Wrong. Yeah I guess you could say I've been wrong a time or two or three. I am on my fourth wife. I have a track record, experience. I am a veteran of being wrong. I'm right quite a bit too, more often than I'm wrong. Mistakes are learning experiences. Now some crazy people think I'm pretty smart even though I can't spell, I mean type. Well if I am knowledgeable about things it's because I've had lots of learning experiences.
Being overconfident that you are always right can often be a disguise for arrogance. Smart people know what they don't know. I guess that means I must be smart about marriages. Now wait a minute, what did I just say.
Anyway, it seems to this poet's little mind that it seems like a HUGH waste of money to place someone in an out of district placement when that student seems to be thriving in his own community, all because some people cling to petty jealousies and political agendas.
In lieu of honoring a signed IEP giving a child a one to one aide, the child is being shipped off to some distant private school with students who may or may not be on his academic level. Sometimes what kids learn from their peers are not always good things. That's why it's good to be close to home, It's not just logistics , remember LEAST RESTRICTIVE ENVIRONMENT. Being with strangers place social restrictions on a child.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Thursday, October 13, 2011
HOOD HEADED HURRIEDLY TOWARD RECESS RESOLUTION
Speaking at Open-mike parent, Ms. Kristin Powers presented her petition of 40 school yard parents signatures demanding something be done post haste about the elimination of snack time and the rush job of railroading kids through a shortened lunch period.
After Ms. Powers spoke Mayor Kennedy expressed her ignorance about this problem before the ITEM'S article and promised to put it on some yet to be named subcommittee agenda and they will look into it. This should not be happening. Score one for the parents.
BUT WAIT A MINUTE.....
The story does not end there. Since last year there was an exodus of 22 different employees from the HOOD SCHOOL and supposedly most of them due to the allegedly bullying style of the principal, GAYLE DUFOUR. I can't say she is a BULLY, I've never met the woman. She hasn't invited me down for coffee. But then again I walk pretty slow and nobody can run me through my paces.
Also, I hear she is a good friend of DR. LATHAM'S and you know what they say about birds of a feather. Are ducks considered birds if they are lame?
After Ms. Powers spoke Mayor Kennedy expressed her ignorance about this problem before the ITEM'S article and promised to put it on some yet to be named subcommittee agenda and they will look into it. This should not be happening. Score one for the parents.
BUT WAIT A MINUTE.....
The story does not end there. Since last year there was an exodus of 22 different employees from the HOOD SCHOOL and supposedly most of them due to the allegedly bullying style of the principal, GAYLE DUFOUR. I can't say she is a BULLY, I've never met the woman. She hasn't invited me down for coffee. But then again I walk pretty slow and nobody can run me through my paces.
Also, I hear she is a good friend of DR. LATHAM'S and you know what they say about birds of a feather. Are ducks considered birds if they are lame?
Breaking News****Student Resource Officers to Be Back
Dr. Latham announced tonight she just talked to Chief Coppinger and learned that Student Resource Officers to be back at middle schools as early as next month through a grant to LYNN POLICE
MARSHALL MAKES US PROUD
I KNOW, I KNOW. I have pointed out a number of times MARSHALL has been tagged a failing school. Still I question the quality of the curriculum. I have a daughter that goes there.
Still MARSHALL got a banner of distinction from the non-profit foundation, COLLEGE FOR EVERY STUDENT. there are 131 schools across the nation in this program and MARSHALL was one of only nine of them that got banners of distinction. (See picture above) Good job DR. COWDELL and staff.
BUT....
The really good story coming out of MARSHALL was one my daughter gave me. There was a dodge ball tournament that pitted one home room against the other. What a GREAT way to increase school spirit and promote exercise all on the cheap. My daughter even made a T-shirt they wore for a uniform. How cool. Simple activities like this promote a healthy sense of community. Shame you didn't get a medal for that Dr. Cowdell.
IS THE UNION PUTTING OUT THE CONTRACT ON ITS MEMBERS?
"CONFIDENTIALITY of CONTRACT DETAILS
The teacher's negotiating team has worked diligently over the last twelve months and as a result of their efforts a tentative agreement was reached. At the onset of negotiations, all parties agreed to keep the details confidential. Members may disagree with this strategy. The intent is not to deceive but to keep the details of what's being worked out from ending up in the newspaper, being taken out of context or otherwise misinterpreted."
taken from a LYNN TEACHER"S UNION flyer
Have I ever said, "I'm no lawyer"? Well I'm not, but I do think this IS a perfectly legal position. Worry about the whole matter being misconstrued seems legitimate.
BUT.....
The opposite is also true. If you don't give people facts they will make stuff up and call it GOSPEL. On top of that, does the Teacher's Union have something to hide?
ANYWAY show up and vote. Being poor is not fun cause poetry doesn't pay that well.
OCTOBER 19, 2011
LYNN ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL
Doors at 3 pm
Meeting will begin at 330 pm
The teacher's negotiating team has worked diligently over the last twelve months and as a result of their efforts a tentative agreement was reached. At the onset of negotiations, all parties agreed to keep the details confidential. Members may disagree with this strategy. The intent is not to deceive but to keep the details of what's being worked out from ending up in the newspaper, being taken out of context or otherwise misinterpreted."
taken from a LYNN TEACHER"S UNION flyer
Have I ever said, "I'm no lawyer"? Well I'm not, but I do think this IS a perfectly legal position. Worry about the whole matter being misconstrued seems legitimate.
BUT.....
The opposite is also true. If you don't give people facts they will make stuff up and call it GOSPEL. On top of that, does the Teacher's Union have something to hide?
ANYWAY show up and vote. Being poor is not fun cause poetry doesn't pay that well.
OCTOBER 19, 2011
LYNN ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL
Doors at 3 pm
Meeting will begin at 330 pm
DOES MY COMPUTER HAVE AN LPS VIRUS?
I don't know, I;m not good with this technical stuff either. For some reason I can't seem to get the full agenda for tonight's meeting from the website, http://www.lynnschools.org/School%20Committee%20Agenda.htm. Must be me, I'm sure there's NO BIG SECRET.
THE STORY IS THE UNDERSTORY
RE- ELECT RICK STARBARD
Push to the Final Election Fundraiser
Friday, October 14th - 7:00-11:00pm
Franco-American Hall , 535 Western Ave., Lynn
Entertainment by:
“REUNION”
“Join us for a great Friday evening as we close in on the final election. Have a great time with
friends and meet and mingle with other elected officials and candidates for office.”
