Program offers chance to become a STAR
I was at the LSC meeting when a presentation was given for this program, I believe a day or two around the time it was offered to Swampscott. The LSC were polite to the officer but I don't know of any action that was taken. Maybe there was something at Classical. If so why aren't our kids getting the publicity, if not then why didn't we jump at the chance for this program.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
Friday, May 6, 2011
Eating The Evidence
It was "teacher appreciation week" this week at Ford. Seeing as the library is right next to the teacher's lounge I got to sample a few of the more edible tokens of appreciation. I'm getting good at showing up at parties and places I don't really belong!
Rats, Monkeys, And Business As Usual
Now some people think I tend to be a little less than objective. I've heard that I favor certain LSC members. I don't know whatever filled your head with such delusions. Take LSC ember Donna Coppola for example, now Ive known Donna for over 12 years. We even worked together, but during the "Great Rat Controversy" we were on different sides of the "fence". I strongly contended that gardens do not attract rats.
That was however when it was a "six foot" fence. Now after somewhat clandestine meetings between Buildings and Grounds subcommittee chairman JOHN FORD. LPD Officer Ferrari,and some school administration officials that a "four foot" would be sufficient if no better.
Because when the "agreement" for fence was publically reached it was to be six feet but when FORD and his posse met, they unilaterally decided the shorter fence would be sufficient. In fact it would be better due to camera angles and fields covered. The addition of 4 cameras gave even better coverage.
Do these changes actually provide for better solutions. Probably, but that's not the point. MAYOR KENNEDY, JOHN FORD, AND THE REST OF THE LYNN SCHOOL COMMITTEE gave their word on a garden "retrofit" to appease the abutters led by MRS. PULEO.
A six ft. fence is not going to keep the rats out any better than a four ft. fence. You won't find many vermin trying to scale the fence. They will just go under it. The added four cameras will make it easier to identify the guilty rats but it is the "monkey business" of not honoring publicly negotiated agreements that makes me wonder if a violation of some law has occurred. Was a "crime" committed? The police WERE involved. I forgot, they don't like getting into CIVIL matters. Don't I know it, remember four wives?
That was however when it was a "six foot" fence. Now after somewhat clandestine meetings between Buildings and Grounds subcommittee chairman JOHN FORD. LPD Officer Ferrari,and some school administration officials that a "four foot" would be sufficient if no better.
Because when the "agreement" for fence was publically reached it was to be six feet but when FORD and his posse met, they unilaterally decided the shorter fence would be sufficient. In fact it would be better due to camera angles and fields covered. The addition of 4 cameras gave even better coverage.
Do these changes actually provide for better solutions. Probably, but that's not the point. MAYOR KENNEDY, JOHN FORD, AND THE REST OF THE LYNN SCHOOL COMMITTEE gave their word on a garden "retrofit" to appease the abutters led by MRS. PULEO.
A six ft. fence is not going to keep the rats out any better than a four ft. fence. You won't find many vermin trying to scale the fence. They will just go under it. The added four cameras will make it easier to identify the guilty rats but it is the "monkey business" of not honoring publicly negotiated agreements that makes me wonder if a violation of some law has occurred. Was a "crime" committed? The police WERE involved. I forgot, they don't like getting into CIVIL matters. Don't I know it, remember four wives?
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Politics And Poetry
It amazes me how many new friends I have been getting. "Lynn, Lynn, City Of Friends". I know they all share my literary passions. I mean last Sunday Councilman Rich Collucci's dog gave up his seat in the truck so that Rich could give me a ride home. Councillor-At-Large candidate Clay Walsh has sent me two comp tickets for his fundraiser at May 11 from 6 -8 pm at the Turbine Wine Bar. Seems there is a sudden interest in poetry. Tis the season.
For Whom The Bell Tolls
NO THIS IS NOT ANOTHER LIBRARY PLEA!
I have to give it to the ITEM they are keeping time with education in Lynn. Learning is not all about reciting numbers and preparing for the MCAS. Recognizing all of the hard work accomplished makes for a better student all around!
Lynn students provide symphony of sound
I have to give it to the ITEM they are keeping time with education in Lynn. Learning is not all about reciting numbers and preparing for the MCAS. Recognizing all of the hard work accomplished makes for a better student all around!
Lynn students provide symphony of sound
Ford's Garden of Verse
To prove to all of you Stanley HATERS out there that I am a legitimate if poor poet, I invite you to tour the "International Garden" at Ford School. Among the vegetables you will find a plaque with one of my original if not classic poems painted on. If you need help finding it, DAVID GASS is there a lot talking about obesity, voting, and other such social issues. Anny other Highland's Coalition member there can fill you in. In the interest of full disclosure, I must inform you that I am Secretary of HICO. I really don't know why I am, I guess I just have "nice" legs.
Thank You Lynn School Committee!
I have a medical appointment in Boston late this afternoon and I just found out that tonight's scheduled meeting of the LSC had been cancelled yesterday. Phew! I don't remember telling anyone that I had this appointment coming up but you know those school people are smart people, doctors and lawyers and such. I wondered why the agenda hadn't been posted like it's supposed to in order to comply with the "Open Meeting" law. Our school people are not ever law breakers!
I feel special even if I am not very pretty. To think all the important educational business came to a halt just because I couldn't go to the meeting. I hear JOHN FORD couldn't have made the meeting either, but they wouldn't have cancelled the meeting for him because even with his absence they would have had a quorum. Business could have went on as usual. Maybe not. Judging from the way the voting went last week, maybe his vote was needed for MONKEY BUSINESS. Still, I would rather think it was cancelled for me. CAN'T A POET GET A LITTLE RESPECT?
I feel special even if I am not very pretty. To think all the important educational business came to a halt just because I couldn't go to the meeting. I hear JOHN FORD couldn't have made the meeting either, but they wouldn't have cancelled the meeting for him because even with his absence they would have had a quorum. Business could have went on as usual. Maybe not. Judging from the way the voting went last week, maybe his vote was needed for MONKEY BUSINESS. Still, I would rather think it was cancelled for me. CAN'T A POET GET A LITTLE RESPECT?
Clean Up, Clean Up, Everybody Do Their Share!
The Lynn Public School Band will be having a car wash to raise funds. Saturday, May 7th from 9 am until 2 pm at 581 Boston Street, LPS Band students will be putting some elbow grease in action! They'll be music in the air and soap bubbles on your car!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
No Altered States
Ab avid "Watch" follower asked for and got from Dr. Latham a transcript of a State Of The Schools speech given at a school committee meeting earlier this year. I was at that meeting and the information was given in he superintendent's report. I remember it was a long meeting and attorney Mihos almost falling asleep.
The written transcript was not readily available then. When a concerned citizen asked Dr. Latham after last Sunday's State Of The City address why Mayor Kennedy did not mention more about the schools. A valid question. To her credit Dr. Latham then provided this person with a written transcript of her earlier remarks. That person then forwarded it to me and several other people. I have not had time yet to pour through the speech. I will.
It has been my contention and I have made it known during "open mike" at the LSC meeting that all such documents and communications should be put on-line. That way, pesky bloggers like the one "GQ" Spirito and Madame Mayor refereed to can't accuse them of hiding anything.
The written transcript was not readily available then. When a concerned citizen asked Dr. Latham after last Sunday's State Of The City address why Mayor Kennedy did not mention more about the schools. A valid question. To her credit Dr. Latham then provided this person with a written transcript of her earlier remarks. That person then forwarded it to me and several other people. I have not had time yet to pour through the speech. I will.
It has been my contention and I have made it known during "open mike" at the LSC meeting that all such documents and communications should be put on-line. That way, pesky bloggers like the one "GQ" Spirito and Madame Mayor refereed to can't accuse them of hiding anything.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Went To PAC And Stayed For The Show
Thank You Lynn Public Schools, I can't make this stuff up. Don't you think it's funny in a sad sort of way, that why a presentation was put on by CSA, whose services are only available to people on mass health, we had around $400,00 in annual salary sitting at the head table where Queen Cathie was holding court. I'm not including the PARENT LIAISON making who know's what for how long.
Don't forget the PARENT LIAISON sat with the SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS. What was her JOB TITLE again?
Don't forget the PARENT LIAISON sat with the SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS. What was her JOB TITLE again?
Where Was That Marriage Made Again?
My Internet was down this morning, this paranoid poet was having delusions of persecution emanating from all of these conspiracy theories bouncing around in this battered brain I got. Strangers are suddenly friendly to me and then there are those "old friends" that have suddenly turned a cold shoulder. Being a poet is a risky business.
I was late for the start of the PAC meeting because my BFF and I stopped by The Old Tyme Restaurant for Pickering PTO's fundraiser. I gotta support my peeps. Well we waited almost an hour for our food so we ended up getting it to go so we wouldn't miss any more of the meeting. I forgot my red power notebook on the table but the waitress ran it out to our car before we left. It pays to tip well.
When we get there, none other than DR LATHAM was there. With someone of that stature there it was almost like the "royal wedding". As it turns out Dr. Latham was there to bestow the title of "Parent Liaison" on Francis Martinez, formerly of "La Vida".
As it turns out Ms. Martinez has NO children in Special Needs and somebody help me out here, "What is her educational background? I missed that part of the meeting. Did they say why she left "La Vida"? I was at a recent school committee meeting where her former group put on a crackerjack presentation. I thought the school department gave them a 100K for there program. Did all the Spanish population suddenly move out of Lynn and no longer need whatever services "La Vida" provides?
Somebody out there must know how this woman was so much more qualified than me that I didn't even deserve acknowledgement of my interest. I am sure these mystery qualifications must exist because everybody knows how fair and above board the school department has been run.
I was a little bit concerned last night at the PAC though when Ms. Martinez sat a table with Her Highness Dr. Latham and her court, aristocrats Jessica and Lydia and did not mingle with us other commoners, otherwise known as PARENTS. What's her job title again?
I was late for the start of the PAC meeting because my BFF and I stopped by The Old Tyme Restaurant for Pickering PTO's fundraiser. I gotta support my peeps. Well we waited almost an hour for our food so we ended up getting it to go so we wouldn't miss any more of the meeting. I forgot my red power notebook on the table but the waitress ran it out to our car before we left. It pays to tip well.
When we get there, none other than DR LATHAM was there. With someone of that stature there it was almost like the "royal wedding". As it turns out Dr. Latham was there to bestow the title of "Parent Liaison" on Francis Martinez, formerly of "La Vida".
As it turns out Ms. Martinez has NO children in Special Needs and somebody help me out here, "What is her educational background? I missed that part of the meeting. Did they say why she left "La Vida"? I was at a recent school committee meeting where her former group put on a crackerjack presentation. I thought the school department gave them a 100K for there program. Did all the Spanish population suddenly move out of Lynn and no longer need whatever services "La Vida" provides?
Somebody out there must know how this woman was so much more qualified than me that I didn't even deserve acknowledgement of my interest. I am sure these mystery qualifications must exist because everybody knows how fair and above board the school department has been run.
I was a little bit concerned last night at the PAC though when Ms. Martinez sat a table with Her Highness Dr. Latham and her court, aristocrats Jessica and Lydia and did not mingle with us other commoners, otherwise known as PARENTS. What's her job title again?
Monday, May 2, 2011
Maybe We Should Do Lunch!
‘Let’s all work together,’ says Kennedy in Lynn address
It just proves you never know when you're going to learn something. Here I was sitting in the front row yesterday, all dressed in black and the mayor starts off her speech pointing in my direction. I didn't suppose she was directing those remarks at me. I do have brain damage and it makes me walk a little funny, talk a little funny, and even lead to a mistaken arrest once for public intoxication. The damage has caused me some intellectual deficits and that is why I am not as smart as the mayor. The damage does not however cause me to suffer from delusions of grandeur so I did not think the mayor was talking to me.
So I was shocked after the speech when the mayor came up to shake my hand and told me she hoped that I did not take offense at her singling me out. I didn't, in fact I am kind of honored. I'm just surprised she thinks of me as her enemy. I mean I shaved and got a hair cut, the greatest degree of respect this poor humble poet can show (I learned all of this from my fashion idol "GQ" Spirito).
Standing by my seat I learned something else. In her speech the mayor talked about the delay in building a new middle school to replace Marshall was due to the fact that Lynn had closed three schools, Ford Annex, Fallon, and Facteau- Leary, all of whom had previously receive MSBA funds. I overheard Dr. Latham tell someone our most honorable mayor was wrong, that only Fallon had received MSBA monies and that the real problem was about the money pit that has become the NEW CLASSICAL HIGH SCHOOL.
Do you think somebody could get them to exchange phone numbers?
It just proves you never know when you're going to learn something. Here I was sitting in the front row yesterday, all dressed in black and the mayor starts off her speech pointing in my direction. I didn't suppose she was directing those remarks at me. I do have brain damage and it makes me walk a little funny, talk a little funny, and even lead to a mistaken arrest once for public intoxication. The damage has caused me some intellectual deficits and that is why I am not as smart as the mayor. The damage does not however cause me to suffer from delusions of grandeur so I did not think the mayor was talking to me.
So I was shocked after the speech when the mayor came up to shake my hand and told me she hoped that I did not take offense at her singling me out. I didn't, in fact I am kind of honored. I'm just surprised she thinks of me as her enemy. I mean I shaved and got a hair cut, the greatest degree of respect this poor humble poet can show (I learned all of this from my fashion idol "GQ" Spirito).
Standing by my seat I learned something else. In her speech the mayor talked about the delay in building a new middle school to replace Marshall was due to the fact that Lynn had closed three schools, Ford Annex, Fallon, and Facteau- Leary, all of whom had previously receive MSBA funds. I overheard Dr. Latham tell someone our most honorable mayor was wrong, that only Fallon had received MSBA monies and that the real problem was about the money pit that has become the NEW CLASSICAL HIGH SCHOOL.
Do you think somebody could get them to exchange phone numbers?
