What is your idea of security? When I think of security in the generic sense I think of things like safe, protected, unable to be harmed or removed from the premises. When I must define security in the school system I come up with the same answer.
So about a year ago I proposed that we lock all doors to the buildings and install intercoms and door buzzers for entry during school hours. It’s a cheap reliable solution. Akron has done it for years with success. But as with most of my ideas it was met with eye rolling and all the reasons it was an impossible, outrageous, expensive idea. As usual I left frustrated that yet another simple cheap idea of mine was shot down.
So imagine my shock when “security” cameras were proposed on last weeks agenda and my further dismay in knowing I would be on vacation and unable to voice my dissent.
You see cameras do not provide security. They provide surveillance and monitoring as well as a record of what happened. Prevention is not a part of their job. They cannot stop anything from happening. They may deter a problem in their viewing area but not to level that a locked door does.
I want to know that our kids are safe not monitored. And contrary to a fellow members thinking, safety is a priority for me. Obviously academics are a priority; we are a board of education. Safety was also a priority in the community survey.
I was floored to read in the Falls News that for once in my life I would have been in the majority on this vote. Dang! The one time in my life my opinion was the majority opinion and I was on vacation! Sometimes life is full of irony.
Another ironic vote happened while I was away. For once in my term I was willing to add a new position. A benefits coordinator was something the auditors have been recommending we add and it is the only new position proposed that I actually felt would have saved the tax payer money and paid for itself. In fact the CFO presented a cost-benefit analysis showing that the position would pay for itself and then some. Insurance and prescription costs are going to kill us if we don’t get it under control. It didn’t even get a motion so discussion could take place. So sad.
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
That's What I Want
Today I am doing a quick post on someone and something I should have done a long time ago. Our district treasurer, Kathryn Sines along with the help of Lou Schott have put up a web site that is dedicated to district finances. This is the kind of utilization of technology I’m talkin’ ‘bout! Everything you want to know is a click away either from her FAQ’s page, quick links, or if your question is so obscure it’s not already there she has provided her E-mail.
I will be providing a permanent link on the right as soon as I learn HTML!
Thanks to Kathryn and Lou for providing a much needed and useful service.
Gotta get back to the sun and fun.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
No Worries
Wow. Wednesday night was the worst board meeting yet. It started out great. I was asked by the board president to lead a discussion regarding the community survey conducted over a year ago. I prepared a power point with aspects that stood out as either “what we’re doing right” and “what we need to improve or implement”. It was met with the usual eye rolling, lackadaisical, I’ve got better things to do attitude. I suggested that some of these resident concerns be made a part of our newly minted goals. After all wasn’t this what the survey was for? Or did we do it so we could have a good read about resident concerns and then do nothing about it?
Then something interesting happened. I was surprised when at the beginning of the meeting an addendum to the agenda was presented that included a surprise executive session. It stated that it was for discussion of the Patterson litigation. I was shocked that they were willing to discuss it with me, but glad because I thought maybe we could finally work through the issues that I feel are Sunshine Law violations and putting our actions at risk. So after all regular business, it was moved and seconded that to enter executive session. A five minute recess was called rather than the customary 10. Upon my return in 4 minutes 56 seconds, I was physically blocked access to the executive session. I explained that I needed to hear it from the board president and attempted to enter the room. The door was then opened for me and the board president stepped outside with me. She agreed I should be denied access and returned to the room and the door was shut. I attempted to enter the room to request that the record reflect that I was being physically denied access but instead the door was opened and the treasurer was asked to step outside to hear my request. I waited outside 1 hour and 6 minutes, watched the stage crew remove all recording equipment, and adjourned with the board, once again asking that the record reflect that I was physically excluded from the meeting. We agreed on something for a change. The vote to adjourn was 5-0.
Then I read the Falls News today. I find the statement of “she can’t be a plaintiff and a defendant” was sort of ironic. Why not? I can be a board member and not a board member at the same time.
My biggest problem with the whole scenario is that no one even had the decency to ask me to excuse myself. Not that I would have. I see no reason members cannot meet in pairs with the board atty. Wrongful acts have already occurred in executive session yet I am supposed to trust that this time things will be different. And why do I have a problem with the defendant meeting in this manner to discuss the pending litigation? Because their collaboration is not my concern. Because they frequently do discuss items not allowed. And how about because they could have done this in a proper manner, on the record and given me a proper forum in front of the entire board to defend myself rather than clustering themselves in a room and barring my access.
And now a little blurb on last Mondays goals board meeting. The noob pointed out that finances didn’t make it into our goal session a few months back. That’s right- no financial goals. I pointed out that I had many financial goals on the board but they didn’t get a majority vote to move forward. He ignored me and went on to say that now that he’s seen the five year forecast he thinks we should add that one! Novel idea noob. But the best goal is this one- Having the district labeled “Excellent” by the end of next school year. Don’t get me wrong, I will be thrilled if we did, but I generally set attainable, realistic goals. Maybe by 2010 or’11. But ’09? Come on. I dare our staff to prove me wrong. But it’s not just them. It’s parents and the kids themselves too and I don’t we are quite there yet. Just like with raising the GPA to participate, it’s a lofty idea that hasn’t been thought through.
Then something interesting happened. I was surprised when at the beginning of the meeting an addendum to the agenda was presented that included a surprise executive session. It stated that it was for discussion of the Patterson litigation. I was shocked that they were willing to discuss it with me, but glad because I thought maybe we could finally work through the issues that I feel are Sunshine Law violations and putting our actions at risk. So after all regular business, it was moved and seconded that to enter executive session. A five minute recess was called rather than the customary 10. Upon my return in 4 minutes 56 seconds, I was physically blocked access to the executive session. I explained that I needed to hear it from the board president and attempted to enter the room. The door was then opened for me and the board president stepped outside with me. She agreed I should be denied access and returned to the room and the door was shut. I attempted to enter the room to request that the record reflect that I was being physically denied access but instead the door was opened and the treasurer was asked to step outside to hear my request. I waited outside 1 hour and 6 minutes, watched the stage crew remove all recording equipment, and adjourned with the board, once again asking that the record reflect that I was physically excluded from the meeting. We agreed on something for a change. The vote to adjourn was 5-0.
Then I read the Falls News today. I find the statement of “she can’t be a plaintiff and a defendant” was sort of ironic. Why not? I can be a board member and not a board member at the same time.
My biggest problem with the whole scenario is that no one even had the decency to ask me to excuse myself. Not that I would have. I see no reason members cannot meet in pairs with the board atty. Wrongful acts have already occurred in executive session yet I am supposed to trust that this time things will be different. And why do I have a problem with the defendant meeting in this manner to discuss the pending litigation? Because their collaboration is not my concern. Because they frequently do discuss items not allowed. And how about because they could have done this in a proper manner, on the record and given me a proper forum in front of the entire board to defend myself rather than clustering themselves in a room and barring my access.
And now a little blurb on last Mondays goals board meeting. The noob pointed out that finances didn’t make it into our goal session a few months back. That’s right- no financial goals. I pointed out that I had many financial goals on the board but they didn’t get a majority vote to move forward. He ignored me and went on to say that now that he’s seen the five year forecast he thinks we should add that one! Novel idea noob. But the best goal is this one- Having the district labeled “Excellent” by the end of next school year. Don’t get me wrong, I will be thrilled if we did, but I generally set attainable, realistic goals. Maybe by 2010 or’11. But ’09? Come on. I dare our staff to prove me wrong. But it’s not just them. It’s parents and the kids themselves too and I don’t we are quite there yet. Just like with raising the GPA to participate, it’s a lofty idea that hasn’t been thought through.
Friday, June 06, 2008
Luuuu seeee....
Guess I’ve got some ‘splaining to do. Today’s Beacon Journal was a surprise to most people I’m sure. Before you read the article and jump to conclusions, let me fill you in on what is going on and why.
First of all “suing” makes it sound like I’m out for money. The only money I asked for is my $225 filing fee. This is not about money. It’s about an injunction to compel the board to abide by the law. Don’t get me wrong, I could have asked for damages for each violation in the suit. But I didn’t. I asked for an order from the court to stop all wrongful acts committed by this board and a little something extra. I am also asking the court to order that an opinion from the Ohio Attorney Generals office be obtained before a member can be censured.
Let me explain how censure works. There is no book on the right and wrong reasons to censure. If I cross my eyes during a meeting and fellow members don’t like it, they can censure me if they have the votes. Just so everyone is clear on a few things, it is pronounced “sen-sure”. Not “sen-sore”. I point this out because previously this board censured me and referred to it as censoring me. I’m sure censoring me is what they had in mind, hence the Freudian slip. But fortunately for us they only have the power to censure me. I feel an opinion is needed because this board uses the threat of censure in an intimidating manner.
The Beacon Journal wanted to focus on the executive session voting. That is the least of our worries. The more important issues are the ones that involve the publics right to open government, clear and concise minutes, and the ability to trust that your board of education is conducting the business stated in the notice given and that the notice and/or agenda doesn’t leave you guessing. You can’t go into executive session for employment promotion, demotion, compensation, discipline, etc.. unless the board is actually performing each of those acts. The board can go into ES for promotion if they are promoting someone.
I assume the people of Cuyahoga Falls elected me to represent their stances on issues. How can I effectively do what I was elected to do when I cannot garner a majority vote to do the very least for the citizens and follow the law? Example- the law states you cannot amend the agenda for a "special" board meeting. Yet a member moves to amend it, it receives a second, I object and state the reason, I'm out voted and the board proceeds to conduct business outside the scope of the notice to the public. The citizens of Cuyahoga Falls, and the press for that matter, have a right to be an informed public. Would you like notice that we were going to discuss goals, you decide not to come because goals do not interest you, and then find out the board also voted to cut all extra curricular activities? No chance for input. No having your voice heard (not that there’s much of that now), no chance to respond. It’s just done. No that didn't happen, but it could with this board. This is one example of many violations. This is why we have laws protecting the publics right to open government.
I have attempted to resolve these issues and many others on numerous occasions. But it's a five member board and I am but one. I assure you this was a last resort. I am dismayed that an injunction is the ONLY remedy at hand to resolve these types of issues. There is no agency or official that can compel a board or council to adhere to the Sunshine Laws other than a court of law. I am confident that the courts will resolve these issues and the board can move forward with doing what we were elected to do- serve the people of Cuyahoga Falls.
The purpose and spirit of the Sunshine Laws are crystal clear. Open government. That's what the people expect and deserve.
First of all “suing” makes it sound like I’m out for money. The only money I asked for is my $225 filing fee. This is not about money. It’s about an injunction to compel the board to abide by the law. Don’t get me wrong, I could have asked for damages for each violation in the suit. But I didn’t. I asked for an order from the court to stop all wrongful acts committed by this board and a little something extra. I am also asking the court to order that an opinion from the Ohio Attorney Generals office be obtained before a member can be censured.
Let me explain how censure works. There is no book on the right and wrong reasons to censure. If I cross my eyes during a meeting and fellow members don’t like it, they can censure me if they have the votes. Just so everyone is clear on a few things, it is pronounced “sen-sure”. Not “sen-sore”. I point this out because previously this board censured me and referred to it as censoring me. I’m sure censoring me is what they had in mind, hence the Freudian slip. But fortunately for us they only have the power to censure me. I feel an opinion is needed because this board uses the threat of censure in an intimidating manner.
The Beacon Journal wanted to focus on the executive session voting. That is the least of our worries. The more important issues are the ones that involve the publics right to open government, clear and concise minutes, and the ability to trust that your board of education is conducting the business stated in the notice given and that the notice and/or agenda doesn’t leave you guessing. You can’t go into executive session for employment promotion, demotion, compensation, discipline, etc.. unless the board is actually performing each of those acts. The board can go into ES for promotion if they are promoting someone.
