn’t be giving away district resources to everyone who asks for them. Mike From: R Padron [mailto:ralphpadron@hotmail.com] Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 3:00 PM To: Michael A Popp; Christi S Tyler Subject: RE: 2nd request Greetings My request is for a written response on multiple issues . Appears you are avoiding this in writing. What is the reason for denying me the trash bags and carton Thank you Ralph ________________________________________ From: MPOPP@d131.org To: ralphpadron@hotmail.com CC: ctyler@d131.org Subject: RE: 2nd request Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2014 20:50:20 +0000 Hi Ralph, I believe Christi and I answered questions you had for us in our phone conversation. We are denying your request for our trash bags. Have a peaceful and restful holiday! Mike From: R Padron [mailto:ralphpadron@hotmail.com] Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 6:42 AM To: Michael A Popp; Christi S Tyler Subject: 2nd request Good Morning When can I expect formal written responses to my previous letters and Board Comments. It has bee quite some time for many of the above and it appears my request is being overlooked. Please review all previous correspondence and provide an update. Thank you Ralph
Padron does not work for the district but he is willing to speak up for us. Yes you can bet they are deleting them. One of the requests is emails between the BOE and Popp.
I would think Johnson has those emails and should turn them over. She is always outspoken.
it appears Dr Pop does not want to answer anything in writing its easy to lie to someone and say they misinterpreted what was said.
Why will Popp not sell a case of trash bags could it be that they are not getting what they ordered. Again Dr Popp nobody believes you because you have lie to often to cover up for Feltes. It seems Padron is the only one who is looking out for us.
Also! I agree turn over the emails what are you hiding?
Somebody WILL have a copy those emails if they were carbon copied. If Hanley can't locate them on their server, he needs to go to individual accounts. Some emails and documents are already known to exist. Not supplying them or destroying them is in direct violation of the Freedom Of Information Act.
Employees need to start speaking up! You are not only protected by your union, but depending on the case several other entities as well! The Department of Labor for example. I would not underestimate our union. The above mentioned Whistleblower's act protects you from your employer's retaliation for reporting and exposing corruption etc. If you are disciplined for using you Family Medical Leave act, report it! This is illegal. Report harassment! We have rights, but if we don't use them, we will lose them!
Sent to Bd Of Ed, Dr Popp, Bernie Weiler, Joan Glotzbach, Christi Tyler & Matt Hanley today
Greetings to all
Have attached copy of IASB Illinois Law regarding FOIA's. I am requesting that Dist 131 staff and all Board Members review these regulations are in compliance with the recent response of "Documents do not exist" regarding emails.
To all Board of Ed Dist 131 Members:
I am requesting that if you have emails referencing the "key words" contained in my request, please bring this to the Superintendents attention via email.
Regarding Dr Popp's pattern of 1 Intentionally avoiding answering my inquiries, Board Meeting Comments, & emails for whatever reason 2 Evasive answers maintaining he has replied satisfactorily to the subject in question 3 Holding several administrators accountable for UNACCEPTABLE & INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR 4 Failing to discipline those individuals at the Bldg & Grounds who blatantly insured PCS Industries receive puchases of $ 100K + 5 Appears to be covering up these activities and individuals for whatever reasons
Regarding recent response to Marty Feltes emails from July 1 - July 7 2014
Upon reviewing the entire file sent, there appears several repetitive emails which need to be streamlined and/or avoided to reduce the quantity received.
I would be deeply disappointed if any Board Member or staff member is withholding documents which can support my FOIA'S and ongoing audit of East Aurora Dist 131.
There are many more issues surfacing & being finalized to present in accordance with Protocol to each and everyone of you.
Again I attach the email discovered regarding the intimidation, antagonistic, and unprofessional handling of a matter by Mr Feltes
Please do the right thing and demand release of the emails in question.
I do not believe the the BOE cares for our students much less the way staff is treated. The taxpayers? They only care about their votes and their money.
The BOE and administration care ONLY for themselves and their POLITICS. Everyone else be damned.
Asking them to do the right thing at this point is futile. Facts via FOIA,people coming forth with facts and voting in NEW and ETHICAL board members is what will defeat them. The people they are running over for the sake of cronyism and lining their pockets are well-liked in this community and come election time people will come out and speak out against these corrupt BOE members and their friends. More emails like the ones Feltes wrote will come out and will be addressed. If these documents start disappearing they will have to answer to a higher authority.
You can see they are covering up. Felteis and Popp should be fired . What else are they hiding? The board needs to do the right thing . If they have nothing to hide turn them over. They seem to forget the community ownes the school district not them
At a recent meeting Hull told us we are guests at the board meeting and the board meeting is for the board members. Upon complaining, none of them brothered to answer except Peyrea. Her answer was Hull is correct and i should not be so negative. She claims the community is happy with the new leadership. What rock is she under. With the many issues not getting addressed with wasteful spending and corruption I am spreading words to all my Freinds and neighbors.. a new board is needed.
I am outraged as a taxpayer in this district. The answers by Tyler show her level of skill and coverup. People are well paid on this district to do their jobs not get trained on the job.
Mr Handley is also another waste it shows he is covering up for Feltes.
I have to work to pay my high taxes so I am greatful to Mr Padron for exposing them.
I am also disappointed that the board hired a Superintendent in training that has not fixed these issues. It shows that the district is a free for all. Allowing employees to purchase what they want. I am so glad my hard earned money supports this
It's Matt Hanley and he is the Assistant Director of Community Relations and the and the Freedom Of Information Act Officer. He is the one responsible for responding to requests for information we are allowed by law to see from the district. http://www.d131.org/NewsInfo/FreedomofInformationact.asp
The article in the Beacon News shows a pattern of coverup in Dr Popps administration. Tyler claims all is well now that we have her friend working in purchasing. I have attended meetings with Clever and the women does not have a clue. She has never done purchasing, nor does she understand public bidding on anything. She is also very rude to the secretaries who call for purchase orders. Everyone knows this was patronage and will end up the same way as Feltes. It was embrassing that Popp did not insist Tyler follow the rules.
A recent comment was made to Gloztbach and she made it very clear that was not her choice and Tyler is on her own with Clever. Popp has lost all respect and many are counting his days. He opted to play politics instead of run the district.
In other newsTyler misreported attendance data at West Aurora and they were forced to repay millions to the State. Many of us warned her at East she is not following procedure. The district counts students who come for a couple of hours as all day. A log is being kept and Tyler will get turned in at the end of the year. Don't let Dr Popp lie the proverty numbers will only correct themselves next year. Title money's will get reduced. The residents need to be very aware of her 129 is in poor financial condition because of her. Smith asked her to leave at West and she does not have good relations with them. I know budget details are hard to get but Johnson needs to look closer. We are not accountants but her adjustments are in the millions daily one mistake after another. She makes it very clear Crystal Financial did the budget and monthly reports for her at West.
DICK LEONARD intimidates Popp and others to keep FELTES on the payroll. They want to keep him until he can retire at the end of his contract and collect on all the benefits he had being employed by the District! He will continue to take our money even after he is gone if this occurs! Shame on Dick Leonard and all who support him in his quest to keep his buddy Martin Feltes on the job.
Today is MLK day and your comments of hate and racism have destroyed the employee moral of 131. You have commented to many about racial divide. If you want true equality for all you message of the middle class white teacher have no place in 131.
I work at the Preschool Center. All summer I would watch this Bozo show up and hold court. Contractor after Contractor would come up and meet in his truck drink coffee, eat donuts and smoke. This would go on until about 9 am every morning. It never occurred to me until reading the Beacon yesterday why he was not meeting in the office the district provided at the work site. He was making back room deals. It always irirrated me that this was going on. I through every worker at 131, is certainly not allowed to smoke on the job , and take two hour coffee breaks.
Hull did know about this after some staff members made jokes to him. Staff at the Preschool Center said he was protected by the BOE. I guess some of the white middle class work and other don't.
After last night all the BOE members need to go. A petition needs to start to remove them.
Leonard said, we need a Sup from a turnaround district. Is that admitting you hired the wrong guy? Or are you mad at Popp about Feltes.
Hull is a racist and can not see we have a heavily Hispanic district. His comments about staff have a racist bent. Then he states , I only insulted 80% of the teaching body because I am diversity. No Mr Hull you have publically stated we are lazy. He seems to forget the survey he keeps quoting or the fact we don't want to hear about Carla Johnson's horse.
Peryea can only talk about the past and how Johnson ran the district. It's time to get over it and focus on students.. Really? It's time to focus on this administration and the poor job they are doing. No, everything is not great.
Johnson needs to remember her own words last night and move forward. Roberts let the coruption run in 131 so to defend it just looks silly. You may have had to fix many things but remember it went on for many years until you finally addressed it. That was silly.
Padron brings up good points but at some point needs to give it a rest.
Darby is correct why is the administration back to the good old days of credit card abuse?
Strand is a bubble head and adds nothing. She stated she to work to bring kindness to the district. So far she has let Hull publically abuse us.
Popp needs to get off his soap box admit the district has problems and move forward. Dr Popp very little is working.
We need a new BOE that can work with each other. PERIOD. Act like adults and learn from your mistakes.
Sometimes a few taxpayer dollars need to be used (not "wasted") in order for many THOUSANDS of taxpayer dollars to be saved.
And about the supposed liars...what's preventing YOU from presenting your own version of the truth? As always, this blog provides an opportunity for all viewpoints and perspectives to be expressed. Want to see more mention of the great things happening in our district? Go ahead, post away!
Looks like Hanley was up working late. Why are there so many disgruntled employees? Could it be that working with incompetence and dishonesty all day makes them disgruntled.
HA! Why do you think there is a Freedom Of Info. Act? I have an idea who you are "Look the other way", don't you have other things to do? The TRUTH only came out because of Padron and his team FOIAing these documents or we never would have known! Ray Hull literally cried after the meeting last night saying the Beacon News article was skewed! The reporter who wrote it was there. She wrote the FACTS. Things many people in this District are afraid will come out. Wasting tax dollars on FOIAs? What an uneducated statement, but one I have heard before from people who do not want the truth to get out. It will, don't you worry about that.
I work at West High. Mr. Padron was here talking to a maintenance worker about the PCS purchase scandal where we brought another unrelated topic to his attention that he will be addressing soon as it relates to d131.
RE: 2nd request Michael A Popp 12/19/14 To: R Padron, Christi S Tyler
Hi Ralph,
My preference is to speak with people who present questions during public comment so that I, or one of my staff members, can answer any other questions that may come up during the dialogue. I have practiced this with my cabinet members since April, and will continue to do so as I believe it is more productive in developing a relationship. The trash bags and carton were purchased with tax-payer dollars; in a different circumstance, I am sure that you would agree that we shouldn’t be giving away district resources to everyone who asks for them.
Mike
From: R Padron Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 3:00 PM To: Michael A Popp; Christi S Tyler Subject: RE: 2nd request
Greetings
My request is for a written response on multiple issues Appears you are avoiding this in writing. What is the reason for denying me the trash bags and carton
Thank you Ralph
From: MPOPP@d131.org To: ralphpadron@hotmail.com CC: ctyler@d131.org Subject: RE: 2nd request Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2014 20:50:20 +0000
Hi Ralph,
I believe Christi and I answered questions you had for us in our phone conversation. We are denying your request for our trash bags.
This is 2015. A written/emailed response is the expected procedure for business correspondence. Mr. Padron is being entirely reasonable to insist upon getting a response in writing. A phone conversation can be forgotten or misinterpreted. Having something on record (either on paper or computer) protects both parties from later misunderstandings.
I'm surprised and disappointed that Dr. Popp doesn't seem to recognize the value of written communication in the business world.
When are we going to address the problems with East High's athletic program? The varsity football team has lost 54 out of the last 55 games!! Our boys baseball team wins 1 game a year! Our boys varsity basketball team is heading for its fourth straight losing season. High performing schools (academics)have great athletic programs!
Thanks Ken Darby for showing credit card abuse again. Since they did not tell you this.
Leonard gets free cable and internet. He also has a laptop and printer.
Hull was given a I Pad scheduled to go to students at Rollins. He also has a printer and laptop. Nice that we have Board of Ed members who put themselves in front of the children.
The other Board of Ed members have clean equipment records.
I just read the reviews of Urban Prep Academy on the link posted yesterday.
FIVE reviews, all from current or former teachers at the Academy. All expressing serious concern about how teachers are treated by administration. Not ONE of the reviews had anything good to say about the administration that oversees Urban Prep Academy (although there were positive comments made about students, parents, and fellow staff members).
This is the Charter School that "Farrakhan's Disciple" Clayton Muhammad holds up as a shining example. This is the school that Clayton Muhammad thinks so highly of, that he included 3 students to speak in our city-wide MLK celebration.
Do NOT be surprised if Raymond Hull, Clayton Muhammad, and other D131 bigwigs (past & present) try to sell the charter school idea here in Aurora.
Hull talked against teachers at a recent school conferance held in Chicago. He is working to bring a Charter School to Aurora. District 131 staff was suprised to read about it in a recent Beacon article. He has told church members " black students are under served" This was witnessed by 131 staff member that attended a service at Main Street Bapist ( Hulls church).
He told school board members Oak Park, Krug and 500 students EAHS would all benefit. Now he was called on the carpet for it and claims his words are being taken out of context. No Mr Hull we have eyes and ears in the community. We have been told to many lies and we really don't care to hear about your petty emails and fights with Annette Johnson. The community just wants adults that care about kids on the Board of Ed.
Purchasing Scandal/Corruption Exposed at East Aurora School District 131
I have been auditing the East Aurora School District 131 the past year for Purchasing irregularities and the ongoing cover-up of several employees directly involved with this. Upon uncovering fraudulent purchases all directed to award PCS Industries these sales, I presented/spoke at the Board of Education monthly meeting and communicated with the Superintendent Dr Michael Popp multiple times make them aware of the corruption taking place. In addition I have filed 2 reports/complaints with the Aurora Police Department and am requesting a meeting with the Kane County States Attorney Office this week.
Here is the presentation I made at the Nov 3rd Board of Ed Meeting
The June 6th 2014 purchase order to PCS Industries read
A 4 Rider scrubbing machines @$6,247.50 totaling $24,990.00 ($10.00 short of the Bid Threshold) B $1,000.00 charge for training Grand total $25.99k
There were two additional purchases on June 30th and July16th Grand total $77.97k
Red Flags arise immediately 1 Why were there 3 PO’s for 4 machines within 40 days instead of 1 for 12 machines requiring a bid resulting in a large reduction in price. 2 Why would you want to pay for training charges 3 times with the 3 PO’s. The training charges should have been waived as part of negotiations. 3 Was this on the budget plan for Bldg & Grounds? If not- why. 4 Was there a 30 day “Trial/Test” period before for this machine before making this purchase
I spoke with the manufacturer of the machine and was told only “Authorized Distributors” could sell this machine. These companies are given special discounted pricing to sell their products.
3 quotes for this purchase are required by School Policy and none were provided. If you are going to quote “Apples to Apples” this would be the criteria for this machine or a comparable one
A Only have those other distributors quote pricing for this item B Comparable machines would follow the same rules C Any unauthorized distributor could not fairly compete due to a great pricing disadvantage.
This is the only way to be fair in awarding Purchase Orders. Was this procedure followed?
Purchase orders followed the approval process but violated policy and law of the 25K threshold to be bid. HOWEVER A Why would someone submit a request like this, as it is common knowledge what the purchasing rules are. B Why did someone not question this dollar amount? C Procedures were in place yet this slipped through the ranks 3 times
There is no excuse for what transpired and those responsible must be held accountable for these decisions. This is a poverty district and Stewardship of Tax Dollars was violated as I have clearly proven. There are many other issues which have surfaced which will be discussed later.
Thank you for allowing me to speak tonight Ralph Padron
The Floor Scrubber violations warrant “Criminal Charges” as “Bid Rigging and Cover Up” categories. It has been nearly 3 months and the investigation promised by Dr Popp and Christi Tyler has not shown any progress. It is unfortunate that Marty Feltes (Bld Grnds Director) and David Rana (Supervisor) continued their roles without penalty.
Another recent FOIA uncovered that Mr Feltes was paid in full $ 10,250.00 per month while on sick leave. His return in December with reduced hours, he was still paid in full. David Rana received compensation of $413.46 since October 2014 as Interim Director. No pro-rated adjustment was ever made. This is the responsibility of Dr Popp and Christi Tyler to insure this would not happen. Well it did and they are responsible as stewards of the Taxpayers of Illinois and East Aurora. I hope the money have been recouped and their paychecks reflect this corrective action.
There are more purchasing scandals/corruption that have surfaced and will be made public each week in this newspaper.
What article are you referring to where Ray Hull was supposedly promoting Charter Schools? I keep hearing this on this blog but have seen absolutely no evidence of it.
If it was actually proven that any board member or administrator was supporting a charter school,they would lose my support but I have not seen it.
Please support your accusations with evidence or stop the slander.
Diversity is another word for discrimination
said...
So Ray Hull is "calling on the district to diversify its teaching staff to better match its student body"?