Arresting Development
Safety first! How often have we heard that wise advice. At yesterday's gala, the mayor announced that 10 new police officers would be hired. Security conscious "GQ" Spirito will be happy to learn 4 of them will be assined to some of the schools. With a little scheduling magic they will cover all the high and middle schools. With Officer Ferrari stationed in the "bunker at Facteau-Leary our children's safety is assured. Looks good. Fashion diva, "GQ" is always interested in looks.
What doesn't look so good is the effect this may have on the school's wallet. Where is the money coming froom to pay these valiant officers? Is he school footing the bill for their wages? Or is the city payig the freight? I mean, after all the school department did use some of their ARRA grant money to update the city's computer system. Anyway getting these officers is a good thing, from wherever they came. I just hope we learn how we can now afford them. Out in the open and above board.
What doesn't look so good is the effect this may have on the school's wallet. Where is the money coming froom to pay these valiant officers? Is he school footing the bill for their wages? Or is the city payig the freight? I mean, after all the school department did use some of their ARRA grant money to update the city's computer system. Anyway getting these officers is a good thing, from wherever they came. I just hope we learn how we can now afford them. Out in the open and above board.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Ball's In My Court
Boy I am filled with anticipation and awe. Tomorrow night PAC meeting there is supposed to be the debut of the newly hired PARENT LIAISON. This person is so qualified that not only did I not get an interview for the job, my interest in the position wasn't even ACKNOWLEDGED.
I can't wait to meet this person because those people down at the school department are educated people and have a crack lawyer in attorney Mihos, who wouldn't have let them put themselves in a position where they would open themselves up to a DISCRIMINATION lawsuit. Can you spell ADA?
I can't wait to meet this person because those people down at the school department are educated people and have a crack lawyer in attorney Mihos, who wouldn't have let them put themselves in a position where they would open themselves up to a DISCRIMINATION lawsuit. Can you spell ADA?
It's Dangerous Out There!
Haven't these people heard that poets are an endangered species? First it was Vinnie "GQ" Spirito of LSC taking pot shots at me at Thursday night's LSC meeting and then today at the mayor's "State of the City" she starts the speech by opening up on me and our FRIENDLY disagreements.
Now I remind you mayor is a smart lady, smarter than me, but I can't say she is a better dresser than "GQ" Spirito. He is one sharp dressed man.The point of her verbal lance was how open she was to jousting over issues.
So after listening to her informative monologue, she opened up the forum for questions. Knowing that I am no match for her wits, I was still a little curious about something. Earlier in her speech she had touted the facts that both the city's and school department's budget had been put on line AFTER the budgets had been passed making commenting on it practically irrelevant at least going forward. So after she bragged about putting up the city's budget on-line this year in time to allow or public comment.
Being an inquisitive person I asked why since the school department accounts for about half of the city's budget perhaps maybe we should have the school department's budget on-line before passage. Right after some initial stumbling, the mayor kind of thought it was a good idea but then started laying out these complications like the "school committee would have to approve it and agreeing it was a good idea put the responsibility on THEM.Spoken like a true politician. I TOLD YOU SHE WAS A SMART LADY.
Now I remind you mayor is a smart lady, smarter than me, but I can't say she is a better dresser than "GQ" Spirito. He is one sharp dressed man.The point of her verbal lance was how open she was to jousting over issues.
So after listening to her informative monologue, she opened up the forum for questions. Knowing that I am no match for her wits, I was still a little curious about something. Earlier in her speech she had touted the facts that both the city's and school department's budget had been put on line AFTER the budgets had been passed making commenting on it practically irrelevant at least going forward. So after she bragged about putting up the city's budget on-line this year in time to allow or public comment.
Being an inquisitive person I asked why since the school department accounts for about half of the city's budget perhaps maybe we should have the school department's budget on-line before passage. Right after some initial stumbling, the mayor kind of thought it was a good idea but then started laying out these complications like the "school committee would have to approve it and agreeing it was a good idea put the responsibility on THEM.Spoken like a true politician. I TOLD YOU SHE WAS A SMART LADY.
Mayor's Talk For Hunger!
Why would the "Watch" be interested to go and see Mayor Kennedy's "State Of The City" address today? Well I guess since half the city's budget goes to the school department and the mayor chairs the school committee so it just makes sense that I'm there. I know that somebody might ask me about my poetry.
I'm curious to see if the mayor is able to make any decision. Oh wait she won't have to here, it's just a speech. Oh well, there is supposed to be food there. I am hungry for answers but I guess I'll settle for appetizers.
I'm curious to see if the mayor is able to make any decision. Oh wait she won't have to here, it's just a speech. Oh well, there is supposed to be food there. I am hungry for answers but I guess I'll settle for appetizers.
Good Eats For A Good Cause
Too many obligations, too little time. Tomorrow is a fundraiser for my son's school's (Pickering) PTO at the Old Tyme Italian Restaurant. I got a PAC meeting I should go to but I'll tell you why in another post.
The event runs from 4 pm to 8 pm. Pick up some pasta for me.
The event runs from 4 pm to 8 pm. Pick up some pasta for me.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Mayor's Medical Scare!
I am deeply concerned that our Honorable Mayor Kennedy is not hearing what she is saying. Madame Mayor is a smart lady, much smarter than me and thats what makes these recent intellectual stumblings all the more troubling. Even if her political sense were "correct" and there were candidates favored she needs to LISTEN to watch she is saying and the corner she is painting herself in a political corner.
Coppola: Kennedy's remark 'offensive'
If the mayor does not side with Coppola, Starbard, and Carrasco she will possibly be looked at being in favor of lowering our standards at a time when we have 5 potential Level 4 schools (2 actual Level 4 and 8 Level 3 - word on the street is Breed,Marshall, and LVTI will "come aboard" this year). She will in effect be saying, "Credentials don't matter, qualifications don't matter. What does matter is who you know and who your friends are.".
Capano, :GQ" Spirito, and Ford are arguing a position that would allow the hiring of someone who was not only responsible letting two of our schools, Harrington and Connery (GQ's old school), slip into Level 4 status but devised a Turnaround Pan for Connery that was REJECTED.
I know how smart the mayor is, she has even driven me home when she was a RIDE driver and she had an unbelievable command of Nickelodeon's television lineup. How could someone with complete knowledge of "I, Carly's" plot and story line be so naive when it comes to other serious business.
Maybe we should hold a telethon to raise funds for purchase of a hearing AIDE, someone to help her keep her foot out of her mouth.
Coppola: Kennedy's remark 'offensive'
If the mayor does not side with Coppola, Starbard, and Carrasco she will possibly be looked at being in favor of lowering our standards at a time when we have 5 potential Level 4 schools (2 actual Level 4 and 8 Level 3 - word on the street is Breed,Marshall, and LVTI will "come aboard" this year). She will in effect be saying, "Credentials don't matter, qualifications don't matter. What does matter is who you know and who your friends are.".
Capano, :GQ" Spirito, and Ford are arguing a position that would allow the hiring of someone who was not only responsible letting two of our schools, Harrington and Connery (GQ's old school), slip into Level 4 status but devised a Turnaround Pan for Connery that was REJECTED.
I know how smart the mayor is, she has even driven me home when she was a RIDE driver and she had an unbelievable command of Nickelodeon's television lineup. How could someone with complete knowledge of "I, Carly's" plot and story line be so naive when it comes to other serious business.
Maybe we should hold a telethon to raise funds for purchase of a hearing AIDE, someone to help her keep her foot out of her mouth.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Fashionably Late But Out Of Fashion
Maybe it was just her style, but maybe that's the problem. If it's just a matter of fashion then our most honourable mayor should consult Vinnie "GQ" Spirito for the most current trends.
Maybe it was more about timing. The mayor called ahead to say she had been detained and to go on without her, According to the agenda, the controversial vote on the Deputy Superintendent. should have been held early in the meeting. The fact is that our Honorable mayor should have been able to have the vote taken before she had to take a position.
But the mayor did not count on the vice chair, Patti Capano, allowing he meeting to start five minutes late and then stretching a one minute break after a presentation into several. To this poet it appeared that Ms. Capano was counting on the mayor's support to break a potential deadlock.
Provisions were added to the already approved six-figure position that would have prevented people without experience as a principal or a doctorate level education for being considered for the job. I have heard rumours that a certain person who shall remain "nameless" was being tapped for that job who couldn't live up to those requirements.
Too bad. Our schools are in a shambles and we need highly qualified people to lead us out of failure. The present crop of administrative couldn't even get a Turnaround Plan for Connery approved so they planned to promote someone who helped devise that failing plan?
Again in this humble poet's opinion, when the mayor was forced into taking a stand, she abstained thereby avoiding taking a stand leaving the vote a tie. Back to the drawing board.
You know they say, a tie is like kissing your sister. Even in WV we don't do that UNLESS it's PROM NIGHT!
Maybe it was more about timing. The mayor called ahead to say she had been detained and to go on without her, According to the agenda, the controversial vote on the Deputy Superintendent. should have been held early in the meeting. The fact is that our Honorable mayor should have been able to have the vote taken before she had to take a position.
But the mayor did not count on the vice chair, Patti Capano, allowing he meeting to start five minutes late and then stretching a one minute break after a presentation into several. To this poet it appeared that Ms. Capano was counting on the mayor's support to break a potential deadlock.
Provisions were added to the already approved six-figure position that would have prevented people without experience as a principal or a doctorate level education for being considered for the job. I have heard rumours that a certain person who shall remain "nameless" was being tapped for that job who couldn't live up to those requirements.
Too bad. Our schools are in a shambles and we need highly qualified people to lead us out of failure. The present crop of administrative couldn't even get a Turnaround Plan for Connery approved so they planned to promote someone who helped devise that failing plan?
Again in this humble poet's opinion, when the mayor was forced into taking a stand, she abstained thereby avoiding taking a stand leaving the vote a tie. Back to the drawing board.
You know they say, a tie is like kissing your sister. Even in WV we don't do that UNLESS it's PROM NIGHT!
What Makes A Leader?
Help me out here. I don't understand why some people on the LSC had such trouble with the stipulation that a new Deputy Superintendent should have experience as a Principal, You would think leadership is a vital quality.
What's even more surprising is where the opposition came from. I mean you think Vinnie "GQ" Spirito, a former principal, would be an ardent supporter of the requirement. But Noooooo! A closer look at his record reminds us that he was shuffled between three schools, starting at Hood, then Connery, and finally taking the Lynn Woods cruise.
Back when I went to school, mu principal was an ex-Marine with a statue of a Bulldog on his desk and he didn't dress in pastels.
What's even more surprising is where the opposition came from. I mean you think Vinnie "GQ" Spirito, a former principal, would be an ardent supporter of the requirement. But Noooooo! A closer look at his record reminds us that he was shuffled between three schools, starting at Hood, then Connery, and finally taking the Lynn Woods cruise.
Back when I went to school, mu principal was an ex-Marine with a statue of a Bulldog on his desk and he didn't dress in pastels.
Ford Underwater Behind The Scene
My funny bone needs a break,. My head hurts and I think I pulled a belly muscle. I had a jolly old time at the LSC last night. I need a break from all the frivolity.
So when I heard about this story, I had to jump on it. Today a private limo complete with a chauffeur pulled up to Ford School to pickup 14 fifth graders and 1 third grader, all part of the Astronomy Group, and escort them on an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the New England Aquarium.
This was all done in conjunction with the Harvard, Smithsonian Center For Astrophysics Telescopes, (http://www.cfa.harvard.edu). The timing of this field trip could not have been timed any better with Science MCAS coming up in a couple of weeks. Topics discussed were marine habitat, volumes of fish tanks, invertebrates, crustaceans, and even electricity.
Electricity, you ask? Electricity and water make a dangerous mix. Witnessing the the ELECTRIC EEL gave them a first hand demonstration. The students even got to listen in on an audio monitor recording the eel's activity. How cool is that?
I have just one question. Why couldn't they take their favorite volunteer librarian?
So when I heard about this story, I had to jump on it. Today a private limo complete with a chauffeur pulled up to Ford School to pickup 14 fifth graders and 1 third grader, all part of the Astronomy Group, and escort them on an exclusive behind the scenes tour of the New England Aquarium.
This was all done in conjunction with the Harvard, Smithsonian Center For Astrophysics Telescopes, (http://www.cfa.harvard.edu). The timing of this field trip could not have been timed any better with Science MCAS coming up in a couple of weeks. Topics discussed were marine habitat, volumes of fish tanks, invertebrates, crustaceans, and even electricity.
Electricity, you ask? Electricity and water make a dangerous mix. Witnessing the the ELECTRIC EEL gave them a first hand demonstration. The students even got to listen in on an audio monitor recording the eel's activity. How cool is that?
I have just one question. Why couldn't they take their favorite volunteer librarian?
Behind Closed Doors
At the end of the meeting last night everybody that had the good seats at the educational buffet table went into EXECUTIVE SESSION to discuss matters that the rest of us can't be privy to. The crowd dispersed leaving only me and my BFF in the audience. We had lots of chairs left to choose from.
After a few minutes Kevin McHugh emerged. Since PERSONNEL matters is one of those priveledged areas, Kevin confirmed our suspicions that they were talking about him. He told us that most of the people are on three year contracts.
I don't know any details of any decisions but the important thing is he confirmed: HE READS MY BLOG.
After a few minutes Kevin McHugh emerged. Since PERSONNEL matters is one of those priveledged areas, Kevin confirmed our suspicions that they were talking about him. He told us that most of the people are on three year contracts.
I don't know any details of any decisions but the important thing is he confirmed: HE READS MY BLOG.
I Am So Disappointed I Think I Will Eat Worms!
You probably have noticed, I put ads back up on my blog. Since I am not getting the PARENT LIAISON job not even an interview for the position, I gotta do something to raise some Cash to buy maybe some old suits so I can be as dapper as my fashion idol.