Patriots Ticket Auction with all proceeds going to LYSOA. Lynn Youth Street Outreach Advocacy.
Great food by: Old Tyme Italian Cuisine
www.StarbardForLynnSchools.org
Your support is needed and greatly appreciated
Suggested Donation: $25.00 • Committee to Elect Rick Starbard
The real story here's the PATRIOT tickets! These will be auctioned off with the proceeds going to LYSOA, Inc. So Lynn's youth gets the benefit why the winner gets the beef (from the grill) and someone else to fight the traffic! Hopefully the winners will also get to see the PATRIOTS defense storm the CASSELL.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
HARD TIMES FOR HOOD
Snacks leaving, lunch on the run. Someone needs to tell the Principal Gayle Dufour that fast food is made fast not necessarily eaten fast.
Whats on the menu or how fast the is eaten is not the only thing giving indigestion at that school and apparently the kids and the parents aren't the only ones getting with stomach problems. I hear there was a semi-mass exodus of teachers fleeing from that school directly related to the dictatorial style of management.
I also got to witness a lot of the "so-called problem behavior children" were exported to FORD SCHOOL where most of them ended up going into regular classes for the first time in years. And as we all know the quality of education a student gets in a regular class is a world away from a BEHAVIOR class.
How can we expect the students to control themselves if the one in charge is out of control?
Whats on the menu or how fast the is eaten is not the only thing giving indigestion at that school and apparently the kids and the parents aren't the only ones getting with stomach problems. I hear there was a semi-mass exodus of teachers fleeing from that school directly related to the dictatorial style of management.
I also got to witness a lot of the "so-called problem behavior children" were exported to FORD SCHOOL where most of them ended up going into regular classes for the first time in years. And as we all know the quality of education a student gets in a regular class is a world away from a BEHAVIOR class.
How can we expect the students to control themselves if the one in charge is out of control?
VOTING IN THE DARK
I hear that there is already a new teacher's union contract, signed sealed and almost delivered. Well not officially. All this is set to happen on October 19, 2011. That's when the teacher's are set to vote on their new contract. The vote ratification will occur on that date at LYNN ENGLISH HIGH SCHOOL at 3 pm.
What I hear the teachers will have 30 minutes to review the contract and then "vote". I hear this is the way it has it has always been done. Back in WV we call this BUYING A PIG IN A POKE.
I wonder if the teachers will get the SAME 7% raise that BUSINESS MANAGER KEVIN MCHUGH got. Then again I don't know any teachers making over $100,000. That's a shame.
I would like to recommend you vote FOR or AGAINST it. But it's a secret, even to the ones doing the voting.
What I hear the teachers will have 30 minutes to review the contract and then "vote". I hear this is the way it has it has always been done. Back in WV we call this BUYING A PIG IN A POKE.
I wonder if the teachers will get the SAME 7% raise that BUSINESS MANAGER KEVIN MCHUGH got. Then again I don't know any teachers making over $100,000. That's a shame.
I would like to recommend you vote FOR or AGAINST it. But it's a secret, even to the ones doing the voting.
IT'S A MATTER OF PRINCIPAL
My BFF had an interesting concept at the Teacher's Union sponsored LSC candidate debate last night. What if teachers got to give an evaluation of principals and schools. Anonymously of course. Turn-about is fair play and some constructive answers could come out of it.
LEARNING FOR LESS
»
Lindsay Keyes, left, and Jodi Schmidt of Extras for Creative Learning unpack
supplies
Everyone talks about how bad the schools are but here is an example of how to make more with less, getting maximum education on the cheap. It's good to see Lynn lead the way. Thanks Boston.
Everyone talks about how bad the schools are but here is an example of how to make more with less, getting maximum education on the cheap. It's good to see Lynn lead the way. Thanks Boston.
CROWD(ING) CONTROL
One of the things that came out of last night's debate from several of the candidates is that there are many of classes in the middle schools in 30-35 range. This unmanageable. As a parent of two seventh-graders in two different schools, I can tell you this is a very difficult age to get them to focus. Physiologically and developmentally, too many things are happening that make staying on task difficult and with classes that size, teaching is often relegated to crowd control.
What are we supposed to do? We have several hundred year-old buildings and a growing population.. Since we are not going to wake-up some morning and find someone build us some new buildings, we need some alternatives. JOHN FORD said it was ridiculous to spend 100K fixing up 20+ year-old trailers. Good point, but then I wonder then why he voted to approve it in the past? Renting space is an alternative I have heard before JOHN FORD proposed it last night but he did put forth the idea as a possible solution.
RICK STARBARD put forth a novel solution to put a STEM heavy middle school in the Tech Annex building that currently houses the administration offices on Commercial Street that is if they ever make the long talked about move to Bennett St. Those Commercial St. office must have something that Bennett St, doesn't for as long as it's taking them to move. Could it be air conditioning? Someone ought to put a call into U-Haul.
.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
USE YOUR VOICE
LYNN FINAL ELECTION
VOTER REGISTRATION DEADLINE
Wednesday, 10/12 by 8:00 p . m .
Lynn City Hall, Room 203
More information go to w w w . c i . l ynn. m a. u
YOU WERE SAYING.....?
The LYNN TEACHER'S UNION is sponsoring a debate tonight at BREED at 7:00 pm. Should be an interesting one seeing as how the negotiations for a new contract are on the table. The LSC members are the ones who do the negotiating so your vote really matters. SOW UP to watch if you can, if not I think it may be on LETV,
;0
;0
FINALLY FACEBOOK FURY THAT'S NOT POLITICALLY PACKED
Mom blasts Lynn schools
How long has it been since Phelan started his Facebook fiasco that turned into a flop because of an impotent LSC? The only thing that was seriously discussed was the POTENTIAL for inappropriate cyber-relationships between students and teachers. Give me a break.
Like I said, "BULLYING" is the issue. Tomorrow everybody is supposed to wear orange because it's some national anti-bullying day, created on FACEBOOK. Is that poetic justice or just plain hypocritical?
Monday, October 10, 2011
HERE'S A LAUGH FOR US
 | Comedy Night -Fundraiser - LYNN SUPPORTS the TROOPS Thursday, November 10 at 7:30pm Location: Old Tyme Italian Cuisine |
Sunday, October 9, 2011
STAND LONG FOR HONG, COME SEE THE NET EFFECT
A candidate for city council who knows the value of education. Remember 50% of the city budget goes to LPS.