I have raised two children who are now college graduates, and I couldn't have cared less whether their teachers were Black, White, male, female, young, old, gay, or straight. What mattered to me was whether they were effective teachers. And my neighbor received an excellent education at a Catholic grade school, high school, and university. His grade school teachers were mostly nuns, and almost all his high school and college teachers were Catholic and Caucasian (my neighbor is Hispanic).
It is difficult enough to find highly-qualified teachers in our district. We have no business screening out those teachers who come from backgrounds different from our students. There's a word for that kind of "screening"...
Diversity, you are absolutely, right! How is anything ever going to change for our children if we keep installing the idea that people need to be this or that to be effective leaders, teachers, etc. Sadly, some of the leaders in our community believe and spread their beliefs, that children of certain nationality or race cannot learn as well unless they are taught by people "like" them. These children will never be able to compete or work in a world wide job market place with these skewed ideals shared by good intended narrow minded mentors.
So know the district is going to have a referendum does that mean in 6 months they are broke? I guess Hull is trying to minimize Padron instead of cleaning up corruption. After millions wasted in B&G and now a referendum. This is back to the serial bully days of Radocivich. I will work day and night to get him and Peryea off the Board.
There is such a thing as sick leave. Why is it fraudulent to have paid an employee with sick leave? You are able to accumulate sick leave, as well. What planet are you from?
EA Bloggers: My name is Anita Lewis and I am part of a non –profit group called Chris Walk against Substance Abuse. (CWASA) We are sponsoring an event next Tuesday at Batavia Fine Arts Center called “Straight Talk about Drugs. I will be a good evening to get more info on the drug issues in our area. We have a Key Note Speaker and also Sheriff Kramer will be talking about issues in Kane County and a counselor will be sharing resources for families in crisis.
Here is the press release and a link to our website. www.chriswalk.net.
“National Drug Facts Week℠ (NDFW) is an annual health observance week to shatter the myths about drugs and drug abuse. The week is observed from January 26 through Feb 1, 2015
In observance of the NDFW, the Kane County Chronicle and Chris Walk Against Substance Abuse will present, “Straight Talk About Drugs” on Tuesday, January 27, 6:30 p.m. at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, Batavia, IL with guest speaker, Bruce Talbot. Bruce is a retired police officer and noted speaker and police trainer.
Bruce says, “The abuse of drugs is changing faster than parents (and sometimes even the police) can comprehend. New synthetic drugs of abuse such as 6-APB masquerading as "Molly" have parents and community service providers struggling to explain the dangers to young people. Even old drugs like heroin have changed dramatically since the 1960s with confusion about media reports of a new Russian synthetic heroin clouding the abuse of narcotics. In this engaging evening presentation, Bruce Talbot will present the current trends in substance abuse in Kane County, Illinois and alert parents to spot the signs of drug use among adolescents."
Admission is free and there will be a drawing at the event for a Kindle Fire HD. You must be present to win.
For more information contact Anita at 630-849-3938 or go to www.chriswalk.net
(PS- before a negative blogger asks why we are not holding it at East it is because we are partnering with the Kane County Chronicle and there readership does not cover Aurora.)
This is very distributing with Feltes with his salary and how they did the purchase orders for the floor scrubbers. I don't care if Feltes had on the job training the job title had asked for degrees. His salary is high for starting and he did residential jobs not commercial which is different. It does seem if you are a friend of one of the board members you can get a good administration job with the district. If you goggle his name his business still comes up is he doing that also?
The floor scrubber bid was just wrong. No one that runs a business would purchase orders this way.
The Aurora Beacon has outdone themselves again. When a citizen like Mr Padron attempts to clean up coruption they get burned at the stake. It is clear the patronage job of Ms Crosby's daughter and her friendship with Matt Hanley are more important than wasting millions of taxpayer dollars. If she had any moral or ethical values she would disclose her daughters position.
Do not dispare Mr Padron there is The Voice and the will of hundreds of 131 employees who thank you. It is unforntunite we live in fear for our jobs because of the current administration but your daughter gets a free pass.
What an utterly stupid article! You think this is funny? Turning it into some kind of "soap" opera? SHAME ON DENISE CROSBY the "reporter" of this article. Concentrating on the kids means taking care of the financial situation here. You think the scrubbers and can liners are a joke? All this together with other purchasing scandals are costing the district MILLIONS which, bottom line, has an impact on the students! I have not seen you reporting anything useful to help here. YOU are part of the soap opera. Reporters like you give the Beacon a bad name.
Here is Denise Crosby's Facebook page where she gives more of here "Opinions". She thinks the corruption at withing the district causing millions of dollars that could be used for the students to be lost. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Denise-Crosby/145456528834146
My 5th grade son told me his band teacher said there might not be 5th grade band next year. He said they wanted to start kids the summer after 5th grade.
This wouldn't be good in our district because some 11 and 12 year olds have to take care of younger brothers and sisters during the day in the summertime. Also a lot of families go to Mexico during the summer.
I hope the administration plans to get input from parents before they try to push this through.
Anita, thanks for posting that info about Chris Walk. You obviously truly care about our kids and our district. I'm glad you're running for School Board, you'll be getting my vote for sure!
I know that Oswego has started band the summer before 6th grade for several years now. Maybe it works in that district, but our kids need that fifth-grade year in band because the vast majority of them do not have private lessons. Oswego is mostly upper-middle class and ours is a high poverty district.
My kids both started band in fifth grade, and I'm glad they did. Middle school brings lots of social pressures and kids want to be "cool" instead of learn & try new things. Fifth grade is the perfect age to start band because by then kids are physically capable of playing wind instruments. And as someone already mentioned a lot of our kids would have to miss out on a summer program.
I certainly hope our district will NOT get rid of 5th grade band. At the least, ask the current and former band families for their input on this very important matter!
About the 5th grade band, Ken Darby is running for school board and is a band booster parent. Here's a golden opportunity for a band parent to have some influence in important decisions affecting our kids!
So Feltes has now mysteriously disappeared and claims he is having health issues. His fellow workers don't know what has happened or who is in charge. District employees did see him with Weiler ( district lawyer) and another person who appeared to be a lawyer waiting for Popp and Glotzbach. Looks like another payout or lawsuit.
It's so funny how Ralph is being "attacked" by the media when so many of these posts attack hard working people in slanderous ways, going so far as to posting salaries, telling lies about job performance and specifically naming people in fairy tales about perceived wrong doings in the district.
Granted the board is atrocious, but dragging the names of individuals through the mud is not productive or legal.
Anita Lewis is another School Board candidate who had kids in the band program. Let's vote in some board members who will preserve the 40+ year tradition in our district of starting band instruments in fifth grade.
Yet another reason to keep 5th grade band is the fact that the West side elementary schools start band in fifth grade. There are always a number of families who move across town for whatever reason, and if the kids are in band they can transition easily into their new school's band program. Also, our district's very successful band camp at LaSalle Manor now includes students who have just finished fifth grade. Those kids would have to wait another year for the experience if band started in 6th grade.
And AHgain- WE the taxpayers are ENTITLED to TRANSPARENCY in public interest entities . We have the right to know what we pay in salaries, we have the right to know what goes on with vendors, budgets etc. If you want to live in anonymity go work in the private sector.
Yeah but, you're shooting yourself in the foot
said...
You have a right to that information, but you don't have a right to lie about people under the cloak of anonymity. Many of the people who have been named on this blog in the last year did not work for Distict 131 so that their good names could be slandered. In an effort to protect your "taxpayers rights", you are driving down your own property values with this blog. People see this filth and won't want to move here because of the lies and general craziness that is perpetuated on here. Ralph doesn't live here, so what does he care if he is wasting money with FOIA Requests and causing negative impact on home values. Additionally, why do you think it is hard to staff the positions in the district. Look at the picture that you are publicly painting about our district.
Think about it people! Use this blog to share a positive story about your child's experiences, a co-worker who goes over and above, or an event that makes a difference in the lives of your students. This better serves your community. Channel your concerns through the appropriate channels! Don't cloak them in anonymity.
Why have the employees not been told about Feltes. Rumor has been told by district admin to pull a Deanne Adams. Rank and file at Central Office can not understand why Popp will not take action now this and all because Feltes has a friend on the board.
Also, Cleaver has been given money for a position she is not entitled to. Why should Padron not make everyone aware
Moral is at a all time low. This started in July when Popp hired Flanigan and Truckenbrod. They also started at higher wages. Why again did the board not question this?
With ethical leadership d131 would be a great place to work. Last year everyone was energerized. This year many of us will be looking for new job if a new board is not elected in the spring.
Anita Lewis has done many things our district. As a band parent she stopped the hiring of the West Aurora Band Director after Marin Gonzalez approved him.Today students would have been sexually assaulted if not for Anita and other concerned parents
I will support her. I will not support Hull, Peryea and Garza.
Garza had petitioned with Hull. I am for a trabsparent board
Annette must be here campaigning for Anita. Anita came on the Board before and united with Annette for self serving purposes for family and power to have their will be done. They quickly undid the transparency Anita had helped to bring about years before. She wined and dined with the superintendent. She worked against things that she had campaigned to favor, for the sake of the children. Beware what you believe on this blog. Including what I have written. Check it out for yourself where people's alliances may be and what history they have in the district. Annette does not want Mary G. on the Board because Mary works for the city. That is the only connection she has with Ray. It is no secret Annette and the Mayor have had problems, so Annette does not want any city workers on the board for fear they will be against her. How many candidates have their heart in the district, either because they have a family history and roots here or because they have children who are currently attending EA schools? why would they NOT want to see and help bring about better things for D131?
To the pot calling the kettle.....What is really funny is people like Denise Crosby and Matt using their media connections to attempt to sway opinion about Ralph for doing the exact same thing they would do, if they were trying to bring wrongdoing to light. What Ralph and many before him have tried to do, in hopes of opening the door and bringing to light what goes on in this district. They listen to those who work there, and keep reporting every little thing they are able to prove is wrong. Maybe at some point a legal authority, union rep or real news reporter will push the door wide open and expose all that has gone on for far too long and continues to benefit all but the educators and the students. Many admin and board members have sat by while money has been wasted, deals have been made under the table and the education of the district students is what has been shortchanged for years!! Previous Supt. are comfy thanks to the generosity of do nothing boards of the past. Every time new people get put into position we are told "it takes a while to see change happen." The only thing changing is who is charge. Those in charge leave before any change happens and we are back to someone new singing the song " it takes a while to see change happen." In the mean time our teachers are blamed for all that is wrong in our system and the children are not getting what they are entitled.
"Slander" is something that cannot be backed by facts. Perhaps if you read the FOIAS and got the FACTS you would see why this is NOT slander.
Padron is trying to help this district move on to a much higher level. One we all can be proud of. One that educators will want to be a part of and most importantly, one in which our kids can receive all they are entitled to. By weeding out the people who care not for the children, but only want to line there own pockets this can be achieved.
As for Padron being from Naperville, who cares? Did you know he was hired by the district to perform an audit and that what he found spurred him on to speak out? Would you have done the same? Do we not all live in the USA? Others would like to speak out, but live in fear of losing their jobs if they do.
BTW, these FOIA requests should have been done a long, long time ago, that is why there are so many now. Would YOU take non-paid time to go through all of these documents, uncovering MILLIONS in wasted money? Thank goodness Ralph is retired and is using some time to do this.
All these ridiculous arguments- "He's doing it for the "glory!", "FOIAs are costing us money and resources!", "You are painting our district in a poor light, no one will come here!"- all said because either people do not want you to know the truth and/or want to keep fleecing this district for all it can produce.
You think these are fairy tales, huh? These are horror stories... they are the truth based in fact.
Mary Garza and Ken Darby are involved in band boosters. They both have kids who have gone through our district's band program from fifth grade on up.
I will be voting for them, partly because I want our district to continue the 40+ year tradition of starting instrumental music in the fifth grade.
We must NOT allow outsiders like Popp and Truckenbrod to sneak their Naperville-style programs into our (very different) district! Ten years ago the administration chose to give parents the middle finger. Don't let it happen again!
I am not certain of the facts, but I believe some of the people who applied for the EA band position decided NOT to take the offer after they found out how they had treated the previous director. So they had to take some young guy fresh out of college that didn't know any better and thought he had the golden ticket. To his credit, he has stuck it out even after they quit giving him special favor. My point is, no one person, especially Ms. Lewis stopped them from hiring anyone.
Annette stood up for all residents when she told the Mayor of Aurora he caused the recent problems for EA. Look at the Bigalow and theater deals. To date the district has not received one penny. Look at all the properties that have come off the tax rolls. Is tge LASALLE St project going to generate taxes? How about Rivers Edge Park two life long businesses paying taxes this month were forced to close their doors and sell for pennies on the dollar.
Mary Garza may be a nice person but it is her job with the city that will not allow her to vote for the kids. Hull petitioned for her so it is a little more than they just work for the City.
Getting the facts straight. Some board members/ candidates have always worked towards the good of the students. Whether it as community members or parents. Some have jumped in and claimed their allegiance for the purpose of a personal agenda. I was at the pickets and the board meetings and the city council meetings when the drive in and Bigelow deals were going thru. The district lawyer at the time sold that lousy land deal, that has yet to show any benefit to the district. The city requested support of the EA supt and Board to move forward. They gave it. Not one time did I see Annette at any of those meetings or protests. She jumped, after the fact, on a band wagon she thought she could ride into the communities good graces. I am, admittedly, not well versed on what will transpire on LaSalle, but if it is organized to do good for the children and community as I have heard, then it is worth more to our city than the taxmdollars it could generate.
Asa oldtimer I remember Anita and others being put on a interview committee many felt Orman was to arrogant. marin did avocate for him but the committee was not fooled. Anita was very vocal as well as other so there is a truth in both stories. It show when the community is involved good things happen .
I am very disappointed by the recent articles and I hope Ms Garza comes out and states she is not running with Hull. Hull is a huge problem in not pushing for transparent dialog.
The LASALLE project is for the good of one board member not the community. She is exploiting the children and draws a salary of $80,000 plus from the Yellow Box church. The community buildings our the schools and we should work to improve them. All the non profits but hers are being bullied to join. They do not want the building but because other non profits have contracts with the Mayor they are being forced to join. She needs their 5013c to call the building a non for profit. Strand never produced her own 501 she does not want you to follow the money trail. Ms Strand is not who she appears to be.
Question Tomcat 2 Why has Strand not spoken about the corruption of 131. If she is so honest.
I must admit a couple of you have brought up some interesting info. I may rethink my voting. Except, there are not enough contenders left. So it is a matter of the lesser of the evils. I have not always put a lot of stock in Openline Interns as they seemed to nitpick too often on the Mayor. When simple facts are brought forward, it brings cause for thought, though. Thanks for your comments.
Hull and Peryea are part of the corrupt board that will not speak out on the issues Padron has uncovered. They are also refusing to turn over emails. And have made public comments that the board meetings are for the board members not the public.
Garza knows Hull and preferred to work with him. I would be concerned that she will support the same agenda.
Darby attends every meeting and speaks out against wasteful spending often.
Lewis was on the board in the past and worked on publically addressing issues. They did not coverup with her on the board.
Arroyo is a community leader that works hard for Hispanics
Garafalo is the sister to Weiler district lawyer that sis a conflict and Weiler has been aiding in the coverup.
Laesch has worked against Charter Schools and is a community organizer.
Hatcher is unknown but has a Stonegate address.
So far this is limited information but the Laesch, Arroyo, Darby and Lewis have attended meeting and understand what a functioning board is . It is time for change and we need it.
If you go to the ISBA Website you can read a booklet they have called Your School Board and You that new Board Members get to read. In it they state the Board Meetings are for the Board and that the public are guest and the Board can let the public have time to speak or not let them. How do you know that Hull and Lou didn't turn over emails?
Anita did cover things up and she is a will be Anette's pet again and she has not unless recently attended a board meeting lately. Her grand kids also got special treatment when she was on the board.
Candidates need to speak out on patronage jobs and wasteful spending. Strand and Peryea said they would bring Intregiry to the district. So far that has not happened. Padron may be a pest but he brings up good points. I do not want to hear the board needs to manage from the balcony. If the Sup will not take action they must. That question needs to be answered. That is how I will vote on the question. I am sick of the current good old boys network.
Ms Garza should speak against Hull then she will get my vote
None of the Board members have turned over emails. Leonard claims they exist. This is when tge board needs to come out of the balcony and insist Popp turn them over.
they also hire and fire and at this point Popp has not taken action. The Board need to come up and not make excuses.
Lou and Hull did not turn anything over they are part of the coverup.
When Lewis was on the board they cleaned up years of financial issues and were transparent. I think Johnson took the blame unfairly for all the issues that plagued the district for years. It now appears it is back to the same old system.
Lewis did force transparentcy with displaying the bills and advocating for this. So far Hull has not turned over emails or demanded that Popp does. In fact he verbally attacked Padron for asking questions. I will look at all candidates except for Peryea and Hull. I do know Mary Garza from the girl scouts and intend to ask her about Hull. hopefully she all distance herself. Lewis currently is tge only one who has my vote and Darby for his diligence in understanding 131
I'm not sure what fantasy world you are living in but I do recall what this district was like with Annette Johnson as the board president.