I assume the people of Cuyahoga Falls elected me to represent their stances on issues. How can I effectively do what I was elected to do when I cannot garner a majority vote to do the very least for the citizens and follow the law? Example- the law states you cannot amend the agenda for a "special" board meeting. Yet a member moves to amend it, it receives a second, I object and state the reason, I'm out voted and the board proceeds to conduct business outside the scope of the notice to the public. The citizens of Cuyahoga Falls, and the press for that matter, have a right to be an informed public. Would you like notice that we were going to discuss goals, you decide not to come because goals do not interest you, and then find out the board also voted to cut all extra curricular activities? No chance for input. No having your voice heard (not that there’s much of that now), no chance to respond. It’s just done. No that didn't happen, but it could with this board. This is one example of many violations. This is why we have laws protecting the publics right to open government.
I have attempted to resolve these issues and many others on numerous occasions. But it's a five member board and I am but one. I assure you this was a last resort. I am dismayed that an injunction is the ONLY remedy at hand to resolve these types of issues. There is no agency or official that can compel a board or council to adhere to the Sunshine Laws other than a court of law. I am confident that the courts will resolve these issues and the board can move forward with doing what we were elected to do- serve the people of Cuyahoga Falls.
The purpose and spirit of the Sunshine Laws are crystal clear. Open government. That's what the people expect and deserve.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Do Your Homework
I often take a lot of flak for my stances on public education. I guess I am not your typical school board member. I have often said that in my opinion teachers make above and beyond a fair wage for the degree earned. Especially when you factor in the benefits. It seems teachers and their supporters have a hard time seeing what I as a parent see. What many parents see.
Before I go on I want to say that Cuyahoga Falls is very lucky. We have many caring dedicated teachers. But we have lackluster teachers as well. And yes, as hard as it is for some to admit, we have some teachers biding their time ‘til retirement. Please don’t insult my intelligence by pretending these things don’t exist in Cuyahoga Falls.
The Plain Dealer did an interesting series last week on teacher training, post graduate training, and quickie degrees. It’s a very insightful series. I’m particularly interested in the field experience degrees. The way Ohio’s economy is at the moment, I bet you could find a few accountants willing to teach high school math for 40K, summers off, spring break, two weeks at Christmas, and the lucrative benefits. In fact, I know of a teacher in CF who quit a six figure salary job to teach in CF. Why? Less stress, better bennies. At least that’s the story this teacher gave me.
Research questions quality of teacher education
Posted by Scott Stephens and Edith Starzyk May
Post-grad education training includes strong CSU course -- and quickie degree mills
Posted by Edith Starzyk and Scott Stephens
But the most telling part of the article for me was this- “In a four-year study released 20 months ago, Arthur Levine, former dean of Teachers College at Columbia University, found that students who intend to major in education, as a whole, have lower scores on college entrance exams than other college-bound students.” Eeek!
Read the articles and let’s talk about what we can do to ensure that Cuyahoga Falls employs quality dedicated teachers without resorting to the “pay them more” mentality. But if “pay them more” is the only solution in your mind, then I ask you to tell me- what I as a tax payer can expect in return as far as accountability and a return on my investment?
Before I go on I want to say that Cuyahoga Falls is very lucky. We have many caring dedicated teachers. But we have lackluster teachers as well. And yes, as hard as it is for some to admit, we have some teachers biding their time ‘til retirement. Please don’t insult my intelligence by pretending these things don’t exist in Cuyahoga Falls.
The Plain Dealer did an interesting series last week on teacher training, post graduate training, and quickie degrees. It’s a very insightful series. I’m particularly interested in the field experience degrees. The way Ohio’s economy is at the moment, I bet you could find a few accountants willing to teach high school math for 40K, summers off, spring break, two weeks at Christmas, and the lucrative benefits. In fact, I know of a teacher in CF who quit a six figure salary job to teach in CF. Why? Less stress, better bennies. At least that’s the story this teacher gave me.
Research questions quality of teacher education
Posted by Scott Stephens and Edith Starzyk May
Post-grad education training includes strong CSU course -- and quickie degree mills
Posted by Edith Starzyk and Scott Stephens
But the most telling part of the article for me was this- “In a four-year study released 20 months ago, Arthur Levine, former dean of Teachers College at Columbia University, found that students who intend to major in education, as a whole, have lower scores on college entrance exams than other college-bound students.” Eeek!
Read the articles and let’s talk about what we can do to ensure that Cuyahoga Falls employs quality dedicated teachers without resorting to the “pay them more” mentality. But if “pay them more” is the only solution in your mind, then I ask you to tell me- what I as a tax payer can expect in return as far as accountability and a return on my investment?
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Ideas Blossom
I’d like to tell you about Cuyahoga Falls High Schools new greenhouse. “Promise” is the name it has been given. It is an effort that involved too many people to mention but a few groups of people deserve some kudos.
Last fall the board took its annual tour of the buildings. While at the high school someone mentioned that they’d like to see if a greenhouse could be erected near the multiple disabilities area of the building to benefit these children academically as well as therapeutically. It was one of those comments that seemed more like wishful thinking than something that could happen.
Then three weeks ago DECA (the marketing class) scheduled a presentation for the board. They proudly unveiled their class project. Promise Greenhouse. They worked tirelessly and creatively all year long to market and raise funds to purchase a top notch greenhouse and have secured the labor and materials necessary to install it this summer. They have collaborated with the city to incorporate the Adopt-a-Spot program into the greenhouse by winter housing plants for sponsors.
Not only that, a 2001CF alumni Tim Madden of HydrOranics has donated a hydroponics system along with installation as a congratulations gift to the class and Promise Greenhouse. Not just any system either. An 8 section, solar powered system. He has also offered to come in and help with set up and training with the staff and students on optimum usage. I’m getting choked up writing this because this project will help people with special needs in more ways than most of you realize. Besides the obvious therapeutic and sensory experiences these kids will have, they will also gain life skills. A DECA student said it best when he said “they will leave with something on a resume”.
Promise will be wheelchair accessible. All students in the MD unit will be able to grow and learn, pardon the pun, and leave high school with a real world skill. Something usable and a local job source boon. Just leafing through my check book register I can tell you there is no shortage of greenhouse and nursery businesses around these parts! And my hope is that the district can forge partnerships with these businesses and learn what their needs are so that this special group of kids from Cuyahoga Falls can graduate and have a usable skill, rather than have to face long waits for social services and the few resources currently available once you age out of a protective and coddling public school system.
This is also an example of how to be selfless rather than selfish. DECA needed a project for a grade. They chose something that not only helped them reach their goal but something that gave to many layers of our community. From the kids in the MD unit, the sponsors of Adopt-a-Spot, the citizens of Cuyahoga Falls with beautification projects and even those grouchy tax payers. How Taxpayer may ask? By providing job training and skills before the “system” must get involved.
Thank you to everyone involved in this project but especially Ms. Kilgore, the DECA coordinator. The lessons taught this year reached far beyond your classroom.
Last fall the board took its annual tour of the buildings. While at the high school someone mentioned that they’d like to see if a greenhouse could be erected near the multiple disabilities area of the building to benefit these children academically as well as therapeutically. It was one of those comments that seemed more like wishful thinking than something that could happen.
Then three weeks ago DECA (the marketing class) scheduled a presentation for the board. They proudly unveiled their class project. Promise Greenhouse. They worked tirelessly and creatively all year long to market and raise funds to purchase a top notch greenhouse and have secured the labor and materials necessary to install it this summer. They have collaborated with the city to incorporate the Adopt-a-Spot program into the greenhouse by winter housing plants for sponsors.
Not only that, a 2001CF alumni Tim Madden of HydrOranics has donated a hydroponics system along with installation as a congratulations gift to the class and Promise Greenhouse. Not just any system either. An 8 section, solar powered system. He has also offered to come in and help with set up and training with the staff and students on optimum usage. I’m getting choked up writing this because this project will help people with special needs in more ways than most of you realize. Besides the obvious therapeutic and sensory experiences these kids will have, they will also gain life skills. A DECA student said it best when he said “they will leave with something on a resume”.
Promise will be wheelchair accessible. All students in the MD unit will be able to grow and learn, pardon the pun, and leave high school with a real world skill. Something usable and a local job source boon. Just leafing through my check book register I can tell you there is no shortage of greenhouse and nursery businesses around these parts! And my hope is that the district can forge partnerships with these businesses and learn what their needs are so that this special group of kids from Cuyahoga Falls can graduate and have a usable skill, rather than have to face long waits for social services and the few resources currently available once you age out of a protective and coddling public school system.
This is also an example of how to be selfless rather than selfish. DECA needed a project for a grade. They chose something that not only helped them reach their goal but something that gave to many layers of our community. From the kids in the MD unit, the sponsors of Adopt-a-Spot, the citizens of Cuyahoga Falls with beautification projects and even those grouchy tax payers. How Taxpayer may ask? By providing job training and skills before the “system” must get involved.
Thank you to everyone involved in this project but especially Ms. Kilgore, the DECA coordinator. The lessons taught this year reached far beyond your classroom.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Project Projections
Sorry, I’ve been a slogger. That’s my new word for a slacking blogger. First I’ll fill you in on the upcoming agenda. The new five year forecast is up for approval. The never ending review of policy. Personnel and stipends, and my favorite, approving the granting of diplomas. For your presentation entertainment we will be having Curriculum and Intervention Program items. Under board business we have summer meeting dates (ugh!), board goals, and a discussion on paperless board meetings. Should be a quick one. That is sarcasm for my fans with no sense of humor.
Now on to something that has been bothering me all weekend. I wont go into the whole mess but to sum things up I was accused of twisting my children to believe what I believe. Apparently this is a bad thing to do.
This all started with a city project. City infrastructure problems have caused property damage through out my neighborhood. Our environmentally friendly administration offered a solution that did nothing to alleviate the infrastructure problem, but it was a really cool idea that would put Cuyahoga Falls on the map if successful. Nobody had ever done it this big before. In fact it was so innovative that the City administration suggested they would do these projects all over the city.
Unbeknownst to me the City had a poster contest for my child’s class. I was not aware of the contest or that my son had entered a poster until the Grand Opening was over with and I picked him up from school later that day and after seeing a few of his friends receive awards, asked him about it. He described his poster as he saw the project with his own eyes; after all it happened directly across the street from us. For months he saw standing water, smelled the stink of the manure and mulch, and heard his parents concerns and questions. So yes I suppose his rendering was what he knew. The city saw it as mockery to them, and told me so. I suppose I should have taught my kids to blindly follow and never question.
Even though the project is a disaster and did nothing to solve the infrastructure problem, according to the letter I received, I should teach my children to place trust in the people spending your tax dollars but never question how they spend them, or what they spend them on. Heaven forbid you have a voice in where your money goes. Sound familiar?
I almost felt as if the letter writer felt she was somehow smarter than us peasants. What could I possibly know about the problem? I only live it. Three quarters of a million dollars spent on this project and none of it on the infrastructure problem. This project has turned into exactly what Madam Kellie predicted it would be two years ago. A stinky mosquito hatchery. But I somehow did my kids’ wrong by trying to convince the city that this project was not the solution to the neighborhood problem. Trying to convince them before they spent our tax money on a fashionable “green” solution.
I’m proud of my son for coloring his poster in the fashion he did. It wasn’t ugly or a mockery. It was a pond with frogs, bugs and sunshine. I’m glad he didn’t conform and color a picture of what he was told it should look like. I’m not raising a sheeple.