We learned last night in the superintendent's report that a person has been hired to temporarily fill the position until the former position holder's medical dilemma has been resolved. I will attempt to tell you who they hired but I warn you I type in a language all my own. Her name is Francis Martinez from the "La Vida" program.
She was touted as bilingual. I am too, if you count sarcasm as a language. We also share in our minority status, hers as being a Latino, mine being disabled. It was good to see that the superintendent didn't discriminate in her hiring practice.
The job posting must have been in multiple languages. Wait! Was there a job posting? How many interviews were held? How many other candidates like me, DIDN'T EVEN GET ACKNOWLEDGED?
Sour grapes or a cause for a complaint? A violation of my civil rights or an honest selection?
We learned last night in the superintendent's report that a person has been hired to temporarily fill the position until the former position holder's medical dilemma has been resolved. I will attempt to tell you who they hired but I warn you I type in a language all my own. Her name is Francis Martinez from the "La Vida" program.
She was touted as bilingual. I am too, if you count sarcasm as a language. We also share in our minority status, hers as being a Latino, mine being disabled. It was good to see that the superintendent didn't discriminate in her hiring practice.
The job posting must have been in multiple languages. Wait! Was there a job posting? How many interviews were held? How many other candidates like me, DIDN'T EVEN GET ACKNOWLEDGED?
Sour grapes or a cause for a complaint? A violation of my civil rights or an honest selection?
Did Anyone Hear What I Heard?
There was trouble with the sound system last night. A lot of static and difficulty hearing answers to the tough questions. Probably because they were trying to interface a laugh track for me.
A video was screened by Officer Ferrari documenting all the technology protecting LPS. LSC member Vinnie "GQ" Spirito robustly applauded the film and even asked that it be put on cable to diffuse all the naysayers and BLOGGERS out there.
Hey Vinnie, if you want my autograph, just ask.
A video was screened by Officer Ferrari documenting all the technology protecting LPS. LSC member Vinnie "GQ" Spirito robustly applauded the film and even asked that it be put on cable to diffuse all the naysayers and BLOGGERS out there.
Hey Vinnie, if you want my autograph, just ask.
The Tradegy Of The Comedy!
What a meeting last night! I have got some great material provided to me courtesy of the committee. There was even talk of putting this stuff on cable.
I came home so late my wife was ready to make me sleep oserin the couch but the entertainment value of the meeting was worth it. Stay tuned! Serious business taken deliriously.
I came home so late my wife was ready to make me sleep oserin the couch but the entertainment value of the meeting was worth it. Stay tuned! Serious business taken deliriously.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Deputies, Rats, and Parent Liason
Tonight's LSC meeting will probably touch on these controversial topics. Get there early because the fireworks should begin in the sub-committee before the full LSC. Festivities start at 6. See you at he show.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Home Court Advantage
I first broke this story months ago, but the Item has done an excellent fleshing out one of my earlier scoops. We here at the "Watch" have establish a flawless reputation for being impartial and totally objective. So it is with the merest of coincidences that I may have a distant relationship with one of the people mentioned in the story. In the interest of honesty in journalism I feel a professional obligation to point out this small piece of information that otherwise might have slid by under the radar.
Students find a voice in college leadership discussions
Students find a voice in college leadership discussions
Talking Tech Time
I would like to thank Rick Starbard for sharing this editorial with me. We have a jewel at LVTI and instead of whining because enrollment is down we need to think of ways to increase it. As pointed out in this editorial there are places where there is a surplus in enrollment. We need to be one of those places. Until we value a Vo-tech education, we can't expect our students to value it. Everybody learns different, not necessarily better just different.
Voc-tech: Good for what ails education | SouthCoastToday.com
Credit is due Dr. Wary for her efforts in putting together Camp Explorer. It's a good start. http://www.lynnschools.org/Camp%20Explore%202011.htm
Voc-tech: Good for what ails education | SouthCoastToday.com
Credit is due Dr. Wary for her efforts in putting together Camp Explorer. It's a good start. http://www.lynnschools.org/Camp%20Explore%202011.htm
Nobody's Perfect
Once again some funny things seem to be happening with the posting of the LSC agenda for the upcoming meeting. A couple of months ago, I spoke during the "open-mike" session before the meeting showing the two contradicting postings about whether or not there was even going to be a meeting. I pulled the two opposing postings off the Internet and brought them for all to see.
This time this on this posting, the wrong date is paired with the wrong day of the week. Okay, an honest mistake. But how do you feel about the administrators responsible for overseeing your child's education engaging in a pattern of miscues?
http://www.lynnschools.org/School%20Committee%20Agenda%202_4_2010.htm
This time this on this posting, the wrong date is paired with the wrong day of the week. Okay, an honest mistake. But how do you feel about the administrators responsible for overseeing your child's education engaging in a pattern of miscues?
http://www.lynnschools.org/School%20Committee%20Agenda%202_4_2010.htm
A Little Dickens In The House
WARNING! Since we don't have librarians in most of the schools, I should inform you that I am talking about CHARLES DICKENS the author.
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times - for our principals that is. Patti Capano seem to fill my ears with stories of fluff and support for the environment surrounding our principals. Some parents and other people with invitations recounted stories of inaction or fear of retaliation from the administration.
I added that I might be wrong in in this but I thought until this year I thought principals used to get a discretionary amount of the Title 1 funds to spend how they saw fit for their individual schools and that now there was central control in the administration. No one disagreed with me and there were many people there smarter than me. So does that mean I was right?
In my opinion, this over controlling centralized command stifles creativity and innovation. But what do I know, I'm just a poor, disabled poet?
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times - for our principals that is. Patti Capano seem to fill my ears with stories of fluff and support for the environment surrounding our principals. Some parents and other people with invitations recounted stories of inaction or fear of retaliation from the administration.
I added that I might be wrong in in this but I thought until this year I thought principals used to get a discretionary amount of the Title 1 funds to spend how they saw fit for their individual schools and that now there was central control in the administration. No one disagreed with me and there were many people there smarter than me. So does that mean I was right?
In my opinion, this over controlling centralized command stifles creativity and innovation. But what do I know, I'm just a poor, disabled poet?
Tale Of A Party Crasher
Oops! I am not only bad at math, I can't follow directions. I thought my BFF was taking me to a meeting of disabled poets last night. We, poets, like to share our craft.
I WAS WRONG! I sit down and I recognized some people and it wasn't for their lyrical talent. Rick Starbard and Patti Capano were there. Gardy was there from the mayor's office (I'm sure he would quickly remind everyone that he was not the mayor - doesn't the mayor usually wear a dress anyway). Jack Dolan, Area Director of the Dept. of Children and Families along with some other Dept. official was there. Oh yeah, that Delores lady who's running for school committee was there. Id say her last name but it hurts my tongue. Alliteration can be dangerous.
They had printed agendas probably on their letterhead but I never picked one up. No matter, they never followed it anyway. My BFF said she couldn't find it posted anywhere like it's supposed to be for an open meeting according to the "Open Meeting law".
Since my BFF thought it was an open meeting, she was going to tape it for "Lynnhappens"(darn competitor, sorta). However, there was quite a hub bub about being on camera. Questions about quorum and since invitations were sent out then arguments were made that this was a private meeting. The old barbecue analogy was trotted out as to why this wasn't a "real" open meeting.
True that! Don't tell anyone but I didn't have an invitation and I introduced myself to everyone. Nobody said Nothing. I was wondering with all those important people there how could it NOT be an open meeting and why didn't they want it taped. I guess us, poets are shy people.
I WAS WRONG! I sit down and I recognized some people and it wasn't for their lyrical talent. Rick Starbard and Patti Capano were there. Gardy was there from the mayor's office (I'm sure he would quickly remind everyone that he was not the mayor - doesn't the mayor usually wear a dress anyway). Jack Dolan, Area Director of the Dept. of Children and Families along with some other Dept. official was there. Oh yeah, that Delores lady who's running for school committee was there. Id say her last name but it hurts my tongue. Alliteration can be dangerous.
They had printed agendas probably on their letterhead but I never picked one up. No matter, they never followed it anyway. My BFF said she couldn't find it posted anywhere like it's supposed to be for an open meeting according to the "Open Meeting law".
Since my BFF thought it was an open meeting, she was going to tape it for "Lynnhappens"(darn competitor, sorta). However, there was quite a hub bub about being on camera. Questions about quorum and since invitations were sent out then arguments were made that this was a private meeting. The old barbecue analogy was trotted out as to why this wasn't a "real" open meeting.
True that! Don't tell anyone but I didn't have an invitation and I introduced myself to everyone. Nobody said Nothing. I was wondering with all those important people there how could it NOT be an open meeting and why didn't they want it taped. I guess us, poets are shy people.
Monday, April 25, 2011
On The Menu
I ain't no lawyer or have I ever even worked in a fast food joint, but I got a recipe or some alphabet soup that may not have been tried yet. Through personal experiance as a father and wthrough close association with my new found PAC buddies in our ongoing battle with SPED, I have gotten a shallow baptism in the waters of the IEP. Along comes TAG with gifted ingredients to our educational alphabet soup.
Someone please explain to me why the gifted can't be served at the educatiional buffet. Are the cooks not telling us about this dish because they don't like the final price tab? They don't seem to mind insuring their six figure tips regardless of the service. I may be causing chaos in the kitchen by bringing this up but maybe our servers should go on a fiscal diet if they have a problem with delivery. Time to order take-out.
Someone please explain to me why the gifted can't be served at the educatiional buffet. Are the cooks not telling us about this dish because they don't like the final price tab? They don't seem to mind insuring their six figure tips regardless of the service. I may be causing chaos in the kitchen by bringing this up but maybe our servers should go on a fiscal diet if they have a problem with delivery. Time to order take-out.
Lynn Tech To Lead The Way?
During the LSC meeting on April 12, committee member Rick Starbard posed an interesting question. He wanted to know if LVTI could take students from outside cities, say Nahant. He was quickly shot down because LVTI is not a regional votech facility.
Okay, but why? I don't know all the laws, rules, and policies preventing this from happening. It just seems to me that we have this GREAT facility that is being underutilized. I think we need to change the focus of our line o questioning from "Why we can't" to "How we can".
Fill out the paperwork and call some people. The time is ripe for innovation in education.
Okay, but why? I don't know all the laws, rules, and policies preventing this from happening. It just seems to me that we have this GREAT facility that is being underutilized. I think we need to change the focus of our line o questioning from "Why we can't" to "How we can".
Fill out the paperwork and call some people. The time is ripe for innovation in education.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Waiting By The Phone
Well it's been a long Spring break, chocked full of chocolate bunnies and jelly beans. Maybe all that sugar has interfered with their thinking so they probably just FORGOT to call me to schedule an interview for that PARENT LIAISON position. I am sure it was just an oversight.
They can call me any time. I know they have my number because Dr. Wary's office called me just last week to schedule a meeting with her and Dr. Latham the same day a parent and I dropped off a letter. You would think that if they considered our concerns so important that a same day meeting was warranted that they would consider me a serious candidate for this position Do you think I have made my interest clear?.
They can call me any time. I know they have my number because Dr. Wary's office called me just last week to schedule a meeting with her and Dr. Latham the same day a parent and I dropped off a letter. You would think that if they considered our concerns so important that a same day meeting was warranted that they would consider me a serious candidate for this position Do you think I have made my interest clear?.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Who Gets What And How Much Can I Get?
It has been brought to my attention that Lynn does not have a "gifted program". Those darn "special needs" kids get everything There always seems to be money available for them and their programs. Get on an IEP and you are on "easy street". All our education budget is spent on a few students so that when it comes time for programs for the kids who are going to discover the next miracle drug or the new microprocessor that computes at warp speed there is no money left for them.
Those few "special needs" kids represent around twenty percent of our student body, Those cash cows they call IEP's are not called "Special Education Plans" but instead "INDIVIDUAL EDUCATION PLANS". That begs the question "Why isn't everyone on them?". Are we saying, "If you are not on one, you are not an individual"? In effect we are segregating the "Special Needs" population by paying lip service to their rights to be included with the "Normal" kids.
Only when we shift our focus from trying to micromanage particular aspects of every minute detail of every day will see the global aspects of our educational needs. Learning is on a continuum. We need everybody and everybody matters.
This is why I harp over and over again about the need for fully functioning libraries. It's like the old adage about teaching a man to fish, libraries become our "ponds of knowledge". Until we have a respect for learning the process of education can't move forward.
At the recent LSC meeting where a "Student Government Day" was held beforehand one of the students playing the role of an LSC committee person lamented about the nonexistence of a "science fair" and how no students from Lynn were represented in the nearest one (in Lowell I think). How can we expect our students to take their education seriously when our own administration doesn't, preferring the creation of a six-figure Deputy Superintendent's position instead of restoring someone to head up the science curriculum?
By ignoring the more basic needs of our students educational objectives, the short sighted, self interested leadership of a few helps polarize and isolate distinct parts of our student population. Us against them,"Special Needs" against "gifted". Remember, learning is on a continuum and we should have a common goal.
Those few "special needs" kids represent around twenty percent of our student body, Those cash cows they call IEP's are not called "Special Education Plans" but instead "INDIVIDUAL EDUCATION PLANS". That begs the question "Why isn't everyone on them?". Are we saying, "If you are not on one, you are not an individual"? In effect we are segregating the "Special Needs" population by paying lip service to their rights to be included with the "Normal" kids.
Only when we shift our focus from trying to micromanage particular aspects of every minute detail of every day will see the global aspects of our educational needs. Learning is on a continuum. We need everybody and everybody matters.
This is why I harp over and over again about the need for fully functioning libraries. It's like the old adage about teaching a man to fish, libraries become our "ponds of knowledge". Until we have a respect for learning the process of education can't move forward.
