What great timing for this announcement, http://www.ward5lynn.com/, it just HAPPENS that LYNN could use a councilman that sees the value of communication with constituents. And where do we learn to communicate? IN SCHOOL and SETH is a teacher.
We here at the WATCH look forward to his victory and what it will mean for EDUCATION concerns in the city among other issues,
Monday, December 31, 2012
Saturday, December 29, 2012
LISTEN TO LORETTA
As 2012 closes, Lynn finds itself at a crossroad
Let me remind you that LPS's budget is nearly half of the total city expenditures
and when you add the fact we are looking to add a $70 million dollar NEW school building the importance of the MAYOR'S race comes sharply into focus.
Do you remember the current MAYOR supported the SUPERINTENDENT who gave out 15plus% raises to some princiPALS while leading a FAILING district.
Let me remind you that LPS's budget is nearly half of the total city expenditures
and when you add the fact we are looking to add a $70 million dollar NEW school building the importance of the MAYOR'S race comes sharply into focus.
Do you remember the current MAYOR supported the SUPERINTENDENT who gave out 15plus% raises to some princiPALS while leading a FAILING district.
WHERE HAS THE WATCH BEEN IN 2012
It has been a busy year. I turned 50. The WATCH crossed the 100,00 mark in March and the 200,000 mark in December. Although the WATCH was conspicuously never mentioned in the ITEM, I managed to make it on the front page 3 times. I had the lead story on the front page on my 50th birthday. How cool is that?
We at the WATCH helped spearhead the FIRST EVER public hearing ever generated by a petition from an obscure clause in the city charter pointed out to me by an anonymous reader who I don't think was so anonymous. Well the hearing was to try and get the LSC to post the superintendent's contract, it was renewal time and we wanted to make sure we had the best person in that position. The initial result was we lost in our bid to spark a little friendly competition. However in true WATCH fashion I have made a concerted effort to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. but just let me say that representatives from both spoke at the hearing.
What has happened is an eruption in attention in parent involvement. Okay maybe ERUPTION is too strong a word but it makes good copy. Since that hearing two groups have come on strong to the scene, the LYNN PARENTS ORGANIZING FOR A BETTER EDUCATION (LPOBE) and a new, revitalized PAC. Don't worry, I am not taking credit for starting either of those but representatives from both did speak at the hearing.
Speaking of the 3 hour hearing, I am so proud of the positive, professional behavior displayed by the PRO-POSTING side. Their comments were presented in a constructive fashion. Everybody left the bomb throwing to me, that's what I do, Most of my artillery fired are salvos of truth. Regardless they have led to campaign's of conversation.
This fall saw the opening up of LVTI for use as a community center this fall for some limited use. Again others worked out the details and all the operational stuff. Me, I just provided the poetry. C'mon the rhyming was so easy yo, GANGSTER.
Speaking of gangster, how could I not talk about JOHN THE RIPPER who belittled the parents effort pushing forth the petition and accused certain LSC members of trying to cut the throat of the superintendent. That would not be the last of his parent put down. Remember his foul utterances when FORD SCHOOL'S SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL came forward at a LSC meeting. Eventually he did come before the LSC and make a public apology for his public comments.
Thanks to LIL' LORI there was that revelation about the faulty interpretation about INNOVATION SCHOOLS. We were lucky to have the OPENING of the WASHINGTON SCHOOL that was misrepresented as an INNOVATION SCHOOL. Maybe it was if you want to play word games but evidently somebody was distressed enough about the definition to take down their touting off the LPS website. Instead it was decided that it would be sold as a STEM school.WHATEVER.
We at the WATCH have been all over the proposed plans for the new MARSHALL. Victory will be defined by a well thought out plan for construction. Questions have been and will continue to be asked to insure that we get the most bang for our buck. Taking tax dollars is taxing therefore the WATCH wants all decisions defended definitely.
This may not be the last of the look-backs but it was unquestionably the first of the end of this year which will be last year, next year.
We at the WATCH helped spearhead the FIRST EVER public hearing ever generated by a petition from an obscure clause in the city charter pointed out to me by an anonymous reader who I don't think was so anonymous. Well the hearing was to try and get the LSC to post the superintendent's contract, it was renewal time and we wanted to make sure we had the best person in that position. The initial result was we lost in our bid to spark a little friendly competition. However in true WATCH fashion I have made a concerted effort to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. but just let me say that representatives from both spoke at the hearing.
What has happened is an eruption in attention in parent involvement. Okay maybe ERUPTION is too strong a word but it makes good copy. Since that hearing two groups have come on strong to the scene, the LYNN PARENTS ORGANIZING FOR A BETTER EDUCATION (LPOBE) and a new, revitalized PAC. Don't worry, I am not taking credit for starting either of those but representatives from both did speak at the hearing.
Speaking of the 3 hour hearing, I am so proud of the positive, professional behavior displayed by the PRO-POSTING side. Their comments were presented in a constructive fashion. Everybody left the bomb throwing to me, that's what I do, Most of my artillery fired are salvos of truth. Regardless they have led to campaign's of conversation.
This fall saw the opening up of LVTI for use as a community center this fall for some limited use. Again others worked out the details and all the operational stuff. Me, I just provided the poetry. C'mon the rhyming was so easy yo, GANGSTER.
Speaking of gangster, how could I not talk about JOHN THE RIPPER who belittled the parents effort pushing forth the petition and accused certain LSC members of trying to cut the throat of the superintendent. That would not be the last of his parent put down. Remember his foul utterances when FORD SCHOOL'S SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL came forward at a LSC meeting. Eventually he did come before the LSC and make a public apology for his public comments.
Thanks to LIL' LORI there was that revelation about the faulty interpretation about INNOVATION SCHOOLS. We were lucky to have the OPENING of the WASHINGTON SCHOOL that was misrepresented as an INNOVATION SCHOOL. Maybe it was if you want to play word games but evidently somebody was distressed enough about the definition to take down their touting off the LPS website. Instead it was decided that it would be sold as a STEM school.WHATEVER.
We at the WATCH have been all over the proposed plans for the new MARSHALL. Victory will be defined by a well thought out plan for construction. Questions have been and will continue to be asked to insure that we get the most bang for our buck. Taking tax dollars is taxing therefore the WATCH wants all decisions defended definitely.
This may not be the last of the look-backs but it was unquestionably the first of the end of this year which will be last year, next year.
Friday, December 28, 2012
THE ENGLISH ARE COMING! WAIT, WHERE DID THEY GO?
I am sorry with all of the attention I have been giving the MARSHALL DRUG MESS I have neglected the follow-up on the ENGLISH English teacher CANDIDATE CROWLEY and I want to know, albeit for different reasons at least we share in our curiosity. It is such a tender moment for me, I feel all perclepted.. Talk amongst yourselves.
Unfortunately I've had more dealings with the POLICE than anyone ought to. Granted most of my legal experience has been with the Probate Court and that is a whole different animal. In fact that court wasn;t even given space in the NEW courthouse in SALEM. Yeah they call it LOVER'S COURT, another sign of disrespect.
BUT....
my experiences have not been exclusively with civil courts. There is a MUCH higher threshold of accountability in criminal matters. There is supposed to be anyway. Police officers are given a certain degree of latitude in their application of the law. This is where JUDGES get ticked off sometimes when they perceive that latitude has melded in to interpretation.
LET'S PAUSE....
for a brief civics refresher. There are three branches of government - 1) Executive:they carry out the law (that's where the police fall), 2) Legislative:they pass the laws and 3), Judicial:they INTERPRET the law.