Annette was in every committee meeting harrassing and intimidating everybody. None of the board members knew what was going on because Annette and Jerome refused to share information with anybody including the board. Administrators were being thrown under the bus everytime Annette screwed up. All of this was allowed to continue because of "YES" rubber stamp board members like Anita Lewis, Stella Gonzalez and Dick Leonard.
No system is perfect and this district certainly has a lot of room to improve but it is strides ahead of where we were a year or two ago.
Anybody who votes for Anita Lewis or any of the other Precinct 1 candidates who are going to support Annette Johnson really needs to remember all the scandals that plagued this district weekly under Johnson. It was a regular embarrassment for all East Aurora Residents and Employees.
Long Memory it is WARD ONE not precinet 1. It shows you don't live in Aurora to bad you can't vote . Talk about embrassing and name calling that would be Ray the Racist who has called everyone names. We had three building and many other great programs under Jerome and Annettes leadership,
I think someone has it wrong no one board member makes changes alone they all vote on it. It is the Superintendent that is suppose to be in charge and follow the board policies. Lewis and Johnson can't make a change by themselves if they do they are breaking the law. Lewis did talking at a board meeting about posting the bills but that is about all.
Supporter: long memory, also, has a good memory and possibly is an election official whose reference was to a voting area, rather than aldermanic area. They were right on target with what they recall. My memory has not forgotten the same embarrassing antics of Annette and the do nothing attitude of Roberts along with her board ally, Anita.
I do have a long memory and the BOE is suppose to step up if the Superintendent does not. I know she has the driving force behind the Kinder Center and the Magnet School.She also found the CSC building which includes additional preschool.
The Board was transparent under the past members. This BOE is involved in many coverups and the truth will come out.
Hull only makes deals that line his pocket or increase his ego.
Notice that there was more than an hour of debate, with several parents and School Board members speaking out in favor of keeping the fifth grade band. But it was this quote that REALLY caught my attention:
"Since the changes do not affect the instrumental music curriculum itself, just the model of instruction and when it will begin, Superintendent Kathy Birkett said they are moving forward as an administrative decision without a board vote"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
That's scary. Dr. Popp and Mr. Truckenbrod (both previously employed in D204) could unilaterally decide to go against the wishes of our community and eliminate 5th grade band. Ten years ago D131 administration ignored students, parents, teachers, and alumni and made a very unpopular decision about our band program.
Make the best decision for OUR kids...keep 5th grade band
said...
I remember about 10 years ago my daughter (who started band in fifth grade in District 204) played her band instrument with a group of 7th and 8th graders at our church (in Oswego). My daughter was much more advanced on her instrument than any of the Oswego band students, to the extent that the music was boring for her. And my daughter was NOT taking private lessons. She just had a full year's more experience playing her instrument than the Oswego kids had.
We would be doing our kids a big disservice to deprive them of that year of band experience, especially since D131 families are less likely than those in Naperville or Oswego to provide private lessons!
No if the Superintendent isn't doing their job then the board needs to replace the Superintendent. Where in the IL School Code do you see where a board is suppose to run at district?
Hull claimed the arts and music would be the first programs to go because of money problems. How could they have money problems? I reviewed the 2014 district audit tgey had 93 million in the bank. But it was stated at a board meeting by Hull.
Last I heard, District 204 in Naperville was on Planet Earth. There, the administration unilaterally eliminated the 5th grade band program without a vote from the School Board, and against the wishes of parents.
This whole discussion started when a 5th grader told a parent that her teacher said there might not be fifth grade band next year. I hope you're right and it's crazy and won't happen. But I for one will not sit by and watch administration try to pull a fast one on our community!
If you know all the board rules maybe you should have ran. So answer this how do you replace a Sup with a contract. This one is one the board for hiring a Sup without any experience from a district that is nothing like 131
What was going on at Waldo last Friday that the teachers and deans where rushing all the kids out after school? I heard it from a couple of parents that said their children where rushed out and they are concerned about what was going on.
No, this all started when a TEACHER told a student that there might not be 5th grade band next year. My experience with teachers is that they often have some insight into the workings of a district.
I live in D204, and remember that in 2010 the administration tried to sell parents on the idea of starting band in sixth grade. I and many other band parents spoke out against it. They tabled it until 2013, when administration pushed it through despite School Board members and parents' objections.
Now our district has some of those same administrators. It is NOT a stretch to be concerned that they might try to get rid of fifth grade band in D131 as they did in D204.
I hope I'm wrong about this, but if not you can bet I'll be saying "I told you so".
Gangs and drugs are out of control at the middle schools and HS. The new displine system is not working. KD Waldo Fights is a Facebook sight that the new administration claims they can not do anything about. As of today 547 kids have joined the fight club. On Friday another fight between two rival gangs was going on . Some parents heard and came to take their kids out of school. Nobody was rushed out of the building only concerned parents.
Nope, this all started when a 5th grader told a parent and the parent posted here. I really don't think that information traveling through a 5th grader is all that credible.
Hmmmmm, has that parent called or emailed the director to see if this information is true?
I can't believe how absurd this whole conversation is.
If you are talking about Popp I don't think the board is letting him run the district they are still pulling the punches. This district was damaged before he came in and it will take a lot to fix it. I wonder how many applied for the Superintendents job? The board is suppose to make policies so the Superintendent can run the district. Can you really say this board is doing anything for the good of the district or just giving friends jobs. There are ways to get out of a contract we just must not have the lawyers that are smart enough to do it.
Who cares? You've got a failing school district in reading and math. And you are worried about one more year of music, when there is not research to support the need for starting instrument instruction in 5th grade.
Plus, you are getting yourself all worked up about heresay. Get a grip of what the priorities are for this district.
Dear Jan. 27th @ 12:27. The board should have had things in the supt. contract that specified what their expectations were, and gave stipulations for measuring those expectations. That way if he doesn't "measure up" he hasn't held up his end of the contract and he is history. Historically, district131 has not done this, or if they have, they have not done it effectively or used it to the Boards advantage.
We parents know our kids, and want the best for them
said...
Study after study confirms that a child involved in instrumental music scores significantly higher in math, reading, and science. And fifth grade is an ideal time physically and socially to begin learning an instrument...which is probably why for more than 40 years our district (and the vast majority of school districts nationwide) have started band instruction in fifth grade.
Another important consideration (especially in a district with a history like ours) is the WAY that our neighboring district, D204, made the decision to eliminate its 5th grade band program. Parents and School Board members who opposed the administration's plan were brushed aside and the decision was made by upper administration only.
As a parent, my main priority is the physical, intellectual, and social well-being of my child. Starting band in fifth grade was the right "fit" for my parents, for myself, and for my kids. And I will do whatever I can to make sure my grandchildren have the same opportunities I benefited from!
After leaving school a student was shot at EA today. Our union will not speak up but displine is out of control district wide. The Gangs have taken over EAHS. Byrd did try to reason with administration but his opinion did not matter. Drug dealing is a common issue with pushing going on in the halls. The students understand there is no consequence. Just look at the halls and staircases in the freshman center.
The BOE is running the district more than ever. They are the ones that insisted in changes to the displine programs. They have also allowed Feltes and company to ruin the maintenance moral. They have hired friends that are not qualified. Feltes was not the only one we have some real loser at Simmons. At least six of Hulls church members got jobs. Gibson was promoted and did not have the proper credituals to evaluate teachers. It is time for a change. This is a board out of control and Simmons has major gang issues as well.
EMAIL I SENT TO BOARD OF ED UPON BEING DENIED FOIA EMAIL REQUESTS
January 27th 2015
To: Board of Education East Aurora School District 131 From: Ralph Padron Subject: FOIA Request Denied
Greetings Board of Ed Members East Aurora Dist 131
Please review the attached FOIA response regarding the recent denial of FOIA’s I recently submitted. All I am requesting is that if you disagree with the response given, please bring it to the attention of the individual (s) who rejected the FOIA’s in question.
I am in no way requesting anyone respond directly to me.
East Aurora School District Hiring of Purchasing Agent Called to Question
Recently I received a FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT response to research a very suspicious and questionable hiring of Elise Clever as “Purchasing Agent” .
Here are the facts:
1 May 2011- Nov/Dec 2014 worked at West Aurora Dist 129 in the Accounts Payable Office
2 Per Elise’s cover letter she was “responsible for payables and procurement card management”
3 The “Assistant Superintendent for Finance” at East Aurora is Christi Tyler who worked with Ms Clever at West Aurora Dist 129.
4 This is a newly created position to correct the Purchasing Scandals recently made public.
5 Salary stated on her application was $32,000.00 annually
6 Salary at East Aurora is $53,000.00 annually plus benefits
This is an increase of $ 21,000.00 for someone with no experience in this field.
7 LICENSED TEACHERS WITH MANY YEARS EXPERIENCE DON’T EVEN MAKE THIS MUCH MONEY.
8 I addressed/emailed Board of Education President Ray Hull, Superintendent Dr Michael Popp and Christi Tyler Asst Superintendent Finance/Business Ms Cleve’s application, salary history, and the East Aurora Staff Salary report for 2014-2015 school year to support my discovering this very suspicious/controversial hiring. As is their pattern, I will not get a detailed response of any sort from this trio of individuals in authority.
Cronyism Definition: (Wikipedia) Cronyism is partiality to long-standing friends, especially by appointing them to positions of authority, regardless of their qualifications. Hence, cronyism is contrary in practice and principle to meritocracy. Cronyism exists when the appointer and the beneficiary are in social contact. Often, the appointer is inadequate to hold his or her own job or position of authority, and for this reason the appointer appoints individuals who will not try to weaken him or her, or express views contrary to those of the appointer. Politically, "cronyism" is derogatorily used. Ralph Padron
The information you have given is helping us greatly in gathering the facts we need to prove without a doubt the corruption and other nefarious things going on in District 131.
All info. is kept strictly confidential!
Please keep sending it here:
ralphpadrontips@gmail.com
La información que han dado nos está ayudando mucho en la obtención de la información que necesitamos para demostrar sin lugar a dudas la corrupción y otras cosas nefastas en el distrito 131.
Last night the East Aurora High School varsity basketball team lost to Neuqua Valley High School 96-55. This is the fourth straight losing season for Head Coach Wendell Jeffries. The team actually had three air balls last night. They are fundamentally poor and not well coached. We used to be known as a basketball school, but not anymore. Ryan Boatwright is long gone. Mr. Jeffries needs to step down at the end of the season.
How could the BOE voted in Ms Clever as a purchasing agent with all the issues in finance. The position posted required someone with purchasing experience not a clerk. This violates all hard working personnel who spent ten of thousands in student loans and continuing education. Dr Popp should have never allowed this. He has turned our district into a laughing stock and completely ruined employee moral. This has got to stop. Please community step up and retire this entire board.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Notice that starting band in fifth grade is defended and supported by PARENTS, STUDENTS, and EDUCATORS. As has been mentioned previously on this thread, our fifth-grade band program has been in place for over 40 years in D131. Generations of students have benefited from it, and our current grade-school students DESERVE no less!
"Band in the Know", I hope you are right. People tend to overreact (in this case, to something a 5th grade student told their parents a teacher said). I understand that some may be aware of what happened in D204 with administration making a unilateral decision against the wishes of School Board members and parents, and it doesn't seem like that much of a leap to be concerned about former D204 administrators (Popp, Truckenbrod) doing the same in our district.
I think we should all calm down and trust that our district's leaders will listen to the wishes of our community. And we need to vote in School Board members who have a proven record of being involved in supporting our students: Mary Garza, Anita Lewis, and Ken Darby.
The district has published a report on the BOE agenda with all the waste of time Padron had cost the district. We are sure it is more than the few pennies he has recovered in trash liners. The EAS community should speak out on all the money the district has spent on him for years.
He received free insurance and he was unable to let it go. He was not even the employee. If Padron is so successful why was he not purchasing his own insurance. It is time the community see the pattern of intimidation and harassment your tax dollars are paying for.
[PDF]Marty Feltes Plumbing & Heating, INC. www.iiiffc.org/.../Oct-Nov_2013_violations_Marty_Feltes_Plumbing_Heati... Oct 24, 2013 - MARTY FELTES PLUMBING ti HEATING. INC. TFN: '_i_ FELTES, PRESiDENT ... Project East Aurora High Schooi - Water Pipe Replacement.
In checking into Feltes I ran across this as plumber he was cited for breaking the rules by the Illinois Department of Labor. Did the district and Gloztbach not see the violation was for work at East High School. It speaks to his character in cutting corners in his own business. Three months later they put him in charge and rules got broken. Thank you Ralph it is not about the cost of FOIA it is about the broken rules. With every issue Ralph have discovered I am sure that there are many more out there . The community will not police itself so we need a person like Ralph.
As for the candiadates when are they going to speak out against this. WE do not need school board members who will not speak up. Peryea and Hull should go first both have said nothing and are current members.
I think we ALL have an idea of who would complain about FOIAs. The average person knows what they are, but rarely requests one. So "SICK of FOIAs" perhaps I should explain the facts about what a FOIA is, the cost involved and why they are being requested from you. (BTW, there are many other government entities that must process FOIAs and do so without complaint and much higher volumes than you do.)
1. A FOIA or Freedom Of Information Act document allows the taxpaying public to view documents that involve the running a public interest entity. There are restrictions placed on them as certain sensitive info. cannot be released such as SSNs etc.
2. Cost of FOIAs can vary. Many times the info. can be sent via email which is the preferred method. Sometimes there are too many pages and paper copies must be sent. The person requesting the FOIA PAYS for these. The FOIA officer lets them know the charge and a check or M.O. is sent payable to the District. The time to process them is what am sure is being complained about here. Dist131 has a FOIA officer. That is his title, his job and it is to be done in a timely fashion. An extension can be requested if need be. So, the cost here is the FOIA officer's salary which WE pay for as the tax-paying public. Yes, he is also the Community Relations officer and for this work he is paid a very fair amount.
3. Now, the amount of money that has been shown to have been WASTED by key people in D131 are in these FOIA documents, and it is in the MILLIONS. This should have been caught by an internal set of checks and balances as sometimes these documents went through 3 and 4 people and these "errors" were never caught.
I think the small amount spent on FOIAs PALES IN COMPARISON to the amount of money wasted. Like a hairpin in comparison to the Sears Tower. I will have some numbers for you shortly.
So, you can see why "Sick of FOIAs" is so upset and trying to discredit the one person working to remedy this situation. His facts on Padron will be addressed as they are NON-factual (though I hate even address non-factual blogging/reporting).
In the end, it comes down to who REALLY wants to take the time and help this district and it's students.
Oh by the way "SICK of FOIAs" wait until you see the amount of money wasted on can liners (or maybe you already have). Facts to back it all up thanks to FOIAs. This is only one of MANY things uncovered during this investigation. Can liners may sound insignificant, but when you consider the amount needed for and entire district it adds up to thousands of dollars...just. in. can. liners. Are you seeing it now?
If the district also keep good records it would not be so time consuming.
Where I work they recently got the floor scrubbers like the district did. The employee's that would use them got to try one out to see how they worked and if they cleaned the floor good and then they decided to buy the amount they needed at one time and then all the employees that would used them got trained.
As always, thanks for the entertainment! I never have to watch Maury or Jerry Springer because this blog is so full of uneducated people that spew hatred and unsubstantiated claims with the sole intent of ruining someone else's reputation/career/life etc. And sometimes I forget that anyone who disagrees with me is a moron who doesn't deserve to live, let alone have an opinion - so thanks for reminding me time and time again.
"sole intent" How do you know what someone's intent is for posting anything, much less that it's their SOLE (only) intent?
"uneducated people" Is someone with less education than yourself "uneducated"? If so, you must have a DOCTORATE degree, because I have a master's!
"doesn't deserve to live" You must be confusing this with another blog, because nowhere in the previous 192 comments on this thread do I see any mention of anyone wanting someone dead.
And I see no "hatred" being "spewed", just people expressing their concerns and questions about things happening in our district.
Hanley does nothing anyways and is paid about $100,000 per year. One never sees him at events in the evening he works his 40 hours and leaves. so maybe he should work a little overtime.
Oh my gosh, you're right again! Thanks, I definitely needed to be put in my place. And you totally changed my mind, I now agree with you completely. Wow, you guys ARE good!
Shall we continue this back and forth? I don't know about you, but I've got a bunch of time on my hands and nothing better to do.
202 comments:
1 – 200 of 202 Newer› Newest»Evidently Facebook doesn't consider the closed group "K D Waldo Fights" in violation of its policies. They supposedly reviewed it and found no objectionable content.
What "LIES" ahead is a very appropriate title. Let's hope that there is a quick end to the LIES that District employees like MARTIN FELTES tell and cost our taxpayers and ultimately the students money.
FIRE of all the LIARS and District 131 may have a chance in 2015.
The names of kids are posted but the school will not do anything about it. Why not?
The reason Waldo, is doing nothing about this is that it is new policy of administration, to do nothing. Cyber bullying became law this month in Illinois, but the district and our union will look the other way.
Drugs are being sold in hallways everyday.
Fights have no negative consequence.
Mod action is no longer enforced.
Weapons are no longer a expellable action.
Rival gangs have taken over the Freshman Center 2nd and 3rd floor.
Gloztbach and Byrd looked the other way when a chair nearly missed hitting a teacher in the Dreams program.