Now on to something that has been bothering me all weekend. I wont go into the whole mess but to sum things up I was accused of twisting my children to believe what I believe. Apparently this is a bad thing to do.
This all started with a city project. City infrastructure problems have caused property damage through out my neighborhood. Our environmentally friendly administration offered a solution that did nothing to alleviate the infrastructure problem, but it was a really cool idea that would put Cuyahoga Falls on the map if successful. Nobody had ever done it this big before. In fact it was so innovative that the City administration suggested they would do these projects all over the city.
Unbeknownst to me the City had a poster contest for my child’s class. I was not aware of the contest or that my son had entered a poster until the Grand Opening was over with and I picked him up from school later that day and after seeing a few of his friends receive awards, asked him about it. He described his poster as he saw the project with his own eyes; after all it happened directly across the street from us. For months he saw standing water, smelled the stink of the manure and mulch, and heard his parents concerns and questions. So yes I suppose his rendering was what he knew. The city saw it as mockery to them, and told me so. I suppose I should have taught my kids to blindly follow and never question.
Even though the project is a disaster and did nothing to solve the infrastructure problem, according to the letter I received, I should teach my children to place trust in the people spending your tax dollars but never question how they spend them, or what they spend them on. Heaven forbid you have a voice in where your money goes. Sound familiar?
I almost felt as if the letter writer felt she was somehow smarter than us peasants. What could I possibly know about the problem? I only live it. Three quarters of a million dollars spent on this project and none of it on the infrastructure problem. This project has turned into exactly what Madam Kellie predicted it would be two years ago. A stinky mosquito hatchery. But I somehow did my kids’ wrong by trying to convince the city that this project was not the solution to the neighborhood problem. Trying to convince them before they spent our tax money on a fashionable “green” solution.
I’m proud of my son for coloring his poster in the fashion he did. It wasn’t ugly or a mockery. It was a pond with frogs, bugs and sunshine. I’m glad he didn’t conform and color a picture of what he was told it should look like. I’m not raising a sheeple.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
A Friendly Game of Dodge Board
Hmmmm…Wednesday held several surprises. The first was the intervention presentation. What started out two months ago as an additional position has now been word smithed into “additional staff”. I find that statement activating my spidey senses.
I again asked our board president if we taxpayers were spending money to send her to an educational workshop only to have her move from the district in a few months. I prefaced this by stating that I support continuing education for all.
Even Madam Kellie couldn’t have predicted what happened next. First the superintendent jumped in and gave a brief overview of the workshop pointing out that other district staff, including himself, were attending the workshop. I was assured that plenty of people would be in the know even if one was leaving. He also added that the board president initiated this endeavor so it was fitting that she attends.
I’d agree with all of this if she’s not moving. But if she is she should step aside and allow someone who will continue to have a stake in our community go. But, back to the meeting…
The next statements came from board members. Here’s a sampling:
“I heard a rumor that you were moving” directed to me. Sorry, you heard wrong. No one wants a house in my neighborhood because we don’t have a quaint neighborhood school. And I didn’t hear a rumor. I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth. As did many others.
“Let’s take a look at who has spent what on workshops. Dunphy $30, Rump $719, Grimes $30, Gunter $48, Patterson $1258.” The figure with my name drew gasps from the audience! Three corrections. Rump has actually spent $582, Gunter $30, and Patterson $249. What you say? Why the discrepancy? The balances are encumbrances. You see I have registered for future workshops. I have a busy schedule and many obligations so I try to schedule early. So gasp if you must but $1258 is for 6 months of work shops. And I refuse to be ashamed of it. I can’t control what OSBA charges for their sessions. The board sets aside $15,000 for training, publications, workshops, etc. We all came into this with no experience and it shows. So why should I feel guilty for educating myself in the ever changing world of education? Especially since that’s what the board service fund is for.
Another member said “It doesn’t matter if she’s moving. Right now she is a full member of this board and should be treated that way”. I agree. I didn’t suggest we put her in a separate room until she moves. I suggested that if she’s moving she step aside in attending the parent university and let a representative from the CF PTA council go in her stead. I know. Silly idea.
The board president then moved on to the next order of business. So I guess only time will tell if we’ve spent $1000 on information flying south this summer. It’s a question that is being avoided but can’t be denied. I’m not saying that her circumstances haven’t changed, but I know what I and a few respected people in the community were told 8 months ago. Come on Pres, do the right thing, if you’re leaving let a long term Tiger go.
I again asked our board president if we taxpayers were spending money to send her to an educational workshop only to have her move from the district in a few months. I prefaced this by stating that I support continuing education for all.
Even Madam Kellie couldn’t have predicted what happened next. First the superintendent jumped in and gave a brief overview of the workshop pointing out that other district staff, including himself, were attending the workshop. I was assured that plenty of people would be in the know even if one was leaving. He also added that the board president initiated this endeavor so it was fitting that she attends.
I’d agree with all of this if she’s not moving. But if she is she should step aside and allow someone who will continue to have a stake in our community go. But, back to the meeting…
The next statements came from board members. Here’s a sampling:
“I heard a rumor that you were moving” directed to me. Sorry, you heard wrong. No one wants a house in my neighborhood because we don’t have a quaint neighborhood school. And I didn’t hear a rumor. I heard it straight from the horse’s mouth. As did many others.
“Let’s take a look at who has spent what on workshops. Dunphy $30, Rump $719, Grimes $30, Gunter $48, Patterson $1258.” The figure with my name drew gasps from the audience! Three corrections. Rump has actually spent $582, Gunter $30, and Patterson $249. What you say? Why the discrepancy? The balances are encumbrances. You see I have registered for future workshops. I have a busy schedule and many obligations so I try to schedule early. So gasp if you must but $1258 is for 6 months of work shops. And I refuse to be ashamed of it. I can’t control what OSBA charges for their sessions. The board sets aside $15,000 for training, publications, workshops, etc. We all came into this with no experience and it shows. So why should I feel guilty for educating myself in the ever changing world of education? Especially since that’s what the board service fund is for.
Another member said “It doesn’t matter if she’s moving. Right now she is a full member of this board and should be treated that way”. I agree. I didn’t suggest we put her in a separate room until she moves. I suggested that if she’s moving she step aside in attending the parent university and let a representative from the CF PTA council go in her stead. I know. Silly idea.
The board president then moved on to the next order of business. So I guess only time will tell if we’ve spent $1000 on information flying south this summer. It’s a question that is being avoided but can’t be denied. I’m not saying that her circumstances haven’t changed, but I know what I and a few respected people in the community were told 8 months ago. Come on Pres, do the right thing, if you’re leaving let a long term Tiger go.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
oooh Bus, The Magic Bus
The gift that keeps on giving is giving us another expense tonight.
Just a quicknote to let you know that up on tonights agenda is the purchase of a few properties on 2nd St.
Seems our former business manager turned noob board member didn't plan well when he pushed for and got the new and improved bus garage. Apparently there isn't enough room for parking and turnng around. Mind you they do it now on a postage stamp lot.
Prepare to open your cheque books because we've only just begun. Seems our formr business manager forgot that it would also need fencing, an alarm system, and new windows too. It's like Whack-A-Mole. Every time you think you've killed an expense, a new one pops up.
Also on the agenda is a presentation for the NEW POSITION that is now being considered because my fellow board members passed a new GPA to participate in extra curricular activities. Against all administrative recommendations. Because they didn't think this through, they are now going to implement the CYA policy and hire someone to help these kids they blocked from participating. Wow! That sure is being fiscally responsible. Maybe next time they'll think to ask about the cost of one of their cockamamie ideas before they push it through.
Just a quicknote to let you know that up on tonights agenda is the purchase of a few properties on 2nd St.
Seems our former business manager turned noob board member didn't plan well when he pushed for and got the new and improved bus garage. Apparently there isn't enough room for parking and turnng around. Mind you they do it now on a postage stamp lot.
Prepare to open your cheque books because we've only just begun. Seems our formr business manager forgot that it would also need fencing, an alarm system, and new windows too. It's like Whack-A-Mole. Every time you think you've killed an expense, a new one pops up.
Also on the agenda is a presentation for the NEW POSITION that is now being considered because my fellow board members passed a new GPA to participate in extra curricular activities. Against all administrative recommendations. Because they didn't think this through, they are now going to implement the CYA policy and hire someone to help these kids they blocked from participating. Wow! That sure is being fiscally responsible. Maybe next time they'll think to ask about the cost of one of their cockamamie ideas before they push it through.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Metamucil Anyone?
Regular meetings. Every January, the Board of Education at their required organizational meeting must- “Bylaw 0154 (C). designate a day, place, and time for regular meetings which shall be held at least once every two (2) months; R.C. 3313.15”. Another part of that bylaw says- “Bylaw 0154 (D). establish a reasonable method whereby any person may determine the time and place of all regularly scheduled meetings and the time, place, and purpose of all special meetings; (R.C. 121.22(F))”.
It was real simple. Back in January, the board approved a schedule that set meetings for 7 Pm on the first and third Wednesdays of each month except June and July. Seemed simple enough to follow. But our meetings of late have been anything but regular. In fact they change so much even I am having a hard time keeping track. Throw in all the special meetings, (half of which were wastes of time and money) and it’s amazing the entire board makes it on time each time. Of the last 7 “regularly scheduled” board meetings, 3 have been moved to an earlier time. With another scheduled to. in the future.
Which brings me to my complaint of the day. Plan A was to have the May 21st meeting start at 6 PM rather than the scheduled 7 PM and go over the community survey attempting to tie in community concerns with the “Plan for Excellence”. So I planned my schedule to accommodate. Now it seems another member decide to schedule an out of town trip that same day and can’t fly back in time. So the “board” rescheduled the May 21st meeting to 7 PM and moved the June 11th meeting to 6 PM. My question is this. Why do I constantly have to readjust my schedule to accommodate other peoples bad planning and over extending themselves? I plan around regularly scheduled meetings and make every effort to be present at the plethora of special meetings planned of late. In my opinion this member should have said “I’m sorry that date is bad for me because I have the business of the school district to. How about the following week?” It’s simple. I do it all the time so I don’t inconvenience 10 other people and their schedules.
This board has made it so the public must request an agenda to keep track of meetings. I know when City Council is going to meet. It’s regular. I even know when their committees will meet because they are regular. I don’t have to check the web site or pick up a paper to know when and where to show up. If there is extra business to attend to they do it during the “regularly scheduled meeting”. If it means staying late, it means staying late. Another thing City Council does is letting citizens have input during discussion time on individual issues. It’s hard for a citizen to make comments, have a complete understanding of issues, or have their statement have meaningful impact when it must be given before the actual meeting starts or at the end, after a vote is signed, sealed and delivered. This board could learn a lot about conducting meetings fro CF City Council.
Lastly I want to answer a few of you that have Emailed me regarding the question I asked of our board president at the meeting. I was informed by our board president almost a year ago that she would be moving out of state at the end of this school year. She told me her husbands company was sold and they were being transferred south. She had very valid fears that her opinions and decisions would not be taken seriously if employees knew this and asked me to keep quiet about.
I recently found out that we were sending several district personnel to a program in Kentucky that basically fosters parent and community involvement for the district. I am all for this program It is the Center for Parent Leadership. The part that concerned me was that I was informed that our board president would be attending the workshop. Which normally would be ideal, but if she is moving in a few months I had to question if this was a wise choice or if we should be sending someone who will be here to utilize the information. This will cost almost $1000 per person so I would like to ensure our tax money will be spent wisely. I didn’t think it was an unreasonable question to ask. But each time I asked the response was to just stare at me. ?
