Some awards were given out to some most deserving students tonight and I'll give them credit another time in a SERIOUS post. Even though what I am about to say is not meant to be serious, it is a serious matter.
I WOULD LIKE TO COMPLAIN ABOUT ALL THOSE FOREIGN SOUNDING NAMES TAKING ALL (well almost, there was a majority of minorities) OF THOSE CERTIFICATES OF ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE.
I wonder if there parents came from this country or are like me, a lifetime LYNNER (okay I'm from WV but I am ridiculously SERIOUS)/.
I have this problem you see about how people can complain about the DRAIN that those people place on our PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM while in the same breath heap praise on certain members of those same communities.
LESSON - IF WE TREAT EVERYONE AS AN INDIVIDUAL, WE CAN ALL COME FROM THE SAME COMMUNITY.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
YOU MIGHT THINK, THERE'S NOT A CHINK
Right now many a betting man is wagering that our MOST HONORABLE MAYOR is a shoe-in for RE-ELECTION. Why not, crime is down, some long-neglected business activity is up, and our fiscal house seems to be in order even if it is only constructed like a HOUSE OF CARDS.
Yea, the MAYOR, she's clicking on all cylinders. I might even have to vote for her. I mean she also established the long overdue LYNN DISABILITY COMMISSION which I chaired for its first year before I resigned from so to at least give the appearance of objectivity to my writing. Remember, I said appearance.
The only thing that might rain on her victory parade is her leadership or lack thereof of LYNN PUBLIC SCHOOLS. And who is going to say anything about that? I mean a lot of our leaders have a vested interest in private or even out of district schools. Hey wait a minute, I write a BLOG and one or two people read it, I guess the responsibility falls on me.
IT IS MY DUTY.
Okay, here goes.
Way back when there was this meeting of the whole about the SUPERINTENDENT'S evaluation when our most frugal MAYOR went on record stating that she didn't approve of the way ole CATHE spent money - there had been an earlier meeting of the whole full of tales of $800 a day consultants who lived under the same roof and other monies questionably spent.
Later though when it came time to rehire a SUPERINTENDENT for LPS our MAYOR now lavished praise on the current superintendent, making BRADY-like comparisons and REFUSING to even consider that there may be someone better to lead our FAILING school district. In fact DR. LATHAM and her princiPALS were given what many consider to be exorbitant raises.
Then there is the skimping on ISD janitors overtime pay to adequatly regulate the heating resulting in burst pipes and subsequent water damage at BREED and SEWELL-ANDERSON. I know there is mo guarantee if we staffed all of the schools 24 hours a day that these tragedies could have been prevented. After all, the schools and their plumbing are all old and well this is NEW ENGLAND. Weather is a BLOOD SPORT here.
BUT.....
still we got to be extra BECAUSE we have old schools and cold weather. What's that old saying?
"AN ONCE OF PREVENTION IS WORTH A MILLION DOLLARS IN REPAIR."
SCHOOL SAFETY CONCERNS EXPOSED - PRONE TO AN INSIDE JOB
Parents want more info on Brickett security
Parents met with teacher, School Committee members to meet behind closed doors and they have and will reach the same conclusion. We are doing as much as we can or dare I say should. Everyone acknowledges LPD OFFICER FERRARRI has done a FANTASTIC job with stepped-up security measures put in place BEFORE the latest tragedy.Little more can be done short of sand bags and retinal scans. Besides the prohibitive costs financially, do we want to raise our kids in such a socially claustrophobic environment?
No, the real danger comes from within. Our students everyday breathe air full of lead particles and mold spored while potentially in contact with a variety of asbestos laced surfaces. I am sure they can trump out a host of studies and reports proclaiming the safety of the learning enviroment. One question though, "Where can I get some kid-sized suits like the ones worn by the guys telling us it's SAFE?".
WE NEED NEW SCHOOLS.
Parents met with teacher, School Committee members to meet behind closed doors and they have and will reach the same conclusion. We are doing as much as we can or dare I say should. Everyone acknowledges LPD OFFICER FERRARRI has done a FANTASTIC job with stepped-up security measures put in place BEFORE the latest tragedy.Little more can be done short of sand bags and retinal scans. Besides the prohibitive costs financially, do we want to raise our kids in such a socially claustrophobic environment?
No, the real danger comes from within. Our students everyday breathe air full of lead particles and mold spored while potentially in contact with a variety of asbestos laced surfaces. I am sure they can trump out a host of studies and reports proclaiming the safety of the learning enviroment. One question though, "Where can I get some kid-sized suits like the ones worn by the guys telling us it's SAFE?".
WE NEED NEW SCHOOLS.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
PICKERING'S CHANGE TO CHANGE
Pennies for Patients total was an astounding $3270.00!!! Remember we were shooting for $500 originally. Again, at the risk of sounded repetitive, I thank all the students and parents for their support during this fundraiser. I will forward any messages from P for P when we hear from them.
COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER TO MAKE MARSHALL'S MATH MCAS READY
Weekend tutoring at Lynn school a surprise smash
The fact that high school kids are joining the the teachers to tutor and mentor middle school students who want to make the most out their math. Not to mention thirst quenching water for the parched throats and a dry subject. Really maybe they should study poetry.
The fact that high school kids are joining the the teachers to tutor and mentor middle school students who want to make the most out their math. Not to mention thirst quenching water for the parched throats and a dry subject. Really maybe they should study poetry.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
PEST CONTROL: COMMUNICATION
It seems that both MARSHALL and PICKERING are on to something. It appears the BEST way to handle a pesky poet is to put out your OWN story.
This is being done in different ways using the same method that old controversial FACEBOOK. Now it cam be done by putting the CONNECT ED system on steroids but I ask, "What century are we in?'.