At the recent LSC meeting where a "Student Government Day" was held beforehand one of the students playing the role of an LSC committee person lamented about the nonexistence of a "science fair" and how no students from Lynn were represented in the nearest one (in Lowell I think). How can we expect our students to take their education seriously when our own administration doesn't, preferring the creation of a six-figure Deputy Superintendent's position instead of restoring someone to head up the science curriculum?
By ignoring the more basic needs of our students educational objectives, the short sighted, self interested leadership of a few helps polarize and isolate distinct parts of our student population. Us against them,"Special Needs" against "gifted". Remember, learning is on a continuum and we should have a common goal.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Open For Business!
We, parents face an uphill battle fighting the education system. All of the laws,rules, and policies surrounding and pertaining to a student's education can be any parent's nightmare. This is especially true when your child has special needs. Like Alice Cooper used to sing years ago, "Welcome To My Nightmare".
So what is a person to do to help them sleep? What works for me is to help others navigate the currents of the help available. Fresh off of helping to get a parent the help she was entitled to, my BFF (she actually helped the parent write the letter we circulated, all full of legal mumbo jumbo) was reveling in our success, fantasizing about getting some kind of imaginary grant whereby we could actually get paid for helping other parents. Maybe some day dreams can come true.
Until that day, I intend to use the power of poverty to accomplish those goals. So, I encourage ANYONE with school problems to get in touch with me or I dare say my BFF to help them advocate for their educational needs. And remember, everyone's needs are special.
So what is a person to do to help them sleep? What works for me is to help others navigate the currents of the help available. Fresh off of helping to get a parent the help she was entitled to, my BFF (she actually helped the parent write the letter we circulated, all full of legal mumbo jumbo) was reveling in our success, fantasizing about getting some kind of imaginary grant whereby we could actually get paid for helping other parents. Maybe some day dreams can come true.
Until that day, I intend to use the power of poverty to accomplish those goals. So, I encourage ANYONE with school problems to get in touch with me or I dare say my BFF to help them advocate for their educational needs. And remember, everyone's needs are special.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Keeping The Peace
Part of the discussion at the last LSC meeting over concerns about the garden (Farm) was about who is living up to the stipulations of last fall's agreement and just how they are doing it. A hot topic was the "buffer" zone between the garden and adjoining land owners. Just what is a "buffer zone"? It brigs up visions of the DMZ between North and South Korea with brigades of rats and their counterpart homeowners each standing guard on their precious real estate.
Now I heard that The Food Project planned to fill the zone with what covert operatives disguised as harmless flowers. One committee member suspiciously pointed out that they thought a "buffer zone" was devoid of vegetation. After all, those Food Project people would probably dress themselves up in robes and sandals and go down to central square and sell wildflowers to the bus passengers.
Now I heard that The Food Project planned to fill the zone with what covert operatives disguised as harmless flowers. One committee member suspiciously pointed out that they thought a "buffer zone" was devoid of vegetation. After all, those Food Project people would probably dress themselves up in robes and sandals and go down to central square and sell wildflowers to the bus passengers.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
The Writing On The Wall
Does anybody really think I am not going to miss the chance to bring up the chance to bring up our NEED for libraians. As this study clearly points out, early reading is vital for future success. You can pay a little now or pay a lot later. Maybe we could afford librarians if we weren't tied up with lawsuits over secretaries. IEP's, and looking to create new six-figure positions. I'm not even mentioning ASBESTOS removal.
Study: Below-average readers more likely to drop out
Study: Below-average readers more likely to drop out
No Appointment Necessary!
Just returned from a hurriedly assembled meeting with Dr. Latham, Dr. Wary, Sue Howell, Lydia Muggeo, a concerned parent and myself. Early on a secretary came in to take notes of this high level meeting of the minds.
At about 10:15 the parent and I dropped off a letter to Dr. Latham but she was in a conference call so we dropped by Dr. Wary's office and we left our phone numbers. From there we went across town to the SPED building and dropped off copies of the letter (I didn't write it) to Sue Howell and Lydia Muggeo,. They were in meetings too. Everybody was busy. Then at about 11 am I get a call from Dr. Wary's office to ask if we could come to a meeting with US at 11:30.
It all became necessary when this parent felt that LPS was trying to back out of a deal they had committed to on an IEP signed ten days ago. There was a lot lot of talk about numbers and legal issues regarding placement in a particular class and the distinctions between the definition of a one-to-one aide versusu a classroom aide.
School may be on vacation but there still must be buses running because seems like a lot of people took turns throwing each other under them. Dr. Latham claimed ignorance on the specifics because Dr. Wary was handling it. Then I think Sue Howell or maybe Lydia blamed Dr. Crane's taking a vacation for the miscommunication. They were planning on pulling another aide from Coach K's old class that needed two aides since Coach K was fired. The problem came not from the fact that that room still needs two aides without Coach K because it still does (that's just some poor disabled poet's opinion who' neighbors with the class in the library), but from the fact that the second aide no longer exists for whatever reason.
Bottom line, Dr. Latham promised to honor the IEP and make it right for the student who has been victimized, not only from bullies in his old school but also to assure the parent won't be bullied by the administration. I have to say Dr. Latham gave me a firm handshake. I am sure she was just expressing her resolution for making things right. I'm sure my hands weren't permanently damaged. I can still type. I like a good handshake.
Although I was happy with the results of the meeting, I was a little disappointed with the fact that even though all of those people were in the room, nobody mentioned anything to me about scheduling an interview for that open Parent Liaison position.
At about 10:15 the parent and I dropped off a letter to Dr. Latham but she was in a conference call so we dropped by Dr. Wary's office and we left our phone numbers. From there we went across town to the SPED building and dropped off copies of the letter (I didn't write it) to Sue Howell and Lydia Muggeo,. They were in meetings too. Everybody was busy. Then at about 11 am I get a call from Dr. Wary's office to ask if we could come to a meeting with US at 11:30.
It all became necessary when this parent felt that LPS was trying to back out of a deal they had committed to on an IEP signed ten days ago. There was a lot lot of talk about numbers and legal issues regarding placement in a particular class and the distinctions between the definition of a one-to-one aide versusu a classroom aide.
School may be on vacation but there still must be buses running because seems like a lot of people took turns throwing each other under them. Dr. Latham claimed ignorance on the specifics because Dr. Wary was handling it. Then I think Sue Howell or maybe Lydia blamed Dr. Crane's taking a vacation for the miscommunication. They were planning on pulling another aide from Coach K's old class that needed two aides since Coach K was fired. The problem came not from the fact that that room still needs two aides without Coach K because it still does (that's just some poor disabled poet's opinion who' neighbors with the class in the library), but from the fact that the second aide no longer exists for whatever reason.
Bottom line, Dr. Latham promised to honor the IEP and make it right for the student who has been victimized, not only from bullies in his old school but also to assure the parent won't be bullied by the administration. I have to say Dr. Latham gave me a firm handshake. I am sure she was just expressing her resolution for making things right. I'm sure my hands weren't permanently damaged. I can still type. I like a good handshake.
Although I was happy with the results of the meeting, I was a little disappointed with the fact that even though all of those people were in the room, nobody mentioned anything to me about scheduling an interview for that open Parent Liaison position.
Monday, April 18, 2011
It's Planting Season
It's time to put seeds in the ground at Ingalls and here we go again. The actual lease has not been renewed yet with the Food Project. What to do? Will delays put the harvest in jeopardy? Where will the rats get their food? Where will the gangs hang out?
Instead of automatically renewing the lease that was debated last fall (the debate helped put the "Watch" on the map. Gotta love them rats), we have been forced to have an official hearing on the progress that has been made on the stipulations made.
Evidently some people decided to forgo a six foot fence in favor of a four foot high fence with four extra cameras. Since rats can't jump a four foot fence, having the extra the extra cameras wired into the police station provides extra pictures of gang members and bunny rabbits.
This all could have been wrapped up at the last meeting if Coppola hadn't objected to the fact some people (buildings and grounds subcommittee chairman John Ford perhaps?) were playing fast and loose with the open-meeting laws and having private, secret meetings with select individuals.
Instead of automatically renewing the lease that was debated last fall (the debate helped put the "Watch" on the map. Gotta love them rats), we have been forced to have an official hearing on the progress that has been made on the stipulations made.
Evidently some people decided to forgo a six foot fence in favor of a four foot high fence with four extra cameras. Since rats can't jump a four foot fence, having the extra the extra cameras wired into the police station provides extra pictures of gang members and bunny rabbits.
This all could have been wrapped up at the last meeting if Coppola hadn't objected to the fact some people (buildings and grounds subcommittee chairman John Ford perhaps?) were playing fast and loose with the open-meeting laws and having private, secret meetings with select individuals.
There Is No Heartbreak Hill But It Will Do Your Heart Good
Today is the day for the Boston Marathon so the timing is good to let everyone know about an event that Breed Middle School is organizing. On May 14th a 5K run/walk will be held for all family members. The purpose of this event is to encourage healthy lifestyles. I don't recall any sign-up information being given at the LSC meeting so I would call the school for info.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Out Of The Mouths Of ....
Going Green. It's all the rage now and it just makes good economic sense on a lot of levels. Even though students engaged in a mock school committee last Tuesday night, it sure seemed like adults making new policies. They saw the need to implement an extensive recycling program that included cans, bottles, and other potential recyclables. The students showed a concern for the future they are going to have to live in.
Another adult idea they came up with is the plan to devise some sort of way for the students to take some part in the upkeep of the school grounds. Cognizant of the delicate territory of union contracts, they seemed to be ready to work out some mutually acceptable deal. The bright spot was they were ready to step up to the plate and were ready to take some responsibility for how the school looked and its perception.
I heard one student complain about the lack of involvement in academic endeavors citing the fact that Lynn didn't even have an entry in some recent Science fair. Makes me wonder if this fact is due to the fact that the director of the science curriculum was eliminated last year even though we have suddenly come up with the funds to establish a new six-figure Deputy Superintendent's position mid-year.
Hopefully if I get hired for the new temporary "Parent Liaison" position, I'll advocate for the creation of a student liaison person or even committee. Maybe I should actually save all of my good ideas for the interview. They haven't called me yet but the phone lines could be down at Commercial Street.
Another adult idea they came up with is the plan to devise some sort of way for the students to take some part in the upkeep of the school grounds. Cognizant of the delicate territory of union contracts, they seemed to be ready to work out some mutually acceptable deal. The bright spot was they were ready to step up to the plate and were ready to take some responsibility for how the school looked and its perception.
I heard one student complain about the lack of involvement in academic endeavors citing the fact that Lynn didn't even have an entry in some recent Science fair. Makes me wonder if this fact is due to the fact that the director of the science curriculum was eliminated last year even though we have suddenly come up with the funds to establish a new six-figure Deputy Superintendent's position mid-year.
Hopefully if I get hired for the new temporary "Parent Liaison" position, I'll advocate for the creation of a student liaison person or even committee. Maybe I should actually save all of my good ideas for the interview. They haven't called me yet but the phone lines could be down at Commercial Street.
Watch The WATCH Go!
Well I did it. I reached the TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND mark on my impressions counter. Having done this means people are listening to what I have to say, definitely not always agreeing but they are listening. But my ego isn't so big as to believe that is only me they are listening to.
I have had 1049 comments so far. This blog has created a dialogue, serving as an expression of what's going wrong with LPS as well as what's going right. We have come pretty far pretty fast and we're picking up speed. Happy to have you along for the ride.
I have had 1049 comments so far. This blog has created a dialogue, serving as an expression of what's going wrong with LPS as well as what's going right. We have come pretty far pretty fast and we're picking up speed. Happy to have you along for the ride.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
The Art Of Education
Once again I have been out-scooped by the Item. They do have a larger staff than WE(me) do at the "Watch". They have written a fine article, kind of like the article about "student government day", great for somebody's scrapbook. I'm just not sure whether the Item is a newspaper or a public relations arm of LPS? Somebody with more smarts than this poor, disabled poet please tell me.
I went to Lynn Arts today with my two kids to view the exhibit. What a display of talent. LPS has a lot to be proud of. So it makes me wonder why our education administration is so enamored with numbers, looking solely for a digital expression of intelligence. We miss so much.
Real education produces an ability to synthesize knowledge learned into a new and unique creative endeavor. The beauty of the number does not come from the digit itself but from the process of counting,
Talent on parade at Lynn schools art show
I went to Lynn Arts today with my two kids to view the exhibit. What a display of talent. LPS has a lot to be proud of. So it makes me wonder why our education administration is so enamored with numbers, looking solely for a digital expression of intelligence. We miss so much.
Real education produces an ability to synthesize knowledge learned into a new and unique creative endeavor. The beauty of the number does not come from the digit itself but from the process of counting,
Talent on parade at Lynn schools art show
Not Enough Money For What?
I was wondering how LPS doesn't have money for a promised aide for the rest of the year? They have not had to spend as much money as budgeted for transportation for my own son since he has walked most of the year to Pickering? Also are they busing this kid to Washington School now? Cause I know the mother says they live NEAR Ford. Then there is the money they already budgeted for a Parent Liasion that they have left vacant for two years.
A working Parent Liaison would be vital in helping to resolve this situation. Since I am a candidate for this position (Well they haven't actually acknowledged it yet. Do you think I have been public enough expressing my interest?) maybe I am a little biased in stressing the importance of the role. Maybe LPS could paint me as a parent with some agenda if they just did what they said they were going to do and give the kid an aide.
Just wondering what is 1/4 of the year's salary of $182,000? I'm no good at math.
A working Parent Liaison would be vital in helping to resolve this situation. Since I am a candidate for this position (Well they haven't actually acknowledged it yet. Do you think I have been public enough expressing my interest?) maybe I am a little biased in stressing the importance of the role. Maybe LPS could paint me as a parent with some agenda if they just did what they said they were going to do and give the kid an aide.
Just wondering what is 1/4 of the year's salary of $182,000? I'm no good at math.