If you don’t answer a question does that mean it wasn’t asked. I will ask here because I know she reads my blog, and I will ask her again “at the proper place on the agenda” at the next meeting- “Are we investing our tax dollars in training and workshops on someone who will be in the district to utilize the information for the next school year”? I’m all for bettering ourselves and professional development as well as conferences and workshops that expand our horizons. For everyone. Teachers, administrators, board members, even support staff. It’s money well spent but not if the knowledge leaves the district.
It was real simple. Back in January, the board approved a schedule that set meetings for 7 Pm on the first and third Wednesdays of each month except June and July. Seemed simple enough to follow. But our meetings of late have been anything but regular. In fact they change so much even I am having a hard time keeping track. Throw in all the special meetings, (half of which were wastes of time and money) and it’s amazing the entire board makes it on time each time. Of the last 7 “regularly scheduled” board meetings, 3 have been moved to an earlier time. With another scheduled to. in the future.
Which brings me to my complaint of the day. Plan A was to have the May 21st meeting start at 6 PM rather than the scheduled 7 PM and go over the community survey attempting to tie in community concerns with the “Plan for Excellence”. So I planned my schedule to accommodate. Now it seems another member decide to schedule an out of town trip that same day and can’t fly back in time. So the “board” rescheduled the May 21st meeting to 7 PM and moved the June 11th meeting to 6 PM. My question is this. Why do I constantly have to readjust my schedule to accommodate other peoples bad planning and over extending themselves? I plan around regularly scheduled meetings and make every effort to be present at the plethora of special meetings planned of late. In my opinion this member should have said “I’m sorry that date is bad for me because I have the business of the school district to. How about the following week?” It’s simple. I do it all the time so I don’t inconvenience 10 other people and their schedules.
This board has made it so the public must request an agenda to keep track of meetings. I know when City Council is going to meet. It’s regular. I even know when their committees will meet because they are regular. I don’t have to check the web site or pick up a paper to know when and where to show up. If there is extra business to attend to they do it during the “regularly scheduled meeting”. If it means staying late, it means staying late. Another thing City Council does is letting citizens have input during discussion time on individual issues. It’s hard for a citizen to make comments, have a complete understanding of issues, or have their statement have meaningful impact when it must be given before the actual meeting starts or at the end, after a vote is signed, sealed and delivered. This board could learn a lot about conducting meetings fro CF City Council.
Lastly I want to answer a few of you that have Emailed me regarding the question I asked of our board president at the meeting. I was informed by our board president almost a year ago that she would be moving out of state at the end of this school year. She told me her husbands company was sold and they were being transferred south. She had very valid fears that her opinions and decisions would not be taken seriously if employees knew this and asked me to keep quiet about.
I recently found out that we were sending several district personnel to a program in Kentucky that basically fosters parent and community involvement for the district. I am all for this program It is the Center for Parent Leadership. The part that concerned me was that I was informed that our board president would be attending the workshop. Which normally would be ideal, but if she is moving in a few months I had to question if this was a wise choice or if we should be sending someone who will be here to utilize the information. This will cost almost $1000 per person so I would like to ensure our tax money will be spent wisely. I didn’t think it was an unreasonable question to ask. But each time I asked the response was to just stare at me. ?
If you don’t answer a question does that mean it wasn’t asked. I will ask here because I know she reads my blog, and I will ask her again “at the proper place on the agenda” at the next meeting- “Are we investing our tax dollars in training and workshops on someone who will be in the district to utilize the information for the next school year”? I’m all for bettering ourselves and professional development as well as conferences and workshops that expand our horizons. For everyone. Teachers, administrators, board members, even support staff. It’s money well spent but not if the knowledge leaves the district.
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Ho Hum
As usual, nothing to report regarding the wonderful things we are doing for the children and taxpayers. Of course the board president has decided to waste more tax payer money on the board attorney because regardless of how hard I try, they just can’t seem to understand open meetings, public records or why any of the sunshine laws exist.
I have spoken with Attorney General Marc Danns office regarding violations involving this board. When I relay the advice and guidance from Danns office to the board, and strangely enough, the board attorney, I am rebuffed. I again contacted Danns office and asked what remedy is there when the board attorney gives advice contrary to the attorney generals office? They suggested the attorney call them. I suggested this to the attorney. Apparently he hasn’t called them yet.
The Sunshine Laws, in my opinion are the most important laws enacted that touch each and every one of us. In fact let’s quote Dann- “Democracy flourishes when government operates in the sunshine, available to the citizens it serves and open to public scrutiny. To preserve and encourage openness, the Ohio General Assembly passed the Open Meetings and Public Records acts, collectively known as the "Sunshine Laws."
The highlighted parts are reminders to my fellow board members. They seem to not care when Joe Public is misinformed, not notified, and constantly changing meeting times so that “regular meetings” are no longer regular.
The point is clear in my previous blog. I see no need to rehash it. Our policy is in direct violation of the law and needs fixing. Paying the board attorney to come in and say he doesn’t agree with the interpretation from Danns office is pointless. There. Madam Kellie has predicted the outcome of that $250 an hour.
I can’t sign off without mentioning the bus committee. Two parents are on the committee. I couldn’t help but notice they live within 600 meters of each other. None of the administrators live here, and even though I’ve made bussing an issue for three years, and I’ve lived here my entire life, I wasn’t “allowed” on the committee. Was there a fear that I might actually save us some money? Only the shadow knows.
I have spoken with Attorney General Marc Danns office regarding violations involving this board. When I relay the advice and guidance from Danns office to the board, and strangely enough, the board attorney, I am rebuffed. I again contacted Danns office and asked what remedy is there when the board attorney gives advice contrary to the attorney generals office? They suggested the attorney call them. I suggested this to the attorney. Apparently he hasn’t called them yet.
The Sunshine Laws, in my opinion are the most important laws enacted that touch each and every one of us. In fact let’s quote Dann- “Democracy flourishes when government operates in the sunshine, available to the citizens it serves and open to public scrutiny. To preserve and encourage openness, the Ohio General Assembly passed the Open Meetings and Public Records acts, collectively known as the "Sunshine Laws."
The highlighted parts are reminders to my fellow board members. They seem to not care when Joe Public is misinformed, not notified, and constantly changing meeting times so that “regular meetings” are no longer regular.
The point is clear in my previous blog. I see no need to rehash it. Our policy is in direct violation of the law and needs fixing. Paying the board attorney to come in and say he doesn’t agree with the interpretation from Danns office is pointless. There. Madam Kellie has predicted the outcome of that $250 an hour.
I can’t sign off without mentioning the bus committee. Two parents are on the committee. I couldn’t help but notice they live within 600 meters of each other. None of the administrators live here, and even though I’ve made bussing an issue for three years, and I’ve lived here my entire life, I wasn’t “allowed” on the committee. Was there a fear that I might actually save us some money? Only the shadow knows.
Sunday, March 09, 2008
I'm Not Obeyin' Your Stinkin' Laws!
I’ve suspected it all along. Now it’s official. The board members I work with are insane. Saturday was one of the worst snow storms this area has seen in 20 years. All over Ohio snow bans were issued. Every city in North East Ohio called for snow emergencies. Road travel was restricted to essential personnel only. The Summit County Sheriff issued a snow ban which essentially made driving or parking on the street a misdemeanor.
For those who don’t know, essential personnel means snow removal people, nurses, doctors, police, tow tucks, etc…You know, important people. And they don’t issue these orders, which by the way are law in Ohio, because they are worried you can’t make it to your destination. They issue these orders so civilians aren’t clogging the roads while they are trying to clear them. To put it simply, they don’t want your dumb butt in their way.
Apparently our board president hasn’t brushed up on Ohio law recently. Apparently, she thinks the Cuyahoga Falls Board of Education is essential personnel. She didn’t have the common sense or decency to cancel Saturdays’ board meeting. Now it wasn’t bad for me, I live 4 blocks away. Our Superintendent lives in Stow, who incidentally ran out of salt last week, and had quite an ordeal making it in to CF. In fact as we were leaving the meeting your Silver Lake contingent could hardly get their vehicle off of Stow St. It was comical watching them fish tail a path for me.
Now let’s see, the Plan for Excellence people had enough sense to cancel their portion of the meting on Friday, the executive session was the only item on the agenda. And it was a monumental waste of time. The questions raised were answered to me in a five minute phone call 3 days prior to the meeting. It was all regarding a typo anyway. A typo that had absolutely no effect on the business of the district whatsoever.
Talk about micro managing. Did we really need to waste time and tax payer money for this? And as is becoming typical of this board, we have once again violated the law. The Ohio Sunshine clearly states the following:
PURPOSE STATEMENT: When holding a special meeting, including an emergency meeting (see discussion below), in addition to advising of the time and date of the meeting, the notice statement must also disclose the purpose(s) for which the special meeting is being conducted.
Where a special meeting is simply a “regular” meeting occurring at a time other than the regularly scheduled time, it is sufficient notice under the law for the stated purpose to be for “general purposes.” However, where the special meeting is being held to discuss particular issues, the purpose statement must specifically indicate those issues, and those specific issues are the only ones that can be discussed at that meeting. If, at the special meeting, the public body discusses matters not disclosed in the purpose statement, the meeting violates the Open Meetings Act.
Moreover, if a public body plans to adjourn into executive session during a special meeting, the topic of the executive session must relate directly to some matter included in the notice.
The rule for notification of special meetings must require at least 24 hours advance notification to all media outlets that have requested such notification, and to people who have specifically requested such notice.
I did attempt to prevent the agenda from being altered, as it clearly undermines the intent of the Sunshine Law- an informed public. But as usual with this board, they asked me for proof, I offered to get on line and show them, they then decided there wasn’t time for such trivial matters as the law, and refused to allow me the 2 minutes it would have taken to clear this matter up. They bulldozed into an illegal executive session (as usual) because they want an uninformed public. That’s why the true purpose is never stated and always altered.
Now let’s talk about the administrative pay scale for a second. It is a document that does not allow for favorites to be played. Our administrative positions are on a scale that has set responsibility factors and education factors. Years of service also play a part. So basically if you take this job with X responsibility, you will make 50K. Then you education comes into play. No degree gets you nothing extra. A bachelors gets you a little more, a masters gets you even more and so on.
I like it. No one can say it’s not fair. The only discrepancies are the people that were making wages above and beyond the scale when it was adopted. By law the district cannot reduce their wages, so they remain above the scale until the base wage finally catches up with them or they retire. So why are the same people that approved it now whining that some people now seem to be underpaid in their eyes? Aren’t these the people that promised fiscal responsibility? I find it odd that the person they think is underpaid lives down the street from them in Silver Lake. Apparently the wages aren’t that bad. I guess it was worth going out in a snowstorm. The board president suggested I should have stayed home if I was concerned about the weather. I guess it would have been easier for them to reward their cronies had I not attended. Sorry, but I just got new tires.
For those who don’t know, essential personnel means snow removal people, nurses, doctors, police, tow tucks, etc…You know, important people. And they don’t issue these orders, which by the way are law in Ohio, because they are worried you can’t make it to your destination. They issue these orders so civilians aren’t clogging the roads while they are trying to clear them. To put it simply, they don’t want your dumb butt in their way.
Apparently our board president hasn’t brushed up on Ohio law recently. Apparently, she thinks the Cuyahoga Falls Board of Education is essential personnel. She didn’t have the common sense or decency to cancel Saturdays’ board meeting. Now it wasn’t bad for me, I live 4 blocks away. Our Superintendent lives in Stow, who incidentally ran out of salt last week, and had quite an ordeal making it in to CF. In fact as we were leaving the meeting your Silver Lake contingent could hardly get their vehicle off of Stow St. It was comical watching them fish tail a path for me.