It's probably safe to say that this all has been done without the aid of that fancy PR guy that was hired. Maybe it was his idea but if you needed him to tell you, well I got this property out in NEVADA see that would solve all of your overcrowding problems and as luck would have it, I willing to let it go at a discount.
This is being done in different ways using the same method that old controversial FACEBOOK. Now it cam be done by putting the CONNECT ED system on steroids but I ask, "What century are we in?'.
It's probably safe to say that this all has been done without the aid of that fancy PR guy that was hired. Maybe it was his idea but if you needed him to tell you, well I got this property out in NEVADA see that would solve all of your overcrowding problems and as luck would have it, I willing to let it go at a discount.
RIME OF THE ANCIENT MAYOR
Water, water everywhere
and who's to blame you might not think.
Water, water everywhere
and JFK's ship of state may sink.
ISD is now firmly in charge
thanks to CLANCY
in her office from the beginning
they did barge.
But what has she done
to send them away?
Too busy with lawsuits
so here they stay.
So now comes the time
when the price we must pay
for the cost
of come what may,
and who's to blame you might not think.
Water, water everywhere
and JFK's ship of state may sink.
ISD is now firmly in charge
thanks to CLANCY
in her office from the beginning
they did barge.
But what has she done
to send them away?
Too busy with lawsuits
so here they stay.
So now comes the time
when the price we must pay
for the cost
of come what may,
BIRD HUNTING - IT'S ALBATROSS SEASON
BUT/////
the LPS does have a little blame here. How you might ask since INSPECTIONAL SERVICES control the maintenance which you would think LPS don't got no "SKIN IN THE GAME"..
UNLESS.....
you realize the fact that the MAYOR who has the ISD under her wing at CITY HALL also chairs the LYNN SCHOOL COMMITTEE. Ouch!
I know, I know the current MAYOR had nothing to do with taking the JANITORS away from LPS. That was the old mayor. Yeah, let's make him the villain
EXCEPT......
JFK has been MAYOR how long now? I also point to her CULTURE OF CHEAPNESS has contributed deeply to the problem. Fear of overtime has led to buildings being ignored,
Now I heard some talk about them not even having heat in the kitchen. Maybe that is untrue but just out of curiosity where was that leak? It doesn't matter, YOU CAN'T CONTROL MOTHER NATURE but you can MANAGE it...
UNLESS.....
you realize the fact that the MAYOR who has the ISD under her wing at CITY HALL also chairs the LYNN SCHOOL COMMITTEE. Ouch!
I know, I know the current MAYOR had nothing to do with taking the JANITORS away from LPS. That was the old mayor. Yeah, let's make him the villain
EXCEPT......
JFK has been MAYOR how long now? I also point to her CULTURE OF CHEAPNESS has contributed deeply to the problem. Fear of overtime has led to buildings being ignored,
Now I heard some talk about them not even having heat in the kitchen. Maybe that is untrue but just out of curiosity where was that leak? It doesn't matter, YOU CAN'T CONTROL MOTHER NATURE but you can MANAGE it...
Monday, January 28, 2013
THURSDAY NIGHT'S AGENDA OUT
Second Regular Meeting
Hmm, the agenda's out for the upcoming meeting. I didn't see no mention of no plumbing problems.
Water, water, everywhere and not a drop to drink,
Who's to blame? Not who you might think.
LPS is left with the cost.
MADAME MAYOR, this is your albatross.
Hmm, the agenda's out for the upcoming meeting. I didn't see no mention of no plumbing problems.
Water, water, everywhere and not a drop to drink,
Who's to blame? Not who you might think.
LPS is left with the cost.
MADAME MAYOR, this is your albatross.
CREDENTIALS CRISIS
Since LIL' LORI asked, it's been ten long days.
Whether or not they're trained no one says.
So an appeal she must file
For an answer, we must wait a while.
So at OPEN MIKE she will speak
That means guilty parties they will freak.
Some say there is no penalties for this crime.
To them I say, your term is a matter of time,
Whether or not they're trained no one says.
So an appeal she must file
For an answer, we must wait a while.
So at OPEN MIKE she will speak
That means guilty parties they will freak.
Some say there is no penalties for this crime.
To them I say, your term is a matter of time,
LIL' LORI'S LULLABY
MA General Laws, Chapter 71, Sec. 36-A
Spells out the way
Necessary for school committee members to stay.
To lawyers some did confide
Our lack of training we can hide
Then our constituents we take for a ride.
In the end our kids will lose
If ignorance our leaders do choose.
On requirements they're hoping we snooze.
Spells out the way
Necessary for school committee members to stay.
To lawyers some did confide
Our lack of training we can hide
Then our constituents we take for a ride.
In the end our kids will lose
If ignorance our leaders do choose.
On requirements they're hoping we snooze.
SHOW OR GO
By tomorrow LPS must show
if to mandatory training they did go.
What do they have to hide?
On credentials some LSC members want to slide.
LIL' LORI says come on, get real.
If you don't tell I will appeal.
By delaying they must hope for a reprieve
Before someone is asked to leave,
if to mandatory training they did go.
What do they have to hide?
On credentials some LSC members want to slide.
LIL' LORI says come on, get real.
If you don't tell I will appeal.
By delaying they must hope for a reprieve
Before someone is asked to leave,
MAYOR AUTHORIZES NEW HOLIDAY
MCAS be damned,
On scores we'll be slammed.
So our pipes they did freeze,
but re-election will be a breeze.
On janitors we did skimp
so on services we did limp.
SEWELL students get a day off,
the rest of you turn your head and cough.
On scores we'll be slammed.
So our pipes they did freeze,
but re-election will be a breeze.
On janitors we did skimp
so on services we did limp.
SEWELL students get a day off,
the rest of you turn your head and cough.