Friday, April 15, 2011
LPS Works Magic Again
Now You See It, Now You Don't. The student that had trouble at the Washington School who was supposed to be coming to Ford to be placed in a regular class with an aide is not coming. Or at least not to the place agreed to on the IEP. His mother told me that she was told today that there is no money for an aide now (10 days after the IEP was SIGNED and that he is going to placed in a regular behavior class at Ford).
My understanding of how federal law works is that your right to an education has NOTHING to do with money. How can we not have money to properly educate one child when we can afford to create another Deputy at a hefty six figure salary and our current superintendent makes $182,000 a year?
Well I guess that explains it. It takes a lot of money to keep the superintendent in the lifestyle she is accustomed to. There is that money they have saved by leaving the Parent Liaison position open. Uh oh, I better keep quiet on that matter. I wouldn't want to ruin my chances on getting that job.
Maybe if I go to work for them I can get some of their special pens, they write the IEPs in. You know, the ones with disappearing ink.
My understanding of how federal law works is that your right to an education has NOTHING to do with money. How can we not have money to properly educate one child when we can afford to create another Deputy at a hefty six figure salary and our current superintendent makes $182,000 a year?
Well I guess that explains it. It takes a lot of money to keep the superintendent in the lifestyle she is accustomed to. There is that money they have saved by leaving the Parent Liaison position open. Uh oh, I better keep quiet on that matter. I wouldn't want to ruin my chances on getting that job.
Maybe if I go to work for them I can get some of their special pens, they write the IEPs in. You know, the ones with disappearing ink.
I'm Getting Nervous
I'm getting worried. Maybe the administration is having trouble contacting me, I am a busy man and I don't want to miss the opportunity to interview for the Parent Liaison position. LPS would not discriminate against me because I am disabled because hat would bring in the Americans With Disabilities Act. I mean all of those educated professionals know about that law. If for some reason they can't reach me by phone, like I said before I think they probably have Internet access down there. One or two of those administrator types probably has read my blog.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Do You Feel Violated?
There are funny things going on down at the SPED department or in some cases not going on. First, there is my BFF's story about delays in promised transportation for her special needs foster child. The transportation was signed for in her son's IEP. Then when time to be implemented, no one was at the wheel. Suddenly, another person had to sign off on it (Dr. Latham? I don't know for sure, but I think it was said at open mike).
Another parent was telling me yesterday afternoon about her son who was being put back into a classroom at the Washington School where he was taken out of previously where he had been subjected to bullying. I thought LPS had an "anti-bullying policy"? I think there is a link on the LPS web site. Anyway it was decided that her son would be moved to his district school with an aide into a regular elementary class buuuuut it's been a few days, no action has been taken. The kid continues to suffer abuse, violations were made to the IEP before the ink was dry. I sure hope nobody tells the feds.
Another parent was telling me yesterday afternoon about her son who was being put back into a classroom at the Washington School where he was taken out of previously where he had been subjected to bullying. I thought LPS had an "anti-bullying policy"? I think there is a link on the LPS web site. Anyway it was decided that her son would be moved to his district school with an aide into a regular elementary class buuuuut it's been a few days, no action has been taken. The kid continues to suffer abuse, violations were made to the IEP before the ink was dry. I sure hope nobody tells the feds.
Waiting At The Watch!
It's been an exciting few days here at the Watch. There may be hope for the poor, disabled poets of the world. The buildup started when I found out at the LSC meeting from Dr. Latham that they're are planning to fill the Parent Liaison position. Hey, I'm qualified - I'm college educated, I can write a little, I know how government works, and oh yeah - I'M A SPECIAL NEEDS PARENT. I had someone express my interest. I can't wait for the opportunity to interview. You'll be the first to know, I'm a sharing person.
All's Sunny At Ford
Jeremy Reiner, the meteorologist from Channel 7 News, visited Ford School in Lynn on Tuesday. The students were very engaged during Reiner's presentation as he kept them actively involved. "It is extremely beneficial for the students to experience this type of reinforcement in science," said Debi Milkes, 4th grade teacher.
Mock News
I didn't try to scoop the Item on this one. There is plenty of news to go around and I can't cover everything. Have I said before, "I'm just a poor, disabled poet."? So the Item gave some kids a nice article for their scrapbook collection. The only thing was they heard the students talking but weren't listening to what they had to say.
The students passed a mock resolution to reduce the phys. ed requirement down to one year so they could take more AP and Honors courses and debated the expansion of the availability of such classes to underclassmen. All of this was in order to get into more competitive, better schools.
Does anybody else find it sadly ironic that this day a teen suicide prevention presentation was on the agenda for the regular LSC meeting? If anyone doubts the dangers of too much pressure on our kids, they should try and view the documentary "Race To Nowhere" that LSC member Rick Starbard took me to a screening of.
That way maybe the Item won't scoop me on the future obituary of some overstressed student.
Lynn student leaders take over City Hall
The students passed a mock resolution to reduce the phys. ed requirement down to one year so they could take more AP and Honors courses and debated the expansion of the availability of such classes to underclassmen. All of this was in order to get into more competitive, better schools.
Does anybody else find it sadly ironic that this day a teen suicide prevention presentation was on the agenda for the regular LSC meeting? If anyone doubts the dangers of too much pressure on our kids, they should try and view the documentary "Race To Nowhere" that LSC member Rick Starbard took me to a screening of.
That way maybe the Item won't scoop me on the future obituary of some overstressed student.
Lynn student leaders take over City Hall
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Let's Stop The Bleeding From Our Budget
Lynn Public Schools are spending somewhere between eleven and twelve MILLION dollars a year on out of district placements. I heard last night there is an effort to hold down that cost. It is a budget buster.
What I did not hear was what they actually meant by "hold". These out of district placements are federally mandated because of either services we don't provide or expertise we do not have. You cant "hold down" expenses by denying services. We have been down that road, time and again we have lost. Losing is not cheap.
We need to start talking about training we are going to take, programs we are going to develop, and positive steps we are going to take. You can't wish these problems away.
What I did not hear was what they actually meant by "hold". These out of district placements are federally mandated because of either services we don't provide or expertise we do not have. You cant "hold down" expenses by denying services. We have been down that road, time and again we have lost. Losing is not cheap.
We need to start talking about training we are going to take, programs we are going to develop, and positive steps we are going to take. You can't wish these problems away.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Responding From Pressure?
After an encouraging display from our future leaders of some of their innovative ideas about to conduct the business of government (more on that later, I gotta scoop the Item) my BFF was the sole speaker at Open mike. Since she was both first and last in line, no one said anything when she spoke on more than one topic. Shame on you Melissa, you're a bad little girl (I SMELL MULTIPLE POSTINGS).
The first topic she covered is what has become the repeated plea that the position of the vital Parent Liaison be filled. Really Melissa, I know you are my BFF and all but it is really getting annoying that you keep reminding them that they are doing a disservice to the parents. Do you actually think they have time to care? I mean do you know how much of a time commitment it takes to study the futures market? That's stock futures and not our kids futures.
No comment from Dr. Latham, the mayor, or anybody sitting at the tables with water pitchers. Then everybody went about the business of the regular LSC meeting. The meeting closed with the superintendent's report, Before the mayor brought the meeting to a close with the pounding of the gavel, Donna Coppola addressed Dr. Latham asking about the status of the parent Liaison position. Dr. Latham responded that while we can't "hire" a new one yet because the position is still technically occupied since the person is out on medical leave, there has been some movement on the matter. I think I heard something about an interview and filling the position temporarily next week. But I'm getting older you know, more disabled all the time and who knows my hearing could be going. Anyway I hope they do fill it soon, that way Melissa could complain about something else.
The first topic she covered is what has become the repeated plea that the position of the vital Parent Liaison be filled. Really Melissa, I know you are my BFF and all but it is really getting annoying that you keep reminding them that they are doing a disservice to the parents. Do you actually think they have time to care? I mean do you know how much of a time commitment it takes to study the futures market? That's stock futures and not our kids futures.
No comment from Dr. Latham, the mayor, or anybody sitting at the tables with water pitchers. Then everybody went about the business of the regular LSC meeting. The meeting closed with the superintendent's report, Before the mayor brought the meeting to a close with the pounding of the gavel, Donna Coppola addressed Dr. Latham asking about the status of the parent Liaison position. Dr. Latham responded that while we can't "hire" a new one yet because the position is still technically occupied since the person is out on medical leave, there has been some movement on the matter. I think I heard something about an interview and filling the position temporarily next week. But I'm getting older you know, more disabled all the time and who knows my hearing could be going. Anyway I hope they do fill it soon, that way Melissa could complain about something else.
Dollars And Sense
To be totally fair I don't begrudge Drs. Latham and Wary their high salaries. Lynn is the fifth largest school district in the state and has some pretty unique problems. Salaries should reflect the task. Good pay for a job well done.
But then you have to ask yourself, "How do you define "Well done". I imagine our district has to be near the top at producing failing schools. That is a distinction we could do without. The two of them along with their secretaries account for nearly half a million dollars a year. And don't forget (as if I would let you) Dr. Latham succesfully convinced 5 members of the LSC to add another Deputy position. So adding in the secretary that would come with the position, we are talking probably near another $200,000 a year.
Take a look at LPS's bulging payroll. Are we getting our money's worth?
But then you have to ask yourself, "How do you define "Well done". I imagine our district has to be near the top at producing failing schools. That is a distinction we could do without. The two of them along with their secretaries account for nearly half a million dollars a year. And don't forget (as if I would let you) Dr. Latham succesfully convinced 5 members of the LSC to add another Deputy position. So adding in the secretary that would come with the position, we are talking probably near another $200,000 a year.
Take a look at LPS's bulging payroll. Are we getting our money's worth?
Monday, April 11, 2011
Camera Shy
What's wrong with this picture? Over 90% of our students are on free or reduced lunch and our superintendent of schools tops the salary list of city employees at $182,670. Well you could argue that the size of the salary is commensurate with a "job well done". Only I'm not sure it is well done. I mean we have two schools that are at Level 4 Connery and Harrington.
Even after lots of meetings with parents, educators and administrators over months to come up with a viable Turnaround Plan for each school, we failed to achieve success in coming up with an acceptable plan for Connery. Since we "flunked out" at devising an acceptable plan for Connery we were sent back into remediation until we learn our lesson. In the meantime we miss out on all those dollars set aside to fix our problems. Then from the rumblings I hear, three other schools, Marshall, Breed, and Lynn Tech are set to become Level 4 this summer. All but 3 of Lynn's 26 schools failed to make AYP. Does this sound like we are getting our money's worth?
Between Dr. Latham and Dr. Wary, we are spending over $320,000 a year for these results. That doesn't even take into account the $100,000 spent for Confidential Secretaries for them. Because they are so proficient at leading our educational system, we have been asked to bring another into their seclusive little club. That person would undoubtedly make well over $125,000. I guess it's not easy to fail. Five of our seven school committee members must have felt their pain because only Coppola and Starbard voted AGAINST creation of a new Deputy position.
Latham and Wary complain about the long hours they put in but at their salaries it's no wonder the school system can't afford a time clock. What do I know, I'm just a poor disabled poet. Maybe I should have studied math in college. That way I would have learned more abut "differential equations" so could understand the "difference" between last year and this year and why Dr. Latham's salary had to increase somewhere near $20,000.
With all due respect to Charlie Sheen, "Losing" seems to pay pretty well.
School Super Latham tops on Lynn’s payroll
Even after lots of meetings with parents, educators and administrators over months to come up with a viable Turnaround Plan for each school, we failed to achieve success in coming up with an acceptable plan for Connery. Since we "flunked out" at devising an acceptable plan for Connery we were sent back into remediation until we learn our lesson. In the meantime we miss out on all those dollars set aside to fix our problems. Then from the rumblings I hear, three other schools, Marshall, Breed, and Lynn Tech are set to become Level 4 this summer. All but 3 of Lynn's 26 schools failed to make AYP. Does this sound like we are getting our money's worth?
Between Dr. Latham and Dr. Wary, we are spending over $320,000 a year for these results. That doesn't even take into account the $100,000 spent for Confidential Secretaries for them. Because they are so proficient at leading our educational system, we have been asked to bring another into their seclusive little club. That person would undoubtedly make well over $125,000. I guess it's not easy to fail. Five of our seven school committee members must have felt their pain because only Coppola and Starbard voted AGAINST creation of a new Deputy position.
Latham and Wary complain about the long hours they put in but at their salaries it's no wonder the school system can't afford a time clock. What do I know, I'm just a poor disabled poet. Maybe I should have studied math in college. That way I would have learned more abut "differential equations" so could understand the "difference" between last year and this year and why Dr. Latham's salary had to increase somewhere near $20,000.
With all due respect to Charlie Sheen, "Losing" seems to pay pretty well.
School Super Latham tops on Lynn’s payroll
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Marshall Parents Organizing
I get a call this afternoon from Dr. Cowdell, principal at Marshall, inviting me to a parent's organizational meeting at the school tomorrow night. I feel pretty special, the popularity of this blog thing must be getting around. Important people are calling and requesting my presence. Heck, maybe I am an important person.
My ego quickly deflated though when I realized the call wasn't directed to me personally but instead was one of those robocalls sent to everyone by virtue of being a parent. Well they probably won't serve refreshments anyway.
Unfortunately I can't go, I have two previous appointments. I hope there is a way I can get up to speed on what I miss. Being a parent, even a poor, disabled one is a full time job.
My ego quickly deflated though when I realized the call wasn't directed to me personally but instead was one of those robocalls sent to everyone by virtue of being a parent. Well they probably won't serve refreshments anyway.
Unfortunately I can't go, I have two previous appointments. I hope there is a way I can get up to speed on what I miss. Being a parent, even a poor, disabled one is a full time job.
No Roster Changes On This Team
Evidently Lynn Public Schools had no personnel changes last month or at least none that they or at least none they want us to know about. We are getting close to the end of the year maybe our personnel situation is finally stable.