Now let’s see, the Plan for Excellence people had enough sense to cancel their portion of the meting on Friday, the executive session was the only item on the agenda. And it was a monumental waste of time. The questions raised were answered to me in a five minute phone call 3 days prior to the meeting. It was all regarding a typo anyway. A typo that had absolutely no effect on the business of the district whatsoever.
Talk about micro managing. Did we really need to waste time and tax payer money for this? And as is becoming typical of this board, we have once again violated the law. The Ohio Sunshine clearly states the following:
PURPOSE STATEMENT: When holding a special meeting, including an emergency meeting (see discussion below), in addition to advising of the time and date of the meeting, the notice statement must also disclose the purpose(s) for which the special meeting is being conducted.
Where a special meeting is simply a “regular” meeting occurring at a time other than the regularly scheduled time, it is sufficient notice under the law for the stated purpose to be for “general purposes.” However, where the special meeting is being held to discuss particular issues, the purpose statement must specifically indicate those issues, and those specific issues are the only ones that can be discussed at that meeting. If, at the special meeting, the public body discusses matters not disclosed in the purpose statement, the meeting violates the Open Meetings Act.
Moreover, if a public body plans to adjourn into executive session during a special meeting, the topic of the executive session must relate directly to some matter included in the notice.
The rule for notification of special meetings must require at least 24 hours advance notification to all media outlets that have requested such notification, and to people who have specifically requested such notice.
I did attempt to prevent the agenda from being altered, as it clearly undermines the intent of the Sunshine Law- an informed public. But as usual with this board, they asked me for proof, I offered to get on line and show them, they then decided there wasn’t time for such trivial matters as the law, and refused to allow me the 2 minutes it would have taken to clear this matter up. They bulldozed into an illegal executive session (as usual) because they want an uninformed public. That’s why the true purpose is never stated and always altered.
Now let’s talk about the administrative pay scale for a second. It is a document that does not allow for favorites to be played. Our administrative positions are on a scale that has set responsibility factors and education factors. Years of service also play a part. So basically if you take this job with X responsibility, you will make 50K. Then you education comes into play. No degree gets you nothing extra. A bachelors gets you a little more, a masters gets you even more and so on.
I like it. No one can say it’s not fair. The only discrepancies are the people that were making wages above and beyond the scale when it was adopted. By law the district cannot reduce their wages, so they remain above the scale until the base wage finally catches up with them or they retire. So why are the same people that approved it now whining that some people now seem to be underpaid in their eyes? Aren’t these the people that promised fiscal responsibility? I find it odd that the person they think is underpaid lives down the street from them in Silver Lake. Apparently the wages aren’t that bad. I guess it was worth going out in a snowstorm. The board president suggested I should have stayed home if I was concerned about the weather. I guess it would have been easier for them to reward their cronies had I not attended. Sorry, but I just got new tires.
UPDATE: I received the notice below in my Email after posting the above. I find it extremely ironic.
After conferring with BOE president Barb Gunter and Superintendent Ed Holland, the meeting of the Steering Committee scheduled for tomorrow morning (Saturday, March 8) has been postponed due to the winter storm warnings.We will not reschedule our meeting until after the coming spring break. I will let everyone know of the new meeting date as soon as possible.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
A Long Strange Trip is Beginning..
Wednesday’s meeting had some news. We reviewed the board goals and had a presentation. The goals session was fairly uneventful. But the presentation had a few surprises.
It was regarding the new grade point average to be implemented this coming school year and the steps our district is taking to ensure our athletes and extra curricular students that fall below the GPA requirement receive intervention. I’m OK with that. I had some concerns that we were focusing on “participators”. By participator I mean the kids that participate in something, anything, which requires a GPA standard. By focusing on these kids I felt we were ignoring a larger part of our student population that does not participate. I was assured that this is just one of 13 legs of what will be our new intervention program. I have two problems with it.
One is that it requires hiring a new employee. No salary was suggested and a cost benefit analysis was not provided. The presenters indicated that there was an analysis done, so I look forward to reviewing it when it is provided. The second problem I have with the approach is that invention will take place before school. Now I’m no teenager but I do know one thing about being one. Getting up early sucks.
The reason for before school intervention was this- These kids have practice and games, and other activities that start right after school. In order to participate they will have to come to before school intervention. OK. So you have a carrot for this small population of our schools. What about the rest of the kids, the non-participators- that need intervention? Yes a small percentage will come if threatened by parents and teachers. But a large portion will not because they lack the parenting and discipline that is required to better ourselves. In school intervention is the common sense approach. Require that an intervention class replace an elective if your GPA is below a certain standard.
I’ll be honest, I’m tired of tax money being spent on sports and extra curricular, while the gifted programs in our district and, more importantly the gifted and talented children, are offered very little in terms of their special needs. The current proposal for intervention smells like an Activities Office program to me. Oh yeah, the new Intervention Specialist will be under the command of our Athletic Director. This should be about raising grades and bettering yourself, not ensuring eligibility. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not against the intervention, just the approach offered.
Final tidbit- we gave the superintendent his evaluation. If you want some funny reading, I suggest you request it. Here are some excerpts, as usual I have comments to the comments and they are in red:
“Does not seem to have a feel for the community in general, since he does not live here. Still has problems with relations with city officials”
Is this a performance evaluation or a residence evaluation? I understand the want for a super to live here but should he evaluated for it? Make it a goal and a policy change, then an issue on the evaluation.
“Move into community (CF school district) to show full belief in district”
What about his wife showing support for the district she works in? It doesn’t count?
“Don’t try to play god to the role of a supreme dictator”
Shame, shame, you can’t play God in a public school system. Do you want the ACLU to come knocking? And am I the only person that knows God should be capitalized?
“The superintendent should be aware of all deadlines”
OMG! I can’t even keep track of the deadlines at my kids’ school let alone every deadline set by the efficient government. Tasks with their deadlines are and should be delegated.
“Manages by fear, threat of the unknown, low staff moral”
Morale, moral what’s the difference? And how do manage by threat of the unknown if it’s unknown? I have to say, when I complained about our CEO two years ago, every staff member I talked to defended him, his character, his leadership skills, his decision making processes, in fact he was almost God-like. Hmmm…I’m starting to see a connection here. Anyway they convinced me that even though I didn't like some decisions he had made, his intentions were, and would always be what's best for CF school district.
“Show a more caring attitude”
I’m embarrassed to even have to comment on this. Our CEO is not a mother. I don’t want caring, loving, pushover CEO. I want no nonsense, tows the line, gets the job done CEO.
It was regarding the new grade point average to be implemented this coming school year and the steps our district is taking to ensure our athletes and extra curricular students that fall below the GPA requirement receive intervention. I’m OK with that. I had some concerns that we were focusing on “participators”. By participator I mean the kids that participate in something, anything, which requires a GPA standard. By focusing on these kids I felt we were ignoring a larger part of our student population that does not participate. I was assured that this is just one of 13 legs of what will be our new intervention program. I have two problems with it.
One is that it requires hiring a new employee. No salary was suggested and a cost benefit analysis was not provided. The presenters indicated that there was an analysis done, so I look forward to reviewing it when it is provided. The second problem I have with the approach is that invention will take place before school. Now I’m no teenager but I do know one thing about being one. Getting up early sucks.
The reason for before school intervention was this- These kids have practice and games, and other activities that start right after school. In order to participate they will have to come to before school intervention. OK. So you have a carrot for this small population of our schools. What about the rest of the kids, the non-participators- that need intervention? Yes a small percentage will come if threatened by parents and teachers. But a large portion will not because they lack the parenting and discipline that is required to better ourselves. In school intervention is the common sense approach. Require that an intervention class replace an elective if your GPA is below a certain standard.
I’ll be honest, I’m tired of tax money being spent on sports and extra curricular, while the gifted programs in our district and, more importantly the gifted and talented children, are offered very little in terms of their special needs. The current proposal for intervention smells like an Activities Office program to me. Oh yeah, the new Intervention Specialist will be under the command of our Athletic Director. This should be about raising grades and bettering yourself, not ensuring eligibility. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not against the intervention, just the approach offered.
Final tidbit- we gave the superintendent his evaluation. If you want some funny reading, I suggest you request it. Here are some excerpts, as usual I have comments to the comments and they are in red:
“Does not seem to have a feel for the community in general, since he does not live here. Still has problems with relations with city officials”
Is this a performance evaluation or a residence evaluation? I understand the want for a super to live here but should he evaluated for it? Make it a goal and a policy change, then an issue on the evaluation.
“Move into community (CF school district) to show full belief in district”
What about his wife showing support for the district she works in? It doesn’t count?
“Don’t try to play god to the role of a supreme dictator”
Shame, shame, you can’t play God in a public school system. Do you want the ACLU to come knocking? And am I the only person that knows God should be capitalized?
“The superintendent should be aware of all deadlines”
OMG! I can’t even keep track of the deadlines at my kids’ school let alone every deadline set by the efficient government. Tasks with their deadlines are and should be delegated.
“Manages by fear, threat of the unknown, low staff moral”
Morale, moral what’s the difference? And how do manage by threat of the unknown if it’s unknown? I have to say, when I complained about our CEO two years ago, every staff member I talked to defended him, his character, his leadership skills, his decision making processes, in fact he was almost God-like. Hmmm…I’m starting to see a connection here. Anyway they convinced me that even though I didn't like some decisions he had made, his intentions were, and would always be what's best for CF school district.
“Show a more caring attitude”
I’m embarrassed to even have to comment on this. Our CEO is not a mother. I don’t want caring, loving, pushover CEO. I want no nonsense, tows the line, gets the job done CEO.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Just the Facts Ma'am
I’m floored that Phil Keren, editor of the Falls News Press would do the citizens of Cuyahoga Falls the favor of printing our board president admitting a vote took place in executive session. Although the article was wrong on one part. It was not a unanimous decision as I and one other member did not vote. I stared at them and was quickly ignored, and the other member (noob) stated that they had their three votes and didn’t need his either way. Remember- he just had those new board member sessions with the Ohio School Board Association.
Bad fact checking Falls News! I mean, with today’s technology it wouldn’t have taken much effort to call me. Especially before you print something that is clearly a violation of Ohio’s Sunshine Law.
You can check it out here, or you can continue reading and I’ll explain to you what it says and of course my opinion of why it says this.
You can enter executive session for very specific reasons. They are few because we are a public entity. One of the reasons is discipline. Not that our board has ever bothered to be as specific as they should despite my raising concerns several times over the last two years.
Anyway, once you have convened into executive session you may not vote. That means no voting, polling, hand raising, etc. No vote. Period. The reasons for this are very simple. The public has a right to know what their board of education is doing. They also have a right to know how a decision was reached.
In fact I left the executive session February 6th because of illegal voting. They were voting on whether to censure me for leaving the meeting with a board document. Yes you heard me right. I was threatened with censure if I left the board meeting with the superintendents evaluation. The board president stated at the onset of the meeting that she wanted the document returned. I made no comment. I wasn’t made privy as to why I couldn’t leave with it.
I think it has something to do with the fact that she stated she couldn’t find last years evaluation. Even stranger is that she actually thought this was confidential information! The document is there by the way, but if you really need a copy, just ask around. Many copies were made available courtesy of a concerned citizen at a board meeting. In fact some board members had copies in the executive session.