DO YOU SEE WHERE I AM GOING HERE?
Maybe there has been no follow-up story because there was NO case. From published reports anyway, it would seem there was a severe lack of evidence. Then again you can't believe everything you read (I heard that) but it sure would be nice to have something to read.
The awful thing is that even if that case was dismissed, that teacher's life will never be the same. A paid vacation will do little to erase the black mark. If it wasn't dismissed then we have an even bigger story and CANDIDATE CROWLEY'S soapbox will get a little higher.
Unfortunately I've had more dealings with the POLICE than anyone ought to. Granted most of my legal experience has been with the Probate Court and that is a whole different animal. In fact that court wasn;t even given space in the NEW courthouse in SALEM. Yeah they call it LOVER'S COURT, another sign of disrespect.
BUT....
my experiences have not been exclusively with civil courts. There is a MUCH higher threshold of accountability in criminal matters. There is supposed to be anyway. Police officers are given a certain degree of latitude in their application of the law. This is where JUDGES get ticked off sometimes when they perceive that latitude has melded in to interpretation.
LET'S PAUSE....
for a brief civics refresher. There are three branches of government - 1) Executive:they carry out the law (that's where the police fall), 2) Legislative:they pass the laws and 3), Judicial:they INTERPRET the law.
DO YOU SEE WHERE I AM GOING HERE?
Maybe there has been no follow-up story because there was NO case. From published reports anyway, it would seem there was a severe lack of evidence. Then again you can't believe everything you read (I heard that) but it sure would be nice to have something to read.
The awful thing is that even if that case was dismissed, that teacher's life will never be the same. A paid vacation will do little to erase the black mark. If it wasn't dismissed then we have an even bigger story and CANDIDATE CROWLEY'S soapbox will get a little higher.
PERKED UP PAC
Lynn parents advisory council plans workshops
More parents are on the move to help their children get more out of their education by getting the most out of LPS. Getting the most from LPS involves engaging with them in cooperative effort to maximize services.
This friendly invasion is being led by new President SHAWN TARASUIK, a retired recruiter and former NAVY SEAL. Taking a page from his former military life, SHAWN has always stressed the importance of teamwork in accomplishing goals.
I can't wait to see the good things to come from this positive approach to our known and identified problems.
More parents are on the move to help their children get more out of their education by getting the most out of LPS. Getting the most from LPS involves engaging with them in cooperative effort to maximize services.
This friendly invasion is being led by new President SHAWN TARASUIK, a retired recruiter and former NAVY SEAL. Taking a page from his former military life, SHAWN has always stressed the importance of teamwork in accomplishing goals.
I can't wait to see the good things to come from this positive approach to our known and identified problems.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
CHANGE IN PLANS
Plans for a WOTRING WING may have gone up in smoke
cause on confidentiality someone did choke.
Since looks like no building named after me, it's true
then a statue in the hall will have to do.
cause on confidentiality someone did choke.
Since looks like no building named after me, it's true
then a statue in the hall will have to do.
WAS THE WATCH TARGETED?
Since nobody important reads my blog, I don't know why I am whining here but what heck, here goes.
I WONDER
why when my daughter was involved in an incident recently, I was told by someone who should not have known before I told him. Now I would have told him because that's how I roll. When you make exposing secrets your bread and butter if you want to be taken seriously, you better serve yourself first.
So on reflection, I realize I was denied the pleasure of what should have been my personal disclosure. When confronted, my source protected their source. I respect that, I mean that's right up my alley. Still it makes me wonder. If it would have been someone else's kid would they have generated the same level of attention that CONFIDENTIALITY BARRIERS were broken?
I WONDER
why when my daughter was involved in an incident recently, I was told by someone who should not have known before I told him. Now I would have told him because that's how I roll. When you make exposing secrets your bread and butter if you want to be taken seriously, you better serve yourself first.
So on reflection, I realize I was denied the pleasure of what should have been my personal disclosure. When confronted, my source protected their source. I respect that, I mean that's right up my alley. Still it makes me wonder. If it would have been someone else's kid would they have generated the same level of attention that CONFIDENTIALITY BARRIERS were broken?
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
POT PROTOCOL
Boy I gotta be careful, I'm pissing off everybody, geez, My understanding is that Friday at MARSHALL there was a little pot(un)luck(y) pat down. A student was found to have weed, decided she wasn't going down alone so she narc-ed out a fellow student as supplying the herb (maybe they were talking Chia pets).
Long story short, the implicated girl was searched and found to be free of the funny stuff. The story doesn't end there though, fearing the vice principal had drug tests lying somewhere in the back parts of a desk drawer, the girl admitted that while not guilty of possessing, there was the matter of indulging in the partaking.
Now I wanted to know if the SRO was involved in this incident, I was told by one source they weren't. My question is "Why not?". Yeah, yeah I know they want to work on relationship building, all warm and fuzzy-like. Still I think they should have been there and involved in the questioning,
That badge and blue uniform brings home the seriousness of the infraction. Now I surely didn't anyone to get some new jewelry for Christmas but how about a little scared straight in the stocking, We have to be careful that wannabe teddy bears aren't perceived as toothless tigers.
Long story short, the implicated girl was searched and found to be free of the funny stuff. The story doesn't end there though, fearing the vice principal had drug tests lying somewhere in the back parts of a desk drawer, the girl admitted that while not guilty of possessing, there was the matter of indulging in the partaking.
Now I wanted to know if the SRO was involved in this incident, I was told by one source they weren't. My question is "Why not?". Yeah, yeah I know they want to work on relationship building, all warm and fuzzy-like. Still I think they should have been there and involved in the questioning,
That badge and blue uniform brings home the seriousness of the infraction. Now I surely didn't anyone to get some new jewelry for Christmas but how about a little scared straight in the stocking, We have to be careful that wannabe teddy bears aren't perceived as toothless tigers.
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
MARSHALL'S MAIN MAN
I was under the impression that PRINCIPALS weren't supposed to be on FACEBOOK. Does DR. LATHAM or COUNCIL PRESIDENT PHELAN know?
Me, I think it is a good thing, anything to improve communication......
I JUST WISH.....
a little more effort had been put into trying to get in touch with me about my daughter's academic and attendance problems. Now that I know, I warned her that I will call on the GODS OF POETRY to hold all those accountable.
PERHAPS....
if DR. COWDELL had spent a little less time on SANTA'S lap begging for buildings, he could have paid a little more attention to his students he might have been able to keep his PERSONAL promise to me on keeping me informed about my daughter's progress.
Don't worry RICH, I mean "Who am I?" and after all you won;t be alone in feeling the ping of poetry.
Monday, December 24, 2012
BULLDOG WINS"BEST OF SHOW"
FREE RIDE SEND MESSAGE AT MARSHALL
Well maybe it wasn't exactly free, I mean I know about it. After all my poetic proclamations can cause considerable consequences. Who decided that the police would not be involved in FRIDAY'S drug dilemma I got a thank you back from the ITEM for tipping them off but have you seen anything in the paper yet?
Remember back a little bit at ENGLISH there was an arrest for an ISOLATED (perhaps they meant SELECTIVE) incident. If I remember correctly No MARIJUANA was actually found at ENGLISH but the teacher won a paid vacation, some costume jewelry, and a free ride in the backseat. He also won a free future court date which has come and gone yet we haven't heard about any disposition.
Now let's consider MARSHALL where DRUGS were found and the police were not even involved. I mean, MARSHALL has a history of drugs being found on campus. Remember when all the schools were swept with DOGS from some DRUG TASK FORCE and ONLY MARSHALL had someone caught?