Hong Net for Lynn City Councilor-at-Large
Hong Net for Lynn City Councilor-at-Large
NOW, A WORD FROM OUR (MY) SPONSOR
Disability is an issue we all need educated on lest we all have to grow up poets!
The Disability Watch: LYNN HAPPENS TO BRING ATTENTION TO NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MO
The Disability Watch: LYNN HAPPENS TO BRING ATTENTION TO NATIONAL DISABILITY EMPLOYMENT AWARENESS MO
Saturday, October 8, 2011
DID WE BARGAIN FOR THIS?
Was talking last night to one of my secret sources and he or she brought up a very interesting point. This person felt that the critical issue going forward was not whether or not the superintendent was retained but instead the negotiation of the upcoming renewal of the teacher's collective bargaining agreement.
Let me say straight up I am a UNION man and I have always tried to support the teachers in my writing. The thing is though I support the teachers in the classroom. It is a difficult yet vital job. I feel teachers should be among the highest paid professionals Actually I think they should be paid more than LAWYERS, my least favorite species.
BUT....
Talking with various teachers, I feel there is a real disconnect between them and their union. It's as if the union has gotten out of control and has taken on a life of its own. It has become like a corporation competing for the dwindling educational dollars to feed its personal appetite.
The current system of "bumping and bidding" is a recipe for turmoil. I hear is unlike anywhere else. We need stability in the workplace before we can have stability in the classroom. In this economy and given the influx of new students (800 SINCE THE START OF THE YEAR) examples of stability are getting rarer in the home life. Do I have the answer? C'mon I am just a poor disabled poet and if I was smart I wouldn't be at least two of those three things.
Let me say straight up I am a UNION man and I have always tried to support the teachers in my writing. The thing is though I support the teachers in the classroom. It is a difficult yet vital job. I feel teachers should be among the highest paid professionals Actually I think they should be paid more than LAWYERS, my least favorite species.
BUT....
Talking with various teachers, I feel there is a real disconnect between them and their union. It's as if the union has gotten out of control and has taken on a life of its own. It has become like a corporation competing for the dwindling educational dollars to feed its personal appetite.
The current system of "bumping and bidding" is a recipe for turmoil. I hear is unlike anywhere else. We need stability in the workplace before we can have stability in the classroom. In this economy and given the influx of new students (800 SINCE THE START OF THE YEAR) examples of stability are getting rarer in the home life. Do I have the answer? C'mon I am just a poor disabled poet and if I was smart I wouldn't be at least two of those three things.
DO YOUR PART TO END BULLYING
Hopefully the fact that we had a student bring a knife to school on successive days ought to signal a bright ORANGE flag, UNITY DAY Facebook Event to LPS schools. Do we have a permanent bullying coordinator or whatever his title was before DENNIS THOMPSON moved on to greener and whiter pastures at CLASSICAL. Who is going to RAM the bullying policy now?
Friday, October 7, 2011
BEHOLD! BULLIES ARE BACK, BIG TIME WHILE LPS WAS BUSY WITH PHELAN'S FUSS OVER FACEBOOK
There was so much time wasted in the Policy Subcommitte meeting last Thursday night that they had to table discussion and approval of a policy that probably would have prevented cyber contact between students and teachers.
Instead we used all the time insuring Dr. Latham's ability to micromanage any potential inspection of her work or ability. Kind of like the chickhens asking the fox permission to leave the hen house.
So we never got around to talking about Facebook. No matter, it wasn't a serious attempt to deal with anything that represented any REAL problems. I would guess if that policy would have been in place that sixth grader would have stiil brought that knife to school at least TWO times.
Facts are facts, somebody was being bullied big time. The kid with the knife was loudly announcing that he had a few inches of sharp steel power over any other person who got in his way. His behavior was flat out wrong and can't be tolerated. Then there is the other possibility. Maybe that same kid was being bullied so much he was desperate for self protection. That paints a different picture but either way it isn't pretty.
Last year's BULLYING COORDINATOR, DENNIS THOMPSON, has moved on to bigger and better things at CLASSICAL. Good for him. Just not so sure it's good for the students. You would think being Head of the CURRICULUM DEPARTMENT would keep SUE ROWE extremely busy. It must not be too taxing to do that job for a failing district because she was able to temporarily at least take on the BULLYING job. From the looks of this incident, it appears she manages this new task as well as she does her CURRICULUM job. In all fairness, she does spend a lot of time keeping her ducks in line. There is also a lot of laundry to do down at COMMERCIAL STREET and some of it is pretty dirty.
Now back to Facebook. Anyone want to friend me?
Instead we used all the time insuring Dr. Latham's ability to micromanage any potential inspection of her work or ability. Kind of like the chickhens asking the fox permission to leave the hen house.
So we never got around to talking about Facebook. No matter, it wasn't a serious attempt to deal with anything that represented any REAL problems. I would guess if that policy would have been in place that sixth grader would have stiil brought that knife to school at least TWO times.
Facts are facts, somebody was being bullied big time. The kid with the knife was loudly announcing that he had a few inches of sharp steel power over any other person who got in his way. His behavior was flat out wrong and can't be tolerated. Then there is the other possibility. Maybe that same kid was being bullied so much he was desperate for self protection. That paints a different picture but either way it isn't pretty.
Last year's BULLYING COORDINATOR, DENNIS THOMPSON, has moved on to bigger and better things at CLASSICAL. Good for him. Just not so sure it's good for the students. You would think being Head of the CURRICULUM DEPARTMENT would keep SUE ROWE extremely busy. It must not be too taxing to do that job for a failing district because she was able to temporarily at least take on the BULLYING job. From the looks of this incident, it appears she manages this new task as well as she does her CURRICULUM job. In all fairness, she does spend a lot of time keeping her ducks in line. There is also a lot of laundry to do down at COMMERCIAL STREET and some of it is pretty dirty.
Now back to Facebook. Anyone want to friend me?
Thursday, October 6, 2011
BOTH ON THE FRONT PAGE OF TODAY'S ITEM, HYPOCRITICAL OR SYMPTOMATIC?