Then it got bizarre. Obviously my scores were shared with other members, even tough we turned them over to the board president anonymously. The minute we took a peek at the scores another member stated, “boy Kellie you sure had a change of heart from last year” What?! How in the hell would anyone know that? In fact, if information wasn’t shared and you compared from last year you’d think the scores were anyone’s but mine. I’ll admit my scores have gone up this year. But only because I have seen improvement. I was not going to base the entire evaluation on one incident involving the missed deadline.
Bad fact checking Falls News! I mean, with today’s technology it wouldn’t have taken much effort to call me. Especially before you print something that is clearly a violation of Ohio’s Sunshine Law.
You can check it out here, or you can continue reading and I’ll explain to you what it says and of course my opinion of why it says this.
You can enter executive session for very specific reasons. They are few because we are a public entity. One of the reasons is discipline. Not that our board has ever bothered to be as specific as they should despite my raising concerns several times over the last two years.
Anyway, once you have convened into executive session you may not vote. That means no voting, polling, hand raising, etc. No vote. Period. The reasons for this are very simple. The public has a right to know what their board of education is doing. They also have a right to know how a decision was reached.
In fact I left the executive session February 6th because of illegal voting. They were voting on whether to censure me for leaving the meeting with a board document. Yes you heard me right. I was threatened with censure if I left the board meeting with the superintendents evaluation. The board president stated at the onset of the meeting that she wanted the document returned. I made no comment. I wasn’t made privy as to why I couldn’t leave with it.
I think it has something to do with the fact that she stated she couldn’t find last years evaluation. Even stranger is that she actually thought this was confidential information! The document is there by the way, but if you really need a copy, just ask around. Many copies were made available courtesy of a concerned citizen at a board meeting. In fact some board members had copies in the executive session.
Then it got bizarre. Obviously my scores were shared with other members, even tough we turned them over to the board president anonymously. The minute we took a peek at the scores another member stated, “boy Kellie you sure had a change of heart from last year” What?! How in the hell would anyone know that? In fact, if information wasn’t shared and you compared from last year you’d think the scores were anyone’s but mine. I’ll admit my scores have gone up this year. But only because I have seen improvement. I was not going to base the entire evaluation on one incident involving the missed deadline.
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
One Half of One Percent
A few people have asked about the potential loss of $288,000 in “excess costs”. First let me give a quick brief of excess costs. Excess costs is the monies that the district receives from other school districts for money we spend on special education services for their kids. For instance if a special education student is in our schools but lives in Akron, Akron must reimburse us for the money we spend to educate this child, that is above and beyond what we already get from the state for a “typical” child. But of course the state being the state, it must gets its hands on this money first and cause red tape and bureaucracy. So to get our money from Akron we have to report to the state. They collect everyone’s “excess costs” and redistribute them. The above was made possible by your friendly local state representatives. Not only that, districts now had to keep track of each and every kind of student we have. Even though we are not supposed to label kids anymore, there a whole section of reporting that labels every possible handicap, race, creed, sex, one parent, two parent, income, a child could have or not have.
So most districts, typical of government offices had to hire someone to do this new job. The “EMIS” coordinator was born. Because you know job responsibilities can’t shift or become obsolete, they can only grow and refine with your tax money. Once this excess costs business took effect somebody had to it. So some districts had this person do it, some districts had that person do it. Our district had the EMIS coordinator do it.
Everything went smoothly for all districts the first few years. Then this year something changed. It seems a newly imposed deadline was put on this excess costs report. Apparently our EMIS coordinator was unaware of the deadline and we filed late. Of course your first reaction is “How could you not know”? Until you get some facts behind it.
There are 10 districts in Summit County eligible to file for excess costs. Five claim they did not know of the deadline and three of those five filed late, including us. One of the other unaware districts just lucked out and filed on time and the last one filed over the weekend at the witching hour, after hearing of the deadline two days before the deadline. Notification about this new deadline was sketchy at best.
But let’s go back in time a minute. On or about December 4th our Superintendent was notified that our district had missed the deadline. He took immediate action in attempting to recover district monies and disciplined those responsible for the deadline. He also informed the board president Curt Grimes and vice president Therese Dunphy. Apparently they felt no need to inform the rest of the board of the missed deadline or take any disciplinary action regarding the loss of funds. In fact I assumed the entire board found out about the missed deadline the same day I did. January 8th. Silly me. But I guess at the time they didn’t think it was a big deal. Funny how things change. Because now that everyone knows, it has become a big deal.
Except everyone keeps forgetting that an appeal was filed prudently by our superintendent and we may be reimbursed. Only time will tell. In the mean time, I think we should sit tight and hope the state does the right thing. If 50% of Summit County was unaware, I wonder what the state average is this year. If we don’t get reimbursed, it is not the end of the world. While I admit it is a significant amount, it’s not much more than the office renovations. I guess we’ll have to put that on hold. And to put it into perspective, it’s one half of one percent of our budget. It’s a hit but we’ll survive without asking for a levy! And lastly, if the state doesn’t reimburse, we can try to bill the individual school districts ourselves. It will take some time but I think it’s a very real possibility.
So most districts, typical of government offices had to hire someone to do this new job. The “EMIS” coordinator was born. Because you know job responsibilities can’t shift or become obsolete, they can only grow and refine with your tax money. Once this excess costs business took effect somebody had to it. So some districts had this person do it, some districts had that person do it. Our district had the EMIS coordinator do it.
Everything went smoothly for all districts the first few years. Then this year something changed. It seems a newly imposed deadline was put on this excess costs report. Apparently our EMIS coordinator was unaware of the deadline and we filed late. Of course your first reaction is “How could you not know”? Until you get some facts behind it.
There are 10 districts in Summit County eligible to file for excess costs. Five claim they did not know of the deadline and three of those five filed late, including us. One of the other unaware districts just lucked out and filed on time and the last one filed over the weekend at the witching hour, after hearing of the deadline two days before the deadline. Notification about this new deadline was sketchy at best.
But let’s go back in time a minute. On or about December 4th our Superintendent was notified that our district had missed the deadline. He took immediate action in attempting to recover district monies and disciplined those responsible for the deadline. He also informed the board president Curt Grimes and vice president Therese Dunphy. Apparently they felt no need to inform the rest of the board of the missed deadline or take any disciplinary action regarding the loss of funds. In fact I assumed the entire board found out about the missed deadline the same day I did. January 8th. Silly me. But I guess at the time they didn’t think it was a big deal. Funny how things change. Because now that everyone knows, it has become a big deal.
Except everyone keeps forgetting that an appeal was filed prudently by our superintendent and we may be reimbursed. Only time will tell. In the mean time, I think we should sit tight and hope the state does the right thing. If 50% of Summit County was unaware, I wonder what the state average is this year. If we don’t get reimbursed, it is not the end of the world. While I admit it is a significant amount, it’s not much more than the office renovations. I guess we’ll have to put that on hold. And to put it into perspective, it’s one half of one percent of our budget. It’s a hit but we’ll survive without asking for a levy! And lastly, if the state doesn’t reimburse, we can try to bill the individual school districts ourselves. It will take some time but I think it’s a very real possibility.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Sherlock Anyone?
It’s been a very disturbing week. I don’t like much of what’s going on. I’m not even sure if the last meeting we had was legal. We entered executive session for the discipline of a public employee. No it wasn’t me! I know amazing, but true. That’s as much as I want to say about that right now. I can’t get censured two years in a row you know. But as usual I will give you an idea of how things work here in the good ole Cuyahoga Falls City School District.
First of all, I am tired of breaking the law. That’s right the board has been doing it for quite some time. You see, I finally heard back from Marc Danns office. Only to have some things verified that I already knew. When entering an executive session, you must state the specific purpose for which you are entering. In our case it’s “Personnel”. Our district has commonly listed every item available, from employment, appointment, promotion, demotion, discipline, etc... I have asked numerous times to stop this practice. But of course it has fallen on deaf ears. We need to state that we are going for “promotion of a public employee” or “compensation of a public employee”.
So at Tuesdays’ special meeting, I insisted we correct the agenda to state the actual purpose. You would have thought I asked them to jump in a Lake. No undertones intended. And imagine everyone’s surprise when the noob supported my stance on the issue. He’s fresh out of new board member training and obviously paid attention! OK I have to say this; I never thought I’d see the day when I’d like the guy who gave me in-school suspension. In case you are unaware, the noob board member was also my high school principal. (PS, they lie about that “pal” thing).
After spending $75.00 in attorney fees it was decided that I would be ignored for the time being and the agenda was approved listing all items. I asked that record reflect my request was ignored. You see, this was the proper place to correct the agenda. But our board president has let her newfound powers go to her head. So they proceeded with moving to enter executive session and then amended the motion to read “employment, discipline, and appointment of personnel”. Hmmm. We’ll see.
Now for the disturbing part that happened in executive session that I will talk about. Our board president asked that the board agree to present a letter to particular administrators. And then the strangest thing happened. When I asked to see the document, I was told no. Ummm, no? Surely I heard wrong because no one in their right mind would actually expect four other people to agree to an unseen document. Now it got really weird because two people were willing to go with the unseen document. Me and the noob said no way.
Long story short, despite my disagreeing with it, it was presented to the particular administrators, as a board document from the board president. I had to write a statement of dissent just to be able to detach my name from it. No vote. Oh except the vote in executive session whether to go public or do it privately. It was a 3-0 vote. Noob wasn’t going to vote in executive session. He knows better. That’s as far as dare go on that for now. You know, censure and all has me paranoid. I’m sure you’ll be getting details soon from the reliable Falls News Press.
We exited executive session and I asked that the record reflect that the board did not discuss “employment and appointment”. I was half appeased. They argued that appointment was discussed. I still disagree. We adjourned shortly after 9PM. I’m stunned that this was railroaded in with out a vote. I’m not even sure it’s allowed.
First of all, I am tired of breaking the law. That’s right the board has been doing it for quite some time. You see, I finally heard back from Marc Danns office. Only to have some things verified that I already knew. When entering an executive session, you must state the specific purpose for which you are entering. In our case it’s “Personnel”. Our district has commonly listed every item available, from employment, appointment, promotion, demotion, discipline, etc... I have asked numerous times to stop this practice. But of course it has fallen on deaf ears. We need to state that we are going for “promotion of a public employee” or “compensation of a public employee”.
So at Tuesdays’ special meeting, I insisted we correct the agenda to state the actual purpose. You would have thought I asked them to jump in a Lake. No undertones intended. And imagine everyone’s surprise when the noob supported my stance on the issue. He’s fresh out of new board member training and obviously paid attention! OK I have to say this; I never thought I’d see the day when I’d like the guy who gave me in-school suspension. In case you are unaware, the noob board member was also my high school principal. (PS, they lie about that “pal” thing).
After spending $75.00 in attorney fees it was decided that I would be ignored for the time being and the agenda was approved listing all items. I asked that record reflect my request was ignored. You see, this was the proper place to correct the agenda. But our board president has let her newfound powers go to her head. So they proceeded with moving to enter executive session and then amended the motion to read “employment, discipline, and appointment of personnel”. Hmmm. We’ll see.
Now for the disturbing part that happened in executive session that I will talk about. Our board president asked that the board agree to present a letter to particular administrators. And then the strangest thing happened. When I asked to see the document, I was told no. Ummm, no? Surely I heard wrong because no one in their right mind would actually expect four other people to agree to an unseen document. Now it got really weird because two people were willing to go with the unseen document. Me and the noob said no way.
Long story short, despite my disagreeing with it, it was presented to the particular administrators, as a board document from the board president. I had to write a statement of dissent just to be able to detach my name from it. No vote. Oh except the vote in executive session whether to go public or do it privately. It was a 3-0 vote. Noob wasn’t going to vote in executive session. He knows better. That’s as far as dare go on that for now. You know, censure and all has me paranoid. I’m sure you’ll be getting details soon from the reliable Falls News Press.