Advice to the parent at Waldo; If you rent find another district today. If not, sell your house this is a horrible district. The teachers care, but the administration is the problem. When you read of maintenance scandals not being addressed you should try to teach.
After months of coverups I would be outraged as a taxpayer of 131. To not even get given a written response shows what is going on. The only way to change 131 is to change the current board.
Hull, Peryea, Garfalo and Garza are running in support of eachother. Although Garfalo and Garza are new Garafalo is the sister of the lawyer who is a long time neighbor of Feltes and involved in making excuses. when looking her up Feltes and Garafalo live on the same block Donna Ave. Garza had petitions circulated by Hull. This is reason enough not to elect her.
Eight years ago TODAY:
http://ea131.blogspot.com/2007/01/you-can-be-put-on-mailing-list-for.html
Lies ahead are a coverup between Popp, Feltes and Tyler. The only ones who can put a stop to it is the BOE. With his best friend Leonard on the BOE don't look for that to happen. I am very disappointed by Strand and Peryea they claimed transparency and it turned into their greed, power and ego. Hull has always been crazy and his insults towards white teachers alone should have had him thrown off the BOE.
It is good to know about Garfalo and Garza. Darby has kids in school and has attended every board meeting. Lewis was always responsible. I will be looking into the backgrounds of the others and will not allow myself to get fooled again.
Jan 8 2015
Matthew Hanley, FOIA Officer
East Aurora School District 131
417 5th Street
Aurora, IL 60505
Re: FOIA Request for Documents
Dear Mr. Hanley
1 All purchase orders, invoices and other justifying documents for business conducted with
Sunbelt Rental, Aurora Il for the calendar year 20104.
2 All purchase orders, invoices and documents pertaining to the December 2014 work performed at the Urban League office. Reports, Inspections, Service calls, to be included.
3 All emails to PCS Industries from and to Marty Feltes and David Rana for the months of
Sept Oct Nov Dec 2014.
I understand that the Act permits a public body to charge a reasonable copying fee not to exceed the actual cost of reproduction and not including the costs of any search or review of the records. I am asking that any fees be waived per 5ILCS140/6(c).
Respectfully,
Ralph Padron
I wouldn't be too quick to judge Garza just for using Hull to get her petition signed. She is very active in her community and has children in three EA schools. My vote is with her. She has vested interest besides her kids, she was raised and works in Aurora. Lewis was part of the beginning of the downfall and moving backwards from transparency. Johnson wants her control and Lewis is a willing puppet.
Living in and working at East I closely follow both districts. It makes one wonder if many of these problems are not related to Tyler, or Tyler working with a bad Superintendent.
West Aurora had a 75 million referendum and meanwhile East Aurora nearly passed a 32 million referendum in 07. Quickly, West was spending more than they took in. Tyler mismanaged the average daily attendence numbers and West Aurora was fined. West had the same insurance as East. East eventually discovered fraud and got new insurance. Today West is broke and running a referendum. Since Dr Popp East is going broke and spending more than they are taking in. I also read of problems with proverty reporting. Does the proverty not fall under Tyler?.
My observations in working at East is the rank and file are very vigilant and will report corruption. The past leadership under Roberts did not allow it once discovered. The district also has a Mr Padron and at least one honest Board member (Johnson) . As a footnote the new Superintendent at West cleaned up the insurance and is working on other financial issues. At East we now have a bad Superintendent and Tyler along with a bad board. However, we still have a vigilent community with many people running that want good things for EA. I think that is good news for East.
The last two years have seen positive change in 131 with the cleaning up of financial chaos. It seems Popp is unwilling to continue the same pattern. If Garza is working with Hull and was not motivated to get her own names she is be beholding to him and would not be a good candidate. I seen her at her first meeting Monday and was not impressed. Mr Darby however comes to every meeting and did all his own work petitioning for the position. He currently serves as Band parent president and spoke against corruption many times. We do not need a puppet for Hull.
See for yourself who circulated petitions for whom and where possible allegiances lie.
http://www.auroravotes.org/candidates
Interesting that most West Aurora candidates circulated their own petitions, while few East Aurora did.
To another two cents worth. Don't forget Lewis was the one who made the board get the list of bills on the board packet in the name of transparency. She was not part of the downfall. That happened when hull, strand and peryea got to elect a new superintendent from D204 and bring in his friends. She was always a huge band supporter, pushed to get the gifted program back and many new extra curricular opportunities at the schools.
I read the article on West it is interesting they need 94 million. East Aurora added 3 building and expanded the HS under the past administration. The schools also had many programs returned and building did receive major repairs. Over 200 teachers got hired and wages increased. Then came Hull and Popp. Now teachers are threaten with job loss told they can't educate the kids and programs are on the chopping block. it was announced at a board meeting that art programs could get cut. They blame it on the State. Taxes in the district will also increase over 9%.
Ms Garza may be a fine person but she has not attended board meetings to understand the distruction of Hull. Darby has along with Lewis. Arroyo has been working in the EA community for years along with Laesch. Both have attended many school meetings perhaps they have a better understanding anyone who is associated with Hull and Juanita Wells will not get my vote.
Feltes does not use a computer so Rana logs in as Feltes and approves all purchase orders. Before Rana it was Roger Carlson. To this day the man does not know how to attach a file to a email. He is illiterate and everyone knows it. What he does know is how to pick up the phone and call outsiders or cronies of his in to his job. He goes around and before they can assign certified maintenance workers to fix a problem and calls his cronies. Daily maintenance workers show up only to find the job completed or a crony working on it. He has never filled out a work ticket or closed one. Since Feltes started over 4 million in repairs have been spent on outside cronies. At the last board meeting he and Tyler were asked why is approved capital improvements over budget by one million. He could not answer that. We will tell you why. He managed all the projects and creates change orders with nobody's approval. His budget is a reflection of him. the Kinder center almost did not open because of him and his change orders. Every project he has touched has had problems. He stold money from the kids track for a $400,000 humified closet in the basement of East. why, because of cronies
Popp and Hull know this and have done nothing. Johnson lost her board position because of him. Leonard did not like Roberts reigning him in. It was revealed at the time he started doing what he was accused of doing now. To this day Feltes calls Johnson a b**ch and Roberts a lazy a** well you fill in the blanks. If everything is wonderful why has nobody stopped him.
If anyone goes to board meetings this has been going on with Feltes and the the List of Bills a couple months after Feltes started. Popp or the six board members have no excuse
On Monday a maintenance budget was presented it was interesting in that Tyler did all the talking. She claimed I don't know. She prepared the budget and approves the bills so that is a lame excuse. I have no confidence that Dr Popp can lead or manage the districts money. It seems to the audenience if you go over budget nobody is going to question you.
Sorry correction after Popp started
For those who would like to help with any knowledge they have of the corruption going on, please contact me at:
ralphpadrontips@gmail.com
All information will remain strictly confidential!
We now have an investigative team working on this to expedite the process of exposing the exploitation of District 131!
You may send an email asking to talk to me in person if you are more comfortable communicating that way.
This is getting BIG and we need as many folks as possible contributing.
Let's make 2015 the year we all helped clean up District 131!
http://beaconnews.chicagotribune.com/2015/01/09/east-aurora-pe-classes-put-new-spin-fitness/
Question: What does Feltes do that warrants a one hundred and thirty thousand dollar salary?? He can't even send an email! Not to mention he has been caught stealing from US the taxpayers! Who on G-d's green earth is not getting this?? 1-3-0 to do nothing...NOTHING BUT CHEAT AND STEAL! Wake up District Board of Education! Is ANYONE in charge NOT corrupt? What is so freaking special about this idiot?! Does he have dirt on someone...? UGH!
Feltes is a freind of Leonard that is why the Board keeps him. He also lives in Ward One were people come out to vote. He spends his days at the social clubs there. Look for him to campaign for Hull, Garza, and Peryea. Garafola is sister to the crook lawyer and will help these fools also get elected she is a neighbor of his.
They can try but many of us also work at the SSC or the Hill and live there also and have spread the word about our Board. A new Board needs to be committed to a cleanup "period". We are sick to our stomachs our tax money and reputions are part of this district. Dr Popp has been told by many about Feltes instead of taking action he has punished us. Hanley was caught snooping around our desks. Mr Ali resigned because he would not spy on our emails.
Candidates you will get asked about cleanup and that is who we will endorse Mr Darby has already committed to change. We will not support Garza because of Hull. Garafalo is a true conflict and neighbor to Feltes. We were lied to once by Stand and Peryea never again
If the school board were not corrupt enought I noticed they are hiding board meeting information now. For years it was under BoardBooks on the first page. That button was removed within the last week. After hunting I have found it under board of education. A simple note and link on Facebook would have been nice for the worthless Mr Hadley.
Feltes does not realize everyone knows he is there because he was a crony to the Board. That said
Feltes turned 65 this August and plans to retire at the end of his contract. A deal is in the works with Glotzbach to retire him with full pay in June. He has boosted his retirement with high earnings. If the district fires him now he will not get his 100 days in with IMRF. Again, another loser collecting off the taxpayers. Allowing him to approve purchase orders is a joke. Staff has constantly told Popp.
He also has hostile work claims filed against him. They have never been resolved. In fact Tyler now has meetings without Feltes present to create a better work enviroment. Any other employee would get displined if the hostile work claims were proved.
Dr Popp is about coverup the community needs to know and with the current situation on the board we are heading into a very dangerous period. In fact the old timers will tell you the serial bully days are back times ten .
While Dr Popp still talks about a Administrative Center and how he is going to sneak one past the community his old district plans on air conditioning buildings. They ponder something good for kids he ponders something good for himself. The residents of 204 are laughing all the way to the bank on getting rid of this bozo.
In fact if he had been so great why didn't they hire him? Why was he never promoted to Asst Superintendent? During election we want answers from Peryea and Hull. How can the board allow him to promote a Administrative Center?
KD Waldo fights shows the school district for what it is. It has links to Latin Kings and Queens. Where is the school district and parents. Do the parents even know what the kids are doing. I have left messages with Mr Popp and all I get is messages to call Thrackerburg. He will not return a call talk about a run around. I hate this school district. Just a bunch of do nothing's
I teach at KD Waldo Middle School. I have not heard a word at school about fighting. Where in the school is this happening? Who is involved?
KD Waldo Fights is a Facebook Club with links to Latin Kings and Queens. I do not feel my child is safe.
I know some kids that go to Waldo and there is fighting there. They say when the girls are going to fight they wear their hair up.
My kids attend Waldo there are at least three to five fights a day. Before school let out they had a fight involving over 100 kids all started by girls.
The Citizens Financial Advisory Committee is meeting at 5:30 p.m. today:
http://www.d131.org/newsDetail.asp?id=3157&guid=
January 13 2015
To: Dr Michael Popp (Superintendent)
Christi Tyler (Asst Superintendent Finance)
District 131 East Aurora
From: Ralph Padron
Subject: Inquiry of Marty Feltes Application & Dist 131 Mishandling of Hiring Purchasing Agent
I would like to bring to your attention several observations made upon examining Mr Feltes’s employment application.
1 It is apparent he is NOT computer literate. Was a skills test given to validate his claim.
2 Regarding “Purchasing Experience”, placing orders and purchasing are two different tasks. IF he is qualified to be a Purchasing Mgr, why is it necessary for Bernie Weiler to train the new employee?
3 Reference the attached “Job Description” it can be proven that there are multiple violations in not adhering to many of the responsibilities REQUIRED.
4 The most obvious questions are as follows
A Did anyone do a background check/test to validate Mr Feltes’s qualifications?
B When the job title/responsibilities changed to Director of Bldg & Grnds, the salary went from $85K to $120K annually, how could this be justified and what warranted this description to be changed? It is obvious the key parts were customized to accommodate his hiring.
5 With the recent “Purchasing Scandal” surfacing publicly, evidence has been presented to prove many of the responsibilities required have been violated and in many cases warrants criminal charges.
6 There appears to be a movement to “Cover Up” and not respond to inquiries and public comments which have been presented to the Superintendent despite the claim of Total Transparency for District 131.
With the recent hiring of a totally inexperienced person for the position of Purchasing Agent, I find this appalling that Taxpayer money be used for someone to be trained in an important position with no purchasing qualifications. What is even more disturbing is the employee was a co-worker with Ms Tyler at West Aurora Scholl District 129. Certainly appears that this position will be under the control of the Asst Finance Director.
Does the Job Description match up with the person’s experience? Obviously not, and why wasn’t this position advertised correctly as “Trainee for Purchasing Agent”.
Finally I hope that pay scales have been adjusted in the B&G department and STIPEND’s terminated for those being compensated.
When the Melody Hiring was called into question with evidence of “Lying” on her application and no action was taken, I am requesting a written response to these very disturbing issues.
Respectfully
Ralph Padron
Today A long time employee will get fired because he blew up at Feltes. Rana and Byrd claimed the employee was going to hurt Feltes. Glotzbach told him you have witnesses against you. He claimed he has angry at Feltes but did not do it.
Joan then suspended him. Joan then said we will not go to the police if you leave. Meanwhile no discipline for Feltes who steals millions. The latest in district setups. The employee was not represented when talking with Glotzbach be careful administration is sending everyone a message they can set you up at any time. Medina is selling us out. the employee setup worked here over 15 years without a problem.
At tonight's meeting Ray Hull was calling teachers names again He now says his daughter education was so terrible he is able to share. He called teachers lazy and claimed they did not care about children. Who is he to talk he is full of hate but calls himself a Minister.
He also stated is happiest time is when he is away from the board. Please do us a favor Mr Hull keep your racist self far away from children. They do not need your poison.
It is IL State Law that anyone working in a School District get a background check and be finger printing. Did he get finger printed. All these board members are corrupt and we as voters can do something about it and not vote for the ones running.
Gloztbach did not do a background check or finger printing checks. Is was also revealed The former business manager claimed bankruptcy. Glotzbach allowed him to handle millions at one point the district also had missing cash from student fees again no investagation when office staff told her. Under Popp Glotzbach was awarded by being named second in charge even though she does not have a Superintendents endorsement.
The Board paid a $80,000 payment for Glotzbach's mistakes. Hull and Peryea lead the charge. It is time everyone really look at the way your tax dollars are spent.
Let's make Ray a happy man and not elect him back to a position that makes him so miserable.r
Teachers please review the BOE meeting minutes of Raymond Hull from Yesterday's BOE meeting. He makes its very clear how much he hates the teachers of East Aurora. It is time the Community elects a Board that does not have a racist and a bigot on it. Ms Peryea your remarks also leave much to be desired. PLEASE ELECT A NEW BOARD. LISTEN WATCH HEAR
Teachers- since Ray Hull has nothing good to say about us but racist slandering, let's contact the EEOC and put in a formal complaint- none of his comments would be tolerated if he were white-- He is supposed to be the leader of all of us and just because we are white we are lazy--It wasn't right when it happened in Selma, Ray, and it isn't right now-- breaking and separating us on the basis of race- Ray this is ILLEGAL and since all of your comments have been videotaped, we have plenty of fodder to get rid of you-- you may be an interesting individual Ray but you are no leader for a diverse district.
Because of all the FOIA requests Dr Popp gave orders to all administrators to be careful what we write via email. He now says text message is the way to go. It becomes much harder to recover those. Administrators then instructed staff members. We all know Dr Popp has something to hide what is it?
http://openline.blogspot.com/2011/03/education-reform-can-tenure-be-changed.html
Here's a link to several articles about our district over the past few weeks:
https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?ik=36428191
This time, they're all about OUR district and not East Aurora, New York.
Emails being monitored
Employees desk examined.,
Corruption not addressed
A Superintendent who looks the other way and covers up.
Settlements paid and wasted taxpayer dollars
Racist remarks allowed
Abuse and harassment of employees
Anyone who votes for Hull and Peryea are crazy.
The information you have given is helping us greatly in gathering the facts we need to prove without a doubt the corruption and other nefarious things going on in District 131.
All info. is kept strictly confidential!
Please keep sending it here:
ralphpadrontips@gmail.com
La información que han dado nos está ayudando mucho en la obtención de la información que necesitamos para demostrar sin lugar a dudas la corrupción y otras cosas nefastas en el distrito 131.
Por favor, tenga que venÃan aquÃ:
ralphpadrontips@gmail.com
Todos son estrictamente confidenciales.
Read a great editorial in the Voice today regarding corruption in East Aurora Schools. The Beacon should do their job and report this also. Handley is using his old pals at the Beacon to sensor the news. Too bad the Beacon is such a rag.
Response to FOIA
Jan. 15, 2015
Ralph Padron
Naperville, Illinois
Thank you for writing to East Aurora School District 131 with your request for information pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.
On Jan. 14, 2015, you requested the following documents:
- All Michael Popp emails to or from Bernie Weiler and the Board of Education regarding “list of bills” from Aug. 1, 2014 to Nov. 1, 2014
Your request is denied for the following reasons:
There are no documents responsive to your request.
You have a right to have the denial of your request reviewed by the Public Access Counselor (PAC) at the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). You can file your Request for Review with the PAC by writing to:
Public Access Counselor - Office of the Attorney General
500 South 2nd Street
Springfield, Illinois 62706
Fax: 217-782-1396
E-mail: publicaccess@atg.state.il.us
You also have the right to seek judicial review of your denial by filing a lawsuit in the State circuit court. 5 ILCS 140/11.