Breed student, 12, arrested for knife
AND
HAYLEY'S HOPE FOUNDATION
A Night of Hope & Awareness
of teen suicide
AND
HAYLEY'S HOPE FOUNDATION
Friday, Oct. 7
th
Knights of Columbus, Lynnfi eld Street, Lynn
A Night of Hope & Awareness
Doors open at 6:00 pm.
• Silent Auction • Raffl es
• Door Prizes • Food • Music
Help us support the mission
of raising awareness
on the rising issue
of teen suicide
GARDEN TO GLOBE
SCOOPALISCOUS. I am on fire. I can't be stopped. Only a week after witnessing a CBS camera crew filming in the garden at the FORD SCHOOL, I got to witness a photographer from the BOSTON GLOBE firing off snapshots like a voter counter on election day.
I happened to be traveling with fellow HIGHLANDS COALITION member and candidate for WARD 4 CITY COUNCILMAN, my man, CEF ROSA when we got to witness this positive development for LPS. Given all the bad press that's sure to follow the knife at BREED, it was refreshing to see garden utensils the focal point of the discussion.
I happened to be traveling with fellow HIGHLANDS COALITION member and candidate for WARD 4 CITY COUNCILMAN, my man, CEF ROSA when we got to witness this positive development for LPS. Given all the bad press that's sure to follow the knife at BREED, it was refreshing to see garden utensils the focal point of the discussion.
WE GOT HERE HERE FROM WHERE?
This a SAD story. Sad, not only because we know how it's gonna end but we know how it began. No we don't know the particulars of this story from the story. We can't, there are privacy laws. Maybe there were mitigating services - bullying, Romeo and Juliet saga perhaps, or maybe the kid was just a punk. At the end of the day it's not going to matter much, the law's the law and there will be consequences.
Once bad behavior surfaces, it's already too late. Our options of dealing with it are limited and more often than not the very punishments we use to stop it often end up increasing the probability the behavior will reoccur. In a perverted sense the punishment morphs into the reinforcer.
What needs to happen is to have less people in their ivory cubicles on Commercial Street (soon to be Bennett Street, just don't hold your breath) making mad money while we have overcrowded classrooms, uncertified relatives, closed libraries, and otherwise failing schools.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
ITEM ON TOP OF TERROR TROUBLE
Where does it stop? The better question is to ask where it began. Too mank cutbacks in the wrong places while 20-some admininistrators make over 100K at LPS. All the while we have 90% of our students getting free or reduced lunch!
Police: 12-year-old arrested for threatening another student with a knife
http://affiliates.eblastengine.com/go.aspx?b=272641&l=3360773&c=10535141
Police: 12-year-old arrested for threatening another student with a knife
http://affiliates.eblastengine.com/go.aspx?b=272641&l=3360773&c=10535141
DIFFERENT STROKES FOR DIFFERENT FOLKS
The Disability Watch: THE "I" IN IEP STANDS FOR INDIVIDUAL: What Works: Effective Teaching Strategies for Students with Disabilities
SOMETIMES IT'S WRONG TO BE RIGHT
Official’s visit to Lynn school prompts overreaction
That is the headline in today's ITEM editorial. It is a properly measured assessment. Normally the superintendent should be notified of a school committee person's visit to a school. It's just common courtesy. Let's all work together.EXCEPT....
It involves a family member in which case, it is none of her business. If the school committee member tries to abuse his or her power then there are proper channels to report that abuse. Letters can be written. The Internet is a powerful tool (huh Dr. Latham?).
There is also one other exception and that is when said committee member is going on a fact finding mission whereby the superintendent's prior knowledge might skew an accurate gathering of the facts. Is this scenario legal or against somebody's policy? Probably, but I've told you I AM NOT A LAWYER. I have found in my many trials and travails through the legal system, there is often a difference between what is RIGHT and what is LEGAL.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
WHERE DO WE BELONG AND WHO BELONGS?
Kids, LPS has them and LOTS of them. We are bursting at the seams. PARTIALLY due to an influx of reugees we have had around 800 new students since opening day (a figure offered by JOHN FORD in the last SC debate). I have heard of one class that has 31. So much for promises.
One panacea to relieve overcrowding is the proposed INNOVATION SCHOOL that is going into the WASHINGTON SCHOOL when the BEHAVIOR KIDS in there get moved to the newly re-opened FALLON SCHOOL.
Supposedly this INNOVATION SCHOOL will relieve crowding at COBBETT and CONNERY or will it? What will be the criteria for admission? Simply geographical or will students BE PICKED from all across the city to attend LPS's answer to CHARTER SCHOOLS? By selecting certain students, you both increase the chances the venture will be a success and open the door for potential political misuse. Either way, we deserve some answers.
One panacea to relieve overcrowding is the proposed INNOVATION SCHOOL that is going into the WASHINGTON SCHOOL when the BEHAVIOR KIDS in there get moved to the newly re-opened FALLON SCHOOL.
Supposedly this INNOVATION SCHOOL will relieve crowding at COBBETT and CONNERY or will it? What will be the criteria for admission? Simply geographical or will students BE PICKED from all across the city to attend LPS's answer to CHARTER SCHOOLS? By selecting certain students, you both increase the chances the venture will be a success and open the door for potential political misuse. Either way, we deserve some answers.
GORDON COLLEGE GOES GREAT FOR FORD SCHOOL
Partnerships, that's what it's all about. By teaming up with institutions of HIGHER LEARNING our kids get to get high on learning. No one relates to the young like the young themselves. Gordon College is not the only college that partners with FORD, SALEM STATE UNIVERSITY and NORTH SHORE COMMUNITY COLLEGE have joint ventures as well. It's just I got a thing with G's.
These partnerships allow our schools to leverage our instruction and allow exposure to the latest innovations in learning in return we provide these colleges a mini-lab or practicum for them to craft a better, more-rounded graduate. A win-win situation.
By having more than one partnership, this fosters a friendly competition to see who can do the most for us. In an era of shrinking budgets, sounds good to me.
Oh yeah, maybe I mentioned GORDON COLLEGE first because I found out yesterday their new President, at 39, is the youngest president of a college east of the MISSISSIPPI.Youth Matters.
These partnerships allow our schools to leverage our instruction and allow exposure to the latest innovations in learning in return we provide these colleges a mini-lab or practicum for them to craft a better, more-rounded graduate. A win-win situation.
By having more than one partnership, this fosters a friendly competition to see who can do the most for us. In an era of shrinking budgets, sounds good to me.