We exited executive session and I asked that the record reflect that the board did not discuss “employment and appointment”. I was half appeased. They argued that appointment was discussed. I still disagree. We adjourned shortly after 9PM. I’m stunned that this was railroaded in with out a vote. I’m not even sure it’s allowed.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Mixed Bag
Man do I need my head examined. I should have seen it coming last night. The board agreed to form a committee to study our bussing program. The board dictat- errr I mean president, asked if anyone was interested in this committee. Two members were to be appointed. Our newest member spoke up first, then myself, then the VP. Well the noob got it (for those of you net lingo dummies, a noob is a person that is new at any particular event, game, board, etc.) and then after much hemming and hawing she appointed herself. Let’s see, which board member has been concerned about bussing inequities from day one? Oh, I believe that was me. Let’s see, who has lived here their entire life and knows our streets, I dare say, better than even our most experienced bus driver? Oh, that also would be me. And maybe the noob. I guess what really perplexes me is that afterward while waiting for our new board photo to be snapped, the pres explained to me the she wanted the noob for his bussing expertise and herself because she’s really interested in this. Um OK. So why ask during the meeting if anyone was interested if you already knew? Why not just state the people and the reasons? Are any of you interested in kissing my butt? Well too bad if you are because I already know who I want to kiss my butt. I only asked so I could tell you no.
Some strange happenings have happened to me lately. This morning I go to my favorite coffee shop to sit in my car and drink over priced coffee and use their internet service for free. Why my car you ask? Because it’s my comfort zone where no one can bug me. Anyway, I’m sitting there gazing at the new Hoover Mahal, when one of our administrators strolls inside with a gift bag in hand. Dang! I knew I shouldn’t have worn my pajamas out of the house today! I had to go home and change just so I could go back and be nosy! I saw her greet some dudes in suits and was convinced they were meeting to steal her away from us! I like this lady. I couldn’t let them woo her on my turf! So I raced home and changed and very slick like went back to nonchalantly go inside and shock every barista working, as they have only seen me in my car at the drive thru and parked out front using their internet. (Barista is a fancy term for the person who makes the over priced coffee).
Much to my surprise there was no wooing. There was a party (complete with gifts)/ Cuyahoga Falls administrative educational meeting happening. Eeeek. I’m not sure who was more uncomfortable, me or the nine or so of our employees par-taying. Don’t worry, they’ll have to water board me to get names. They’ll have to pry the list out of my cold dead hands, they’ll have to… well, you get the picture. Some might say “lighten up Kellie”. I have a question. Why is it the only people you see hanging out in food and beverage establishments during normal working hours are people whose wages come from our tax dollars? And attorneys, but they’re not really people. I’m not just talking about our employees. It starts with them but it’s city workers, it’s county workers, way obvious with state workers, and on down the line. Now I don’t know about you but I have to stay at work and work. And presents have never been part of the mix. Who knows, maybe I’m wrong. Maybe the gifts were part of some educational training exercise. I actually don’t really have a problem with a meeting outside district offices if it’s something that warrants it. But could you at least give the appearance of not having a party?
Lastly I want to share a quick story about one of the many things that it wrong with society today. My sons cell phone was stolen. The mother of the thief called me to see if his story of how he acquired it was true. We agreed that the police should be called because his story had changed four times. From the original story that my son gave it to him, to the final- a dark haired stranger from Roberts Middle School gave it to him at the park, told him whose it was and then roughed him up a little. The police went to his house and he stuck to the dark haired stranger story. The police called me back to tell me that I should instruct my son to not show off his expensive ($30 cell phone?) electronics to his “friends” and there was nothing they could do to the thief. I quote “we’re not gonna do the bright light in the face and strong arm a nine year old”. So I guess the moral of the story is this, it’s ok to steal and lie before you’re ten years old. My kid and the thief learned this lesson today. Today a nine year old stealing a cell phone tomorrow an eighteen year robbing the pizza delivery man.
Some strange happenings have happened to me lately. This morning I go to my favorite coffee shop to sit in my car and drink over priced coffee and use their internet service for free. Why my car you ask? Because it’s my comfort zone where no one can bug me. Anyway, I’m sitting there gazing at the new Hoover Mahal, when one of our administrators strolls inside with a gift bag in hand. Dang! I knew I shouldn’t have worn my pajamas out of the house today! I had to go home and change just so I could go back and be nosy! I saw her greet some dudes in suits and was convinced they were meeting to steal her away from us! I like this lady. I couldn’t let them woo her on my turf! So I raced home and changed and very slick like went back to nonchalantly go inside and shock every barista working, as they have only seen me in my car at the drive thru and parked out front using their internet. (Barista is a fancy term for the person who makes the over priced coffee).
Much to my surprise there was no wooing. There was a party (complete with gifts)/ Cuyahoga Falls administrative educational meeting happening. Eeeek. I’m not sure who was more uncomfortable, me or the nine or so of our employees par-taying. Don’t worry, they’ll have to water board me to get names. They’ll have to pry the list out of my cold dead hands, they’ll have to… well, you get the picture. Some might say “lighten up Kellie”. I have a question. Why is it the only people you see hanging out in food and beverage establishments during normal working hours are people whose wages come from our tax dollars? And attorneys, but they’re not really people. I’m not just talking about our employees. It starts with them but it’s city workers, it’s county workers, way obvious with state workers, and on down the line. Now I don’t know about you but I have to stay at work and work. And presents have never been part of the mix. Who knows, maybe I’m wrong. Maybe the gifts were part of some educational training exercise. I actually don’t really have a problem with a meeting outside district offices if it’s something that warrants it. But could you at least give the appearance of not having a party?
Lastly I want to share a quick story about one of the many things that it wrong with society today. My sons cell phone was stolen. The mother of the thief called me to see if his story of how he acquired it was true. We agreed that the police should be called because his story had changed four times. From the original story that my son gave it to him, to the final- a dark haired stranger from Roberts Middle School gave it to him at the park, told him whose it was and then roughed him up a little. The police went to his house and he stuck to the dark haired stranger story. The police called me back to tell me that I should instruct my son to not show off his expensive ($30 cell phone?) electronics to his “friends” and there was nothing they could do to the thief. I quote “we’re not gonna do the bright light in the face and strong arm a nine year old”. So I guess the moral of the story is this, it’s ok to steal and lie before you’re ten years old. My kid and the thief learned this lesson today. Today a nine year old stealing a cell phone tomorrow an eighteen year robbing the pizza delivery man.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Lies, Lies, Lies Ye-ah
OK. I lied. I’m a politician now, it’s a part of the job description. I told you I haven’t seen a Falls News editorial that has moved me in years. Actually, I have. The most recent was this one. I don’t know what I like about it more, the novel idea of incorporating a song title into the header, or the content itself. This is how you inform people. This is how you begin to get the public to understand how to take ownership and responsibility for their tax funded entities. I was thrilled to see this piece in the Falls News. Board and Council meetings are scary and daunting to many people. Making the process understandable and user friendly is a great service to the community.
There’s a few opinion letters of late that I’ve liked as well. This one and this one are two of my personal favorites. Speaking of letters, there was one that I didn’t like so well. I find the letter to be poorly written and a prime example of where the term “baffle you with bull%#@!” comes from. You can read my response in this week’s edition of the Falls News, but you know they have that pesky 300 word limit. It almost killed me to limit myself to that! I got desperate and used FNP instead of Falls News Press. One word vs. three you see. So I’m going elaborate here because I am free to be wordy. In the past I have submitted letters to the FNP that required files of public record to back up statements I made before they would print it. It was frustrating but in hind sight, they didn’t know me and the fact that I do my homework. So imagine my surprise when I saw this letter from my fellow board member. Notice how there is no facts to back up the claims made. I would like him to cite the pertinent and relevant facts left out of articles. I can’t believe the FNP let him say this without documentation to back up the claim. It’s one of the most unbiased acts I have ever seen from the media.
But the one that really blows my mind is the “certain disgruntled board member” comment. The nerve!! No one even had the decency to inquire if I actually was disgruntled before printing this! And for the record I am not disgruntled. I’m thrilled that we have one elementary school that is the 4th highest per pupil spending in Summit County. Of course you’ll be shocked to learn that they are an “Excellent” school on the state report card. Meanwhile my child sits in a classroom of 28 kids in his “Effective” school and wonders when the promised “more comprehensive reconfiguration” is going to take place. I’m also pleased that the board hasn’t found a way to efficiently and equitably bus our students. It’s good that a proposal to lower the bussing limit and eliminate exceptions was proposed. I’m sure using many busses to haul 12-15 kids is proving cost effective with today’s gas prices. And our streets are so squared off that I know bus stop points every 2-3 block radius is a preposterous idea.
Maybe our new board president will lead this board in a new direction. Maybe we will start focusing on the problems and stop trying to convince ourselves that all is well. Maybe we will finally start utilizing the survey results. Maybe.
There’s a few opinion letters of late that I’ve liked as well. This one and this one are two of my personal favorites. Speaking of letters, there was one that I didn’t like so well. I find the letter to be poorly written and a prime example of where the term “baffle you with bull%#@!” comes from. You can read my response in this week’s edition of the Falls News, but you know they have that pesky 300 word limit. It almost killed me to limit myself to that! I got desperate and used FNP instead of Falls News Press. One word vs. three you see. So I’m going elaborate here because I am free to be wordy. In the past I have submitted letters to the FNP that required files of public record to back up statements I made before they would print it. It was frustrating but in hind sight, they didn’t know me and the fact that I do my homework. So imagine my surprise when I saw this letter from my fellow board member. Notice how there is no facts to back up the claims made. I would like him to cite the pertinent and relevant facts left out of articles. I can’t believe the FNP let him say this without documentation to back up the claim. It’s one of the most unbiased acts I have ever seen from the media.
But the one that really blows my mind is the “certain disgruntled board member” comment. The nerve!! No one even had the decency to inquire if I actually was disgruntled before printing this! And for the record I am not disgruntled. I’m thrilled that we have one elementary school that is the 4th highest per pupil spending in Summit County. Of course you’ll be shocked to learn that they are an “Excellent” school on the state report card. Meanwhile my child sits in a classroom of 28 kids in his “Effective” school and wonders when the promised “more comprehensive reconfiguration” is going to take place. I’m also pleased that the board hasn’t found a way to efficiently and equitably bus our students. It’s good that a proposal to lower the bussing limit and eliminate exceptions was proposed. I’m sure using many busses to haul 12-15 kids is proving cost effective with today’s gas prices. And our streets are so squared off that I know bus stop points every 2-3 block radius is a preposterous idea.
Maybe our new board president will lead this board in a new direction. Maybe we will start focusing on the problems and stop trying to convince ourselves that all is well. Maybe we will finally start utilizing the survey results. Maybe.
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Trust Everybody, But Cut the Cards.
I have had several people ask me about my vote for president and vice president. Allow me to explain. Not only did I vote Gunter for president, I seconded the nomination. And yes I also voted yes on Dunphy for vice. You see I was under the false impression that these two women truly wanted to turn a new leaf and begin a year of cooperation. Silly me.
As was witnessed at the meeting, I kept my end of the cooperation deal. I foolishly believed that this board could come together and start working for the people of the district. I was led to believe that I had support in my nomination of a Cuyahoga Falls resident to be appointed to the districts finance committee. I would not have nominated him had the support not been there. But I went into the meeting believing it was. I thought that perhaps all those hours of mediation and thousands of dollars spent on boardmanship and training seminars had finally paid off. How nice that the board could finally put some time and energy into working for the taxpayers and their children.