Sunday, January 27, 2013
PENNIES THAT PINCH
Have you heard the old adage about bending over to pick over a penny and losing a dime? I can't help but wonder if that is what is happening here.
Water damage to SEWELL-ANDERSON now and last week or so they had a similar problem at BREED I think. Supposedly some computers were lost. When you add that to the SEWELL disaster, we are talking some serious jack.
Thank goodness for INSURANCE....
BUT....
there's those pesky little deductibles. On top of that, PREMIUMS tend to go up when you keep filing claims.
It is my understanding that the janitory services have been drastically cut back in an effort to curb costs. So there is no one around to regulate temperatures. Do these people know where we live?
AND.....
we can't BLAME LPS for this FRIGID FIASCO. No direct your anger toward the MAYOR. I don't know if it was her idea to take the janitors under her wing or not but she knows they are there. Her frugality is not limited to her wardrobe (not everybody can be a fashion icon like me - work it girl), this culture of cheapness transcends bottom lines.
How appropriate is another old adage, the one about ROBBING PETER TO PAY PAUL?
PETER'S calling and he wants his money money back.
Water damage to SEWELL-ANDERSON now and last week or so they had a similar problem at BREED I think. Supposedly some computers were lost. When you add that to the SEWELL disaster, we are talking some serious jack.
Thank goodness for INSURANCE....
BUT....
there's those pesky little deductibles. On top of that, PREMIUMS tend to go up when you keep filing claims.
It is my understanding that the janitory services have been drastically cut back in an effort to curb costs. So there is no one around to regulate temperatures. Do these people know where we live?
AND.....
we can't BLAME LPS for this FRIGID FIASCO. No direct your anger toward the MAYOR. I don't know if it was her idea to take the janitors under her wing or not but she knows they are there. Her frugality is not limited to her wardrobe (not everybody can be a fashion icon like me - work it girl), this culture of cheapness transcends bottom lines.
How appropriate is another old adage, the one about ROBBING PETER TO PAY PAUL?
PETER'S calling and he wants his money money back.
KEEPING UP ON THE UPDATES
It is good LPS and ISD are working together to keep everyone informed about the DISASTER DETAILS,
BUT...
I got to wonder about a couple of things..You know I am a little uncomfortable about the schools outsourcing their maintenance.It;s times like these that you can't help but feel that awkward response. Different agencies have different priorities and well when I want ice cream I go to DAIRY QUEEN (excuse the WV in me coming out) and not to MCDONALDS.
Plus it makes it more difficult to track the money. How much does it actually cost? Where is the money come from? These are questions accountants love to answer by avoidung. "Here we go, here's the pea. Now watch closely while I move these shells. Where I stop, nobody knows".
Just a reminder that school is CLOSED tomorrow, Monday January 28. Principal Mallett is inviting parents to the school at 6pm tomorrow night to hear an update from The superintendent and the inspections services Michael Donovan. See you the
BUT...
I got to wonder about a couple of things..You know I am a little uncomfortable about the schools outsourcing their maintenance.It;s times like these that you can't help but feel that awkward response. Different agencies have different priorities and well when I want ice cream I go to DAIRY QUEEN (excuse the WV in me coming out) and not to MCDONALDS.
Plus it makes it more difficult to track the money. How much does it actually cost? Where is the money come from? These are questions accountants love to answer by avoidung. "Here we go, here's the pea. Now watch closely while I move these shells. Where I stop, nobody knows".
SAVE SEWELL, LET LPS ENTERTAIN YOU
DESCRIPTION OF THE SEWELL-ANDERSON DISASTER
"The damage on the second floor is all encompassing to include seven classrooms. The ceilings and walls are totally caved and collapsed, the damage to texts and materials is in the total loss category and various equipment is heavily damaged. “Smartboards” look to have been salvaged and covered. As previously reported, at present the school will not be open on Monday. There is a large work crew on site as we communicate and will continue its work through the night. Faculty members and aides will be at the school on Saturday morning beginning at ten to clean, remove and categorize by item, the exact loss of materials, supplies and textbooks"
How about a telethon to raise money help pay for some of the items lost in the SEWELL SPRINKLER DISASTER? It could be broadcast on LynnCAM and of course rebroadcast as part of their programming cycle. Kids from the LYNN PUBLIC SCHOOLS could have an opportunity to show their talent. More importantly, it would give the community a chance to give back and become involved, We are all vested in the education of all our kids.
"The damage on the second floor is all encompassing to include seven classrooms. The ceilings and walls are totally caved and collapsed, the damage to texts and materials is in the total loss category and various equipment is heavily damaged. “Smartboards” look to have been salvaged and covered. As previously reported, at present the school will not be open on Monday. There is a large work crew on site as we communicate and will continue its work through the night. Faculty members and aides will be at the school on Saturday morning beginning at ten to clean, remove and categorize by item, the exact loss of materials, supplies and textbooks"
How about a telethon to raise money help pay for some of the items lost in the SEWELL SPRINKLER DISASTER? It could be broadcast on LynnCAM and of course rebroadcast as part of their programming cycle. Kids from the LYNN PUBLIC SCHOOLS could have an opportunity to show their talent. More importantly, it would give the community a chance to give back and become involved, We are all vested in the education of all our kids.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
CREDENTIALS PLEASE
You know with all the talk about UNDOCUMENTED (aka-illegal) ALIENS and UNACCOMPANIED MINORS and the financial toll it's taking on LPS. Well back in WV we have this saying about KETTLES and BLACK.
LYNN SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEMBERS show us your papers. LIL' LORI says there is this law you see that says you gotta take this course you see.
LYNN SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEMBERS show us your papers. LIL' LORI says there is this law you see that says you gotta take this course you see.