If you choose to file a Request for Review with the PAC, you must do so within 60 calendar days of the date of this denial letter. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). Please note that you must include a copy of your original FOIA request and this denial letter when filing a Request for Review with the PAC.
Matt Hanley
Assistant Director of Community Relations
East Aurora School District 131
(630) 299-5534
mhanley@d131.org
FOIA Denied Part 2
Jan. 15, 2015
Ralph Padron
Naperville, Illinois
Thank you for writing to East Aurora School District 131 with your request for information pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.
On Jan. 14, 2015, you requested the following documents:
- All Michael Popp emails to or from Bernie Weiler and the Board of Education regarding “heat exchangers” from Aug. 1, 2014 to Nov. 1, 2014
Your request is denied for the following reasons:
There are no documents responsive to your request.
You have a right to have the denial of your request reviewed by the Public Access Counselor (PAC) at the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). You can file your Request for Review with the PAC by writing to:
Public Access Counselor - Office of the Attorney General
500 South 2nd Street
Springfield, Illinois 62706
Fax: 217-782-1396
E-mail: publicaccess@atg.state.il.us
You also have the right to seek judicial review of your denial by filing a lawsuit in the State circuit court. 5 ILCS 140/11.
If you choose to file a Request for Review with the PAC, you must do so within 60 calendar days of the date of this denial letter. 5 ILCS 140/9.5(a). Please note that you must include a copy of your original FOIA request and this denial letter when filing a Request for Review with the PAC.
Matt Hanley
Assistant Director of Community Relations
East Aurora School District 131
(630) 299-5534
mhanley@d131.org
Hmm? Mysterious missing documents? So much for transparency in District 131.
I hope people are starting to realize what happens with their taxes is directly related to the corruption, lies and outright theft by employees like Marty Feltes and supported by others like Dick Leonard, Dave Rana and Christi Tyler. Biggest offender- Dr. Popp for letting it all happen. All taking advantage of the students and taxpayers!! I don't think it gets much lower than that....
Hull is Popps main protector and he is proud off that. He has used his racist remarks to call staff names and allow coruption to continue. Hull was well aware of what was going on in maintenance and to keep his power look the other way.
Peryea's only message is things are better with Dr Popp. We all get along except for one . Last year she solicited feed back now she tells us I can't talk with you. This women is totally corupt and another who during the last campaign took our money and told us things will get better.
Then you have Leonard well I guess we all know. He distroyed many good men just to get his freind a job. He accused us of stealing. He have worked hard for this district. A degreed Architech was fired who saved the district millions only to hire his freind without ability
Then you have Strand who ran on the staff and students need better working conditions. She allows Hull to insult us because we are white. She allows Feltes to swear at us and steal. If asked now tells us donate to church and I have to support Popp.
Tursa and Gonzalez are do nothing rubber stamps is the Superintendent. The picture of Tursa patting Popp on the face says it all.
Then we have Johnson who only cares about the money and taxpayers. She has voted no and seems to try to stop coruption single handed but she is so bitter. Staff now thinks she is are only hope.
Jan. 15, 2105
Ralph Padron
Naperville, Illinois
Thank you for writing to East Aurora School District 131 with your request for information pursuant to the Illinois Freedom of Information Act.
On Jan. 8, 2015, you requested the following documents:
- All purchase orders, invoices and documents for business conducted with Sunbelt Rental from Jan. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2014.;
- All purchase orders, invoices and other documents for work done at the East Aurora Extension building from Dec. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2014.
- All emails to or from Dave Rana to or from PCS Industries from Sept. 1, 2014 to Dec. 31, 2014.;
- All emails to or from Marty Feltes to or from PCS Industries from Sept. 1, 2014, to Dec. 31, 2014.
Under the Freedom of Information Act, a public body may extend the time to respond to a request by up to 5 business days for a limited number of reasons. 5 ILCS 140/3(e).
East Aurora School District 131 is extending the time to respond to your request by five days for the following reason(s):
(v) the requested records require examination and
evaluation by personnel having the necessary competence and discretion to determine if they are exempt from disclosure under Section 7 of this Act or should be revealed only with appropriate deletions;
The public body asserts the following facts in support of the above reasons for an extension of
time:
The requested documents require a review by attorneys to determine if redactions are necessary.
You can expect our response on or before Jan. 23, 2015.
Sincerely,
Matt Hanley
Assistant Director of Community Relations
East Aurora School District 131
(630) 299-5534
mhanley@d131.org
From: Marty Feltes
Sent: Tuesday, July 01, 2014 7:20 PM
To: Jesse Vargas
Subject: Today's tasks
Jesse,
Exactly what have you accomplished today???? I have left you phone messages and you have not responded. Are you not
having any luck finding another job?? If you need a letter of recommendation I will gladly wright it for you. It is obvious
that you are not part of the B&G team .
Sent from my iPhone
193
As a resident of EA I have not followed the goings on of EA other than to see they voted a big tax increase in. Now I read the Voice today and read about all the mismanagement of our tax dollars. Last week in The Voice they talked about just looking at the budget now. This again is after a big tax increase was voted on. Really? and then it was one member questioning it. Now this?
Why is the board not asking about all these purchasing scandals? Better yet why is the Hanley ( another waste of tax payer dollars) stopping Mr Padrons request for emails. These are not his private emails they are the taxpayers of this district. I am more angry everyday that this is being allowed to continue.
The value of my house has fallen and my taxes have gone up and now this. Please board show some morality and either clean it up now and turn over all emails to the public for viewing of resign.
While writing a blog comment this pops I wonder what other emails they are hiding? Really Board turn over the taxpayers emails of the last year or resign. If not I will be working very hard to fire Peryea and Hull. At least Turza and Gonzalez showed some ethics and resigned.
I sorry but Johnson knew about some of these things and now that she isn't in charge she votes no. What has she done to stop these things except to vote no. If as a board member I had facts about these things I would talk to the ROE and if nothing is done find the right source to stop it.
Johnson, agreed was to slow about cleaning things up and protected Roberts. What Johnson did do is clean up the credit cards and insurance eventually. That is better than six other board members who do nothing. I would rather have her who is willing to vote no than someone who is a rubber stamp. In calls to the ROE my experience is they are also do nothing's but the community needs to hold officals accountable.
I have reviewed the people running and will not support Garza for sure. She had Hull petition for her. We need a new board that will commit to this cleanup. I think the public should get to know the candidates. I hope that they have a group of debates that will focus on transparentcy, education and general questions.
The ROE has had a long history of covering up for the district. They should have been abolished years ago. Look at the numberous issued revealed by teachers in ROE audits. We get punished and no support by talking to the ROE. They have no purpose but to take fingerprints. When it was reported the former business manager had no fingerprints they did not enforce that rule either. If you do not have a board to enforce the rules you are screwed in Illinois.
The board in EA has allowed Hull to insult us they need to go.
Johnson only took the credit cards from them she did not make them pay back the money they stole from the district by using them for personal stuff. In fact one person paid their phone bill with the card at about $750.00. One paid for their parking at the Casino. She only took them because The Beacon did a story on it. No one board member can run the district. All of them are at fault.
Today employees are harassed in maintenance daily. This is how he writes but how he speaks is worse. We are constantly attacked, he has wasted millions, bids have been violated, crimes are being committed and kick backs are happening. PCS industries has a personnel relationship with Rana, Feltes hangs out with district contractors who he pushs business to. Now Leonard got a union member put on leave. Everyone on the board is well aware and although Johnson votes no that is not enough. Hull promised us a better working enviroment along with Strand and Peryea. it is more out of control than ever. PLEASE HELP THE KIDS OF AURORA and elect a new board.
As we see it Hull is allowed to use abusive language regarding the staff so that's why Feltes think he can Please AURORA HELP THE STAFF elect a new board
DR Popp what are you hiding with these emails,
wow Ralph dodging, bobbing and weaving, they are shredding and deleting like crazy over there!!It really looks bad Matt, when you deny these requests, because it makes it look as if there are some terrible malfeasances going on..... Where there is smoke there is fire..
Why doesn't tge BOE speak up and turn over the Emails.
They claim to to be sooooo transparent. I have heard Peryea say at every meeting the are getting more information than every before. I guess it's ok if you are on the BOE but the he** to the public. Sad
What do you have a Union for if they do nothing. There is also the Whistle Blower you can use. You employees are the ones with the information about what is going on. This district has the same problem it has had for awhile and that is the board thinks it should run the district not their one employee.
Did anyone read the enrollment report'
Only 60 students at the Quad County Urban League building. WOW! would I like to teach there. Staff at EAHS "the white middle class teacher" works in a building that is so overcrowded during passing period the hallways back up so bad they stop and lines form just to turn a corner. We have a Dreams program currently, plus Alternative Ed classes going on at EA. The building is running until 8 pm with no PPAs. We complained because our worthless (IFT) would not stick up for us. They claim the BOE has no more money to hire them. Stupid question? Why are these students not at the Quad? Some building management!
It was reported the BOE paid their mortgage payment, utilities, insurance and repairs. The Quad is also allowed to continue operations in a building 131 pays for. Then I read, they paid a new alarm. The Tech. staff was there for weeks making improvements. This while most computers have connection issues and run so slow students refuse to use them at EA. Tech also reports more new computers sitting idle at Quad. Why are kids who follow the rules not given the same rights?
I appears to be another BOE blunder or Hull paying off the Afro American community. It also shows the poor leadership running this district. What a difference a year makes. I bet d204 was happy to get rid of Popp, Truckenbrod and Brown. All worked at 204 and rejected from 204.
Up until now, I have given Dr Popp the benefit of the doubt., Feeling he needed time and in a effort to keep peace with Leonard he went along with Feltes. I was one of a silent Minority that still hoping the new administration would take hold.
Now, I read about stopping the FOIA requests for emails that is troubling. It has come to a point that Feltes should have received some displine or get fired outright. Then to read another brewing issue. Denying emails. Really?
This is were a transparent board takes action.
If THIS is what Feltes does to the employees of the district in ONE email, can you imagine what the others contain!?
The Facts are right in front of you BOE!
Yeah, I would guess they are devoting someone to deleting the emails off of the server full-time.
More law suits to come is what I have heard. You can't bully, lie and steal without expecting the public will find out about it eventually, thanks to people like Mr. Padron.
hull needs to reflect on the true meaning of Dr King. dr King would never group people he would believe in equality. It is because of people like Hull there is still racial divide in the USA.
From: R Padron (ralphpadron@hotmail.com)
Sent: Fri 12/19/14 3:13 PM
To: Michael A Popp (mpopp@d131.org); Christi Tyler (ctyler@d131.org)
Hi again Mike
In other words you will not give me a written response which is vital to insuring
the issues are "black and white" as is the districts position/answers to many a
controversial topic.
Reference the trash bags and box, I am willing to pay for these.
That would insure taxpayer resources are not being compromised.
Please give me the cost and I will send a check
Look forward in resolving these issues
Ralph
________________________________________
From: MPOPP@d131.org
To: ralphpadron@hotmail.com; ctyler@d131.org
Subject: RE: 2nd request
Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2014 21:05:22 +0000
Hi Ralph,
My preference is to speak with people who present questions during public comment so that I, or one of my staff members, can answer any other questions that may come up during the dialogue. I have practiced this with my cabinet members since April, and will continue to do so as I believe it is more productive in developing a relationship. The trash bags and carton were purchased with tax-payer dollars; in a different circumstance, I am sure that you would agree that we shouldn’t be giving away district resources to everyone who asks for them. Mike
From: R Padron [mailto:ralphpadron@hotmail.com]
Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 3:00 PM
To: Michael A Popp; Christi S Tyler
Subject: RE: 2nd request
Greetings
My request is for a written response on multiple issues . Appears you are avoiding this in writing. What is the reason for denying me the trash bags and carton
Thank you Ralph ________________________________________
From: MPOPP@d131.org
To: ralphpadron@hotmail.com
CC: ctyler@d131.org
Subject: RE: 2nd request
Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2014 20:50:20 +0000
Hi Ralph,
I believe Christi and I answered questions you had for us in our phone conversation. We are denying your request for our trash bags.
Have a peaceful and restful holiday!
Mike
From: R Padron [mailto:ralphpadron@hotmail.com]
Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 6:42 AM
To: Michael A Popp; Christi S Tyler
Subject: 2nd request
Good Morning
When can I expect formal written responses to my previous letters and Board Comments.
It has bee quite some time for many of the above and it appears my request is being overlooked.
Please review all previous correspondence and provide an update.
Thank you
Ralph
Padron does not work for the district but he is willing to speak up for us. Yes you can bet they are deleting them. One of the requests is emails between the BOE and Popp.
I would think Johnson has those emails and should turn them over. She is always outspoken.
it appears Dr Pop does not want to answer anything in writing its easy to lie to someone and say they misinterpreted what was said.
Why will Popp not sell a case of trash bags could it be that they are not getting what they ordered. Again Dr Popp nobody believes you because you have lie to often to cover up for Feltes. It seems Padron is the only one who is looking out for us.
Also! I agree turn over the emails what are you hiding?
Somebody WILL have a copy those emails if they were carbon copied. If Hanley can't locate them on their server, he needs to go to individual accounts. Some emails and documents are already known to exist. Not supplying them or destroying them is in direct violation of the Freedom Of Information Act.
Employees need to start speaking up! You are not only protected by your union, but depending on the case several other entities as well! The Department of Labor for example.
I would not underestimate our union.
The above mentioned Whistleblower's act protects you from your employer's retaliation for reporting and exposing corruption etc. If you are disciplined for using you Family Medical Leave act, report it! This is illegal. Report harassment! We have rights, but if we don't use them, we will lose them!
A transparent BOE would make Popp turn them over. Come on Board have some ethics is that not what you want out of the students.
Sent to Bd Of Ed, Dr Popp, Bernie Weiler, Joan Glotzbach, Christi Tyler & Matt Hanley today
Greetings to all
Have attached copy of IASB Illinois Law regarding FOIA's.
I am requesting that Dist 131 staff and all Board Members review these regulations are in compliance with
the recent response of "Documents do not exist" regarding emails.
To all Board of Ed Dist 131 Members:
I am requesting that if you have emails referencing the "key words" contained in my request, please
bring this to the Superintendents attention via email.
Regarding Dr Popp's pattern of
1 Intentionally avoiding answering my inquiries, Board Meeting Comments, & emails for whatever reason
2 Evasive answers maintaining he has replied satisfactorily to the subject in question
3 Holding several administrators accountable for UNACCEPTABLE & INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR
4 Failing to discipline those individuals at the Bldg & Grounds who blatantly insured PCS Industries
receive puchases of $ 100K +
5 Appears to be covering up these activities and individuals for whatever reasons
Regarding recent response to Marty Feltes emails from July 1 - July 7 2014
Upon reviewing the entire file sent, there appears several repetitive emails which need to be
streamlined and/or avoided to reduce the quantity received.
I would be deeply disappointed if any Board Member or staff member is withholding documents which
can support my FOIA'S and ongoing audit of East Aurora Dist 131.
There are many more issues surfacing & being finalized to present in accordance with Protocol
to each and everyone of you.
Again I attach the email discovered regarding the intimidation, antagonistic, and unprofessional handling of a matter by Mr Feltes
Please do the right thing and demand release of the emails in question.
Respectfully
Ralph Padron
I do not believe the the BOE cares for our students much less the way staff is treated. The taxpayers? They only care about their votes and their money.
The BOE and administration care ONLY for themselves and their POLITICS. Everyone else be damned.
Asking them to do the right thing at this point is futile. Facts via FOIA,people coming forth with facts and voting in NEW and ETHICAL board members is what will defeat them.
The people they are running over for the sake of cronyism and lining their pockets are well-liked in this community and come election time people will come out and speak out against these corrupt BOE members and their friends.
More emails like the ones Feltes wrote will come out and will be addressed. If these documents start disappearing they will have to answer to a higher authority.
You can see they are covering up. Felteis and Popp should be fired . What else are they hiding? The board needs to do the right thing . If they have nothing to hide turn them over. They seem to forget the community ownes the school district not them
At a recent meeting Hull told us we are guests at the board meeting and the board meeting is for the board members. Upon complaining, none of them brothered to answer except Peyrea. Her answer was Hull is correct and i should not be so negative. She claims the community is happy with the new leadership. What rock is she under. With the many issues not getting addressed with wasteful spending and corruption I am spreading words to all my Freinds and neighbors.. a new board is needed.
I am outraged as a taxpayer in this district. The answers by Tyler show her level of skill and coverup. People are well paid on this district to do their jobs not get trained on the job.
Mr Handley is also another waste it shows he is covering up for Feltes.
I have to work to pay my high taxes so I am greatful to Mr Padron for exposing them.
I am also disappointed that the board hired a Superintendent in training that has not fixed these issues. It shows that the district is a free for all. Allowing employees to purchase what they want. I am so glad my hard earned money supports this
http://beaconnews.chicagotribune.com/2015/01/19/frequent-records-requester-vows-keep-eye-east-aurora/
Who is this Mr. Handley? What does he do for the district?
It's Matt Hanley and he is the
Assistant Director of Community Relations and the and the Freedom Of Information Act Officer.