First up on the agenda- electing a president. Gunter was nominated. I thought to myself, what better way to show my appreciation of the new board attitude than to second the nomination? During the discussion a speech was made by a fellow board member talking about working together and coming together for the common good, etc… I was almost moved to tears. New pres is elected 5-0 and sworn in. Then Dunphy was nominated for vice president and our brand new president gave a similar spiel on cooperation and the new board love. I almost asked if we could have a group hug. I also voted yes on this nomination. But it seems our newest member wasn’t fooled by this display of ours and voted no. Really loud. But alas 4 yes votes and she’s sworn in.
The meeting then proceeded as usual until it came to the finance committee approval. Since only four of the original five members expressed interest in continuing their service, I contacted a gentleman who had previously expressed a desire to serve over a year ago. He was still interested so I decided I would recommend he be added to the committee the board was asked to approve.
My does word travel fast. Much to my surprise, an amendment to the agenda was waiting for me at the board meeting. Boy was this going to be uncomfortable. It seems there was a last minute phone call and whamo bammo we have the fifth finance member back! I didn’t think this was going to be a problem though. After all, it’s not like they make any binding decisions. I decided that I would move to add my recommendation as well since an odd number and majority considerations aren’t needed for this group.
Shouldn’t be any problem, I was thinking. After all this guy’s a well known in our city. He’s a 17 year resident of Cuyahoga Falls, has a stake in our property values, and the health of our districts’ finances as well as the quality of education here. Oh and did I mention that he has an intimate knowledge of school finance? In fact he has more years experience with school finance than any one else on the committee including our own employees. And he was willing to share his knowledge and expertise gratis. Not only that, he was a respected employee of the Cuyahoga Falls Board of Education awhile back, left on good terms, and has offered help and assistance through the districts financial fiasco of 2005. Surely a shoe-in!
I moved to add the sixth member and it was seconded. My first clue something was amiss was when the new and improved board president suggested that this was the superintendents committee and she didn’t think the board had the authority to alter his recommendations. I was stunned. Apparently someone needs to brush up on who the agenda belongs to. Wait a minute! I remember this same board member waving the agenda around during a meeting in 2006 and pointing out to this same superintendent that the agenda and its items belong to the board. Surely she knows the board has the authority to amend any item brought forward!
Here’s a little meeting lesson for those of you that luckily do not have to deal with it- When a motion is made and seconded it must have discussion and then be put to the vote. Now here was our new board president trying to declare the motion illegal! I guess the new title went to her head. We elected a president not another dictator. Guess that speech at the start of the meeting was lip service.
After trying to calmly say to her that she couldn’t declare my motion illegal and began to explain why- she cut me off and “called the question” which means end all discussion and vote on the original motion. I in turn declared a “point of order” which stops her action and forces the explanation of my right as a member to have my valid, seconded motion put to the vote. I sat there perplexed as to why voting to enhance our districts finance committee had become such an issue. Needless to say, I won this round and it was put to the vote.
Imagine my surprise after thinking this gentleman had support and publicly nominating him to this committee only to watch the motion fail 2-3.
I guess the contract of personal agendas is in full force and effect. I was a fool for believing that this board was making progress.
On a lighter note it looks like my idea of having more meetings in the library might happen after all. Yeah I know I got ignored when I suggested it. Yeah I know it took one of the majority members suggesting it with one of those over the top of the glasses glances. But regardless it’s happening. It will be much easier for handicapped, disabled, and just plain old achy people like me to attend board meetings. It’s a good thing no matter how it gets done.
As was witnessed at the meeting, I kept my end of the cooperation deal. I foolishly believed that this board could come together and start working for the people of the district. I was led to believe that I had support in my nomination of a Cuyahoga Falls resident to be appointed to the districts finance committee. I would not have nominated him had the support not been there. But I went into the meeting believing it was. I thought that perhaps all those hours of mediation and thousands of dollars spent on boardmanship and training seminars had finally paid off. How nice that the board could finally put some time and energy into working for the taxpayers and their children.
First up on the agenda- electing a president. Gunter was nominated. I thought to myself, what better way to show my appreciation of the new board attitude than to second the nomination? During the discussion a speech was made by a fellow board member talking about working together and coming together for the common good, etc… I was almost moved to tears. New pres is elected 5-0 and sworn in. Then Dunphy was nominated for vice president and our brand new president gave a similar spiel on cooperation and the new board love. I almost asked if we could have a group hug. I also voted yes on this nomination. But it seems our newest member wasn’t fooled by this display of ours and voted no. Really loud. But alas 4 yes votes and she’s sworn in.
The meeting then proceeded as usual until it came to the finance committee approval. Since only four of the original five members expressed interest in continuing their service, I contacted a gentleman who had previously expressed a desire to serve over a year ago. He was still interested so I decided I would recommend he be added to the committee the board was asked to approve.
My does word travel fast. Much to my surprise, an amendment to the agenda was waiting for me at the board meeting. Boy was this going to be uncomfortable. It seems there was a last minute phone call and whamo bammo we have the fifth finance member back! I didn’t think this was going to be a problem though. After all, it’s not like they make any binding decisions. I decided that I would move to add my recommendation as well since an odd number and majority considerations aren’t needed for this group.
Shouldn’t be any problem, I was thinking. After all this guy’s a well known in our city. He’s a 17 year resident of Cuyahoga Falls, has a stake in our property values, and the health of our districts’ finances as well as the quality of education here. Oh and did I mention that he has an intimate knowledge of school finance? In fact he has more years experience with school finance than any one else on the committee including our own employees. And he was willing to share his knowledge and expertise gratis. Not only that, he was a respected employee of the Cuyahoga Falls Board of Education awhile back, left on good terms, and has offered help and assistance through the districts financial fiasco of 2005. Surely a shoe-in!
I moved to add the sixth member and it was seconded. My first clue something was amiss was when the new and improved board president suggested that this was the superintendents committee and she didn’t think the board had the authority to alter his recommendations. I was stunned. Apparently someone needs to brush up on who the agenda belongs to. Wait a minute! I remember this same board member waving the agenda around during a meeting in 2006 and pointing out to this same superintendent that the agenda and its items belong to the board. Surely she knows the board has the authority to amend any item brought forward!
Here’s a little meeting lesson for those of you that luckily do not have to deal with it- When a motion is made and seconded it must have discussion and then be put to the vote. Now here was our new board president trying to declare the motion illegal! I guess the new title went to her head. We elected a president not another dictator. Guess that speech at the start of the meeting was lip service.
After trying to calmly say to her that she couldn’t declare my motion illegal and began to explain why- she cut me off and “called the question” which means end all discussion and vote on the original motion. I in turn declared a “point of order” which stops her action and forces the explanation of my right as a member to have my valid, seconded motion put to the vote. I sat there perplexed as to why voting to enhance our districts finance committee had become such an issue. Needless to say, I won this round and it was put to the vote.
Imagine my surprise after thinking this gentleman had support and publicly nominating him to this committee only to watch the motion fail 2-3.
I guess the contract of personal agendas is in full force and effect. I was a fool for believing that this board was making progress.
On a lighter note it looks like my idea of having more meetings in the library might happen after all. Yeah I know I got ignored when I suggested it. Yeah I know it took one of the majority members suggesting it with one of those over the top of the glasses glances. But regardless it’s happening. It will be much easier for handicapped, disabled, and just plain old achy people like me to attend board meetings. It’s a good thing no matter how it gets done.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
Decisions, Decisions...
Too bad you weren’t at last Thursdays’ meeting. How do I know you weren’t? No one was. The board discussed changing the meeting times, days, location, even the newspaper that the district uses for public business. Yes you heard me right. The Falls News has apparently ticked off a few members. The timing is uncanny. Last month when the Falls News was chastising me, no one breathed a word of change. Now that last weeks paper printed details of my complaint to Marc Danns office, they must suffer. When I questioned our superintendent about this new development I was surprised to hear the following: The board president said he wasn’t pleased with them because he doesn’t have time to check his Email, therefore he cannot make a timely statement and get his side of the story in the paper. Yet last month and last week there were plenty of statements from him. Another member stated she wasn’t happy with some recent editorials…??? I haven’t seen an editorial from the Falls News in years that has moved my emotions in any way shape or form. Maybe it’s a journalist thing. Either way I fail to see how thier editorials affect our districts using them for publishing purposes. From what the board was told they are the cheapest, most reliable, effective way to go. Let’s compare: The Falls News goes to every resident and business in Cuyahoga Falls- for free no less, costs way less to run public notices, solicit bids for contracts, ads, etc. But the best endorsement? The community survey clearly shows that the Falls News is where our residents get their information about our district. This is one of those issues where you just go DUH! Besides the fact that the Akron paper appears to be on its last legs. I buy it more out of pity than for information.
I buy the Cleveland Plain Dealer for news. You can’t beat the PD for in-depth information articles. Some of the statistical comparisons they have done on educational issues are worthy of a local Pulitzer and are a breath of fresh air. The regular series the run on Ohio’s Sunshine Law and public records information is another example of the forward thinking going on in Cleveland. The more you educate and inform the public, the more open your government entities must be.
Which brings us full circle back to which newspaper to use. The article in last weeks Falls News was a surprise to me. I mentioned my complaint and opinion request to the reporter while talking about GPA requirements two weeks before the article was printed. She used a public record request to gather facts and write the article. In fact the board president appears to be the only person that made a statement to her. I guess what he really meant was he doesn’t have time to check his Email, consult with other members and then make a statement to the Falls News.
One of the reasons stated as to why I was censured was because I violated the Ohio School Board Associations code of ethics. Ethics are a touchy subject with this board. I seem to have a different set of ethics than some of the other members. Mine involve keeping the taxpayers informed of how the district is spending their money in the open meeting. And since we’re busy checking ethics violations, maybe we should check and see how ethical it was of our board president to be writing letters of recommendation for his buddy that applied for, and got, a coveted position in the district. I have a feeling that using your position to secure a guy a job that your wife baby sits for isn’t very ethical. Funny how no one felt a censure necessary in that case.
I know nothing will come of my complaint. It would need to be brought to the Court of Common Pleas by any fine citizen of our community and I just don’t have the time or energy for that.
I buy the Cleveland Plain Dealer for news. You can’t beat the PD for in-depth information articles. Some of the statistical comparisons they have done on educational issues are worthy of a local Pulitzer and are a breath of fresh air. The regular series the run on Ohio’s Sunshine Law and public records information is another example of the forward thinking going on in Cleveland. The more you educate and inform the public, the more open your government entities must be.
Which brings us full circle back to which newspaper to use. The article in last weeks Falls News was a surprise to me. I mentioned my complaint and opinion request to the reporter while talking about GPA requirements two weeks before the article was printed. She used a public record request to gather facts and write the article. In fact the board president appears to be the only person that made a statement to her. I guess what he really meant was he doesn’t have time to check his Email, consult with other members and then make a statement to the Falls News.
One of the reasons stated as to why I was censured was because I violated the Ohio School Board Associations code of ethics. Ethics are a touchy subject with this board. I seem to have a different set of ethics than some of the other members. Mine involve keeping the taxpayers informed of how the district is spending their money in the open meeting. And since we’re busy checking ethics violations, maybe we should check and see how ethical it was of our board president to be writing letters of recommendation for his buddy that applied for, and got, a coveted position in the district. I have a feeling that using your position to secure a guy a job that your wife baby sits for isn’t very ethical. Funny how no one felt a censure necessary in that case.
I know nothing will come of my complaint. It would need to be brought to the Court of Common Pleas by any fine citizen of our community and I just don’t have the time or energy for that.
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