Oh yeah, maybe I mentioned GORDON COLLEGE first because I found out yesterday their new President, at 39, is the youngest president of a college east of the MISSISSIPPI.Youth Matters.
MISUSE OF USE
This story is slightly slanted due to a less than accurate representation of the facts. This NEW policy is a product of months of haggling. I think it's been on and off the table, been sent back to committee a couple of times.
The whole debate grew out of concerns that DONNA COPPOLA had that a LYNN group was being charged more to use the facility than a OUT-OF-TOWN group. A elaborate list was devised to prioritize who would have first use of the building.
The article sensationalizes the exorbitant cost of insurance which would appear to freeze out most groups. But that is not truly the case. Most groups are already covered by somebody's existing plan. The main concern is for FOR-PROFIT groups looking for a cheap place to have an event.
The REAL concern is the question of whether or not this policy gives too much power to the discretion of the SECRETARY OF THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE too much power in enforcing the hierarchy. Currently this is TOM IARIBINO who usually delegates it to ASST> BUSINESS MANAGER TOM BORGUE. Have any complaints, cares, or concerns? I'm sure they will be happy to help you.
www.itemlive.com
The whole debate grew out of concerns that DONNA COPPOLA had that a LYNN group was being charged more to use the facility than a OUT-OF-TOWN group. A elaborate list was devised to prioritize who would have first use of the building.
The article sensationalizes the exorbitant cost of insurance which would appear to freeze out most groups. But that is not truly the case. Most groups are already covered by somebody's existing plan. The main concern is for FOR-PROFIT groups looking for a cheap place to have an event.
The REAL concern is the question of whether or not this policy gives too much power to the discretion of the SECRETARY OF THE SCHOOL COMMITTEE too much power in enforcing the hierarchy. Currently this is TOM IARIBINO who usually delegates it to ASST> BUSINESS MANAGER TOM BORGUE. Have any complaints, cares, or concerns? I'm sure they will be happy to help you.
www.itemlive.com
A DISCHORD?
I understand the reluctance to let the student participate. After all LPS doesn't get any money for the student since he opted out of the LPS system and now wants to "sample" from LPS the public school menu. The mother offered to get "private lessons", just let him play, you participate.
Hello. I don't know for sure but I figure there are parents of students in LPS that also take private lessons. I would also guess that playing in the "All City Orchestra" isn't about just showing up and having a jam session. It is one of the perks of the public school system.
Then we have the argument that the mother is a taxpayer and payes taxes to support LPS whether her son goes there or not, no opting out. She hasn't earned that privilege. On that issue she has to march to the same drummer as everybody else.
We just won an award for our community's support of music programs. I was at the meeting where Joe Picano, Fine Arts Director for LPS presented framed certificates to Dr. Latham, Dr. Warry, and Mayor Kennedy for their support of the arts in the community. I got just one question for them, "How's it hangin?".
Monday, October 3, 2011
HOW TO CATCH A BULLET WITH A NET
Math scares me as you know. I think it comes as a result of a digital exam as a young boy and I'm not talking about a computer assessment.
Even though I might always have a fear of individual numbers, I do understand concepts. You have up to four votes for COUNCILOR-AT-LARGE but if you only vote for one person, it is like your ballot is on steroids and the gap between your candidate of choice (in this case HONG) is statistically expanded.
Maybe you think this data dilemma goes against the grain and is not the AMERICAN WAY. Come on, this is LYNN.
Even though I might always have a fear of individual numbers, I do understand concepts. You have up to four votes for COUNCILOR-AT-LARGE but if you only vote for one person, it is like your ballot is on steroids and the gap between your candidate of choice (in this case HONG) is statistically expanded.
Maybe you think this data dilemma goes against the grain and is not the AMERICAN WAY. Come on, this is LYNN.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
DOWN WITH THE DOG
Don't forget today is the day for Pickering's Funraiser at the LAZY DOG
DETAILS:Pickering Middle School Fundraiser
BONE APETIT!
DETAILS:Pickering Middle School Fundraiser
Sunday, October 2 at 2:00pm
BONE APETIT!
CLEO COMES THROUGH AGAIN
Nearly 3,300 High School Students Are Assigned Higher Math Performance Levels After Contractor Repor
www.doe.mass.edu
MALDEN - The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education today informed school districts that nearly 3,300 students who took the spring 2011 grade 10 MCAS Math test and passed, have earned higher performance levels than they initially received.
WE HAVE ALL THE MONEY WE NEED, REALLY
Hopefully someone will dig up the story and post it here. It just sounds to crazy to me to be true. I was told of a story back in August sometime possibly in the story about building a new Marshall that LPS gave $100,000 back to the city from the city's contribution to the LPS budget.
Let me get this straight. We have class sizes busting at the seams, most of our elementary libraries are unstaffed, around 800 new students since last year, and we are saying thanks but no thanks to any new money? If this is true, the only logical reason has to be to score political points.
Let me get this straight. We have class sizes busting at the seams, most of our elementary libraries are unstaffed, around 800 new students since last year, and we are saying thanks but no thanks to any new money? If this is true, the only logical reason has to be to score political points.
PECULIAR PAY?
I heard some strange math was not only being practiced calculating the MCAS but also in adding up the money given to substitutes filling in for absentee principals. Seems like last year and years prior, they would get a pay for that day based on some pro-rated scale of the equivalent of the Principal's pay. Now I hear that things have changed. After the front office is done pencil whipping the calculations, the additional pay can be as little as ten dollars for the whole day's responsibility.
I'M SURE THE NEW PAY SCALE IS GREAT FOR MORALE!
I'M SURE THE NEW PAY SCALE IS GREAT FOR MORALE!
TEACHING BY EXAMPLE
Harry was a former LVTI teacher and LSC candidate. The donation will help insure that his example of selflessness will be memorialized.
Saturday, October 1, 2011
FUNDRAISER WITHIN A FUNDRAISER
Push to the Final Election Fundraiser
Friday, October 14 at 7:00pm
I am sorry, this is totally awesome. At his fundraiser, Rick is auctioning off a pair of tickets to the Nov. 21, 2011 Monday Night Football game against the Kansas City Chiefs marking the return of former Patriot Matt Cassell. The winner of the auction will also get not only transportation to the game but all of the benefits that tailgating provides. I've seen Rick in action and he knows his way around the grill.