He is the one responsible for responding to requests for information we are allowed by law to see from the district.
http://www.d131.org/NewsInfo/FreedomofInformationact.asp
The article in the Beacon News shows a pattern of coverup in Dr Popps administration. Tyler claims all is well now that we have her friend working in purchasing. I have attended meetings with Clever and the women does not have a clue. She has never done purchasing, nor does she understand public bidding on anything. She is also very rude to the secretaries who call for purchase orders. Everyone knows this was patronage and will end up the same way as Feltes. It was embrassing that Popp did not insist Tyler follow the rules.
A recent comment was made to Gloztbach and she made it very clear that was not her choice and Tyler is on her own with Clever. Popp has lost all respect and many are counting his days. He opted to play politics instead of run the district.
In other newsTyler misreported attendance data at West Aurora and they were forced to repay millions to the State. Many of us warned her at East she is not following procedure. The district counts students who come for a couple of hours as all day. A log is being kept and Tyler will get turned in at the end of the year.
Don't let Dr Popp lie the proverty numbers will only correct themselves next year. Title money's will get reduced. The residents need to be very aware of her 129 is in poor financial condition because of her. Smith asked her to leave at West and she does not have good relations with them. I know budget details are hard to get but Johnson needs to look closer. We are not accountants but her adjustments are in the millions daily one mistake after another. She makes it very clear Crystal Financial did the budget and monthly reports for her at West.
Hanley is so unimportant to the distinct why should anyone know how to spell his name.
He is paid to spy and coverup another waste of tax dollars.
DICK LEONARD intimidates Popp and others to keep FELTES on the payroll. They want to keep him until he can retire at the end of his contract and collect on all the benefits he had being employed by the District! He will continue to take our money even after he is gone if this occurs!
Shame on Dick Leonard and all who support him in his quest to keep his buddy Martin Feltes on the job.
Peryea and Hull are getting political help from Feltes and Leonard. It's politics before children at 131. Let's put a end to Ward one running d131
Today is MLK day and your comments of hate and racism have destroyed the employee moral of 131. You have commented to many about racial divide. If you want true equality for all you message of the middle class white teacher have no place in 131.
I work at the Preschool Center. All summer I would watch this Bozo show up and hold court. Contractor after Contractor would come up and meet in his truck drink coffee, eat donuts and smoke. This would go on until about 9 am every morning. It never occurred to me until reading the Beacon yesterday why he was not meeting in the office the district provided at the work site. He was making back room deals. It always irirrated me that this was going on. I through every worker at 131, is certainly not allowed to smoke on the job , and take two hour coffee breaks.
Hull did know about this after some staff members made jokes to him. Staff at the Preschool Center said he was protected by the BOE. I guess some of the white middle class work and other don't.
THIS BLOG IS A JOKE. It is full of liars, disgruntled employees and old men who waste taxpayer dollars on fruitless FOIA requests.
After last night all the BOE members need to go. A petition needs to start to remove them.
Leonard said, we need a Sup from a turnaround district. Is that admitting you hired the wrong guy? Or are you mad at Popp about Feltes.
Hull is a racist and can not see we have a heavily Hispanic district. His comments about staff have a racist bent. Then he states , I only insulted 80% of the teaching body because I am diversity. No Mr Hull you have publically stated we are lazy. He seems to forget the survey he keeps quoting or the fact we don't want to hear about Carla Johnson's horse.
Peryea can only talk about the past and how Johnson ran the district. It's time to get over it and focus on students.. Really? It's time to focus on this administration and the poor job they are doing. No, everything is not great.
Johnson needs to remember her own words last night and move forward. Roberts let the coruption run in 131 so to defend it just looks silly. You may have had to fix many things but remember it went on for many years until you finally addressed it. That was silly.
Padron brings up good points but at some point needs to give it a rest.
Darby is correct why is the administration back to the good old days of credit card abuse?
Strand is a bubble head and adds nothing. She stated she to work to bring kindness to the district. So far she has let Hull publically abuse us.
Popp needs to get off his soap box admit the district
has problems and move forward. Dr Popp very little is working.
We need a new BOE that can work with each other.
PERIOD. Act like adults and learn from your mistakes.
Sometimes a few taxpayer dollars need to be used (not "wasted") in order for many THOUSANDS of taxpayer dollars to be saved.
And about the supposed liars...what's preventing YOU from presenting your own version of the truth? As always, this blog provides an opportunity for all viewpoints and perspectives to be expressed. Want to see more mention of the great things happening in our district? Go ahead, post away!
Looks like Hanley was up working late. Why are there so many disgruntled employees? Could it be that working with incompetence and dishonesty all day makes them disgruntled.
HA! Why do you think there is a Freedom Of Info. Act? I have an idea who you are "Look the other way", don't you have other things to do? The TRUTH only came out because of Padron and his team FOIAing these documents or we never would have known!
Ray Hull literally cried after the meeting last night saying the Beacon News article was skewed! The reporter who wrote it was there. She wrote the FACTS. Things many people in this District are afraid will come out. Wasting tax dollars on FOIAs? What an uneducated statement, but one I have heard before from people who do not want the truth to get out. It will, don't you worry about that.
I work at West High. Mr. Padron was here talking to a maintenance worker about the PCS purchase scandal where we brought another unrelated topic to his attention that he will be addressing soon as it relates to d131.
http://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Urban-Prep-Charter-Academy-Reviews-E638806.htm
RE: 2nd request
Michael A Popp 12/19/14
To: R Padron, Christi S Tyler
Hi Ralph,
My preference is to speak with people who present questions during public comment so that I, or one of my staff members, can answer any other questions that may come up during the dialogue. I have practiced this with my cabinet members since April, and will continue to do so as I believe it is more productive in developing a relationship. The trash bags and carton were purchased with tax-payer dollars; in a different circumstance, I am sure that you would agree that we shouldn’t be giving away district resources to everyone who asks for them.
Mike
From: R Padron
Sent: Friday, December 19, 2014 3:00 PM
To: Michael A Popp; Christi S Tyler
Subject: RE: 2nd request
Greetings
My request is for a written response on multiple issues
Appears you are avoiding this in writing.
What is the reason for denying me the trash bags and carton
Thank you
Ralph
From: MPOPP@d131.org
To: ralphpadron@hotmail.com
CC: ctyler@d131.org
Subject: RE: 2nd request
Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2014 20:50:20 +0000
Hi Ralph,
I believe Christi and I answered questions you had for us in our phone conversation. We are denying your request for our trash bags.
Have a peaceful and restful holiday!
Mike
Remember Hull, Peryea and Strand are all professed Clergy.
Is this in keeping with Ethical and Moral behavior.
This is 2015. A written/emailed response is the expected procedure for business correspondence. Mr. Padron is being entirely reasonable to insist upon getting a response in writing. A phone conversation can be forgotten or misinterpreted. Having something on record (either on paper or computer) protects both parties from later misunderstandings.
I'm surprised and disappointed that Dr. Popp doesn't seem to recognize the value of written communication in the business world.
When are we going to address the problems with East High's athletic program? The varsity football team has lost 54 out of the last 55 games!! Our boys baseball team wins 1 game a year! Our boys varsity basketball team is heading for its fourth straight losing season. High performing schools (academics)have great athletic programs!
Thanks Ken Darby for showing credit card abuse again. Since they did not tell you this.
Leonard gets free cable and internet. He also has a laptop and printer.
Hull was given a I Pad scheduled to go to students at Rollins. He also has a printer and laptop. Nice that we have Board of Ed members who put themselves in front of the children.
The other Board of Ed members have clean equipment records.
I just read the reviews of Urban Prep Academy on the link posted yesterday.
FIVE reviews, all from current or former teachers at the Academy. All
expressing serious concern about how teachers are treated by administration. Not ONE of the reviews had anything good to say about the administration that oversees Urban Prep Academy (although there were positive comments made about students, parents, and fellow staff members).
This is the Charter School that "Farrakhan's Disciple" Clayton Muhammad holds up as a shining example. This is the school that Clayton Muhammad thinks so highly of, that he included 3 students to speak in our city-wide MLK celebration.
Do NOT be surprised if Raymond Hull, Clayton Muhammad, and other D131 bigwigs (past & present) try to sell the charter school idea here in Aurora.
BAD IDEA.
Hull talked against teachers at a recent school conferance held in Chicago. He is working to bring a Charter School to Aurora. District 131 staff was suprised to read about it in a recent Beacon article. He has told church members " black students are under served" This was witnessed by 131 staff member that attended a service at Main Street Bapist ( Hulls church).
He told school board members Oak Park, Krug and 500 students EAHS would all benefit. Now he was called on the carpet for it and claims his words are being taken out of context. No Mr Hull we have eyes and ears in the community. We have been told to many lies and we really don't care to hear about your petty emails and fights with Annette Johnson. The community just wants adults that care about kids on the Board of Ed.
News Article "The Voice" Jan 22 2015
PART 1
Purchasing Scandal/Corruption Exposed at East Aurora School District 131
I have been auditing the East Aurora School District 131 the past year for Purchasing irregularities and the ongoing cover-up of several employees directly involved with this. Upon uncovering fraudulent purchases all directed to award PCS Industries these sales, I presented/spoke at the Board of Education monthly meeting and communicated with the Superintendent Dr Michael Popp multiple times make them aware of the corruption taking place. In addition I have filed 2 reports/complaints with the Aurora Police Department and am requesting a meeting with the Kane County States Attorney Office this week.
Here is the presentation I made at the Nov 3rd Board of Ed Meeting
The June 6th 2014 purchase order to PCS Industries read
A 4 Rider scrubbing machines @$6,247.50 totaling $24,990.00 ($10.00 short of the Bid Threshold)
B $1,000.00 charge for training
Grand total $25.99k
There were two additional purchases on June 30th and July16th
Grand total $77.97k
Red Flags arise immediately
1 Why were there 3 PO’s for 4 machines within 40 days instead of 1 for 12 machines requiring a bid
resulting in a large reduction in price.
2 Why would you want to pay for training charges 3 times with the 3 PO’s.
The training charges should have been waived as part of negotiations.
3 Was this on the budget plan for Bldg & Grounds? If not- why.
4 Was there a 30 day “Trial/Test” period before for this machine before making this purchase
I spoke with the manufacturer of the machine and was told only “Authorized Distributors” could sell this machine. These companies are given special discounted pricing to sell their products.
3 quotes for this purchase are required by School Policy and none were provided. If you are going to quote “Apples to Apples” this would be the criteria for this machine or a comparable one
A Only have those other distributors quote pricing for this item
B Comparable machines would follow the same rules
C Any unauthorized distributor could not fairly compete due to a great pricing disadvantage.
This is the only way to be fair in awarding Purchase Orders. Was this procedure followed?
Purchase orders followed the approval process but violated policy and law of the 25K threshold to be bid. HOWEVER
A Why would someone submit a request like this, as it is common knowledge what the purchasing rules are.
B Why did someone not question this dollar amount?
C Procedures were in place yet this slipped through the ranks 3 times
There is no excuse for what transpired and those responsible must be held accountable for these decisions. This is a poverty district and Stewardship of Tax Dollars was violated as I have clearly proven. There are many other issues which have surfaced which will be discussed later.
Thank you for allowing me to speak tonight
Ralph Padron
PART 2
Concluding Comments
The Floor Scrubber violations warrant “Criminal Charges” as “Bid Rigging and Cover Up” categories. It has been nearly 3 months and the investigation promised by Dr Popp and Christi Tyler has not shown any progress. It is unfortunate that Marty Feltes (Bld Grnds Director) and David Rana (Supervisor) continued their roles without penalty.
Another recent FOIA uncovered that Mr Feltes was paid in full $ 10,250.00 per month while on sick leave. His return in December with reduced hours, he was still paid in full.
David Rana received compensation of $413.46 since October 2014 as Interim Director. No pro-rated adjustment was ever made. This is the responsibility of Dr Popp and Christi Tyler to insure this would not happen. Well it did and they are responsible as stewards of the Taxpayers of Illinois and East Aurora. I hope the money have been recouped and their paychecks reflect this corrective action.
There are more purchasing scandals/corruption that have surfaced and will be made public each week in this newspaper.
What article are you referring to where Ray Hull was supposedly promoting Charter Schools? I keep hearing this on this blog but have seen absolutely no evidence of it.
If it was actually proven that any board member or administrator was supporting a charter school,they would lose my support but I have not seen it.
Please support your accusations with evidence or stop the slander.
http://beaconnews.chicagotribune.com/2015/01/22/east-aurora-finger-wagging-followed-calls-move-forward/
So Ray Hull is "calling on the district to diversify its teaching staff to better match its student body"?
I have raised two children who are now college graduates, and I couldn't have cared less whether their teachers were Black, White, male, female, young, old, gay, or straight. What mattered to me was whether they were effective teachers. And my neighbor received an excellent education at a Catholic grade school, high school, and university. His grade school teachers were mostly nuns, and almost all his high school and college teachers were Catholic and Caucasian (my neighbor is Hispanic).
It is difficult enough to find highly-qualified teachers in our district. We have no business screening out those teachers who come from backgrounds different from our students. There's a word for that kind of "screening"...
...it's called DISCRIMINATION.
And, it's WRONG.
Diversity, you are absolutely, right! How is anything ever going to change for our children if we keep installing the idea that people need to be this or that to be effective leaders, teachers, etc.
Sadly, some of the leaders in our community believe and spread their beliefs, that children of certain nationality or race cannot learn as well unless they are taught by people "like" them. These children will never be able to compete or work in a world wide job market place with these skewed ideals shared by good intended narrow minded mentors.
So know the district is going to have a referendum does that mean in 6 months they are broke? I guess Hull is trying to minimize Padron instead of cleaning up corruption. After millions wasted in B&G and now a referendum. This is back to the serial bully days of Radocivich. I will work day and night to get him and Peryea off the Board.
There is such a thing as sick leave. Why is it fraudulent to have paid an employee with sick leave? You are able to accumulate sick leave, as well. What planet are you from?
Thank You Ms Johnson
At least someone stood up for the teachers. You finally said what our Union President should have. Hull suffers from angry black man psychosis.
Yes he is crazy.
EA Bloggers:
My name is Anita Lewis and I am part of a non –profit group called Chris Walk against Substance Abuse. (CWASA) We are sponsoring an event next Tuesday at Batavia Fine Arts Center called “Straight Talk about Drugs. I will be a good evening to get more info on the drug issues in our area. We have a Key Note Speaker and also Sheriff Kramer will be talking about issues in Kane County and a counselor will be sharing resources for families in crisis.
Here is the press release and a link to our website. www.chriswalk.net.
“National Drug Facts Week℠ (NDFW) is an annual health observance week to shatter the myths about drugs and drug abuse. The week is observed from January 26 through Feb 1, 2015
In observance of the NDFW, the Kane County Chronicle and Chris Walk Against Substance Abuse will present, “Straight Talk About Drugs” on Tuesday, January 27, 6:30 p.m. at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre, Batavia, IL with guest speaker, Bruce Talbot. Bruce is a retired police officer and noted speaker and police trainer.
Bruce says, “The abuse of drugs is changing faster than parents (and sometimes even the police) can comprehend. New synthetic drugs of abuse such as 6-APB masquerading as "Molly" have parents and community service providers struggling to explain the dangers to young people. Even old drugs like heroin have changed dramatically since the 1960s with confusion about media reports of a new Russian synthetic heroin clouding the abuse of narcotics. In this engaging evening presentation, Bruce Talbot will present the current trends in substance abuse in Kane County, Illinois and alert parents to spot the signs of drug use among adolescents."
Admission is free and there will be a drawing at the event for a Kindle Fire HD. You must be present to win.
For more information contact Anita at 630-849-3938 or go to www.chriswalk.net
(PS- before a negative blogger asks why we are not holding it at East it is because we are partnering with the Kane County Chronicle and there readership does not cover Aurora.)
Thank you, Anita Lewis
This is very distributing with Feltes with his salary and how they did the purchase orders for the floor scrubbers. I don't care if Feltes had on the job training the job title had asked for degrees. His salary is high for starting and he did residential jobs not commercial which is different. It does seem if you are a friend of one of the board members you can get a good administration job with the district. If you goggle his name his business still comes up is he doing that also?
The floor scrubber bid was just wrong. No one that runs a business would purchase orders this way.
Shame on you board.
The Aurora Beacon has outdone themselves again. When a citizen like Mr Padron attempts to clean up coruption they get burned at the stake. It is clear the patronage job of Ms Crosby's daughter and her friendship with Matt Hanley are more important than wasting millions of taxpayer dollars. If she had any moral or ethical values she would disclose her daughters position.
Do not dispare Mr Padron there is The Voice and the will of hundreds of 131 employees who thank you. It is unforntunite we live in fear for our jobs because of the current administration but your daughter gets a free pass.
http://beaconnews.chicagotribune.com/2015/01/22/same-old-storyline-same-old-garbage-in-east-board-soap/
http://beaconnews.chicagotribune.com/2015/01/22/same-old-storyline-same-old-garbage-in-east-board-soap/
What an utterly stupid article! You think this is funny? Turning it into some kind of "soap" opera? SHAME ON DENISE CROSBY the "reporter" of this article. Concentrating on the kids means taking care of the financial situation here. You think the scrubbers and can liners are a joke? All this together with other purchasing scandals are costing the district MILLIONS which, bottom line, has an impact on the students! I have not seen you reporting anything useful to help here. YOU are part of the soap opera. Reporters like you give the Beacon a bad name.