I've found out something interesting though, the person who is the LPD LIASION to LPS has a family member who teaches at MARSHALL. Now I'm from WV so I know about family. Some of those stories about cousins are true, my grandmother used to tell me stories about DOUBLE FIRST COUSINS. Do I need to explain?
I know a kid was involved at MARSHALL on Friday and I don't think an arrest should have been made but I do think the police should have been involved. Just their sheer prescence would have served as a deterrant. I've talked with a LSC member who didn't think it was a big deal, "I remember back in the day....."
Well we got to where were at because of where we were. The question is where you want to go?
Remember back a little bit at ENGLISH there was an arrest for an ISOLATED (perhaps they meant SELECTIVE) incident. If I remember correctly No MARIJUANA was actually found at ENGLISH but the teacher won a paid vacation, some costume jewelry, and a free ride in the backseat. He also won a free future court date which has come and gone yet we haven't heard about any disposition.
Now let's consider MARSHALL where DRUGS were found and the police were not even involved. I mean, MARSHALL has a history of drugs being found on campus. Remember when all the schools were swept with DOGS from some DRUG TASK FORCE and ONLY MARSHALL had someone caught?
I've found out something interesting though, the person who is the LPD LIASION to LPS has a family member who teaches at MARSHALL. Now I'm from WV so I know about family. Some of those stories about cousins are true, my grandmother used to tell me stories about DOUBLE FIRST COUSINS. Do I need to explain?
I know a kid was involved at MARSHALL on Friday and I don't think an arrest should have been made but I do think the police should have been involved. Just their sheer prescence would have served as a deterrant. I've talked with a LSC member who didn't think it was a big deal, "I remember back in the day....."
Well we got to where were at because of where we were. The question is where you want to go?
Sunday, December 23, 2012
BLOCKING FOUL
I have a VERY IMPORTANT letter to write to Dr. LATHAM and Dr. RICHARD COWDELL about my complaints and concerns about the lack of communication about my child's academic progress. This FAILURE in communication continued after meeting personally with DR. COWDELL and receiving assurances that I would be kept in the loop.
Now I can't send e mails to them because I AM BLOCKED but I didn't think that BLOCK worked both ways. I mean I'm not that hard to get in touch with. I tend to hang around a few places.
I guess with them, it's personal. Oh well, I've said it before - "Don't piss off a poet".
This is an automatically generated Delivery Status Notification. Delivery to the following recipients failed. lathamc@lynnschools.org
Now I can't send e mails to them because I AM BLOCKED but I didn't think that BLOCK worked both ways. I mean I'm not that hard to get in touch with. I tend to hang around a few places.
I guess with them, it's personal. Oh well, I've said it before - "Don't piss off a poet".
Saturday, December 22, 2012
CHRISTMAS CHEER, COUNCIL STYLE
Five lucky FORD SCHOOL students were chosen to hang in city hall. The students were chosen with other students from across the city who entered in the FIRST ANNUAL LYNN CITY COUNCIL HOLIDAY CARD DRAWING contest. Winners were given a certificate and a letter signed by COUNCIL PRESIDENT TIM PHELAN.
MILESTONE MET
After many years of service, (I think 29) ELISE MAHONEY retired yesterday at FORD SCHOOL. Countless kids over the years have been blessed with and benefited from her teaching (my daughter was one of them). While we are happy that she has came this far, we'll be sad to see her go.
CONSPIRACIES, COVER-UPS, AND YOUR TAX DOLLARS
Could someone please tell me why the ITEM was not all over the DRUG story yesterday? I am pretty sure they knew about it.....
BECAUSE.....
I sent them the story. I sent it to (jmcmenemy@itemlive.com.
Funny things are happening:
1). LPS hires a PR firm supposedly.
2). From some of what I hear this PR person used to work at the ITEM/
3). The ITEM would not take comments on ITEM.live about the teacher drug story at ENGLISH.
4). No follow-up story was done on thast teacher's scheduled court date of Dec. 12
5). NO COVERAGE was afforded yesterday's incident at MARSHALL..
BECAUSE.....
I sent them the story. I sent it to (jmcmenemy@itemlive.com.
Funny things are happening:
1). LPS hires a PR firm supposedly.
2). From some of what I hear this PR person used to work at the ITEM/
3). The ITEM would not take comments on ITEM.live about the teacher drug story at ENGLISH.
4). No follow-up story was done on thast teacher's scheduled court date of Dec. 12
5). NO COVERAGE was afforded yesterday's incident at MARSHALL..
ANOTHER ISOLATED INCIDENT
Yesterday's DRUG DILEMMA was just one more sad chapter in the deterioration of our schools.
Friday, December 21, 2012
MARSHALL ON THE MAKE
Is it any wonder why I am surprised to find out that MARSHALL was less than forthcoming with me? I look at their webpage:
Lynn School Department - Marshall Middle School
I navigate to their parents/PTO page"
http://www.lynnschools.org/ourschools_marshall.shtml#gpm1_6
Lo and behold there is NUTTIN, ZIP, NADA
Marshall Parent and PTO Page
More info to follow.
I am guilty. I was so FULL of myself that I thought that being who I was that the personal assurances of the PRINCIPAL - DR. RICHARD COWDELL would be enough to assure me in the loop.
After finally getting a report card from a DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN ANF FAMILIES worker who I've been meeting with monthly, I find what had been "A's" last year had turned to "D's" and 17 tardies for the year.
I didn't realize DCF was so literal.
WATCH SEES WHAT HAPPENS
I urge all parents to write, text, and call all of the LSC to demand to know about illicit drugs found today at MARSHALL. With all of the media coverage afforded the ENGLISH arrest for DRUGS, I would hope the ITEM will be all over this story. Honestly though, we here at the WATCH aren't holding our breath.
It seems if you really want to SEE, you gotta WATCH. Going by past practices, the ITEM don't want NO comments about no drugs at school.
It seems if you really want to SEE, you gotta WATCH. Going by past practices, the ITEM don't want NO comments about no drugs at school.
MARSHALL MALADIES
Drugs were found late this morning on at least one MARSHALL student late this morning. Things seem to be out of control at that school. I know from personal experience that despite the fact I asked the principal to be kept abreast of my daughter's academic progress I was kept uninformed and was surprised in a bad way today.
The residents of LYNN are going to be asked to go deeply in debt to finance the CHAOS.
The residents of LYNN are going to be asked to go deeply in debt to finance the CHAOS.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
BULLDOGS BRING OUT BEST
LYNN ENGLISH BOOK CLUB provided a creative experience of a lifetime today for the FORD SCHOOL KINDERGARTEN classes with a charming POLAR EXPRESS MEMORY. While the kindergarten class and teachers were dressed in pajamas while the BULLDOGS were in character, The POLAR PASSENGERS were treated to treats during a reading of the book and video.
What a lovely place a library can be. The LYNN ENGLISH STUDENTS should feel good about touching these young minds. We should fell proud of our DAWGS and happy for our kids. I was talking with a teacher about how great it would be if we could expand this program to other stories but she said the cost of the transportation was cost prohibitive, about $250.
Trying to look smart, I asked, "What about putting it on a DVD or some other digital device?" Real quick-like she said "Yeah, we could SKYPE". I hate always being in the room with smarter people.
What a lovely place a library can be. The LYNN ENGLISH STUDENTS should feel good about touching these young minds. We should fell proud of our DAWGS and happy for our kids. I was talking with a teacher about how great it would be if we could expand this program to other stories but she said the cost of the transportation was cost prohibitive, about $250.