It's just in the past they had pages of personnel changes on the agenda. There is no mention of the Deputy Superintendent's position that they approved the creation of after the Personnel Sub-committee was supposed to tinker with the job posting. We were lead to believe it to be an essential position. I guess we can fail fine without adding another six figured salaried position.
It's just in the past they had pages of personnel changes on the agenda. There is no mention of the Deputy Superintendent's position that they approved the creation of after the Personnel Sub-committee was supposed to tinker with the job posting. We were lead to believe it to be an essential position. I guess we can fail fine without adding another six figured salaried position.
Asbestos Cover?
I was checking the Lynn Public Schools web site this morning to look at the agenda for Tue. night's upcoming school committee meeting and look what I found, http://www.lynnschools.org/Borque%20AHERA%20Plan.htm.
It's good to see Mr. Borque on top of a policy that was put into place last century. I am sure the posting had nothing to do with the recent revelation of the fact that Lynn Public Schools and the Inspectional Services Department contracted with a firm that was unlicensed for asbestos removal. Cause on a purely casual read of the Memo it looks to me that the policy and what actually happened don't jive. Mr. Borque must sleep well at night with the strong reassurance given by Mr. Donovan from the Inspectional Services Department, "It's done".
Being just a poor, disabled poet, I don't see where putting that memo out there gives much cover for accepting responsibility for the potential liabilities of this oversight. Still, it might help some people sleep better while others have nightmares while living with the potential consequences of an ill-fated decision.
It's good to see Mr. Borque on top of a policy that was put into place last century. I am sure the posting had nothing to do with the recent revelation of the fact that Lynn Public Schools and the Inspectional Services Department contracted with a firm that was unlicensed for asbestos removal. Cause on a purely casual read of the Memo it looks to me that the policy and what actually happened don't jive. Mr. Borque must sleep well at night with the strong reassurance given by Mr. Donovan from the Inspectional Services Department, "It's done".
Being just a poor, disabled poet, I don't see where putting that memo out there gives much cover for accepting responsibility for the potential liabilities of this oversight. Still, it might help some people sleep better while others have nightmares while living with the potential consequences of an ill-fated decision.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Look Out For A New Outlook
It's good to see Marshall Middle School being used to provide a place for positive things to happen in the lives of our youth. There are too many stories of drugs, fights, and academic failure. Shifting the focus doesn't make he problems go away but sometimes with anew perspective one can see glimmers of hope.
Lynn middle school program 'provides structure' for students
Lynn middle school program 'provides structure' for students
Friday, April 8, 2011
DOA on the IEP
ACCOMMODATIONS. Its all about how we take the test, not whether we take it. I hear things, many people say they either don't get them or are asked to give them up. The reason being they are too expensive to implement. That is because those accommodations that are not technology related are labor intensive. People cost more than computer programs.
As I told you in an earlier post, GET THE ADAPTIONS IN THE IEP's, then you have someone specific to blame if these accommodations are not followed. That person is the principal. Ultimately it is the principals responsibility so blame them if you have to.
As I told you in an earlier post, GET THE ADAPTIONS IN THE IEP's, then you have someone specific to blame if these accommodations are not followed. That person is the principal. Ultimately it is the principals responsibility so blame them if you have to.
Lynn Crew In Custody?
Last night LSC member Rick Starbard, his lovely wife Lois, my BFF, and I spent a couple of emotional hours with the Arlington Police Department. No, we weren't being held for crimes against education but we got to witness it. The Arlington PD sponsored a screening of the movie "Race To Nowhere" which served as a virtual lineup of victims and villains that perpetuate our current "test-driven, no holds barred" education system.
There was a good crowd for the movie and a large percentage of them remained in their seats afterward to listen and participate in a panel discussion. It was very INFORMATIVE and Rick talked about trying to see if there could be a showing in Lynn. I'm all for that but maybe I would rename it to "Attack Of The Math People" or "Drowning In Data".
I took away from that movie the idea that we have to redefine what "success" is. Kids need time to be kids. Too much pressure often blows up in our face.
There was a good crowd for the movie and a large percentage of them remained in their seats afterward to listen and participate in a panel discussion. It was very INFORMATIVE and Rick talked about trying to see if there could be a showing in Lynn. I'm all for that but maybe I would rename it to "Attack Of The Math People" or "Drowning In Data".
I took away from that movie the idea that we have to redefine what "success" is. Kids need time to be kids. Too much pressure often blows up in our face.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Struggling Lynn schools aim literacy program at parents
I am glad LPS has taken such a strong public view about the value of reading. It truly permeates throughout the curriculum. Since they are testifying about importance of parents being able to read how does that reconcile with the fact that we closed down all the elementary libraries. I'm sorry, not ALL are closed. The two Level 4 schools have fully staffed, functioning libraries.
Are we saying that it is important for parents to read but not so for their kids? The speaker at the PAC meeting Mon. who was explaining the MCAS said something very succinct and eloquent' Nothing is more special than after reading to your child every night than to have them read back to you".
Struggling Lynn schools aim literacy program at parents
Are we saying that it is important for parents to read but not so for their kids? The speaker at the PAC meeting Mon. who was explaining the MCAS said something very succinct and eloquent' Nothing is more special than after reading to your child every night than to have them read back to you".
Struggling Lynn schools aim literacy program at parents
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Testing Trivia
NOBODY GETS A FREE PASS. Massachusetts state law says everybody has to take the dreaded MCAS. Every individuals score factors into the number that the statistical gurus use to rank the school.
There are 3 different ways to take the test: 1) regular pencil and paper test, 2). regular pencil and paper test with standard accommodations (there is a list out there that defines what "standard" is and most people fall in these two categories), and a MCAS-Alt for nonstandard accommodations.
It is important if your child needs accommodations that they be WRITTEN INTO THE IEP so they can be given at test time. In order to insure the vaunted statistical accuracy of these test, standardization must be maintained. No surprises.
Like them or not, this is the world we live in so until the winds of change blow through the ears of our educational leaders: Forewarned is forearmed.
There are 3 different ways to take the test: 1) regular pencil and paper test, 2). regular pencil and paper test with standard accommodations (there is a list out there that defines what "standard" is and most people fall in these two categories), and a MCAS-Alt for nonstandard accommodations.
It is important if your child needs accommodations that they be WRITTEN INTO THE IEP so they can be given at test time. In order to insure the vaunted statistical accuracy of these test, standardization must be maintained. No surprises.
Like them or not, this is the world we live in so until the winds of change blow through the ears of our educational leaders: Forewarned is forearmed.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Where's The Money?
Since 23 of the 26 Lynn Schools have bad enough AYP scores their students qualify for Supplemental tutoring. To actually receive the tutoring the child's family income has to fall below a certain criteria. This is one of those times it appears to pay to be poor.
However poor kids aren't the only ones doing poor on the MCAS. Last night at the PAC meeting I listened to a parent tell about how she has to shell out $300 a week for private tutoring. This is insane, we are punishing the kid for their parents doing well. Some would rightfully argue that it is the parents that are really getting punished. What kind of message is this sending?
We are promoting failure in our throughout all our education system. When our schools fail then we get libraries, librarians, and the need for a new Deputy Superintendent who becomes a part of ever-expanding layers of administration.
Back to the tutoring. My understanding is that if enough kids in a school are from low income families then the school qualifies for Title 1 money. This money in turn pays for tutoring for kids of those families. Like I said it pays to be poor in that respect. But what I also heard discussed at that meeting is that they are supposed to set aside a certain percentage of that Title 1 money based on some predetermined formula to pay for some "needs based" tutoring for non income qualified tutoring if the parent gets in all he required paperwork. Doubts were raised about whether this was happening. If not could somebody please explain why? What's happening to the money that was supposed to be earmarked for that? There are a lot of questions surrounding all of this Title 1 money. I just think it would be good to see a full public accounting of it.
However poor kids aren't the only ones doing poor on the MCAS. Last night at the PAC meeting I listened to a parent tell about how she has to shell out $300 a week for private tutoring. This is insane, we are punishing the kid for their parents doing well. Some would rightfully argue that it is the parents that are really getting punished. What kind of message is this sending?
We are promoting failure in our throughout all our education system. When our schools fail then we get libraries, librarians, and the need for a new Deputy Superintendent who becomes a part of ever-expanding layers of administration.
Back to the tutoring. My understanding is that if enough kids in a school are from low income families then the school qualifies for Title 1 money. This money in turn pays for tutoring for kids of those families. Like I said it pays to be poor in that respect. But what I also heard discussed at that meeting is that they are supposed to set aside a certain percentage of that Title 1 money based on some predetermined formula to pay for some "needs based" tutoring for non income qualified tutoring if the parent gets in all he required paperwork. Doubts were raised about whether this was happening. If not could somebody please explain why? What's happening to the money that was supposed to be earmarked for that? There are a lot of questions surrounding all of this Title 1 money. I just think it would be good to see a full public accounting of it.
Don't Believe Everything You Hear!
That is of course, unless you hear it from the "Watch". I don't make mistakes unless you count that one about thinking Kevin McHugh wasn't a former Lowell School Committee nenber (I just thought he was only looking for a better job). Marshall Middle School has a reputation out there of being a "bad" school. Thatrep is somewhat deserved. They are on the doorstep of falling into a Level 4 school if they aren't already there. People play shell games with statistics so it all depends on who you ask.
"Hats Off" to Dr. Cowdell and the other people responsible for putting this program together. It is an innovative way to put a little vigor into our education system.
Don't call me a "sell-out", I still strongly disagree on the value placed on MCAS and I think that even this little way is just another way to "teach the test". But who's going to argue with pizza!
Lynn students attend 'boot camp' to boost MCAS math scores
"Hats Off" to Dr. Cowdell and the other people responsible for putting this program together. It is an innovative way to put a little vigor into our education system.
Don't call me a "sell-out", I still strongly disagree on the value placed on MCAS and I think that even this little way is just another way to "teach the test". But who's going to argue with pizza!
Lynn students attend 'boot camp' to boost MCAS math scores
Who's Who And Who's Where?
The SPED department were represented at last night's PAC meeting by Jessica and Lydia. Rick Starbard from the LSC was also there. No other LSC members or even candidates were there, which was unfortunate because a fine presentation was given about the dreaded MCAS and how it pertains to the special needs students. Perhaps the dreary weather kept the "good times" from rolling. It's election time and do you know where your candidate is?
Monday, April 4, 2011
Teacher Testing?
Accountability, that's what I'm talking about. Blame those lazy, unionized teachers for ALL our problems. Once we FIRE a few of them our educational dilemma will be solved. Never mind they are dealing with a transient population with varying skill levels to start with. Don't worry, once size fits all no mtter what language the label is in.
I think we need to turn our education system inside out and start supporting the STUDENTS and look for innovative ways and sometimes even traditional ways to get the message across that education is a GOOD thing. We need to invigorate our classrooms providing a much needed spark to learning. Not to beat a DEAD horse, but it all starts with reading. Where do you look for something to read? The library, that's where they keep the books.
Instead of returning our old librarians to their proper place we had added a Deputy Superintendent's position a six figures. To be honest we have a lot of Level 3 and Level 4 school's and somebody's got to keep track of just how bad we are failing. There might be more money out there to turn us around. (Oh yeah our Turnaround Plan for Connery FAILED).
What have we got for our eight million dollars for our two biggest grants this year. ? Well we got somebody to oversee how we spend our RACE TO THE TOP money but so far it looks like a race to no where. All we're getting is more ways to bind up our educators. Like somebody said, "Let My People Go". Let's get back to teaching our kids.
Teacher rating plan draws fire in Lynn, Revere
I think we need to turn our education system inside out and start supporting the STUDENTS and look for innovative ways and sometimes even traditional ways to get the message across that education is a GOOD thing. We need to invigorate our classrooms providing a much needed spark to learning. Not to beat a DEAD horse, but it all starts with reading. Where do you look for something to read? The library, that's where they keep the books.
Instead of returning our old librarians to their proper place we had added a Deputy Superintendent's position a six figures. To be honest we have a lot of Level 3 and Level 4 school's and somebody's got to keep track of just how bad we are failing. There might be more money out there to turn us around. (Oh yeah our Turnaround Plan for Connery FAILED).
What have we got for our eight million dollars for our two biggest grants this year. ? Well we got somebody to oversee how we spend our RACE TO THE TOP money but so far it looks like a race to no where. All we're getting is more ways to bind up our educators. Like somebody said, "Let My People Go". Let's get back to teaching our kids.
Teacher rating plan draws fire in Lynn, Revere
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Lynn's Got Talent!
Joe Picano, Fine Arts Director set Dr. Latham a letter or e mail back on March 9th (my birthday if you want to mark your calenders) with two items of good news. First LPS had its fist Middle School Student accepted into the MMENC district orchestra. Quite an honor for that student and his or her school. I'd love to tell you who and what school but that info was not given. I don't believe even that crack investigative journalism team at the Item uncovered it. In fact, did they mention it at all? I credit them whenever I use them. Do they ever credit the "Watch". I believe there was the Deputy and Asbestos stories just recently that appeared here FIRST. I know, I'm just a poor, disabled poet.
Also unbeknownst to most MA voters Congressman Tierney was promoted to Senator Tierney (that electoral college stuff is so confusing). His office recently sponsored a juried Arts competition at Montserrat College Ext in Beverly. Students from both Classical and English competed.. (Source: LSC published agenda for 3/24/11)
Also unbeknownst to most MA voters Congressman Tierney was promoted to Senator Tierney (that electoral college stuff is so confusing). His office recently sponsored a juried Arts competition at Montserrat College Ext in Beverly. Students from both Classical and English competed.. (Source: LSC published agenda for 3/24/11)
A Classical View
This a great story illustrating a successful and important partnership with the schools and the business community. These Classical students are learning the power of the media to disseminate information that is important to them and to try others that that same information should be important to everyone. Kind of like we do here a the "Watch".