The really cool thing is that the proceeds of the auction don't go toward Rick's sure to be successful run for Lynn School Committee but go instead directly to Lysoa Inc.(Lynn Youth Street Outreach Advocacy).Antonio Gutierres will be accompanying Rick on the trip. Despite being a Bronx native and DIE-HARD Yankees fan, I believe he is a born-again PATRIOTS fan. Nonetheless, Antonio is an expert on Lynn kids and will provide the winners the opportunity for and educational and game winning experience!
MCAS PREP
FALL 2011 FREE MCAS PREP
CLASSES
WHO: Members of the Class of 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013
WHERE: North Shore
Community College, LYNN (2nd floor Cafeteria)
WHEN:
Saturdays:
September 24th
October 1st, 15th, 22nd,
29th
November 5th
WHY: Fall
Retest
November 9th and
10th (MATH)
November 14th,
15th, 16th (ELA)
COST:
$0
PLEASE CHECK THE
APPROPRIATE BOX:
ELA
only: � 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. or
10:30 a.m.-noon
MATH
only: 8:30 a.m.-10:00 a.m. or
10:30 a.m.-noon
BOTH: 8:30 a.m.-noon
- Breakfast will be provided at 10:00 a.m.
Name (please print):_____________________________
Student i.d. #: ________________________________
Address:_____________________________________
Phone #:______________________________________
School:_______________________________________
Guidance Counselor:______________________________
MCAS
Scores: ELA______ MATH______
Friday, September 30, 2011
QUOTES FROM CLEO ON COMMITTEE'S CONCERNS
According to the MA state law- Chapter 71, Sections 37 & 59, the school committee
- Shall select and to terminate the superintendent and fix his/her compensation
- Shall establish and appoint positions of assistant or associate superintendents (upon recommendation of the superintendent) and shall fix their compensation
- Shall review and approve budgets for public education in the district and
- Shall establish educational goals and policies for the schools in the district consistent with the requirements of law and statewide goals and standards established by the board of education
BALLOTS AND BULLETS
Armed with a vote, that's our only weapon and we are in a war. A battle for the future. The future for our children and even our children's children. The choices we make for SCHOOL COMMITTEE will set the direction our education takes.
Now I was trying to rank the six best out of the eight candidates. That's what a responsle journalist would do. Finally after continual bashings by my BFF and a few others I have finally seen the light. Since when did I consider myself a journalist and I don't want to even pretend that I am responsible. So I am officially saying I will vote for only four candidates: DONNA COPPOLA, MARIA CARRASCO, RICK STARBARD, and DOLORES DIFILLIPO. Sorry Charlie!
Now I was trying to rank the six best out of the eight candidates. That's what a responsle journalist would do. Finally after continual bashings by my BFF and a few others I have finally seen the light. Since when did I consider myself a journalist and I don't want to even pretend that I am responsible. So I am officially saying I will vote for only four candidates: DONNA COPPOLA, MARIA CARRASCO, RICK STARBARD, and DOLORES DIFILLIPO. Sorry Charlie!
BECKETT BANDWAGON BITES BACK
Machine shop program returning to Tech
I would have gotten sick at last night;s LSC meeting if I could have stopped laughing. A few months ago when Mr. Beckett, President of the LVTI Alumni Ass., first approached the LSC most of his audience did not take his wild claims seriously. Many on the committee were both entertained by his long-winded desperate pleas.
The MACHINE SHOP which had been closed down a couple of years ago and they were ready to disperse the remnants to other programs like an educational diaspora. To appease him and maybe book him for another comedy routine, they promised to look at his proposals before dismantling the MACHINE SHOP to free up much needed space for the more glitzy and glamorous, dare I say sexy technology-based programs.
To Dr. LATHAM'S and the MAYOR'S credit they listened to this quaint, crazy old man who they found out knew what he was talking about. A field trip was scheduled to a couple of the larger regional VoTech centers and suddenly everybody downloaded a new tune for their I-pods.
Now they were all excited last night about re-opening the MACHINE SHOP in 2012 with this NEW concept of REVERSE ENGINEERING. Much credit goes to RICK STARBARD wore working tirelessly in the background for brokering opportunities for Mr. Beckett to be heard. It is just for reasons like this his heavy VoTech background makes him an important component of the LSC.
I would have gotten sick at last night;s LSC meeting if I could have stopped laughing. A few months ago when Mr. Beckett, President of the LVTI Alumni Ass., first approached the LSC most of his audience did not take his wild claims seriously. Many on the committee were both entertained by his long-winded desperate pleas.
The MACHINE SHOP which had been closed down a couple of years ago and they were ready to disperse the remnants to other programs like an educational diaspora. To appease him and maybe book him for another comedy routine, they promised to look at his proposals before dismantling the MACHINE SHOP to free up much needed space for the more glitzy and glamorous, dare I say sexy technology-based programs.
To Dr. LATHAM'S and the MAYOR'S credit they listened to this quaint, crazy old man who they found out knew what he was talking about. A field trip was scheduled to a couple of the larger regional VoTech centers and suddenly everybody downloaded a new tune for their I-pods.
Now they were all excited last night about re-opening the MACHINE SHOP in 2012 with this NEW concept of REVERSE ENGINEERING. Much credit goes to RICK STARBARD wore working tirelessly in the background for brokering opportunities for Mr. Beckett to be heard. It is just for reasons like this his heavy VoTech background makes him an important component of the LSC.
EXCELLENT USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES
2011 Youth Drop In Center Fall Session
October 1st - December 17th
(Saturday Nights Only)
Lynn Vocational Tech Field House • 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sports • Games • Music
Teens Ages 13-19 (Lynn Residents Only)
CATHE AND THE CITY COUNCIL CAPERS
Sounds like the name of a retro cartoon show but that's looks like the politics we're playing. What's it been, one LSC meeting since Facebook Fiend Phelan's wife plucked a plumb position as a program specialist despite having questionable credentials? Now we look the other way on a certification of a SPED teacher who is listed on LSC's own document as being unqualified for the position,
Are there no other candidates out there that we have to settle for these or is it that it's all a name game? I guess nepotism and politics go together like peanut butter and jelly. How hungry are you?
Are there no other candidates out there that we have to settle for these or is it that it's all a name game? I guess nepotism and politics go together like peanut butter and jelly. How hungry are you?