Trying to look smart, I asked, "What about putting it on a DVD or some other digital device?" Real quick-like she said "Yeah, we could SKYPE". I hate always being in the room with smarter people.
GOALS, REMEMBER THEM
This how they do it back in the backwoods where I am from.HARRISON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION COMPLETES MOST OF THE GOALS SET FOR FIRST SIX MONTHS!
By Mike Queen
Below is an update on the Goals & Objectives approved by the Harrison County Board of Education and to be completed by December 31, 2012. These goals were determined after the BOE conducted three work sessions with the Superintendent and her staff earlier this year.
As you can see, only a couple of the goals were not completed....yet! The goals that were not completed will be reconsidered and discussed in January 2013.
I wanted to share this update with you to reassure school employees, parents and community leaders that the Harrison County Board of Education is sincere in wanting to address the needs of our public school system.
I want to thank the board members, the Superintendent and her staff and all those who took part in setting and reaching these goals for investing several hundred hours of combined time and attention to the issues listed below.
The school board will set another work session in January to establish goals for our Board of Education to meet prior to June 30, 2013.
Thanks again,
Mike Queen
School Board President
******************************************************
Harrison County Board of Education:
Goals to be Completed by December 31, 2012
{In Addition to the Goals & Objectives Listed in the County's 5-Year Plan}
PERSONNEL
Receive, consider and approve Superintendent's proposal to reduce the number of employees over the school aid formula by at least 30 professional and service positions. {Extended to January 7th}
Review need for extracurricular positions and eliminate those no longer needed. {Extended to be included in Budgeting Process for 2013-14}
Develop a mandatory in-service training program for all coaches to focus on issues such as bullying, social media, reporting injuries, etc. {NOT ACCOMPLISHED YET}
Approve a Social Media Policy for Harrison County Teachers, Coaches & School Employees. {Extended to January 7th}
Review Workers Compensation Insurance Costs & Strategies to Reduce Annual Premium. {Completed}
Review & Implement New Assignments for School Nurses That Establish "Home Schools" for Nurses to Reduce Travel Time and Increase Time with Students. {Completed}
FACILITIES
Submit Lumberport Middle School as the Harrison County NEEDS Project to the WV School Building Authority by November 1st. {Completed}
Consider Superintendent's recommendations for an SBA-MIP Project and, if approved, submit application by Otober 1st. {Completed - Opted to Not to Participate}
Complete stadium improvement projects at Liberty High School, Lincoln High School, South Harrison High School and Bridgeport High School. {Completed}
Host special meeting to tour major improvement projects throughout the county.{Completed}
Continue to Monitor & Review Air Quality Standards at Lumberport Middle, Wilsonburg Elementary and Johnson Elementary {Completed and On-Going}
PUBLIC RELATIONS & SCHOOL/MEETING MANAGEMENT
Develop a "Frequently Asked Questions" link to the school board's website. {NOT COMPLETED}
Update Technology to be able to Post Meeting Videos to Website {Completed}
Increase the number of Volunteers that are active in our schools. {Complete & On-Going}
Reinstitute "Partners in Education" program in all schools. {NOT COMPLETED}
Appoint qualified individuals to serve on the board's Standing and Special Committees. {Board Voted to Not Establish Committees}
Encourage LSIC member participation in annual School Board Effectiveness Meeting on October 2nd and encourage principals to appoint qualified individuals to fill all seats on his/her school's Local School Improvement Council. {Completed}
Host annual meeting with Harrison County legislators. {Meeting set for January}
Approve Civility Policy for School Employees. {Approved Pending Legal Opinion}
Approve Meeting Policy to Reflect More Organized Meeting Management. {Completed}
Continue to upgrade the school board's website with forms, policies, etc. to improve communication with parents, school employees and students. {On-Going}
Continue to improve Channel 18 programming. {Completed and On-Going}
Review Superintendent's projected budgets for 2013-14, 14-15 and 15-16. {On-Going}
Review & Consider 2011-12 BOE Self Assessment and the 2011-12 Parents' Survey {Moved to January}
Consider & Review RFP's for Legal Counsel for Board Meetings {Completed}
STUDENTS & ACADEMICS
Develop a comprehensive "Bullying Prevention Week" program (October 22-26) to coincide with the RESA Bullying Conference in Morgantown. {Completed}
Encourage high schools to maximize student participation in the "Ebert SAT/ACT Math Initiative". {Completed}
Consider strategy from Superintendent to improve WESTEST scores overall and to assist schools of choice. {On-Going}
Review Student Transfer Policy and changes proposed by Superintendent to control costs associated with overages paid to teachers. {Completed and On-Going}
Post a "Healthy Treats & Snacks" suggestion link to school board's website. {Completed}
Receive Update from Superintendent on mandatory on-line grading and block scheduling implemented last year. {Completed}
Work with local health care providers to implement the state's new vaccination policy for 7th and 12th grade students. {Completed}
Approve Harrison County's 5-Year Plan {Updated & Completed}
Review National Honor Society Standards {Completed}
By Mike Queen
Below is an update on the Goals & Objectives approved by the Harrison County Board of Education and to be completed by December 31, 2012. These goals were determined after the BOE conducted three work sessions with the Superintendent and her staff earlier this year.
As you can see, only a couple of the goals were not completed....yet! The goals that were not completed will be reconsidered and discussed in January 2013.
I wanted to share this update with you to reassure school employees, parents and community leaders that the Harrison County Board of Education is sincere in wanting to address the needs of our public school system.
I want to thank the board members, the Superintendent and her staff and all those who took part in setting and reaching these goals for investing several hundred hours of combined time and attention to the issues listed below.
The school board will set another work session in January to establish goals for our Board of Education to meet prior to June 30, 2013.