Just as a sidebar, I believe Pickering Middle School was doing the same thing last fall but ran into technical difficulties. The "Watch" tried to hook them up with Lynn's own media guru, Seth, but I never heard if they called him back.
Classical students produce daily newscast
Just as a sidebar, I believe Pickering Middle School was doing the same thing last fall but ran into technical difficulties. The "Watch" tried to hook them up with Lynn's own media guru, Seth, but I never heard if they called him back.
Classical students produce daily newscast
Saturday, April 2, 2011
The "Watch" Was Wrong!
A reader was right and I was wrong. I didn't think our devoted Business Manager, Kevin McHugh, was a former member of the Lowell School Committee, I just thought he had his eye on another job. As this site clearly states the "not so clear "state of politics in Lowell.
How does all of this affect his focus on and dedication to fixing all the failing schools in Lynn?
"Another Baehr supporter, Kevin McHugh, failed to win re-election after ten years on the committee."
http://www.valleypatriot.com/
How does all of this affect his focus on and dedication to fixing all the failing schools in Lynn?
"Another Baehr supporter, Kevin McHugh, failed to win re-election after ten years on the committee."
http://www.valleypatriot.com/
Back At PAC
Well it's that time again. Looks like this Mon. night is the first Monday of the month and that means a PAC meeting at 7 pm at the Lynn Housing Authority on 10 Church Street. I plan to be there, that is if my BFF can give me a ride.
I like to listen and talk to people, It informs me, teaches me, and let's not forget gives me something to write about. It will be interesting to see if the SPED people are back from the dog house where they got spanked for not attending the last PAC meeting.
Well smack my knuckles with a ruler, I forgot we don't use no corporeal punishment. They should be back from a "time-out" in the superintendent's office. I bet it's getting pretty crowded in there and that's why we need a new deputy.
I like to listen and talk to people, It informs me, teaches me, and let's not forget gives me something to write about. It will be interesting to see if the SPED people are back from the dog house where they got spanked for not attending the last PAC meeting.
Well smack my knuckles with a ruler, I forgot we don't use no corporeal punishment. They should be back from a "time-out" in the superintendent's office. I bet it's getting pretty crowded in there and that's why we need a new deputy.
Is It Any Wonder?
Look at the news lately around the students attending Lynn Public Schools The latest was a kid with a hypodermic. A student hit a teacher at Tech. Drugs were found at Marshall, the same day that a student was arrested in conjunction with a vandalism incident at Tech. Another student punch an assistant principal at English. Earlier in the year, teachers were posted on the corners on the pathways to Marshall to maintain order and prevent fights.
Pretty sad. What's wrong, who's to blame? Is it just that we had bad kids, rotten apples? Maybe, but let's try looking at an alternative explanation. Everyone would agree, you go to school to learn. The questions then become what are you learning and who is doing the teaching.
Well let's see. We have left the vital position of Parent Liaison unfilled for nearly two years. We fired an experienced Special Ed.. teacher. The person responsible for devising and implementing our anti-bullying policy has put his house up for sale and is rumored to be moving to Georgetown. We created a six-figure Deputy Superintendent's position, Our business manager is rumored to be looking for greener pastures in Lowell.
How can we expect our kids to maintain order when our school department is in such disorder. Stability is needed to establish security. Do you see any order here? Should we be surprised at our kid's behavior? I'm just saying.
Pretty sad. What's wrong, who's to blame? Is it just that we had bad kids, rotten apples? Maybe, but let's try looking at an alternative explanation. Everyone would agree, you go to school to learn. The questions then become what are you learning and who is doing the teaching.
Well let's see. We have left the vital position of Parent Liaison unfilled for nearly two years. We fired an experienced Special Ed.. teacher. The person responsible for devising and implementing our anti-bullying policy has put his house up for sale and is rumored to be moving to Georgetown. We created a six-figure Deputy Superintendent's position, Our business manager is rumored to be looking for greener pastures in Lowell.
How can we expect our kids to maintain order when our school department is in such disorder. Stability is needed to establish security. Do you see any order here? Should we be surprised at our kid's behavior? I'm just saying.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Say It Ain't So Kevin!
Looks like I am not the only blogger out there keeping an eye on their local school committee.Some other mad genius is out there holding the Lowell SC member's feet to the fire. I was perusing the competition and look what I found at
http://gerrynutterslowell.com/2011/03/27/sunday-notes-march-27th-2011/
A busy Sunday Sun Political column with the lead story speculating that if Jay Lang gets the Supt. job he could hire former Lowell School Committee member Kevin McHugh (who is currently the Business Manager for the Lynn Public Schools) to fill his former role as Asst. Supt. for finance.
People can write anything in these rags. I'm sure Mr. McHugh's loyalties are unwavering. Just wondering, unwavering to whom?
http://gerrynutterslowell.com/2011/03/27/sunday-notes-march-27th-2011/
A busy Sunday Sun Political column with the lead story speculating that if Jay Lang gets the Supt. job he could hire former Lowell School Committee member Kevin McHugh (who is currently the Business Manager for the Lynn Public Schools) to fill his former role as Asst. Supt. for finance.
People can write anything in these rags. I'm sure Mr. McHugh's loyalties are unwavering. Just wondering, unwavering to whom?
It Ain't No Joke!
The "Watch" may have to shut down. Why you may ask? Is it because a few people don't like what I'm talking about? Well I have pretty thick skin. I have been mistaken for being drunk, on drugs, or being mentally retarded. I have experience prejudice and discrimination for the nearly thirty years since my automobile accident that lead to my brain damage. Throughout my working career I have worked on the front lines of social service provision witnessing a wide variety of adverse behavior.
Could it be that I am finally intimidated by the allegedly superior intellects? All of those credentials can be overpowering to a little ole country boy. When you are served up information from a menu full of the alphabet soup of varying degrees it can be very intimidating. But I've done things in my life, I've met people, important people. Not that superintendents aren't important but they are not U.S. senators.
Well then it must be because of my worsening health? It could be, I'm not able to get around like I used to. Probably not, because I've had a history of overcoming obstacles related to my health. Nothing can be as bad or humiliating as when you're nineteen years old and you have your Mom wipe your bum.
So I'm battle tested. What then could put the continuation of the "Watch" in jeopardy? Well I'm not sure they have Internet access at the homeless shelter. Blogging is fun but it don't pay that well. In fact for me, it doesn't pay at all. There is not much a market for poor disabled poets.
Could it be that I am finally intimidated by the allegedly superior intellects? All of those credentials can be overpowering to a little ole country boy. When you are served up information from a menu full of the alphabet soup of varying degrees it can be very intimidating. But I've done things in my life, I've met people, important people. Not that superintendents aren't important but they are not U.S. senators.
Well then it must be because of my worsening health? It could be, I'm not able to get around like I used to. Probably not, because I've had a history of overcoming obstacles related to my health. Nothing can be as bad or humiliating as when you're nineteen years old and you have your Mom wipe your bum.
So I'm battle tested. What then could put the continuation of the "Watch" in jeopardy? Well I'm not sure they have Internet access at the homeless shelter. Blogging is fun but it don't pay that well. In fact for me, it doesn't pay at all. There is not much a market for poor disabled poets.
Who's The Fools Now?
I got information from my confidential BFF deep from the bowels of PAC that they received a call from someone in the SPED department about missing the last meeting. They didn't they were expected at every meeting. Seriously?
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Recipe For Kool-aid Revealed
My last blog entry about KIPP has angered my BFF for revealing how they mix the Kool-aid. (Making people angry is what I do best - remember 4 wives) Don't get me wrong, I like the wrap around concept of charter schools. My problem is what I have previously stated - the funding mechanism .
Our Savior's Sad Song
So KIPP's vaunted success is all about how you define "success". Can anybody say "statistical manipulation"?
http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/03/31/27kipp_ep.h30.html?tkn=XQPFx%2FM2fyLmh1AhzEKg0PYNIqV0SkZ1DeSj&cmp=clp-edweek
http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2011/03/31/27kipp_ep.h30.html?tkn=XQPFx%2FM2fyLmh1AhzEKg0PYNIqV0SkZ1DeSj&cmp=clp-edweek
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Is A Little Bit Good For The Soul?
When asked if the failure to ask Harder and Rosati to supply a license was an oversight, Donovan said simply, “It’s done now.”
That quote came from yesterday's Item. I hope that the parents of the kids who may have been exposed to this known carcinogen can take comfort in that air of finality. What about the teachers, custodians, and other school personnel that were victims of this exposure?
We are supposed to overlook this oversight because it was only a few small jobs. How small is your child's health? Our airwaves are polluted with advertisements from lawyers making a living on some of these small "exposures". It seems to me, our response is not to respond. Are you satisfied with this?
That quote came from yesterday's Item. I hope that the parents of the kids who may have been exposed to this known carcinogen can take comfort in that air of finality. What about the teachers, custodians, and other school personnel that were victims of this exposure?
We are supposed to overlook this oversight because it was only a few small jobs. How small is your child's health? Our airwaves are polluted with advertisements from lawyers making a living on some of these small "exposures". It seems to me, our response is not to respond. Are you satisfied with this?
Keep Following
I believe readers of the "Watch" knew about this yesterday afternoon. But a least this story doesn't have the same poor quality of typing as mine. I can't afford a copy editor. Actually I can't afford any staff. I'm lucky to keep the lights on. Marblehead schools' effort pleases Patrick
What Does It All Mean?
Now that the Confidential Secretay has won her suit what direction is LPS going. When you add her back pay with benefits to her salary going forward and all the legal fees surrounding this case that has to be a drain on school finances. All because peoplewouldn't come to the table. Too much testosterone. Who suffers, our kids. Do they think we can still afford a new Deputy Superintendent position?
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
BREAKING NEWS - Confidenial Goes Public
I hear that Civil Service ruled that LPS must put the Confidential Secretary they laid off and refused to allow her to use her seniority in her position. This could be costly to LPS and uncomfortable for Dr. Lattham and her administraion. More details as they come avaiable.
Classes In Chaos
This story is another example of the tail "wagging the dog" when it comes to controlling classroom behavior. I don't know any of the people involved or the specific situation. I do know there is a lot of discontent with the Special Ed. administration and the lack of appropriate testing. The wrong diagnosis may puts a kid in the wrong place, frustration naturally builds and viola you have a recipe for problems. One hand doesn't know what the other one is doing. That's why SPED should be in the same building as the rest of the school department. Maybe then we wouldn't have to wonder why there is no comment. Lynn special needs student bites teacher
Governor Patrick Talks With Ford Students
Just got back from a meeting with the GOVERNOR. Okay he didn't actually come to see me personally but I got to shake his hand. The focus of the attention was on the students.Gov. Patrick came to Hillel Academy to observe a vital partnership between Hillel Academy and Lynn that goes back over twenty years.
This particular part where seventh and eighth grade Hillel students tutor third and fourth grade Ford students in math which has shown improvements in Math MCAS scores. I mentioned to Governor Patrick he should recruit some of these students to help balance the budget.
The meeting ended with students sharing ice cream sundaes. One little girl from Ford mentioned she shook the governors hand and was never washing it again. Well I'm going to wash mine.
Also present were Congressman Tierney and Representative Erlich (who reminded me we are Facebook friends), I urged her to check out today's Item about the ASBESTOS story. Maybe I'll make sure she gets a copy.
This particular part where seventh and eighth grade Hillel students tutor third and fourth grade Ford students in math which has shown improvements in Math MCAS scores. I mentioned to Governor Patrick he should recruit some of these students to help balance the budget.
The meeting ended with students sharing ice cream sundaes. One little girl from Ford mentioned she shook the governors hand and was never washing it again. Well I'm going to wash mine.
Also present were Congressman Tierney and Representative Erlich (who reminded me we are Facebook friends), I urged her to check out today's Item about the ASBESTOS story. Maybe I'll make sure she gets a copy.
Follow My Lead1
I WONDER WHERE YOU HEARD THIS THE "WATCH" BEFORE! THE "WATCH" IS LOOKING OUT FOR ALL LYNN'S CHILDREN.
Indicted asbestos co. worked in Lynn
Indicted asbestos co. worked in Lynn
Trying To Uncover The Asbestos
I went to a Highland Coalition meeting last night an in attendence was LSC member Maria Carrasco and oh yeah that Delores lady (I'll have to listen to her gripe if I don't mention her name). I approached Maria and verbally and directly asked her to check into the ASBESTOS fiasco.
She correctly reminded me that she tried to get annual testing donr for mold and was told there is no money. Maybe there is no money, but SEE NO EVIL, HEAR NO EVIL.
I guess I accidentally signed Delores's and Maria's campaign papers. I really thought I was registering for a door prize.
RICK STARBARD has said he already has an e mail into Dr. Latham and will let everyone know the result. Good, I am waiting.
She correctly reminded me that she tried to get annual testing donr for mold and was told there is no money. Maybe there is no money, but SEE NO EVIL, HEAR NO EVIL.
I guess I accidentally signed Delores's and Maria's campaign papers. I really thought I was registering for a door prize.
RICK STARBARD has said he already has an e mail into Dr. Latham and will let everyone know the result. Good, I am waiting.
Monday, March 28, 2011
How Safe Are Your Kids At School?
In addition to the last letter I published about the alledged handing of ASBESTOS in our school buildings, at the LSC meeting Thursday night, a couple other areas of concern were raised. LSC member Maria Carrasco asked about the annual testing of all our schools for mold given the recent tests for Bioaerosols (mold) at Ford (we were told it was free of contaminants) given the age of our OLD school buildings. She was told that would be cost prohibitive.
When Rick Starbard pointed out that having to spend $100,000 to repair old portables would be like trying to repair a "TOTALED" car, he was told, "We just can't afford new ones.". Good money after bad? Who do you trust? What school does the people's kids giving the answers go to? We deserve answers that are truthful.