Thursday, September 29, 2011
FRIENDLY (RICK) FORD FAVORS
I hate getting old. Things just don't work like they used to. First it was my hips, gold arthritis. Then it was my back. Cataracts had to be removed from my right eye. I fell last Labor Day, discovered I had spinal stenosis and my neck has never been the same.
Now I think my hearing is going. I swore I heard Dr. Latham say last LSC meeting that all our new hires will be certified. Then on tonight's LSC Agenda I noticed that 9 out of 62 new teachers are not certified for their position. I'll type out the list in a later post when I have the time. If you can't wait go to http://lps.org and you'll find it posted there.
What I am going to make time for is to direct your attention to one name on that list, JOESPH FORD, a SPED Science teacher at MARSHALL MIDDLE SCHOOL. He is listed as not certified for the position. MARSHALL is not his first rodeo. I understand he taught at PICKERING last year. It also turns out he is the son of CITY COUNCILMAN RICK FORD.Maybe JOESPH FORD is a smart man, smarter than all those book worms with all their fancy degrees. If you're sick and need an emergency operation who do you want wielding the scalpel, a relative of some politician who can finish the New York Times crossword puzzle every day or someone who actually went to medical school?
I KNOW WHO'S GOT MY VOTE!
Now I think my hearing is going. I swore I heard Dr. Latham say last LSC meeting that all our new hires will be certified. Then on tonight's LSC Agenda I noticed that 9 out of 62 new teachers are not certified for their position. I'll type out the list in a later post when I have the time. If you can't wait go to http://lps.org and you'll find it posted there.
What I am going to make time for is to direct your attention to one name on that list, JOESPH FORD, a SPED Science teacher at MARSHALL MIDDLE SCHOOL. He is listed as not certified for the position. MARSHALL is not his first rodeo. I understand he taught at PICKERING last year. It also turns out he is the son of CITY COUNCILMAN RICK FORD.Maybe JOESPH FORD is a smart man, smarter than all those book worms with all their fancy degrees. If you're sick and need an emergency operation who do you want wielding the scalpel, a relative of some politician who can finish the New York Times crossword puzzle every day or someone who actually went to medical school?
I KNOW WHO'S GOT MY VOTE!
MORE WINNERS!
Joining CLEO HEREFORD as a winner of a WATCH AWARD are MARY ELLEN PALERMO and LISA CONNOLLY, both readily share helpful information from various sources with the on-line community to promote a better understand our education. MARY ELLEN in particular does a lot of promotion of school related events as well.
Hopefully I will get certificates printed up and present them at the upcoming debate. I haven't asked yet if I can, if not they'll be getting them in the mail.
Hopefully I will get certificates printed up and present them at the upcoming debate. I haven't asked yet if I can, if not they'll be getting them in the mail.
I'LL BE THERE
The LSC has a meeting tonight at the "Tiger's Den" at LVTI at 7 pm. At the same place they have lunch specials, this evening they will be offering up fare that is difficult to digest. Don't forget to come early for the sub-committee specials!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
PROMOTING MY PRODIGAL SON'S SUPER SCHOOL SUPPER
FUNDRAISER NOTICE!
MARK
YOUR CALENDARS
PICKERING MIDDLE
SCHOOL
SUNDAY,
OCTOBER 2, 2011 TIME 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
The
Lazy Dog- 328 Broadway, Lynn, MA
Please join us for some friendly chatter, good food and raffles at The
Lazy Dog- 328 Broadway, Lynn, MA
REGISTER TO VOTE! SPEAK UP.
Originally this information was in today's ITEM, then I copied it and put it in THE HIGHLANDS WATCH, and now here. Get involved. Do more than complain.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
KIPP TO FACE DOE AUDIT
Located on page A7 of the Sept. 27, 2011 issue of the LYNN ITEM is an announcement that KIPP Academy of Lynn will be undergoing 3 separate reviews. The way I read it, this is part of a standard six-year review. The review will occur during the week of Oct. 17th. A final report will be on the DOE website. I urge you to consult the ITEM for more details. Guess what KIPP, it's report card time!
AND THE WINNER IS....
I have decided to give out certificates of recognition, WATCH AWARDS to those who bring attention to the issues surrounding the education of our children. The first one goes to CLEO HEREFORD for her Q & A series of the LSC candidates on her blog, An Education http://uneducation.blogspot.com
I hope to present these awards at the LSC debate at FORD SCHOOL on October 17. Now I just have to design the certificate, we poets aren't necessarily all at that artsy.
I hope to present these awards at the LSC debate at FORD SCHOOL on October 17. Now I just have to design the certificate, we poets aren't necessarily all at that artsy.
Monday, September 26, 2011
CLEO HAS THE CREDENTIALS
Continuing her award-winning series of LSC candidate exposes (winner of the 2011 WATCH award) Cleo gives a lawyer turned teacher who morphed into a politician an interrogatory that demanded answers that we deserve. Did we get those answers, you decide.
An Education: LSC 2011 Q & A: Charlie Gallo
By the way here is another scoop for my news hungry readers, the HIGHLANDS COALITION will be sponsoring a debate for the LSC on Mon.,October 17 th. Moderating the debate will be HICO's own, Cleo Hereford. I could be jealous but she does spell better than me and some people might say I have a problem with objectivity. I don't know where they get that crazy idea.
An Education: LSC 2011 Q & A: Charlie Gallo
By the way here is another scoop for my news hungry readers, the HIGHLANDS COALITION will be sponsoring a debate for the LSC on Mon.,October 17 th. Moderating the debate will be HICO's own, Cleo Hereford. I could be jealous but she does spell better than me and some people might say I have a problem with objectivity. I don't know where they get that crazy idea.
MY BFF HAS THEIR NUMBER BUT NOT THEIR EXTENSION
What a troublemaker she is. You know I'm talking about my BFF. Even though her addiction to KoolAid makes her subject to delusions, she is quite capable of bringing up a good point or two or three.
On the administration contact list for LPS listed on lps.org everybody's extension number or direct line is listed EXCEPT the SPECIAL EDUCATION people. Why is that? When you consider the fact that all of the SPED offices are across town from the rest of the LPS offices, it doesn't paint a user-friendly picture.
I have to hand it to her on this one.
On the administration contact list for LPS listed on lps.org everybody's extension number or direct line is listed EXCEPT the SPECIAL EDUCATION people. Why is that? When you consider the fact that all of the SPED offices are across town from the rest of the LPS offices, it doesn't paint a user-friendly picture.