Thanks again,
Mike Queen
School Board President
******************************************************
Harrison County Board of Education:
Goals to be Completed by December 31, 2012
{In Addition to the Goals & Objectives Listed in the County's 5-Year Plan}
PERSONNEL
Receive, consider and approve Superintendent's proposal to reduce the number of employees over the school aid formula by at least 30 professional and service positions. {Extended to January 7th}
Review need for extracurricular positions and eliminate those no longer needed. {Extended to be included in Budgeting Process for 2013-14}
Develop a mandatory in-service training program for all coaches to focus on issues such as bullying, social media, reporting injuries, etc. {NOT ACCOMPLISHED YET}
Approve a Social Media Policy for Harrison County Teachers, Coaches & School Employees. {Extended to January 7th}
Review Workers Compensation Insurance Costs & Strategies to Reduce Annual Premium. {Completed}
Review & Implement New Assignments for School Nurses That Establish "Home Schools" for Nurses to Reduce Travel Time and Increase Time with Students. {Completed}
FACILITIES
Submit Lumberport Middle School as the Harrison County NEEDS Project to the WV School Building Authority by November 1st. {Completed}
Consider Superintendent's recommendations for an SBA-MIP Project and, if approved, submit application by Otober 1st. {Completed - Opted to Not to Participate}
Complete stadium improvement projects at Liberty High School, Lincoln High School, South Harrison High School and Bridgeport High School. {Completed}
Host special meeting to tour major improvement projects throughout the county.{Completed}
Continue to Monitor & Review Air Quality Standards at Lumberport Middle, Wilsonburg Elementary and Johnson Elementary {Completed and On-Going}
PUBLIC RELATIONS & SCHOOL/MEETING MANAGEMENT
Develop a "Frequently Asked Questions" link to the school board's website. {NOT COMPLETED}
Update Technology to be able to Post Meeting Videos to Website {Completed}
Increase the number of Volunteers that are active in our schools. {Complete & On-Going}
Reinstitute "Partners in Education" program in all schools. {NOT COMPLETED}
Appoint qualified individuals to serve on the board's Standing and Special Committees. {Board Voted to Not Establish Committees}
Encourage LSIC member participation in annual School Board Effectiveness Meeting on October 2nd and encourage principals to appoint qualified individuals to fill all seats on his/her school's Local School Improvement Council. {Completed}
Host annual meeting with Harrison County legislators. {Meeting set for January}
Approve Civility Policy for School Employees. {Approved Pending Legal Opinion}
Approve Meeting Policy to Reflect More Organized Meeting Management. {Completed}
Continue to upgrade the school board's website with forms, policies, etc. to improve communication with parents, school employees and students. {On-Going}
Continue to improve Channel 18 programming. {Completed and On-Going}
Review Superintendent's projected budgets for 2013-14, 14-15 and 15-16. {On-Going}
Review & Consider 2011-12 BOE Self Assessment and the 2011-12 Parents' Survey {Moved to January}
Consider & Review RFP's for Legal Counsel for Board Meetings {Completed}
STUDENTS & ACADEMICS
Develop a comprehensive "Bullying Prevention Week" program (October 22-26) to coincide with the RESA Bullying Conference in Morgantown. {Completed}
Encourage high schools to maximize student participation in the "Ebert SAT/ACT Math Initiative". {Completed}
Consider strategy from Superintendent to improve WESTEST scores overall and to assist schools of choice. {On-Going}
Review Student Transfer Policy and changes proposed by Superintendent to control costs associated with overages paid to teachers. {Completed and On-Going}
Post a "Healthy Treats & Snacks" suggestion link to school board's website. {Completed}
Receive Update from Superintendent on mandatory on-line grading and block scheduling implemented last year. {Completed}
Work with local health care providers to implement the state's new vaccination policy for 7th and 12th grade students. {Completed}
Approve Harrison County's 5-Year Plan {Updated & Completed}
Review National Honor Society Standards {Completed}
Think we could learN something from HILLBILLIES.
CHECK YOUR PULSES, PLEASE
I heard back from from an editor about my autobiography/ Is anyone scared yet?
Stanley,
Good afternoon. I am trying to find out if I have the right person with matching material. If you receive this, please advise. Thank you.
Stanley,
Good afternoon. I am trying to find out if I have the right person with matching material. If you receive this, please advise. Thank you.
--
STACY BAKER
DIRECTOR OF BOOK ACQUISITIONS
Office Hours: 9 am - 5 pm (CST) M-F
888.361.9473 x 11 Toll Free
405.376.4900 Direct
405.376.4401 Fax
Tate Publishing & Enterprises
127 East Trade Center Terrace
Mustang, OK 73064
HAVE A MAYOR-Y CHRISTMAS EVERYONE
I was going to speak at last night's PUBLIC HEARING. That's what I do, but the MAYOR beat me to the PUNCH. How many times have I told you she is so much smarter than me?
There was some concern out there about BREED window's and LVTI'S roof not being on the wish list. Not to worry, YOUR HONOR came baring gifts and took them off the table and the offer was made for the WARD COUNCILORS to sit on ole JFK;S lap and tell them what they need (Warning - creative license in use)
Now I don't think this is a misuse of funds but let's call it what it is.
There was some concern out there about BREED window's and LVTI'S roof not being on the wish list. Not to worry, YOUR HONOR came baring gifts and took them off the table and the offer was made for the WARD COUNCILORS to sit on ole JFK;S lap and tell them what they need (Warning - creative license in use)
Now I don't think this is a misuse of funds but let's call it what it is.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
ON TOP OF THE RACE
Congratulations are due SHANNON GARDNER has been promoted from ACTING PROGRAM SPECIALIST for the RACE TO THE TOP grant to being the regular person in charge of the grant. Knowing the stringent oversight on federal monies I'm sure that she must have been chosen after an exhaustive search for qualified candidates.
PUBLIC HEARING TONIGHT!
LIVE! Lynn City Council Meeting - Dec. 18, 2012
This is going to be a very important meeting with major implications for our schools. There has been a great deal of haggling to get to this point. There was a lot of concern and fear that this bond will jeopardize passage of the school bond.
Now this BOND is now low enough that NO VOTE IS NEED BY THE PUBLIC,
In MY OPINION the only reason we have go even gotten this far is that one of the COUNCILORS will amend the proposed BOND amendment so that the addition will force the BOND to go before the voters which probably will kill the BOND without any of the COUNCILMEN taking the blame.
Today at 8:00pm
This is going to be a very important meeting with major implications for our schools. There has been a great deal of haggling to get to this point. There was a lot of concern and fear that this bond will jeopardize passage of the school bond.
Now this BOND is now low enough that NO VOTE IS NEED BY THE PUBLIC,
In MY OPINION the only reason we have go even gotten this far is that one of the COUNCILORS will amend the proposed BOND amendment so that the addition will force the BOND to go before the voters which probably will kill the BOND without any of the COUNCILMEN taking the blame.
Monday, December 17, 2012
TRIED AND CERTIFIED
Only 2 of the 7 teachers listed as new hires on last Thursday's LSC agenda were definitely not certified for their position. A couple of others didn't say one way or the other. That leaves 3 who were definitely CERTIFIED for their position.
LEVEL WITH ME, PLEASE
Cleo says:
I seem to remember talk about MARSHALL, LYNN TECH, and one other getting a reprieve from LEVEL 4 status thanks to some actuarial gymnastics with AYP and MCAS manipulations. I do have that brain injury thing going on and maybe I don't remember so well sometimes. Recently some of you have been so worried about my condition that you have begged me to get MENTAL HEALTH. Thank you for your concern.
I seem to remember talk about MARSHALL, LYNN TECH, and one other getting a reprieve from LEVEL 4 status thanks to some actuarial gymnastics with AYP and MCAS manipulations. I do have that brain injury thing going on and maybe I don't remember so well sometimes. Recently some of you have been so worried about my condition that you have begged me to get MENTAL HEALTH. Thank you for your concern.
LOOK MY COLLEGE IS GOING TO ACKNOWLEDGE'S 200,000 MARK!
Congratulations, and thank you for submitting this news, Stanley. I have drafted a small entry to appear in the upcoming edition of the Sundial, which you should be receiving this spring.
All the best to you, and we hope you enjoy a wonderful holiday!
Joanna
Joanna DiStefano
Coordinator of Alumni Records and Events
West Virginia Wesleyan College
59 College Ave.
Buckhannon, WV 26201
304-473-8509
SCHOOL SAFETY SUSPECT?
Key pads, bolted doors, even armed guards can't GUARANTEE our kids safety at school. If someone wants to do evil, they will find a way in. There is no way you can make enough improvements to the physical building.
What do we do? I guess we could just throw our hands and give up...Looking for answers at that angle is to REACT TO THE PROBLEM and.....
I believe our efforts will be better spent in PREVENTION and that is through EDUCATION. Money needs to be spent on programs and direct services, not on administrators raises and car allowances..
Ignoring our children's needs will only lead to future tragedy.
What do we do? I guess we could just throw our hands and give up...Looking for answers at that angle is to REACT TO THE PROBLEM and.....
I believe our efforts will be better spent in PREVENTION and that is through EDUCATION. Money needs to be spent on programs and direct services, not on administrators raises and car allowances..
Ignoring our children's needs will only lead to future tragedy.