Here is Denise Crosby's Facebook page where she gives more of here "Opinions". She thinks the corruption at withing the district causing millions of dollars that could be used for the students to be lost.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Denise-Crosby/145456528834146
My 5th grade son told me his band teacher said there might not be 5th grade band next year. He said they wanted to start kids the summer after 5th grade.
This wouldn't be good in our district because some 11 and 12 year olds have to take care of younger brothers and sisters during the day in the summertime. Also a lot of families go to Mexico during the summer.
I hope the administration plans to get input from parents before they try to push this through.
Anita, thanks for posting that info about Chris Walk. You obviously truly care about our kids and our district. I'm glad you're running for School Board, you'll be getting my vote for sure!
I know that Oswego has started band the summer before 6th grade for several years now. Maybe it works in that district, but our kids need that fifth-grade year in band because the vast majority of them do not have private lessons. Oswego is mostly upper-middle class and ours is a high poverty district.
My kids both started band in fifth grade, and I'm glad they did. Middle school brings lots of social pressures and kids want to be "cool" instead of learn & try new things. Fifth grade is the perfect age to start band because by then kids are physically capable of playing wind instruments. And as someone already mentioned a lot of our kids would have to miss out on a summer program.
I certainly hope our district will NOT get rid of 5th grade band. At the least, ask the current and former band families for their input on this very important matter!
Interested in what kind of salaries are being paid out within the District? Prepare for a shock.
http://www.keepandshare.com/doc20/view.php?id=5002&da=y
About the 5th grade band, Ken Darby is running for school board and is a band booster parent. Here's a golden opportunity for a band parent to have some influence in important decisions affecting our kids!
For those of you that use Dropbox
District Salaries:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/6xji6j7z79gi4y4/salaries.pdf
So Feltes has now mysteriously disappeared and claims he is having health issues. His fellow workers don't know what has happened or who is in charge. District employees did see him with Weiler ( district lawyer) and another person who appeared to be a lawyer waiting for Popp and Glotzbach. Looks like another payout or lawsuit.
It's so funny how Ralph is being "attacked" by the media when so many of these posts attack hard working people in slanderous ways, going so far as to posting salaries, telling lies about job performance and specifically naming people in fairy tales about perceived wrong doings in the district.
Granted the board is atrocious, but dragging the names of individuals through the mud is not productive or legal.
Anita Lewis is another School Board candidate who had kids in the band program. Let's vote in some board members who will preserve the 40+ year tradition in our district of starting band instruments in fifth grade.
Yet another reason to keep 5th grade band is the fact that the West side elementary schools start band in fifth grade. There are always a number of families who move across town for whatever reason, and if the kids are in band they can transition easily into their new school's band program. Also, our district's very successful band camp at LaSalle Manor now includes students who have just finished fifth grade. Those kids would have to wait another year for the experience if band started in 6th grade.
And AHgain- WE the taxpayers are ENTITLED to TRANSPARENCY in public interest entities . We have the right to know what we pay in salaries, we have the right to know what goes on with vendors, budgets etc. If you want to live in anonymity go work in the private sector.
Anita Lewis was Johnson pet when she was on the board and did some back stabbing so she is not a good candidate for the board.
You have a right to that information, but you don't have a right to lie about people under the cloak of anonymity. Many of the people who have been named on this blog in the last year did not work for Distict 131 so that their good names could be slandered. In an effort to protect your "taxpayers rights", you are driving down your own property values with this blog.
People see this filth and won't want to move here because of the lies and general craziness that is perpetuated on here. Ralph doesn't live here, so what does he care if he is wasting money with FOIA Requests and causing negative impact on home values. Additionally, why do you think it is hard to staff the positions in the district. Look at the picture that you are publicly painting about our district.
Think about it people! Use this blog to share a positive story about your child's experiences, a co-worker who goes over and above, or an event that makes a difference in the lives of your students. This better serves your community.
Channel your concerns through the appropriate channels! Don't cloak them in anonymity.
It is a State Law that all public workers salaries, bonuses, paid insurance and stipends. Also I agree with Another lesson gone to pot.. said.
Why have the employees not been told about Feltes. Rumor has been told by district admin to pull a Deanne Adams. Rank and file at Central Office can not understand why Popp will not take action now this and all because Feltes has a friend on the board.
Also, Cleaver has been given money for a position she is not entitled to. Why should Padron not make everyone aware
Moral is at a all time low. This started in July when Popp hired Flanigan and Truckenbrod. They also started at higher wages. Why again did the board not question this?
With ethical leadership d131 would be a great place to work. Last year everyone was energerized. This year many of us will be looking for new job if a new board is not elected in the spring.
Anita Lewis has done many things our district. As a band parent she stopped the hiring of the West Aurora Band Director after Marin Gonzalez approved him.Today students would have been sexually assaulted if not for Anita and other concerned parents
I will support her. I will not support Hull, Peryea and Garza.
Garza had petitioned with Hull. I am for a trabsparent board
Annette must be here campaigning for Anita. Anita came on the Board before and united with Annette for self serving purposes for family and power to have their will be done. They quickly undid the transparency Anita had helped to bring about years before. She wined and dined with the superintendent. She worked against things that she had campaigned to favor, for the sake of the children. Beware what you believe on this blog. Including what I have written. Check it out for yourself where people's alliances may be and what history they have in the district. Annette does not want Mary G. on the Board because Mary works for the city. That is the only connection she has with Ray. It is no secret Annette and the Mayor have had problems, so Annette does not want any city workers on the board for fear they will be against her. How many candidates have their heart in the district, either because they have a family history and roots here or because they have children who are currently attending EA schools? why would they NOT want to see and help bring about better things for D131?
To the pot calling the kettle.....What is really funny is people like Denise Crosby and Matt using their media connections to attempt to sway opinion about Ralph for doing the exact same thing they would do, if they were trying to bring wrongdoing to light.
What Ralph and many before him have tried to do, in hopes of opening the door and bringing to light what goes on in this district. They listen to those who work there, and keep reporting every little thing they are able to prove is wrong. Maybe at some point a legal authority, union rep or real news reporter will push the door wide open and expose all that has gone on for far too long and continues to benefit all but the educators and the students. Many admin and board members have sat by while money has been wasted, deals have been made under the table and the education of the district students is what has been shortchanged for years!! Previous Supt. are comfy thanks to the generosity of do nothing boards of the past. Every time new people get put into position we are told "it takes a while to see change happen." The only thing changing is who is charge. Those in charge leave before any change happens and we are back to someone new singing the song " it takes a while to see change happen." In the mean time our teachers are blamed for all that is wrong in our system and the children are not getting what they are entitled.
"Slander" is something that cannot be backed by facts. Perhaps if you read the FOIAS and got the FACTS you would see why this is NOT slander.
Padron is trying to help this district move on to a much higher level. One we all can be proud of. One that educators will want to be a part of and most importantly, one in which our kids can receive all they are entitled to.
By weeding out the people who care not for the children, but only want to line there own pockets this can be achieved.
As for Padron being from Naperville, who cares? Did you know he was hired by the district to perform an audit and that what he found spurred him on to speak out? Would you have done the same?
Do we not all live in the USA? Others would like to speak out, but live in fear of losing their jobs if they do.
BTW, these FOIA requests should have been done a long, long time ago, that is why there are so many now. Would YOU take non-paid time to go through all of these documents, uncovering MILLIONS in wasted money? Thank goodness Ralph is retired and is using some time to do this.
All these ridiculous arguments- "He's doing it for the "glory!", "FOIAs are costing us money and resources!", "You are painting our district in a poor light, no one will come here!"- all said because either people do not want you to know the truth and/or want to keep fleecing this district for all it can produce.
You think these are fairy tales, huh? These are horror stories... they are the truth based in fact.
Anita Lewis stopped the hiring of the West Aurora Band director.
That is an incredible statement.
If you don't think this blog is full of crap after a statement like that then I don't know what your problem is.
Mary Garza and Ken Darby are involved in band boosters. They both have kids who have gone through our district's band program from fifth grade on up.
I will be voting for them, partly because I want our district to continue the 40+ year tradition of starting instrumental music in the fifth grade.
We must NOT allow outsiders like Popp and Truckenbrod to sneak their Naperville-style programs into our (very different) district! Ten years ago the administration chose to give parents the middle finger. Don't let it happen again!
3:04 pm- the blog is not full of crap, just some of the people who try to use it to spread their crap to gullible people.
I am not certain of the facts, but I believe some of the people who applied for the EA band position decided NOT to take the offer after they found out how they had treated the previous director. So they had to take some young guy fresh out of college that didn't know any better and thought he had the golden ticket. To his credit, he has stuck it out even after they quit giving him special favor. My point is, no one person, especially Ms. Lewis stopped them from hiring anyone.
Annette stood up for all residents when she told the Mayor of Aurora he caused the recent problems for EA. Look at the Bigalow and theater deals. To date the district has not received one penny. Look at all the properties that have come off the tax rolls. Is tge LASALLE St project going to generate taxes? How about Rivers Edge Park two life long businesses paying taxes this month were forced to close their doors and sell for pennies on the dollar.
Mary Garza may be a nice person but it is her job with the city that will not allow her to vote for the kids. Hull petitioned for her so it is a little more than they just work for the City.
Fri Jan 23 2015 EMAIL SENT TO POPP, HULL, TYLER
CC: Board of Ed, Administrators, Better Govt Assn, Denise Crosby, Kalyn Belsha & many more
Hello all
Upon recent FOIA received I discovered that the
new "Purchasing Agent" (Elise Clever) salary is 53K year
her salary at West Aurora was 32K year
this results in a $ 21,000.00 increase with no qualifications to
be an experienced Purchasing Agent.
Upon my audit I am discovering that her salary exceeds many of those
"Licensed Educators"
Come to your own conclusions
the facts speak
Respectfully
Ralph
email Pt
I attached
Elise Clever's application & salary history
Also attached the current EA 131 salaries of all staff
Compare Elise salary to LICENSED EDUCATORS
Definition From Wikepedia
Cronyism is partiality to long-standing friends, especially by appointing them to positions of authority, regardless of their qualifications.
Compliments of Christi Tyler & Mike Popp
Getting the facts straight. Some board members/ candidates have always worked towards the good of the students. Whether it as community members or parents. Some have jumped in and claimed their allegiance for the purpose of a personal agenda. I was at the pickets and the board meetings and the city council meetings when the drive in and Bigelow deals were going thru. The district lawyer at the time sold that lousy land deal, that has yet to show any benefit to the district. The city requested support of the EA supt and Board to move forward. They gave it. Not one time did I see Annette at any of those meetings or protests. She jumped, after the fact, on a band wagon she thought she could ride into the communities good graces.
I am, admittedly, not well versed on what will transpire on LaSalle, but if it is organized to do good for the children and community as I have heard, then it is worth more to our city than the taxmdollars it could generate.
The reason the Mayors people are running is recent movement by none other than Perry Bigalow returning to Aurora after a number of years.
Developments in housing for downtown Aurora will get funded by HUD which will mean more burden for EA
Jakes Bagels is also a target now look for it to become the latest lost tax revenue for EA
Aurora Housiings law firm is none other than Mickey Wilson who also represents the District. Prehaps the tie to Weilers sister running.
We are sure it's not about the kids
Asa oldtimer I remember Anita and others being put on a interview committee many felt Orman was to arrogant. marin did avocate for him but the committee was not fooled. Anita was very vocal as well as other so there is a truth in both stories. It show when the community is involved good things happen .
I am very disappointed by the recent articles and I hope Ms Garza comes out and states she is not running with Hull. Hull is a huge problem in not pushing for transparent dialog.
The LASALLE project is for the good of one board member not the community. She is exploiting the children and draws a salary of $80,000 plus from the Yellow Box church. The community buildings our the schools and we should work to improve them. All the non profits but hers are being bullied to join. They do not want the building but because other non profits have contracts with the Mayor they are being forced to join. She needs their 5013c to call the building a non for profit. Strand never produced her own 501 she does not want you to follow the money trail.
Ms Strand is not who she appears to be.
Question Tomcat 2 Why has Strand not spoken about the corruption of 131. If she is so honest.
I must admit a couple of you have brought up some interesting info. I may rethink my voting. Except, there are not enough contenders left. So it is a matter of the lesser of the evils.
I have not always put a lot of stock in Openline Interns as they seemed to nitpick too often on the Mayor. When simple facts are brought forward, it brings cause for thought, though.
Thanks for your comments.
Hull and Peryea are part of the corrupt board that will not speak out on the issues Padron has uncovered. They are also refusing to turn over emails. And have made public comments that the board meetings are for the board members not the public.
Garza knows Hull and preferred to work with him. I would be concerned that she will support the same agenda.
Darby attends every meeting and speaks out against wasteful spending often.
Lewis was on the board in the past and worked on publically addressing issues. They did not coverup with her on the board.
Arroyo is a community leader that works hard for Hispanics
Garafalo is the sister to Weiler district lawyer that sis a conflict and Weiler has been aiding in the coverup.
Laesch has worked against Charter Schools and is a community organizer.
Hatcher is unknown but has a Stonegate address.
So far this is limited information but the Laesch, Arroyo, Darby and Lewis have attended meeting and understand what a functioning board is . It is time for change and we need it.
http://beaconnews.chicagotribune.com/2015/01/25/east-aurora-school-district-cowherd-gets-creative-library-fundraising/
If you go to the ISBA Website you can read a booklet they have called Your School Board and You that new Board Members get to read. In it they state the Board Meetings are for the Board and that the public are guest and the Board can let the public have time to speak or not let them. How do you know that Hull and Lou didn't turn over emails?
Anita did cover things up and she is a will be Anette's pet again and she has not unless recently attended a board meeting lately. Her grand kids also got special treatment when she was on the board.
Here is the url of the booklet I was talking about board meetings. This board still needs to step back and let Dr. Popp run the district.
http://www.iasb.com/pdf/YourSchoolBoardandYou.pdf
Candidates need to speak out on patronage jobs and wasteful spending. Strand and Peryea said they would bring Intregiry to the district. So far that has not happened. Padron may be a pest but he brings up good points. I do not want to hear the board needs to manage from the balcony. If the Sup will not take action they must. That question needs to be answered. That is how I will vote on the question. I am sick of the current good old boys network.
Ms Garza should speak against Hull then she will get my vote
None of the Board members have turned over emails. Leonard claims they exist. This is when tge board needs to come out of the balcony and insist Popp turn them over.
they also hire and fire and at this point Popp has not taken action. The Board need to come up and not make excuses.
Lou and Hull did not turn anything over they are part of the coverup.
When Lewis was on the board they cleaned up years of financial issues and were transparent. I think Johnson took the blame unfairly for all the issues that plagued the district for years. It now appears it is back to the same old system.
Lewis did force transparentcy with displaying the bills and advocating for this. So far Hull has not turned over emails or demanded that Popp does. In fact he verbally attacked Padron for asking questions. I will look at all candidates except for Peryea and Hull. I do know Mary Garza from the girl scouts and intend to ask her about Hull. hopefully she all distance herself. Lewis currently is tge only one who has my vote and Darby for his diligence in understanding 131
I'm not sure what fantasy world you are living in but I do recall what this district was like with Annette Johnson as the board president.
Annette was in every committee meeting harrassing and intimidating everybody. None of the board members knew what was going on because Annette and Jerome refused to share information with anybody including the board. Administrators were being thrown under the bus everytime Annette screwed up. All of this was allowed to continue because of "YES" rubber stamp board members like Anita Lewis, Stella Gonzalez and Dick Leonard.
No system is perfect and this district certainly has a lot of room to improve but it is strides ahead of where we were a year or two ago.
Anybody who votes for Anita Lewis or any of the other Precinct 1 candidates who are going to support Annette Johnson really needs to remember all the scandals that plagued this district weekly under Johnson. It was a regular embarrassment for all East Aurora Residents and Employees.
Long Memory it is WARD ONE not precinet 1. It shows you don't live in Aurora to bad you can't vote . Talk about embrassing and name calling that would be Ray the Racist who has called everyone names. We had three building and many other great programs under Jerome and Annettes leadership,
"Supporter" name one great "program" that was created under Annette and Jeromes leadership.
I think someone has it wrong no one board member makes changes alone they all vote on it. It is the Superintendent that is suppose to be in charge and follow the board policies. Lewis and Johnson can't make a change by themselves if they do they are breaking the law. Lewis did talking at a board meeting about posting the bills but that is about all.
Supporter: long memory, also, has a good memory and possibly is an election official whose reference was to a voting area, rather than aldermanic area. They were right on target with what they recall. My memory has not forgotten the same embarrassing antics of Annette and the do nothing attitude of Roberts along with her board ally, Anita.
I do have a long memory and the BOE is suppose to step up if the Superintendent does not. I know she has the driving force behind the Kinder Center and the Magnet School.She also found the CSC building which includes additional preschool.
The Board was transparent under the past members. This BOE is involved in many coverups and the truth will come out.