UP IN SMOKE - JUST A LITTLE SATURDAY HOUSECLEANING
There have been no answers, you would think there would at least be some smoke signals even though there were signals someone may have been smoking.
You all know what I am talking about, I just don't know what eventually happened. Maybe I don't know what happened because nothing happened. Who knows? Certainly not me.
The first thing I don't know is what happened with the ENGLISH English teacher. Me and CANDIDATE CROWLEY want to know. Maybe we have different motives different conclusions....
BUT....
we both have INQUIRING minds.
AND....
then there is the the MARSHALL MARIJUANA thing. I believe there was NO ITEM coverage of this incident. I know things are kind of tricky when you are dealing with juveniles. Funny though they never had any of those ethical dilemmas last year when that drug-sniffing dog found stuff on that so-called surprise sweep.
I contacted the LYNN POLICE DEPARTMENT to ask if they were involved in this latest DEC. 21 incident. They promised to get back with me. Surprise, I'm still waiting.
It seems that they let the school handle it internally.....
UNLESS.....
somebody is WATCHing. Can't you see?
You all know what I am talking about, I just don't know what eventually happened. Maybe I don't know what happened because nothing happened. Who knows? Certainly not me.
The first thing I don't know is what happened with the ENGLISH English teacher. Me and CANDIDATE CROWLEY want to know. Maybe we have different motives different conclusions....
BUT....
we both have INQUIRING minds.
AND....
then there is the the MARSHALL MARIJUANA thing. I believe there was NO ITEM coverage of this incident. I know things are kind of tricky when you are dealing with juveniles. Funny though they never had any of those ethical dilemmas last year when that drug-sniffing dog found stuff on that so-called surprise sweep.
I contacted the LYNN POLICE DEPARTMENT to ask if they were involved in this latest DEC. 21 incident. They promised to get back with me. Surprise, I'm still waiting.
It seems that they let the school handle it internally.....
UNLESS.....
somebody is WATCHing. Can't you see?
A SOGGY SEWELL-A WILL GET IN THE WAY
You know, I've been thinking. I know, not an easy task for a poor, disabled poet like me. With MCAS tests coming up, this sprinkler disaster could cause more problems than a few wet books. The damage is not limited to our physical property alone soggy supplies and damp moldy carpets/
The real concern, the real danger is the THREAT all of this poses to our intellectual properties.I don't know the extent of the damage but think about this. If we don't get a handle on this quickly and come together, think about the potential effect on our MCAS scores. In this culture of high-stakes testing. what's at stake is pretty high.
How many hundreds of kids have had their education compromised This statistically significant event could be reflected on lower scores. Lower scores translate in either a loss of money or loss of control.
LET'S JUMP ON THIS!
The real concern, the real danger is the THREAT all of this poses to our intellectual properties.I don't know the extent of the damage but think about this. If we don't get a handle on this quickly and come together, think about the potential effect on our MCAS scores. In this culture of high-stakes testing. what's at stake is pretty high.
How many hundreds of kids have had their education compromised This statistically significant event could be reflected on lower scores. Lower scores translate in either a loss of money or loss of control.
LET'S JUMP ON THIS!
HANGING CURTAINS
I would like to thank LPS, LSC MEMBER RICK STARBARD and all the MAINTENANCE STAFF that made the plans for the FORD SCHOOL classroom dividers a reality. RICK helped draw up the plans and the STAFF put the temporary curtains a reality.
All agreed that the problem couldn't wait for a SUMMER SOLUTION.
All agreed that the problem couldn't wait for a SUMMER SOLUTION.
LIL' LORI TAKES TIME OUT FROM FIGHTS
Looks like we may have a real DISASTER on our hands!
LOOKS LIKE THIS DIVERSION MAY BE ENOUGH TO GIVE COVER CHARLIE AND HIS LSC FRIENDS TIME TO DEFLECT CREDENTIALS CRISIS.
Lori D'Amico It is the newer part of the building and it affected several classrooms and gym !! I heard it's pretty devastating!! Students lost all their supplies and resources and teachers lost years of their own supplies and resources. My guess is classrooms will now have to be shared, which I can't even imagine how that will be having 60 or so kids in a class!! And who knows how long the clean up and construction process will take!! Teachers of course do not have Monday off!! I heard from a parent that teachers even had to come in this weekend to clean their classrooms. I am going to contact their PTO (if the info is available) and our school committee because I am sure there is something the community can do to help, whether it's donate items or hold a fundraiser....something!!
LOOKS LIKE THIS DIVERSION MAY BE ENOUGH TO GIVE COVER CHARLIE AND HIS LSC FRIENDS TIME TO DEFLECT CREDENTIALS CRISIS.
ON YOUR MARK, GET SET A WHERE DID YOU SAY THAT RACE WAS GOING?
Doesn't matter where you start, sometimes you end up at the same place: BEHIND. That's what this former classmate (Okay, we never actually sat in front of the same blackboard-in the old days blackboards were black before they got smart-he is a few years younger but we both were NORTHVIEW TROJANS and LIBERTY MOUNTAINEERS) is trying to say.
Now in the story he is talking about the dangers of imposing mediocrity on us all in an effort to raise everyone. It never works. The real trick is to find out why something is working and try to pull everyone else up and NOT drag everyone down to a place where disparity doesn't exist because the cookies all came from the same cutter.
I've said it many times before - it's just physics, DIFFERENCES ARE WHERE OUR ENERGY FOR CHANGE COMES FROM.
And sometimes the best change comes from staying the same.
BREAKING NEWS- REALLY, I'M NOT KIDDING, THERE;S NEWS ABOUT BREAKING
Older schools..a pipe...or sprinkler burst in Sewell Anderson today...result no school Monday...the open house for Tuesday is cancelled. It is always something...