GIFTED PROGRAM - NOTHING TO WRAP
There is NO mandate for ANY program, not state, not federal. I don't believe we even have an ENRICHMENT PROGRAM (fun things to learn) up and running now..
KIM POWERS, DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM, addressed the Curriculum Sub-Committee, last Thursday night. Mind you, she wasn't on the agenda and there was no suspension of the rules, but that's just a matter of protocol. It is what she said that was the real violation.
There is NOTHING for this population while by comparison LSC member RICK STARBARD said last year that LPS spends 10% of the budget on 1% of the LPS budget for out of district placements for the SPED department. Where is the balance?
Ending after 27 years, PROJECT SUMMIT, was a ongoing ENRICHMENT PROGRAM for 5th graders.One of the knocks against it was SUBSTANTIALLY SEPARATE. Everyone has different talents and sometimes being anti-discriminatory is discriminating.
KIM POWERS, DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM, addressed the Curriculum Sub-Committee, last Thursday night. Mind you, she wasn't on the agenda and there was no suspension of the rules, but that's just a matter of protocol. It is what she said that was the real violation.
There is NOTHING for this population while by comparison LSC member RICK STARBARD said last year that LPS spends 10% of the budget on 1% of the LPS budget for out of district placements for the SPED department. Where is the balance?
Ending after 27 years, PROJECT SUMMIT, was a ongoing ENRICHMENT PROGRAM for 5th graders.One of the knocks against it was SUBSTANTIALLY SEPARATE. Everyone has different talents and sometimes being anti-discriminatory is discriminating.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
"LYNN PARENTS ORGANIZING FOR A BETTER EDUCATION" PARTICIPATING IN HOLIDAY PARTY/FUNDRAISER
You are warmly invited to attend Neighbor to Neighbor's Holiday Party & Fundraiser this coming Thursday. We have accomplished a great deal together in 2012, between giving parents a voice through Lynn Parents Organizing for a Better Education, winning Congressman John Tierney another term, and recruiting over 100 new members to lead the movement for economic and educational justice in Lynn. Your voices have amplified ours and we thank you! So please join us: What: N2N Holiday Party & Fundraiser When: Thursday, December 20, 6-8pm Where: La Ruta Restaurant (21 Neptune Blvd. Lynn) Why: To celebrate our collective accomplishments and raise funds to start 2013 strong A suggested donation of $25 is requested but not required.
KEEPING AN EYE ON THINGS
Students at FORD SCHOOL are going to get FREE GLASSES soon. This has been a long running tradition at FORD for years but ATTY MIHOS felt the need to formalize it before the LSC.
DR. ALAN CREGG through the VISION COALITION of which he is the executive director. Himself a victim of partial vision loss so he knows firsthand the value of good vision, therefore he provides free examinations and glasses are provided free by LENSCRAFTERS for some lucky students.
Because of all of the procedural wrangling, unfortunately the glasses probably won't be ready for CHRISTMAS but presents are welcome anytime.
DR. ALAN CREGG through the VISION COALITION of which he is the executive director. Himself a victim of partial vision loss so he knows firsthand the value of good vision, therefore he provides free examinations and glasses are provided free by LENSCRAFTERS for some lucky students.
Because of all of the procedural wrangling, unfortunately the glasses probably won't be ready for CHRISTMAS but presents are welcome anytime.
LOOKING FOR FREE MONEY
Hopefully LPS has just HIRED a new money magnet. ELYSE FANNON is now the NEW GRANTS MANAGER. Hopefully she will be very busy in the future.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
HEARING AT THE HEARING
Now there will be a Public Hearing on the Municipal Bond Proposal on Dec. 18th. I plan to attend. Fiscally the time is ripe for this which is why we have to be absolutely sure we are going to spend this relstively cheap money judicously. Remember CHEAP AIN'T FREE!
We desperately need new schools but I don't want us to sink our money in a proverbial swamp.CLASSICAL is a classic example.
We desperately need new schools but I don't want us to sink our money in a proverbial swamp.CLASSICAL is a classic example.
HELP, HELP! SOMEONE PLEASE CHECK ON DELORES, I THINK SHE IS POLITICALLY SUICIDAL
I've tried to be nice. It was kind of like when you hold your nose and drink down medicine because you know it's good for you. Well that was kind of like how I felt about DELORES. I never really felt I could trust her and lo and behold her TRUE COLORS have come out.
WE NEED DELORES TO DELIVER
Here I am trying to put a positive spin on her campaign's failure last time, you know trying to make it understandable, not assassinating her character or lack thereof when she blindsides me with venomous accusations of truths and untruths.
Perhaps I need to partake of a healthy dose of paranoia so I can better understand the lessons from this most learned one. All of these people are so much smarter than me.
WE NEED DELORES TO DELIVER
Here I am trying to put a positive spin on her campaign's failure last time, you know trying to make it understandable, not assassinating her character or lack thereof when she blindsides me with venomous accusations of truths and untruths.
Perhaps I need to partake of a healthy dose of paranoia so I can better understand the lessons from this most learned one. All of these people are so much smarter than me.
TUGGING AT RAM'S TALES
Classical seniors shine in storytelling contest
This is great on so many levels. Students get a positive chance to develop and express their creativity, build self confidence in public speaking and learn that despite all of the advances of technology and social media, there can be no substitute for the power of face to face contact.
This is great on so many levels. Students get a positive chance to develop and express their creativity, build self confidence in public speaking and learn that despite all of the advances of technology and social media, there can be no substitute for the power of face to face contact.
NOW HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT HOW THE SPED MONEY IS SPENT?
Conn. school massacre stuns nation
There have been multiple reports out there that the perpetrator was on the autistic spectrum.. Even so, many will point to the fact that many on the spectrum never have such a break from reality. In fact, most on the spectrum even have a unique talent if cultivated will come to a positive fruition.
The trouble is that we have a tsunami of autistic kids entering our school system. I have seen numbers as high as 1 in 80 males being born with spectrum disorder. What are we going to do? Education is the answer. We need to educate ourselves, teach our young.
That isn't done with blanket pay increases to administrators, more confidential secretaries and $350 a month car allowances. I'm not out to raise any false alarms or start any stampedes. Well maybe I do want to start a stampede, we all need to run in our search to find an answer to find an answer to best deal with, to manage this population, because you know what......
THIS IS US.
Look at the numbers, we are all related somehow, someway to someone.
There have been multiple reports out there that the perpetrator was on the autistic spectrum.. Even so, many will point to the fact that many on the spectrum never have such a break from reality. In fact, most on the spectrum even have a unique talent if cultivated will come to a positive fruition.
The trouble is that we have a tsunami of autistic kids entering our school system. I have seen numbers as high as 1 in 80 males being born with spectrum disorder. What are we going to do? Education is the answer. We need to educate ourselves, teach our young.
That isn't done with blanket pay increases to administrators, more confidential secretaries and $350 a month car allowances. I'm not out to raise any false alarms or start any stampedes. Well maybe I do want to start a stampede, we all need to run in our search to find an answer to find an answer to best deal with, to manage this population, because you know what......
THIS IS US.
Look at the numbers, we are all related somehow, someway to someone.
LSC TO OBSERVE MAYAN CALENDER
Since the world is supposed to end on I think DEC. 21 according to that ancient document, the LSC still felt it necessary to formally cancel the DEC. 27th regularly scheduled meeting just as a matter of good form.
I mean we are not technically scheduled to go off the FISCAL CLIFF until JAN.1 so what's left to live for anyway?
I mean we are not technically scheduled to go off the FISCAL CLIFF until JAN.1 so what's left to live for anyway?