When Rick Starbard pointed out that having to spend $100,000 to repair old portables would be like trying to repair a "TOTALED" car, he was told, "We just can't afford new ones.". Good money after bad? Who do you trust? What school does the people's kids giving the answers go to? We deserve answers that are truthful.
Sunday, March 27, 2011
A Scoop Of Dirt Helps The Bad Medicine Go Down
Below is a copy of a "Letter To The Editor" the Item chose not to run. I am printing it. While I can not attest to the truth or validity of these claims, they are easy enough to verify with a few phone calls to the people listed in the letter. I trust the source but what do I know, I m just a poor, disabled poet. Here you go!
Dear Editor:
As I was reading Saturday, March 19, 2011 Item I noticed something peculiar. On page 2 there was an article related to someone getting indicted for their 5th DUI. In the same article a contractor AEI Environmental LLC of Lynnfield was indicted for violating the solid wastes act and the clean air act. AEI Environmental performed work at both Lynn Woods School and Marshall Middle School. With AEI Environmental LLC already indicted can Mike Donovan and his gang of supervisors at ISD be far behind?
Here’s what they are not telling you. A grand jury is investigating the City of Lynn’s ISD department concerning how asbestos was illegally removed from our schools under the direction of ISD supervisors and disposed of in an improper manner. Numerous workers and ISD supervisors have already been subpoenaed to testify.
Although the Item has already reported about the illegal removal of asbestos tiles from the Cobbet/ Fectu/Leary School building maybe the Item should investigate what really happened at Lynn Woods School or Marshal Middle School.
I used to think the letters I and S in ISD stood for Inspectional Services but I guess it stands for Incompetent Supervisors! You would think that they would have had an inspector or supervisor around while AEI Environmental was working due to the dangers posed by asbestos. I guess they were all to busy writing tickets to taxpayers for not removing the snow from their sidewalks fast enough or not having your trash in an approved trash receptacle or your trash receptacle doesn’t have a proper cover.
Don’t worry though they have come up with a sure fire plan on how to keep our school children safe. If the tiles are loose they have a custodian or maintenance worker just grab some duct tape and tape the lose tiles to the tiles next to them. If the tiles are chipped or broken then they are instructed to duct tape a piece of rug over it. I’m sure the Environmental Protection Agency would love to know how they’re disposing of those broken or chipped tiles since no ISD employee is certified to do this. If I were a parent who had a child at the Shoemaker school or Pickering Middle school I wouldn’t be to happy seeing rugs duct taped over tile considering the amount of taxes you have to pay. Until those tiles are tested we will never know if they contain asbestos. I find it hard to believe that the ISD department couldn’t find some money in their budget to remove and test these tiles.
We all keep hearing how there is no money in the budget and maybe that’s why they came up with this plan. But now there is a new twist to the no money theme. Mike Donovan just created a new supervisors job in the ISD department for one of his friends. Just to see if this was another one of those special appointments that Mike Donovan has made in the past like making his two golfing buddies ISD supervisors I called the City Councils office to see if the Councils personal subcommittee had created a new position in the ISD department. Nothing listed in the council’s personal subcommittee minutes.
Now I’m told they are calling it a temporary position but everyone in the city knows what temporary means, lifetime appointment. You would think that they would use the money to fix the asbestos problem but not Mike Donovan. I guess he thinks a new temporary supervisor is more important. I guess the saying about Lynn is true “It’s never about the money, its always about who is getting it!”
In closing I’d like to remind the citizens that didn’t Chip Clancy say the reason that the custodians and maintenance workers were transferred from the schools to the ISD department because of the ISD department’s expertise in these types of issues? With experts like this in charge God help the City of Lynn taxpayers and their children who attend our schools.
ASBESTOS IN OUR SCHOOLS?
You heard it here first. I got an e mail copy of a letter to the editor that our beacon of investigative journalism has for whatever reason chosen not to print. I will post the entire letter just as soon as I hear back from my source on just how to handle that person's identity. One other hold up may be my lack of technical expertise on just how to post it.
Priorities, Priorities, We Got Priorities!
Apparently we are in the latter stages of pettitioning for a new building for Marshall and in the beginning stages for Pickering from the MSBA (Massachusetts Schoool Building Authority). Contact your state representatives to push these iniatives.
I was wondering though, how did Marshall jump ahead of Pickering? I am NOT an engineer, architect, or even a school janitor but Pickering looks more run down than Marshall. I have kids at both so either way I win.
I was wondering though, how did Marshall jump ahead of Pickering? I am NOT an engineer, architect, or even a school janitor but Pickering looks more run down than Marshall. I have kids at both so either way I win.
Transparency You Can See Through
Last night's LSC meeting gave us a perfect example of why my call to put all of the reports, e mails, or other correspondence the administration gets on line for all to see. The Inspectional Services Department issued two reports, a Microbial Assessment of Fecteau-Leary School and a Bioaerosol Assessment of Ford School.
We were all told that nothing was found at either school. I guess we should feel confident in the dissemination of this information. Who among us has ever been dissatisfied with the information we have ever received from this administration?
We were told that Ford's test was conducted in one room and it passed. I maybe mistaken but I believe they have class in more than one room. I may be further mistaken but I believe it was a test for MOLD which exists in more than ONE place.
We were all told that nothing was found at either school. I guess we should feel confident in the dissemination of this information. Who among us has ever been dissatisfied with the information we have ever received from this administration?
We were told that Ford's test was conducted in one room and it passed. I maybe mistaken but I believe they have class in more than one room. I may be further mistaken but I believe it was a test for MOLD which exists in more than ONE place.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Giving Us The Unfinished Business
On the agenda for Thursday night's meeting of the LSC under unfinished business was NOTHING, NADA, ZIP. Are you kidding me? In a school system as big as Lynn's are you saying everything is all wrapped up?
What about all the failing schools? Since Connery's Turnaround plan was rejected, what are we going to do? What about that Deputy Superintendent's position we so desperately need? What about plans for "Race To The Top" money. I would go on but I'm to tired too type any more. You get my point?
What about all the failing schools? Since Connery's Turnaround plan was rejected, what are we going to do? What about that Deputy Superintendent's position we so desperately need? What about plans for "Race To The Top" money. I would go on but I'm to tired too type any more. You get my point?
We Don't Need No Help
Last month LPS hired (near as I can tell) 7 teachers, an Assistant Director of Alternative Schools, 5 cafeteria workers, 8 clerical workers, and a Homeless-liason nurse. But remaining unfilled for nearly two years was the position of Parent Liason that has had funds set aside for filling it.
I guess we really don't need to fill it. We all know how easy it is to navigate through all those regulations. I do wonder though, I wonder where the money went that was set aside to pay for that job?
I guess we really don't need to fill it. We all know how easy it is to navigate through all those regulations. I do wonder though, I wonder where the money went that was set aside to pay for that job?
It's Hard To Find Good Help
Yeah, what's you gonna do? It's the middle of the year and laid-off teachers aren't hanging by the phone despite the much ballyhooed working conditions in Lynn Public Schools. Last month alone seven teachers were assigned to fill various teaching positions throughout the school system. Of those seven four were not certified for their position.
I know certification is just a piece of paper, but if your doctor didn't have that piece of paper would you find another place to go?
I know certification is just a piece of paper, but if your doctor didn't have that piece of paper would you find another place to go?
Who's Watching The "Watch"?
As a courtesy I send copies of the "Watch" to a few selected people. I do this so they can have a feeling for the general sentiment of some of the masses. I send it to Dr. Latham, Dr. Wary, Terry Young, Ex. Asst. to the Lynn City Council, John Ford of the LSC, Maria Carrasco of the LSC (Rick Starbard of the LSC subscribes and frequently contributes), I used to send it to Patti Capano of the LSC(I LOST her e mail address), and Jessica McLaughlin of the Special Ed. Department. Jessica was a recent addition to my list.
Back during the "RAT WARS" John Ford told me he agreed with my position of the vermin, "Let's Move On". So he must be reading it and has never complained. A few months ago I got hacked and somebody stole my address book. At a break between meetings Dr. Latham approached me that she was afraid of viruses so she deletes everything. I said that was okay and even laughed when I relayed the story of my priest getting Viagra spam because of it. I have long since fixed it and I have heard no more from her. Terry Young from LCC wrote me an email where Councilman Phelan expressed his gratitude for the work I am doing.
And then came Jessica. I just checked my e mail inbox after a couple of days last night. There was over a hundred unopened messages. One of them was from Jessica, asking to be removed from the mailing list. I had only added her after attending my first PAC meeting. Since nobody from the SPED department attended the last PAC meeting and from what I understand that is not a uncommon occurrence, I thought Jessica would want to keep abreast of the parents' sentiments. Apparently I was mistaken. She has become the first person to say she doesn't want to receive it, so I will honor her wish.
I mean I am sure she is very busy solving problems and resolving issues to waste time hearing from parents. I figure it takes a lot of time to commute to Lynn. That's probably the reason she wasn't at the last PAC meeting.
Back during the "RAT WARS" John Ford told me he agreed with my position of the vermin, "Let's Move On". So he must be reading it and has never complained. A few months ago I got hacked and somebody stole my address book. At a break between meetings Dr. Latham approached me that she was afraid of viruses so she deletes everything. I said that was okay and even laughed when I relayed the story of my priest getting Viagra spam because of it. I have long since fixed it and I have heard no more from her. Terry Young from LCC wrote me an email where Councilman Phelan expressed his gratitude for the work I am doing.
And then came Jessica. I just checked my e mail inbox after a couple of days last night. There was over a hundred unopened messages. One of them was from Jessica, asking to be removed from the mailing list. I had only added her after attending my first PAC meeting. Since nobody from the SPED department attended the last PAC meeting and from what I understand that is not a uncommon occurrence, I thought Jessica would want to keep abreast of the parents' sentiments. Apparently I was mistaken. She has become the first person to say she doesn't want to receive it, so I will honor her wish.
I mean I am sure she is very busy solving problems and resolving issues to waste time hearing from parents. I figure it takes a lot of time to commute to Lynn. That's probably the reason she wasn't at the last PAC meeting.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Tight Squeeze!
What this article fails to mention is that there was a little disagreement about if we are allowed to realign the individual school's district to alleviate overcrowding as it pertains to our Level 4 schools students at Connery and Harrington. On one side you had our most Honorable Mayor Kennedy said that according to her interpretation of the regulations, you weren't allowed to move students out of Level 4 schools (cause they might consider that statistical manipulation). Dr. Latham strongly disagreed, claiming that we were allowed to in this extreme case.
Now who you going to believe when it comes to regulations, policies, and all hat legal stuff,a lawyer or a glorified math teacher? Surprisingly I'm going with the math teacher because she is better able to "count" the violations.
Latham: Lynn schools in danger of overcrowding
Now who you going to believe when it comes to regulations, policies, and all hat legal stuff,a lawyer or a glorified math teacher? Surprisingly I'm going with the math teacher because she is better able to "count" the violations.
Latham: Lynn schools in danger of overcrowding
Let The Good Times Roll
CHARLIE Gallo was in the audience for last night's LSC meeting, as was my BFF Melissa was filming it for LYNN HAPPENS. That lady Delores was their in spirit maybe but my glasses aren't special so I didn't see her.
For whatever reason LSC member Patti Capano wasn't there. The meeting went smoother than usual. I'm sure those two facts are just a coincidence.
For whatever reason LSC member Patti Capano wasn't there. The meeting went smoother than usual. I'm sure those two facts are just a coincidence.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
So Many Questions?
I was wondering, "Has Lynn Public Schools gotten any numbers from the city on how much they will b contributing to the school budget this year"? Since Mayor Kennedy heads up both the city and chairs the school committee, she should know. I think they call it the "cherry sheet". (Boy that moniker begs for some sort of joke but I will play nice)
Somebody said something about some grant money going to purchase some computers for the city. I don't know but I hope the city is generous with their contribution to the school budget. But whatever it is I hope it's made known real soon. We have a lot of work to do in our schools and being transparent is so time consuming and at times, a little uncomfortable.
Somebody said something about some grant money going to purchase some computers for the city. I don't know but I hope the city is generous with their contribution to the school budget. But whatever it is I hope it's made known real soon. We have a lot of work to do in our schools and being transparent is so time consuming and at times, a little uncomfortable.
Is PAC Getting A Shot At The Title?
When I was at the PAC meeting Mon. night, I heard things. I don't know if it's true but we will see. Those PAC people are crazy you know. They are claiming that they are entitled to some of the Title I money.
I don't know if that was prebudget banter or what. Admittedly it does make some interesting scenarios. I don't know nothing bout no numbers. But this is Lynn where we fight fair and everything and everybody is on the up and up. I'm sure that everyone will get EXACTLY what's coming to them.
I don't know if that was prebudget banter or what. Admittedly it does make some interesting scenarios. I don't know nothing bout no numbers. But this is Lynn where we fight fair and everything and everybody is on the up and up. I'm sure that everyone will get EXACTLY what's coming to them.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Tomorrow's Another Day
Looking over the agenda for tomorrow night's LSC meeting posted on line, I noticed conspicuously absent was even any preparatory talks about next year's budget. You know I am not to good at that math stuff so I like to start early.
Well now really is not all that early but it does not even seem to even be warming up, not publicly at least. I am sure everybody WANTS to be transparent and all. But somebody might get the WRONG idea that the school department is waiting until later, say when school is out, to pass a transparent document when there aren't so many people around to see.
I just wish I was better in math so I could understand how numbers are easier to manipulate in the summer. I guess that understanding comes with all those advanced degrees.
Well now really is not all that early but it does not even seem to even be warming up, not publicly at least. I am sure everybody WANTS to be transparent and all. But somebody might get the WRONG idea that the school department is waiting until later, say when school is out, to pass a transparent document when there aren't so many people around to see.
I just wish I was better in math so I could understand how numbers are easier to manipulate in the summer. I guess that understanding comes with all those advanced degrees.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)