I hear 6 to 8 classrooms are damaged. I have a feeling this damage won;t be limited to ceiling tiles. It;s a shame because SEWELL-ANDERSON is one of our newer older schools.
Everybody knows the problems, we need answers. We need people willing to confront the problems and deliver some answers. Election time is just around the corner.
Kudos to Ms, Mallet who evidently got the robocalls going. Information is power and LPS already has technology in place to disseminate it quickly. I just would recommend they use it a little more when we are not in CRISIS mode. Wouldn't it be nice sometimes to get a call just to wish students a nice weekend?
Call me crazy but just call me.
Friday, January 25, 2013
PICKERING PASSES PEAKS
In their PENNIES FOR A CHANGE campaign the PICKERING community shows what it means to be a community!
From $500 to over $2600 - simply awesome! We don't have the final total amount yet but we are heading near/ over $3000. What Pickering students have done and shown in their gesture for this cause is remarkable. I thank all of them and their parents for supporting this cause. More news will follow once we hear from the folks at Pennies for Patients and I will announce the final totals next week as soon as I have them. Thank you!!
From $500 to over $2600 - simply awesome! We don't have the final total amount yet but we are heading near/ over $3000. What Pickering students have done and shown in their gesture for this cause is remarkable. I thank all of them and their parents for supporting this cause. More news will follow once we hear from the folks at Pennies for Patients and I will announce the final totals next week as soon as I have them. Thank you!!
SAUGUS HAS THE DOLLARS, WE GOT NO SENSE
Saugus School Committee approves FY14 $27M budget
Where are we in this process for LYNN? I've not heard even whispers.....
BUT....
nobody talks to me. I mean I can't be trusted......
OR....
can I?
Where are we in this process for LYNN? I've not heard even whispers.....
BUT....
nobody talks to me. I mean I can't be trusted......
OR....
can I?
ROUND TWO : STEP-UP COVER CHARLIE
At the ring of the opening bell for round two LIL' LORI lands an opening blow while COVER CHARLIE hasn't even got off his stool.
Now you would think the LEVEL 4 schools would have been the first ones there.
WHAT'S UP CHUCK?
Now you would think the LEVEL 4 schools would have been the first ones there.
WHAT'S UP CHUCK?
ALL SCHOOLS SHOULD: PICK YOUR POISON!
GROUP
vs,
PAGE
A page for students, staff, parents, alumni and friends of the Thurgood Marshall Middle School, Lynn MA. Allowing everyone to keep up with current news about TMMS!
vs,
PAGE
Thurgood Marshall Middle School - Lynn, MA
A page for students, staff, parents, alumni and friends of the Thurgood Marshall Middle School, Lynn MA. Allowing everyone to keep up with current news about TMMS!
Thursday, January 24, 2013
PENNIES AND PICKERING'S PROGRESS
It all started with a little campaign!
http://www.schoolandyouth.org/
Then....
.Pickering raised over $300 the first day of the fundraiser "Pennies for Patients"! Our goal was $500 - I'm raising the bar to $1000. Come on Pickering - we can do this! Hat Day Friday to raise money for the fundraiser. More info about the cause can be found
Still then.....
Pickering Parents - you all should be very proud of your children. Their generosity is infectious. Originally we set our Pennies for Patients goal at $500. We blew that out of the water and then I raised the bar to $1000. We blew that out of the water, so I raised it again to $1500. Our count this morning puts us at over $1600!!!!. Your children have shown their character and concern for others and that is a reflection on you!
BTW - I raised to challenge to $2000 :)
NOW....
Over $2300 and 1 day to go. Just awesome Pickering!
WOW!!!!
http://www.schoolandyouth.org/
Then....
.Pickering raised over $300 the first day of the fundraiser "Pennies for Patients"! Our goal was $500 - I'm raising the bar to $1000. Come on Pickering - we can do this! Hat Day Friday to raise money for the fundraiser. More info about the cause can be found
Still then.....
Pickering Parents - you all should be very proud of your children. Their generosity is infectious. Originally we set our Pennies for Patients goal at $500. We blew that out of the water and then I raised the bar to $1000. We blew that out of the water, so I raised it again to $1500. Our count this morning puts us at over $1600!!!!. Your children have shown their character and concern for others and that is a reflection on you!
BTW - I raised to challenge to $2000 :)
NOW....
Over $2300 and 1 day to go. Just awesome Pickering!
WOW!!!!
THRILLER IN THE MANILA (envelope - I needed something to rhyme)
CHARLIE, help me out, "What does this mean?"
Lil' LORI says
What does bother me is the fact that according to MGL Ch.71 Section 36A, "School committee members, within 1 year after their initial election or appointment, shall complete at least 8 hours of orientation concerning the responsibilities of their office at no cost to individual school committee members. The orientation shall include but not be limited to a review of school finance, the open meeting law, public records law, conflict of interest law, special education law, collective bargaining, school leadership standards and evaluations and the roles and responsibilities of school committee members. The orientation shall be provided by the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, Inc. or any other entity approved by the commissioner of education after consulting the association. The Association and any other entity providing such orientation shall offer every year at least 2 orientation sessions at no required cost to eligible school committees. A certificate shall be awarded to each participant upon completion of the orientation and notice thereof shall be filed with the clerk of the city or town where the school committee member resides" I was told by Mike Gilbert of the Massachusetts School Committee Association, that this law applies to those members who were elected after 2002. Therefore, I expect all our members who were elected after 2002 to have completed this orientaion and I have requested these public records expect a response by the 28th. If a member or members have not completed this required orientation, they should just admit it, complete it immediately, and move on! Although, I would be interested to know why they did not complete it.
Does this mean SOMEBODY has SKELETONS?
ROUND 1 goes to LIL' LORI on points!
WILL COVER CHARLIE ANSWER THE BELL FOR ROUND TWO?