STARBARD'S SAFETY CONCERNS SWEPT UNDER RUG
Area schools stress safety protocols
A few LSC meetings ago, LSC member RICK STARBARD stressed the need to tighten school security pointing out a specific lax in the security system at COBBETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. This failure plays out, I would guess in some degree or another at ALL our schools.
The example he gave was when he recently went there, buzzed in, and the door was opened and he was told come up to the second floor to the office. Once inside, he gave the example of what if "I don't want to". A "buzzed in" visitor could wreak havoc.
These concerns were never addressed but the visitor's policy was rolled out Policies and Guidelines webpage. Nice.
BUT.....
his concerns were IGNORED. Nothing was done, nothing was going to be done. TYPICAL.
WHAT'S THE ANSWER?.....
I DON'T KNOW.....
BUT.....
some discussion should have been had. Some ideas should have been tossed around. I guess it takes a tradegy.
A few LSC meetings ago, LSC member RICK STARBARD stressed the need to tighten school security pointing out a specific lax in the security system at COBBETT ELEMENTARY SCHOOL. This failure plays out, I would guess in some degree or another at ALL our schools.
The example he gave was when he recently went there, buzzed in, and the door was opened and he was told come up to the second floor to the office. Once inside, he gave the example of what if "I don't want to". A "buzzed in" visitor could wreak havoc.
These concerns were never addressed but the visitor's policy was rolled out Policies and Guidelines webpage. Nice.
BUT.....
his concerns were IGNORED. Nothing was done, nothing was going to be done. TYPICAL.
WHAT'S THE ANSWER?.....
I DON'T KNOW.....
BUT.....
some discussion should have been had. Some ideas should have been tossed around. I guess it takes a tradegy.
Friday, December 14, 2012
EDUCATION IS IMPORTANT IN ANY LANGUAGE
Motivational speaker to English students: Education is everything
BULLDOGS benefit from lessons from a Latino.
BULLDOGS benefit from lessons from a Latino.
SCARY RUNNING
Lynn schools to expand drug testing
This was not a NEW conversation. Actually it was the continuation of one started after someone's son was arrested working in a SPED class at FORD SCHOOL. Nothing really came from that but our rugs made a nice cover for the dirt.
Of course, we didn't have CANDIDATE CROWLEY pushing for RANDOM TESTING then. Actually back then I think he was COUNCILOR CROWLEY and probably was more concerned with the prohibitive cost.
This was not a NEW conversation. Actually it was the continuation of one started after someone's son was arrested working in a SPED class at FORD SCHOOL. Nothing really came from that but our rugs made a nice cover for the dirt.
Of course, we didn't have CANDIDATE CROWLEY pushing for RANDOM TESTING then. Actually back then I think he was COUNCILOR CROWLEY and probably was more concerned with the prohibitive cost.
I WAS NOT ALONE!
Joining me in the audience at last night's LSC meeting were Former State rep. CANDIDATE GARDY JEAN FRANCOIS and Robert Ficcophile an aide to LYNN CITY COUNCILMAN HONG NET.
Of course LIL' LORI sat beside me speaking out for the parents and children of LPS. Also I recognized a couple of friends from LPOBE.
It is great to see the interest of the people growing!
Of course LIL' LORI sat beside me speaking out for the parents and children of LPS. Also I recognized a couple of friends from LPOBE.
It is great to see the interest of the people growing!
LUCKY LATHAM, LUCKY IN LOVE
It was expressed at last night's LSC meeting that DR. LATHAM'S gots mad love for some parents, parents from LPOBE.
While these parents have concerns about translation, interpretation and interpretation of translation. DR. LATHAM showing her concern over these concerns has authorized the purchase of about $5000 of headsets used for real-time translation of ENGLISH to SPANISH.
I don't know all the technological specs but I felt assured that this pilot can be expanded.
THANK YOU, DR. LATHAM.
While these parents have concerns about translation, interpretation and interpretation of translation. DR. LATHAM showing her concern over these concerns has authorized the purchase of about $5000 of headsets used for real-time translation of ENGLISH to SPANISH.
I don't know all the technological specs but I felt assured that this pilot can be expanded.
THANK YOU, DR. LATHAM.
CALLING ALL CARS, WE HAVE AN APB OUT ON CANDIDATE CROWLEY
CANDIDATE CROWLEY was missing from last night's LSC meeting. His sincere concern over the dangers of drugs delivered to students. What is suspicious is the fact that DRUG TESTING was on the agenda. His input could have been vital to the discussion.
Also, he was missed at 12/12/12's LPOBE meeting. That would have been the PERFECT opportunity for him to put himself as a leader of parents.
Also, he was missed at 12/12/12's LPOBE meeting. That would have been the PERFECT opportunity for him to put himself as a leader of parents.
Guidelines for Visiting the Lynn Public Schools
On behalf of the Lynn School Committee and our principals, directors, teachers and other staff, I extend a warm welcome to parents and others to visit our schools and classrooms. Active involvement of families and the community in our students’ education is a key to student success and one of my highest priorities. To keep our students and staff safe and secure, and to keep classroom disruptions to a minimum, we have developed guidelines for visiting all Lynn Public Schools. “Visitors” include all parents and school department employees, as well as others. Please visit our Policies and Guidelines webpage for all the details. Thank you, Superintendent Catherine Latham |
Thursday, December 13, 2012
BREAKING NEWS - DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT TO BE LAID-OFF
The new DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT and a few other positions were created from proceeds from they raided the potential increased CIRCUIT BREAKER reimbursement from somewhere around forty-some percent to somewhere over seventy percent going to upwards of 75%. There was excitement in the air, I believe DR. LATHAM was salivating with anticipation (I have a drooling problem myself - it's a brain injury thing). Christmas came early that OCTOBER night.
Assurances were given that the rainbow would never fade away so that we would always have access to this new found pot of gold. As I warned after that night there could always be a change in the political weather. Tonight we learned of a new meteorological hazard and we didn't have to go over a "fiscal cliff" to face this danger (and they are worried).
In a preemptive strike GOV. PATRICK informed LPS that the CIRCUIT BREAKER reimbursement schedule is going to be reduced from 73% to 70% possibly meaning a decrease of about $115,000. In order to offset this LOSS IN REVENUE, the the least senior DEPUTY has voluntarily resigned and decided to resume her former position as DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM. Starting tomorrow there will be a war of BIDDING and BUMPING.
OKAY......,
you caught me. There I go again making stuff up. I'm sorry, I can't help it I'm a poet, I'm disabled and I have no job, I mean I got nothing else to do. No one is being laid off, no salaries are being cut to absorb the loss. That means no COMMERCIAL STREET CONTINGENCY PLAN. Let the good times roll.
Assurances were given that the rainbow would never fade away so that we would always have access to this new found pot of gold. As I warned after that night there could always be a change in the political weather. Tonight we learned of a new meteorological hazard and we didn't have to go over a "fiscal cliff" to face this danger (and they are worried).
In a preemptive strike GOV. PATRICK informed LPS that the CIRCUIT BREAKER reimbursement schedule is going to be reduced from 73% to 70% possibly meaning a decrease of about $115,000. In order to offset this LOSS IN REVENUE, the the least senior DEPUTY has voluntarily resigned and decided to resume her former position as DIRECTOR OF CURRICULUM. Starting tomorrow there will be a war of BIDDING and BUMPING.