Hull only makes deals that line his pocket or increase his ego.
Here's a December 2013 article about District 204's decision to eliminate their 5th grade band program:
http://www.dailyherald.com/article/20131209/news/712099672/
Notice that there was more than an hour of debate, with several parents and School Board members speaking out in favor of keeping the fifth grade band. But it was this quote that REALLY caught my attention:
"Since the changes do not affect the instrumental music curriculum itself, just the model of instruction and when it will begin, Superintendent Kathy Birkett said they are moving forward as an administrative decision without a board vote"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
That's scary. Dr. Popp and Mr. Truckenbrod (both previously employed in D204) could unilaterally decide to go against the wishes of our community and eliminate 5th grade band. Ten years ago D131 administration ignored students, parents, teachers, and alumni and made a very unpopular decision about our band program.
IT CAN HAPPEN AGAIN.
On what planet is the 5th grade program in jeopardy?
Again and again the blog blows things out of proportion.
Has anybody talked to an ADULT about any of this.
There is nothing to "SAVE."
I remember about 10 years ago my daughter (who started band in fifth grade in District 204) played her band instrument with a group of 7th and 8th graders at our church (in Oswego). My daughter was much more advanced on her instrument than any of the Oswego band students, to the extent that the music was boring for her. And my daughter was NOT taking private lessons. She just had a full year's more experience playing her instrument than the Oswego kids had.
We would be doing our kids a big disservice to deprive them of that year of band experience, especially since D131 families are less likely than those in Naperville or Oswego to provide private lessons!
No if the Superintendent isn't doing their job then the board needs to replace the Superintendent. Where in the IL School Code do you see where a board is suppose to run at district?
Hull claimed the arts and music would be the first programs to go because of money problems. How could they have money problems? I reviewed the 2014 district audit tgey had 93 million in the bank. But it was stated at a board meeting by Hull.
Last I heard, District 204 in Naperville was on Planet Earth. There, the administration unilaterally eliminated the 5th grade band program without a vote from the School Board, and against the wishes of parents.
This whole discussion started when a 5th grader told a parent that her teacher said there might not be fifth grade band next year. I hope you're right and it's crazy and won't happen. But I for one will not sit by and watch administration try to pull a fast one on our community!
Yes, you are right. This all started because a 5th grade student said something.
Then it turned into the administration trying to pull something over the community.
You don't see a giant leap of stupidity there?
Do you hear yourself?
"This whole discussion started when a 5th grader told a parent..."
So that leads to accusations of trying to sneak something through and disregard what parents want.
It sounds like an overreaction to me.
Maybe you should email Dr. Popp, or Mr. Trukenbrod, or anybody, but this stupid blog.
If you know all the board rules maybe you should have ran. So answer this how do you replace a Sup with a contract. This one is one the board for hiring a Sup without any experience from a district that is nothing like 131
What was going on at Waldo last Friday that the teachers and deans where rushing all the kids out after school? I heard it from a couple of parents that said their children where rushed out and they are concerned about what was going on.
No, this all started when a TEACHER told a student that there might not be 5th grade band next year. My experience with teachers is that they often have some insight into the workings of a district.
I live in D204, and remember that in 2010 the administration tried to sell parents on the idea of starting band in sixth grade. I and many other band parents spoke out against it. They tabled it until 2013, when administration pushed it through despite School Board members and parents' objections.
Now our district has some of those same administrators. It is NOT a stretch to be concerned that they might try to get rid of fifth grade band in D131 as they did in D204.
I hope I'm wrong about this, but if not you can bet I'll be saying "I told you so".
Gangs and drugs are out of control at the middle schools and HS. The new displine system is not working. KD Waldo Fights is a Facebook sight that the new administration claims they can not do anything about. As of today 547 kids have joined the fight club. On Friday another fight between two rival gangs was going on . Some parents heard and came to take their kids out of school. Nobody was rushed out of the building only concerned parents.
Nope, this all started when a 5th grader told a parent and the parent posted here. I really don't think that information traveling through a 5th grader is all that credible.
Hmmmmm, has that parent called or emailed the director to see if this information is true?
I can't believe how absurd this whole conversation is.
If you are talking about Popp I don't think the board is letting him run the district they are still pulling the punches. This district was damaged before he came in and it will take a lot to fix it. I wonder how many applied for the Superintendents job? The board is suppose to make policies so the Superintendent can run the district. Can you really say this board is doing anything for the good of the district or just giving friends jobs. There are ways to get out of a contract we just must not have the lawyers that are smart enough to do it.
Who cares? You've got a failing school district in reading and math. And you are worried about one more year of music, when there is not research to support the need for starting instrument instruction in 5th grade.
Plus, you are getting yourself all worked up about heresay. Get a grip of what the priorities are for this district.
Dear Jan. 27th @ 12:27.
The board should have had things in the supt. contract that specified what their expectations were, and gave stipulations for measuring those expectations. That way if he doesn't "measure up" he hasn't held up his end of the contract and he is history.
Historically, district131 has not done this, or if they have, they have not done it effectively or used it to the Boards advantage.
Study after study confirms that a child involved in instrumental music scores significantly higher in math, reading, and science. And fifth grade is an ideal time physically and socially to begin learning an instrument...which is probably why for more than 40 years our district (and the vast majority of school districts nationwide) have started band instruction in fifth grade.
Another important consideration (especially in a district with a history like ours) is the WAY that our neighboring district, D204, made the decision to eliminate its 5th grade band program. Parents and School Board members who opposed the administration's plan were brushed aside and the decision was made by upper administration only.
As a parent, my main priority is the physical, intellectual, and social well-being of my child. Starting band in fifth grade was the right "fit" for my parents, for myself, and for my kids. And I will do whatever I can to make sure my grandchildren have the same opportunities I benefited from!
After leaving school a student was shot at EA today. Our union will not speak up but displine is out of control district wide. The Gangs have taken over EAHS. Byrd did try to reason with administration but his opinion did not matter. Drug dealing is a common issue with pushing going on in the halls. The students understand there is no consequence. Just look at the halls and staircases in the freshman center.
This is not 204 Mr Thruckenbrod.
The BOE is running the district more than ever. They are the ones that insisted in changes to the displine programs. They have also allowed Feltes and company to ruin the maintenance moral. They have hired friends that are not qualified. Feltes was not the only one we have some real loser at Simmons. At least six of Hulls church members got jobs. Gibson was promoted and did not have the proper credituals to evaluate teachers. It is time for a change. This is a board out of control and Simmons has major gang issues as well.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10205581636681847&set=gm.1001499033210979&type=1
EMAIL I SENT TO BOARD OF ED UPON BEING DENIED FOIA EMAIL REQUESTS
January 27th 2015
To: Board of Education
East Aurora School District 131
From: Ralph Padron
Subject: FOIA Request Denied
Greetings Board of Ed Members East Aurora Dist 131
Please review the attached FOIA response regarding the recent denial of FOIA’s I recently submitted.
All I am requesting is that if you disagree with the response given, please bring it to the attention of
the individual (s) who rejected the FOIA’s in question.
I am in no way requesting anyone respond directly to me.
SCHEDULED TO APPEAR IN "THE VOICE" JAN 29 2015
East Aurora School District Hiring of Purchasing Agent Called to Question
Recently I received a FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT response to research a very suspicious and questionable hiring of Elise Clever as “Purchasing Agent” .
Here are the facts:
1 May 2011- Nov/Dec 2014 worked at West Aurora Dist 129 in the Accounts Payable Office
2 Per Elise’s cover letter she was “responsible for payables and procurement card management”
3 The “Assistant Superintendent for Finance” at East Aurora is Christi Tyler who worked with
Ms Clever at West Aurora Dist 129.
4 This is a newly created position to correct the Purchasing Scandals recently made public.
5 Salary stated on her application was $32,000.00 annually
6 Salary at East Aurora is $53,000.00 annually plus benefits
This is an increase of $ 21,000.00 for someone with no experience in this field.
7 LICENSED TEACHERS WITH MANY YEARS EXPERIENCE DON’T EVEN MAKE THIS MUCH MONEY.
8 I addressed/emailed Board of Education President Ray Hull, Superintendent Dr Michael Popp and Christi Tyler Asst Superintendent Finance/Business Ms Cleve’s application, salary history, and the East Aurora Staff Salary report for 2014-2015 school year to support my discovering this very suspicious/controversial hiring. As is their pattern, I will not get a detailed response of any sort from this trio of individuals in authority.
Cronyism Definition: (Wikipedia)
Cronyism is partiality to long-standing friends, especially by appointing them to positions of authority, regardless of their qualifications. Hence, cronyism is contrary in practice and principle to meritocracy.
Cronyism exists when the appointer and the beneficiary are in social contact. Often, the appointer is inadequate to hold his or her own job or position of authority, and for this reason the appointer appoints individuals who will not try to weaken him or her, or express views contrary to those of the appointer. Politically, "cronyism" is derogatorily used.
Ralph Padron
They publish information that the Beacon refuses to cover.
They couldn't care less about protecting the precious "IMAGE" of our district.
God Bless the VOICE!
The information you have given is helping us greatly in gathering the facts we need to prove without a doubt the corruption and other nefarious things going on in District 131.
All info. is kept strictly confidential!
Please keep sending it here:
ralphpadrontips@gmail.com
La información que han dado nos está ayudando mucho en la obtención de la información que necesitamos para demostrar sin lugar a dudas la corrupción y otras cosas nefastas en el distrito 131.
Por favor, tenga que venÃan aquÃ:
ralphpadrontips@gmail.com
Todos son estrictamente confidenciales.
Also, any info. about Ray Hull publicly attending meetings and speaking about Charter Schools. Please submit to our tip line above.
https://v3.boardbook.org/Public/PublicItemDownload.aspx?ik=36482610
Last night the East Aurora High School varsity basketball team lost to Neuqua Valley High School 96-55. This is the fourth straight losing season for Head Coach Wendell Jeffries. The team actually had three air balls last night. They are fundamentally poor and not well coached. We used to be known as a basketball school, but not anymore. Ryan Boatwright is long gone. Mr. Jeffries needs to step down at the end of the season.
How could the BOE voted in Ms Clever as a purchasing agent with all the issues in finance. The position posted required someone with purchasing experience not a clerk. This violates all hard working personnel who spent ten of thousands in student loans and continuing education. Dr Popp should have never allowed this. He has turned our district into a laughing stock and completely ruined employee moral. This has got to stop. Please community step up and retire this entire board.
Here are several recent articles & links supporting fifth grade band, from places as diverse as Texas, North Carolina, and Batavia Illinois:
http://batavia5band.weebly.com/band-testimony.html
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2011/01/05/1944391/marching-to-the-beat-of-their.html#.VMpOlca19J8
http://apps.texasbandmasters.org/archives/pdfs/clinic/2014_idlebird.pdf
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Notice that starting band in fifth grade is defended and supported by PARENTS, STUDENTS, and EDUCATORS. As has been mentioned previously on this thread, our fifth-grade band program has been in place for over 40 years in D131. Generations of students have benefited from it, and our current grade-school students DESERVE no less!
The district is not cutting the 5th grade band program. This is attempt to stir up votes for Darby
"Band in the Know", I hope you are right. People tend to overreact (in this case, to something a 5th grade student told their parents a teacher said). I understand that some may be aware of what happened in D204 with administration making a unilateral decision against the wishes of School Board members and parents, and it doesn't seem like that much of a leap to be concerned about former D204 administrators (Popp, Truckenbrod) doing the same in our district.
I think we should all calm down and trust that our district's leaders will listen to the wishes of our community. And we need to vote in School Board members who have a proven record of being involved in supporting our students: Mary Garza, Anita Lewis, and Ken Darby.
The district has published a report on the BOE agenda with all the waste of time Padron had cost the district. We are sure it is more than the few pennies he has recovered in trash liners. The EAS community should speak out on all the money the district has spent on him for years.
He received free insurance and he was unable to let it go. He was not even the employee. If Padron is so successful why was he not purchasing his own insurance. It is time the community see the pattern of intimidation and harassment your tax dollars are paying for.
[PDF]Marty Feltes Plumbing & Heating, INC.
www.iiiffc.org/.../Oct-Nov_2013_violations_Marty_Feltes_Plumbing_Heati...
Oct 24, 2013 - MARTY FELTES PLUMBING ti HEATING. INC. TFN: '_i_ FELTES, PRESiDENT ... Project East Aurora High Schooi - Water Pipe Replacement.
In checking into Feltes I ran across this as plumber he was cited for breaking the rules by the Illinois Department of Labor. Did the district and Gloztbach not see the violation was for work at East High School. It speaks to his character in cutting corners in his own business. Three months later they put him in charge and rules got broken.
Thank you Ralph it is not about the cost of FOIA it is about the broken rules. With every issue Ralph have discovered I am sure that there are many more out there . The community will not police itself so we need a person like Ralph.
As for the candiadates when are they going to speak out against this. WE do not need school board members who will not speak up. Peryea and Hull should go first both have said nothing and are current members.
I think we ALL have an idea of who would complain about FOIAs. The average person knows what they are, but rarely requests one. So "SICK of FOIAs" perhaps I should explain the facts about what a FOIA is, the cost involved and why they are being requested from you. (BTW, there are many other government entities that must process FOIAs and do so without complaint and much higher volumes than you do.)
1. A FOIA or Freedom Of Information Act document allows the taxpaying public to view documents that involve the running a public interest entity. There are restrictions placed on them as certain sensitive info. cannot be released such as SSNs etc.
2. Cost of FOIAs can vary. Many times the info. can be sent via email which is the preferred method. Sometimes there are too many pages and paper copies must be sent. The person requesting the FOIA PAYS for these.
The FOIA officer lets them know the charge and a check or M.O. is sent payable to the District.
The time to process them is what am sure is being complained about here. Dist131 has a FOIA officer. That is his title, his job and it is to be done in a timely fashion. An extension can be requested if need be. So, the cost here is the FOIA officer's salary which WE pay for as the tax-paying public. Yes, he is also the Community Relations officer and for this work he is paid a very fair amount.
3. Now, the amount of money that has been shown to have been WASTED by key people in D131 are in these FOIA documents, and it is in the MILLIONS. This should have been caught by an internal set of checks and balances as sometimes these documents went through 3 and 4 people and these "errors" were never caught.
I think the small amount spent on FOIAs PALES IN COMPARISON to the amount of money wasted. Like a hairpin in comparison to the Sears Tower. I will have some numbers for you shortly.
So, you can see why "Sick of FOIAs" is so upset and trying to discredit the one person working to remedy this situation. His facts on Padron will be addressed as they are NON-factual (though I hate even address non-factual blogging/reporting).
In the end, it comes down to who REALLY wants to take the time and help this district and it's students.
Oh by the way "SICK of FOIAs" wait until you see the amount of money wasted on can liners (or maybe you already have). Facts to back it all up thanks to FOIAs. This is only one of MANY things uncovered during this investigation. Can liners may sound insignificant, but when you consider the amount needed for and entire district it adds up to thousands of dollars...just. in. can. liners. Are you seeing it now?
Can you imagine? The arts, music and sports programs being in jeopardized when there are millions of dollars being squandered??
These are kid's future's we are talking about! A positive influence from any of these areas could be the changing factor in a student's life!
If the district also keep good records it would not be so time consuming.
Where I work they recently got the floor scrubbers like the district did. The employee's that would use them got to try one out to see how they worked and if they cleaned the floor good and then they decided to buy the amount they needed at one time and then all the employees that would used them got trained.
As always, thanks for the entertainment! I never have to watch Maury or Jerry Springer because this blog is so full of uneducated people that spew hatred and unsubstantiated claims with the sole intent of ruining someone else's reputation/career/life etc. And sometimes I forget that anyone who disagrees with me is a moron who doesn't deserve to live, let alone have an opinion - so thanks for reminding me time and time again.
Dear Jerry fan,
If you think robbing kids of their education is funny...well...I think that says it all.
I love the way people try to discredit the things said here...lower morale...sad really.
People are voicing their concerns about the students in one of the only places they can, especially if they work for the district!
When the facts are presented to the public they will see exactly why these statements were made. The one thing that can triumph over lies- facts.
"sole intent" How do you know what someone's intent is for posting anything, much less that it's their SOLE (only) intent?
"uneducated people" Is someone with less education than yourself "uneducated"? If so, you must have a DOCTORATE degree, because I have a master's!
"doesn't deserve to live" You must be confusing this with another blog, because nowhere in the previous 192 comments on this thread do I see any mention of anyone wanting someone dead.
And I see no "hatred" being "spewed", just people expressing their concerns and questions about things happening in our district.
Oh, and...
You're welcome!
:)
Hanley does nothing anyways and is paid about $100,000 per year. One never sees him at events in the evening he works his 40 hours and leaves. so maybe he should work a little overtime.
Oh my gosh, you're right again! Thanks, I definitely needed to be put in my place. And you totally changed my mind, I now agree with you completely. Wow, you guys ARE good!
Shall we continue this back and forth? I don't know about you, but I've got a bunch of time on my hands and nothing better to do.
<3
- that's a heart, in case you didn't know ;)
I reviewed the document published by the district and on average it has cost the district $3500. A small price to pay for the millions stolen.
Amen!!!!!!
You're a dummy with a Masters.
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