Lil' LORI says
What does bother me is the fact that according to MGL Ch.71 Section 36A, "School committee members, within 1 year after their initial election or appointment, shall complete at least 8 hours of orientation concerning the responsibilities of their office at no cost to individual school committee members. The orientation shall include but not be limited to a review of school finance, the open meeting law, public records law, conflict of interest law, special education law, collective bargaining, school leadership standards and evaluations and the roles and responsibilities of school committee members. The orientation shall be provided by the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, Inc. or any other entity approved by the commissioner of education after consulting the association. The Association and any other entity providing such orientation shall offer every year at least 2 orientation sessions at no required cost to eligible school committees. A certificate shall be awarded to each participant upon completion of the orientation and notice thereof shall be filed with the clerk of the city or town where the school committee member resides" I was told by Mike Gilbert of the Massachusetts School Committee Association, that this law applies to those members who were elected after 2002. Therefore, I expect all our members who were elected after 2002 to have completed this orientaion and I have requested these public records expect a response by the 28th. If a member or members have not completed this required orientation, they should just admit it, complete it immediately, and move on! Although, I would be interested to know why they did not complete it.
Does this mean SOMEBODY has SKELETONS?
ROUND 1 goes to LIL' LORI on points!
WILL COVER CHARLIE ANSWER THE BELL FOR ROUND TWO?
THE MAIN EVENT: GALLO VS. LIL' LORI
First I posted about the sudden appearance of the SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANS links being on the LPS website. This is a federal mandate thing about the posting. They have to be available. No arguments
Lil' LORI has been harping on this quite publicly and privately for quite some time.. Yesterday they mysteriously started working on the website. So I write a post thanking both LORI and LPS for making this happen. I don't really care who gets the credit, I'm just glad that it's done. Let the evidence show:
"I hear that the links on the school's website's for their SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANS now work thanks to a little pressure on the administration provided by none other than our own LIL' LORI. Thank you Lori and even LPS for fixing the problem."
Well that was not good enough for LSC member CHARLIE GALLO"
Stan, the posting was my idea, in response to a thoughtful constituent suggestion from someone other than Lori, not pressuring by anyone. - Charlie Gallo
That response solicited this counterpunch:
Lori Smith D'Amico First of all, I suggest charlie re-read the post because you were not giving me credit for the SIP being posted online, you were giving me credit for calling LPS because the links were not working. Second of all, if I were charlie, i worry more about the fact that I did not follow the law by participating in the school committee member orientation, and less about getting recognition
This not the first time OL' CHARLIE has been clamoring for credit. Let's pause for a moment to look back at the LYNN YOUTH COUNCIL idea. Riding LYNN CITY COUNCILMAN BRENDAN CRIGHTON'S coattails he has tried to present the whole thing as his idea. Well played COVER CHARLIE.
Now everyone go to your corners.
Lil' LORI has been harping on this quite publicly and privately for quite some time.. Yesterday they mysteriously started working on the website. So I write a post thanking both LORI and LPS for making this happen. I don't really care who gets the credit, I'm just glad that it's done. Let the evidence show:
"I hear that the links on the school's website's for their SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANS now work thanks to a little pressure on the administration provided by none other than our own LIL' LORI. Thank you Lori and even LPS for fixing the problem."
Well that was not good enough for LSC member CHARLIE GALLO"
Stan, the posting was my idea, in response to a thoughtful constituent suggestion from someone other than Lori, not pressuring by anyone. - Charlie Gallo
That response solicited this counterpunch:
Lori Smith D'Amico First of all, I suggest charlie re-read the post because you were not giving me credit for the SIP being posted online, you were giving me credit for calling LPS because the links were not working. Second of all, if I were charlie, i worry more about the fact that I did not follow the law by participating in the school committee member orientation, and less about getting recognition
This not the first time OL' CHARLIE has been clamoring for credit. Let's pause for a moment to look back at the LYNN YOUTH COUNCIL idea. Riding LYNN CITY COUNCILMAN BRENDAN CRIGHTON'S coattails he has tried to present the whole thing as his idea. Well played COVER CHARLIE.
Now everyone go to your corners.
PICKERING PENNIES ADDING UP
from last night
Heading into the home stretch PICKERING MIDDLE SCHOOL blasts past previously set benchmarks.
$1800+ and 2 days to go!!!
They are MAKING THE GRADE!
Heading into the home stretch PICKERING MIDDLE SCHOOL blasts past previously set benchmarks.
$1800+ and 2 days to go!!!
They are MAKING THE GRADE!
MONEY OVER MARSHALL
Officials: Parents crucial in winning support for Marshall
It is GREAT to see that OFFICIALS recognize the importance of coming before the parents. It's about time they had this epiphany since PARENTS are also TAXPAYERS.
Let's start with something positive. Whoever is administering THURGOOD MARSHALL'S FACEBOOK page is doing a very important job. The more people know, the more they feel involved and with involvement means investment. People see how the school's success relates to them/
Now let's look to what is being done wrong.
It seems to me sketchy about the FINANCING, a little DECEPTION ABOUT DETAILS.Just exactly what we are going to be on the hook for. Now I was at a LSC meeting where our MAYOR talked about the need to go before the voters and ask for a 70 million dollar bond, Now I was all over that.
Then came the public meetings and there was all this talk about how the MSBA would be paying as we go so our potential indebtedness was downplayed, Even in this article the confusion continues"
“Do you approve the city incurring bonded indebtedness for construction of a new Marshall school?”
Sure sounds to me like we are going to more than MAX our credit card to get this party started.
There is also talk abouyt our SHARE:
The city is seeking 80 percent reimbursement for the project’s cost from the state. Stapleton said the city’s share will be about $19 million.
This sounds a little better.....