OKAY......,
you caught me. There I go again making stuff up. I'm sorry, I can't help it I'm a poet, I'm disabled and I have no job, I mean I got nothing else to do. No one is being laid off, no salaries are being cut to absorb the loss. That means no COMMERCIAL STREET CONTINGENCY PLAN. Let the good times roll.
WORKING TOGETHER
I really need to start checking some of these sites a little more regular like. Take for example if I would have followed through on checking this link from CLEO'S BLOG on the LSC AGENDA
http://www.lynnschools.org/documents/district/school_committee/2012_notices/SC%20-%2012-13-12%20with%20Policy%20and%20Curr.pdf
At the LPOBE meeting last night, translation and interpretation was all the talk. Not too worry, we were told, it's on the agenda for the policy sub tomorrow night (which is tonight while I'm writing) and it;ll be taken care of.
BUT......
I just checked and what do you know I didn't see it no where on the posted agenda. SO....that means it CAN'T be talked about. Maybe there is another link to another revised agenda.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Look what CLEO found in her stocking:
http://www.lynnschools.org/documents/district/school_committee/2012_notices/SC%20-%2012-13-12%20with%20Policy%20and%20Curr.pdf
At the LPOBE meeting last night, translation and interpretation was all the talk. Not too worry, we were told, it's on the agenda for the policy sub tomorrow night (which is tonight while I'm writing) and it;ll be taken care of.
BUT......
I just checked and what do you know I didn't see it no where on the posted agenda. SO....that means it CAN'T be talked about. Maybe there is another link to another revised agenda.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
Look what CLEO found in her stocking:
http://www.lynnschools.org/
www.lynnschools.org
A LITTLE THEATER
I seem to remember that in the beginning the MSBA already said that MARSHALL was too bad that RENOVATION was OFF the table. But remember I got that brain damage thing going on.
If I am right could we be seeing a little SWING SPACE SCARE to help with the BROOKLINE BOND's passability. Let's get real, the cost of the takings is only a SMALL portion of the total cost. The REAL cost will come from choosing the wrong location.
If I am right could we be seeing a little SWING SPACE SCARE to help with the BROOKLINE BOND's passability. Let's get real, the cost of the takings is only a SMALL portion of the total cost. The REAL cost will come from choosing the wrong location.
WHAT HAPPENED TO OUR STUDENT'S SECURITY?
Yesterday was supposed to be the teacher's day in court. The ITEM reported and as an anonymous commentor who commented that the ITEM only deals with FACTS unlike little'ol ME/
Teacher allegedly passed bag of marijuana to student
Please if anyone has any intel on public proceedings please share. Myself and CANDIDATE CROWLEY are concerned/
Teacher allegedly passed bag of marijuana to student
Please if anyone has any intel on public proceedings please share. Myself and CANDIDATE CROWLEY are concerned/
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
LPOBE LOOKING GOOD
Tonight's LPOBE meeting positive accomplishments of the group were reviewed and reassessed and strategies were developed for moving forward. LSC member CHARLIE GALLO stopped by to express his concern and respect for parent's issues. Former state rep. candidate GARDY JEAN FRANCOIS participated in the meeting tonight.
Teacher's Union president BRANDT DUNCAN was there tonight to listen to some of the ideas that .parent's have. One of which was to have parents volunteer to help out in overcrowded classes. This has been problematic but hopefully tonight was the beginning of everyone coming together.
JESSE JAEGER who has been instrumental in starting LPOBE reported of a recent meeting with SUPERINTENDENT DR. LATHAM where her willingness to work with this group was expressed. In fact, she encouraged the group take a proactive approach and bring parent's concerns to her.
Teacher's Union president BRANDT DUNCAN was there tonight to listen to some of the ideas that .parent's have. One of which was to have parents volunteer to help out in overcrowded classes. This has been problematic but hopefully tonight was the beginning of everyone coming together.
JESSE JAEGER who has been instrumental in starting LPOBE reported of a recent meeting with SUPERINTENDENT DR. LATHAM where her willingness to work with this group was expressed. In fact, she encouraged the group take a proactive approach and bring parent's concerns to her.
YOU GO GARDY
Talked to former state representative candidate GARDY JEAN FRANCOIS tonight and he told me he got to go to PUBLIC MEETING on MARSHALL held in the less than FAMILY-FRIENDLY confines at COMMERCIAL STREET.
He said that the room was filled with mostly administration and design/project manager people. We at the WATCH are grateful for his presence and perspective.
He said that the room was filled with mostly administration and design/project manager people. We at the WATCH are grateful for his presence and perspective.
SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER
HAVE YOU SEEN ANY SHEEP LATELY?
Lynn homeowners to pay $15 less tax on lower value
Small price to pay for the passage of the future BOND. I wonder what's going to be the ACTUAL NET EFFECT when we go to try and finance a new school. I would guess our rating will drop then when we take on NEW debt.
Don't get me wrong, we NEED new schools and we are going to have to PAY. The problem is that I got this allergy you see and I break out in words whenever I am around shells.
GAME ON.
Small price to pay for the passage of the future BOND. I wonder what's going to be the ACTUAL NET EFFECT when we go to try and finance a new school. I would guess our rating will drop then when we take on NEW debt.
Don't get me wrong, we NEED new schools and we are going to have to PAY. The problem is that I got this allergy you see and I break out in words whenever I am around shells.
GAME ON.
CHECK YOUR BAGS AT THE COMMITTEE DOORS
Right up front let me issue this disclaimer: I HAVE HAD A BRAIN INJURY AND SERIOUS DAMAGE WAS DONE. As often is the case with injuries to the brain, I have occasional problems with my MEMORY.
Now I thought I heard LSC member CHARLIE GALLO announce that a GRANT WRITER. was hired by the LSC. I seem to remember his push for the LSC to hire one was the fact that the CITY OF LYNN had one I wonder if .whoever it is has any dirty laundry in their luggage?
Now I thought I heard LSC member CHARLIE GALLO announce that a GRANT WRITER. was hired by the LSC. I seem to remember his push for the LSC to hire one was the fact that the CITY OF LYNN had one I wonder if .whoever it is has any dirty laundry in their luggage?
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
CANDIDATE CROWLEY COME CLEAN
I was thinking.....
SINCE tomorrow is the big LPOBE MEETING http://uneducacion.blogspot.com/2012/12/lpobe-meeting-121212.html.
It would be the perfect opportunity for CANDIDATE CROWLEY to read another prepared statement stressing the safety of our students.
SEEING that TROUBLING TEACHER will be in court tomorrow, the timing for his sincere outrage to be opportunely expressed at this most of opportune times.
SINCE tomorrow is the big LPOBE MEETING http://uneducacion.blogspot.com/2012/12/lpobe-meeting-121212.html.
It would be the perfect opportunity for CANDIDATE CROWLEY to read another prepared statement stressing the safety of our students.
SEEING that TROUBLING TEACHER will be in court tomorrow, the timing for his sincere outrage to be opportunely expressed at this most of opportune times.
BELLS WERE JINGLING
Tonight at PICKERING MIDDLE SCHOOL an audience was treated to festive auditory teat, Between carols from the chorus and music from the string quartet decked the halls;
LOOK FOR THE WHITE LIGHTS
I want to no why the crosswalk light in front of ST. PIUS on MAPLE STREET has been turned off. Sure crossing guards make sure that the students cross safely in the morning.
When I want to walk to my BOSTON STREET office, I have to put my life in danger when I cross the street whenever it's not just before the morning bell or when they got in the afternoon.
When I want to walk to my BOSTON STREET office, I have to put my life in danger when I cross the street whenever it's not just before the morning bell or when they got in the afternoon.
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