BUT....
notice the word REIMBURSEMENT. I take it that means we pay for it FIRST. A couple of things to think about: 1) "How will all the GOVERNOR'S tax proposals affect the MSBA's funding ability since it is tied to the sales tax?" or 2) "How will this increased liability affect our much vaunted BOND rating? " and 3), "Again, how's all that FREE cash holding out?".
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
LPS IN THE DRINK THANKS TO LITTLE LORI LINK
I hear that the links on the school's website's for their SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT PLANS now work thanks to a little pressure on the administration provided by none other than our own LIL' LORI. Thank you Lori and even LPS for fixing the problem.
THE NUMBERS DON'T JIVE, DO WE HAVE A LEVEL 5?
Some crazy things are happening. I have a report that one of our schools is now a LEVEL 5. I have not yet been able to get independent confirmation. Being the responsible journalist that I am I am reporting it anyway.
I figure what the hey, I am telling you it very well may be improbable.....
BUT.....
I figure some of you WATCH WATCHERS out there might know a little something. What school is it? C;mon I have some integrity, okay not much but some.
I figure what the hey, I am telling you it very well may be improbable.....
BUT.....
I figure some of you WATCH WATCHERS out there might know a little something. What school is it? C;mon I have some integrity, okay not much but some.
COMMUNITY RICHES COST
The Lynn Community Enrichment Program Returns to LVTI
Okay, no more MR. NICE GUY. Now I know, I know some of you are saying, "WHAT ARE YOU CALLING NICE?".
From the start I have had reservations about how LPS (man)handled the OCCUPY LVTI as a community center. For the sake of friends I tried to be supportive. I saw the signs but I turned a blind eye. Which for me was amazingly easy since my left eye is covered with cataracts.
Look at the BROCHURE. Look at those prices. The people that could be most benefited from this program are priced out. It becomes a crisis of costs. The same people who complain about lack of parental involvement are promulgating barriers that further that isolation.
This program paints a pretty picture but illustrates unspoken plans to draw more divisions in our community.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
THIS POINT HAD POWER
Thanks to the PATRIOTS disappointing performance in this past Sunday's DIVISIONAL PLAYOFF a big screen TV has suddenly become available and has been put into use by a couple of EXCELLENT teachers. I am not going to tell you who they are right now......
BUT.....
I did tell BRANDT DUNCAN, head of the TEACHER'S UNION, who was a guest at tonight's EQUAL RIGHTS FORUM at the FORD SCHOOL tonight.
ANYWAYS.....
on display was a high tech slide show of pertinent information (in ENGLISH and SPANISH) and pictures of the daily menu.
BUT.....
I did tell BRANDT DUNCAN, head of the TEACHER'S UNION, who was a guest at tonight's EQUAL RIGHTS FORUM at the FORD SCHOOL tonight.
ANYWAYS.....
on display was a high tech slide show of pertinent information (in ENGLISH and SPANISH) and pictures of the daily menu.
LEARNING RIGHTS FROM WRONGS
At the center of tonight's EQUAL RIGHTS FORUM at FORD School was the need for EDUCATION to overcome the struggles posed on the inequalities of the masses. The walls were decorated with posters detailing many of MARTIN LUTHER KING'S accomplishments. Fairness must be learned and what better place to learn than a school?
LSC members DONNA COPPOLA, MARIA CARRASCO, and RICK STARBARD were among the participants in the almost full house. Also in the crowd were COUNCILMEN TIM PHELAN and HONG NET, joined by Former COUNCIL CANDIDATE MIGUEL FUNEZ and Former STATE REP. CANDIDATE GARDY JEAN FRANCOIS. GARDY called officials on the carpet for disenfranchising a growing portion of LYNN voters by taking the voting from FORD SCHOOL and keeping it away.
MLK's lessons transcend race, creed, or color.
LSC members DONNA COPPOLA, MARIA CARRASCO, and RICK STARBARD were among the participants in the almost full house. Also in the crowd were COUNCILMEN TIM PHELAN and HONG NET, joined by Former COUNCIL CANDIDATE MIGUEL FUNEZ and Former STATE REP. CANDIDATE GARDY JEAN FRANCOIS. GARDY called officials on the carpet for disenfranchising a growing portion of LYNN voters by taking the voting from FORD SCHOOL and keeping it away.
MLK's lessons transcend race, creed, or color.
PICKERING IS POISED FOR A COMMUNICATION REVOLUTION
Making the most of modern social media PICKERING PARENTS PUSH PAST PLAIN OLE PTO
WHY IS THAT?
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This error is generated when there was no web page with the name you specified at the web site.
IS IT JUST ME?
Monday, January 21, 2013
LET ME HELP YOU
According to the ITEM there is $169 million for all of these UNACCOMPANIED MINORS approved for HHS. It does no good to cry about the problem, let's do something. How about writing some letters to some people? It's kind of worked for me in the past.
SO.....
DR. LATHAM.....
give me a call.
SO.....
DR. LATHAM.....
give me a call.
HEIGHT OF FLIGHT
Closer Look: Strangers in a strange land
This is a balanced, surprisingly well written story, It manages to put a HUMAN face on a real problem. It is not fair that Lynn is targeted as a depository for these students.
BUT.....
are we? For all this talk about a tidal wave of UNACCOMPANYED MINORS, we are only talking about 70. I hope nobody at LPS are waxing their surf boards. Cause that number is a blip on the student population numbers, not that it is not significant just not quite as CRIPPLING as some would have you to believe,
RICK STARBARD, who I do like, has been out front ringing the warning bells. He's right, LPS shouldn't be burdened with the total cost of this SPECIAL population. But for now we are, so we need to put a positive spin on or accomplishments of our educators and students. Given some of the horrific stories some of these kids have, the fact that they have gotten this far foretells a potential for great things,
Using numbers that RICK has espouse before, LPS spends 10% of its budget on 1% of the student population and these students are of a SPECIAL population too. They are the kids that the DOE has determined LPS is not qualified to teach or doesn't have the appropriate program.
I hate MATH but here goes. Let's start with a $119,000,000 budget then take 10% of that and we get almost $20 million. We have roughly 15,000 students and 1% of would be say 15. Whoa.....there's got to be some mistake here. That's a lot anyway and I don't hear anyone talking about LPS's EMIGRATION problem.
This is a balanced, surprisingly well written story, It manages to put a HUMAN face on a real problem. It is not fair that Lynn is targeted as a depository for these students.
BUT.....
are we? For all this talk about a tidal wave of UNACCOMPANYED MINORS, we are only talking about 70. I hope nobody at LPS are waxing their surf boards. Cause that number is a blip on the student population numbers, not that it is not significant just not quite as CRIPPLING as some would have you to believe,
RICK STARBARD, who I do like, has been out front ringing the warning bells. He's right, LPS shouldn't be burdened with the total cost of this SPECIAL population. But for now we are, so we need to put a positive spin on or accomplishments of our educators and students. Given some of the horrific stories some of these kids have, the fact that they have gotten this far foretells a potential for great things,
Using numbers that RICK has espouse before, LPS spends 10% of its budget on 1% of the student population and these students are of a SPECIAL population too. They are the kids that the DOE has determined LPS is not qualified to teach or doesn't have the appropriate program.
I hate MATH but here goes. Let's start with a $119,000,000 budget then take 10% of that and we get almost $20 million. We have roughly 15,000 students and 1% of would be say 15. Whoa.....there's got to be some mistake here. That's a lot anyway and I don't hear anyone talking about LPS's EMIGRATION problem.
Sunday, January 20, 2013
TALK IS CHEAP, SILENCE COSTS
We are approaching a new era of parental involvement, Unfortunately the demands of living day to day has caused our disposable FREE time to shrink. Time and money have become mutually exclusive commodities, I know because I have lots of time but no money.
Technology has worked to aid in this isolation. As recently illustrated by a NOTRE DAME football player, we even believe serious relationships can even be carried out without physical contact. What have we become?
It is easy to lament the woes of technical isolation and succumb to the idea that our society is on a downward spiral towards loneliness and civic decay.
OR.....
we can take a hold of the wonders of modern technology and tame the forces that have driven us apart, LPS needs to get out in front of the SOCIAL MEDIA movement instead of being chained to the stale, old ideas of the past.
Thankfully some wise people are not waiting until the current catches up with reality. Both MARSHALL and PICKERING have recently had a flurry of FACEBOOK activity. I have even noticed ENGLISH begin a little activity. Communication is the key to sparking involvement. Anything that aides this is pure positive.
WITH COMMUNICATION WE FRAME THE DEBATE
Technology has worked to aid in this isolation. As recently illustrated by a NOTRE DAME football player, we even believe serious relationships can even be carried out without physical contact. What have we become?
It is easy to lament the woes of technical isolation and succumb to the idea that our society is on a downward spiral towards loneliness and civic decay.
OR.....
we can take a hold of the wonders of modern technology and tame the forces that have driven us apart, LPS needs to get out in front of the SOCIAL MEDIA movement instead of being chained to the stale, old ideas of the past.
Thankfully some wise people are not waiting until the current catches up with reality. Both MARSHALL and PICKERING have recently had a flurry of FACEBOOK activity. I have even noticed ENGLISH begin a little activity. Communication is the key to sparking involvement. Anything that aides this is pure positive.
WITH COMMUNICATION WE FRAME THE DEBATE
Saturday, January 19, 2013
I AM ABOUT TO USE A FIVE-LETTER WORD
A-U-D-I-T
I think NOW would be a good time to have a little accountability of HOW all that RACE TO THE TOP MONEY has been SPENT. Tell you why I am concerned.......
1). If the CURRICULUM DEPARTMENT is in disarray over a LOST grievance about implementing a new system then all of those training aka- professional development - must have been for, well nothing. How were those CONSULTANTS paid?
2). The PROGRAM SPECIALIST in charge of the RACE TO THE TOP grant retired at the end of OCTOBER. Funny time for a retirement. This is such a complex and complicated GRANT. Now I was pretty confident in her ability. Now, not so much.
3). Where did the money come for those princiPAL raises not to mention the BIG raise given DR. LATHAM.
Don't get the idea I;m making any accusations or anything of the sort but.........
WHAT COULD IT HURT TO OPEN UP THE LPS CHECKBOOK?
We are about to be asked to take on a lot of new debt and I want to be supportive of the new school. We need it.
BUT......
I kind of want, sort of want to be sure that we are spending what we got responsibly.
I think NOW would be a good time to have a little accountability of HOW all that RACE TO THE TOP MONEY has been SPENT. Tell you why I am concerned.......
1). If the CURRICULUM DEPARTMENT is in disarray over a LOST grievance about implementing a new system then all of those training aka- professional development - must have been for, well nothing. How were those CONSULTANTS paid?
2). The PROGRAM SPECIALIST in charge of the RACE TO THE TOP grant retired at the end of OCTOBER. Funny time for a retirement. This is such a complex and complicated GRANT. Now I was pretty confident in her ability. Now, not so much.
3). Where did the money come for those princiPAL raises not to mention the BIG raise given DR. LATHAM.
Don't get the idea I;m making any accusations or anything of the sort but.........
WHAT COULD IT HURT TO OPEN UP THE LPS CHECKBOOK?
We are about to be asked to take on a lot of new debt and I want to be supportive of the new school. We need it.
BUT......
I kind of want, sort of want to be sure that we are spending what we got responsibly.
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