I have to hand it to her on this one.
FACE THE FACTS PHELAN, BEWARE OF BULLYING ON FACEBOOK
I was just wondering..... With all of the attention brought by PHELAN'S FACEBOOK FLOP, I don't remember hearing anything about CYBERBULLYING, that is the real danger. Instead people were more concerned about compromising pictures being posted or INAPPROPRIATE RELATIONSHIPS.
Was that because LPS"s BULLYING BULWARK, DENNIS THOMPSON has moved on to bigger and better things in his new job as assistant principal at CLASSICAL? Why didn't SUE ROWE, the interim BULLYING person weigh in. I would be interested in hearing her weigh in. Too busy working on the seating arrangement for her ducks I guess.
GO AHEAD, FRIEND ME THEN TALK AMONGST YOURSELVES.
Was that because LPS"s BULLYING BULWARK, DENNIS THOMPSON has moved on to bigger and better things in his new job as assistant principal at CLASSICAL? Why didn't SUE ROWE, the interim BULLYING person weigh in. I would be interested in hearing her weigh in. Too busy working on the seating arrangement for her ducks I guess.
GO AHEAD, FRIEND ME THEN TALK AMONGST YOURSELVES.
DO YOU HEAR WHAT I HEAR?
For those of you who accuse me of a negative slant, I'm going to throw you a bone! LPS received The NAMM Foundations 12th Annual Best Communities for Music Education Award. Of course neighboring communities are jealous of our recognition. But we have a right to TOOT OUR OWN HORN (it is for music after all).
This award was not bestowed to solely on the basis of a superior curriculum but community support as well. Fine Arts Director Joe Picano presented certificates to Mayor Kennedy, Dr. Latham, and Dr. Wary.
This award was not bestowed to solely on the basis of a superior curriculum but community support as well. Fine Arts Director Joe Picano presented certificates to Mayor Kennedy, Dr. Latham, and Dr. Wary.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
MOVING AHEAD ON LEAVING BEHIND
LPS, you better jump on this!
Obama Administration Sets Rules for NCLB Waivers - Politics K-12 - Education Week
Obama Administration Sets Rules for NCLB Waivers - Politics K-12 - Education Week
THERE'S HOPE FOR LPS
An article in today's ITEM has the president leading the chorus on NO CHILD LEFT BEHIND's swan song. The article,
Obama lets states opt out of federal school rules
READ.PLEASE!
Obama lets states opt out of federal school rules
READ.PLEASE!
LPS BAND - OUT TO THE TIDES
Thank you to today's ITEM
------------------------------------------
Lynn band to
hold fundraiser
LYNN
There will be a fundraiser
for the City of Lynn
Marching Band on Monday
from 6 to 9 p.m. at
Tides Restaurant in Nahant.
The event is aimed at
helping to pay the cost of
sending the band to The
Fourth of July Parade in
Washington, D.C.
Tides will donate 10
percent of its proceeds
for Monday’s event to
help defray the band’s
expenses.
In addition, there will
baskets of goods that will
NEWS TO ME
The ITEM has a nice big picture of an official from BANK OF AMERICA donating supplies to a MARSHALL MIDDLE SCHOOL. There wasn't any back story, just a few lines in the caption.
This was a BIG deal and deserved much more of a spotlight. With resources tight, LPS ought to be promoting partnerships with corporate sponsors. Those same corporations are more likely to give if they got lots of favorable press.
Do we blame the ITEM for not devoting more space to this promotion? Hardly they are are a business just like those corporations LPS should be seeking funding from. NO, LPS should be pumping out press releases, letters of appreciation, and even other forms of social media (Sorry Tim, it's the way of the future). They should hire a full-time person to do this. Any suggestions come to mind?
This was a BIG deal and deserved much more of a spotlight. With resources tight, LPS ought to be promoting partnerships with corporate sponsors. Those same corporations are more likely to give if they got lots of favorable press.
Do we blame the ITEM for not devoting more space to this promotion? Hardly they are are a business just like those corporations LPS should be seeking funding from. NO, LPS should be pumping out press releases, letters of appreciation, and even other forms of social media (Sorry Tim, it's the way of the future). They should hire a full-time person to do this. Any suggestions come to mind?
TECH GETS TASTY
Honestly, I don't know any details but I like the idea of supporting the kids. I would welcome any details.
• Extensive
Sandwich Menu
• Daily Entrées“The Best Service
Lynn, MA
Lynn Tech Restaurant
“TIGER’S DEN”
GRAND RE-OPENING
SEPTEMBER 27
th
Open Tues.-Fri. 11:00 am - 1:00 pm
• Hot Soups
• Fresh Salads• Extensive
Sandwich Menu
• Daily Entrées“The Best Service
East of the
Mississippi!”
“Come down and
support the kids!”
90 Commercial Street
Lynn, MA
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
Now I'm not one to cause trouble. My faithful readers know I steer away from controversy. When you stir *#$& it stinks. LPS smells fine on its own.
After reading this seemingly fine expose of investigative reporting on a story that is already months old, my little poet's mind began to wonder: "Why was this story broke on Sat.? I mean school is closed for the weekend and readership has to be lower.".
I've put my time in at the WATCH and I have my own network of secret sources. There are some leaks you don't call a plumber for. Anyway I knew this story was coming days ago. I could have scooped the ITEM again but it's getting boring. But anyway, it wasn't just a beat reporter reporting the story. It was the EDITOR-IN-CHARGE OF SOMETHING (I don't have to worry which editor it was at the WATCH).
I just wonder how favors and responsibilities balance out. I'm not accusing nobody of nothing, you decide that on your own. Now if you want to ask me about poetry, disability or what it's like to be poor, then we can talk.
Lynn school employee claims administration singled her job out for elimination
After reading this seemingly fine expose of investigative reporting on a story that is already months old, my little poet's mind began to wonder: "Why was this story broke on Sat.? I mean school is closed for the weekend and readership has to be lower.".
I've put my time in at the WATCH and I have my own network of secret sources. There are some leaks you don't call a plumber for. Anyway I knew this story was coming days ago. I could have scooped the ITEM again but it's getting boring. But anyway, it wasn't just a beat reporter reporting the story. It was the EDITOR-IN-CHARGE OF SOMETHING (I don't have to worry which editor it was at the WATCH).
I just wonder how favors and responsibilities balance out. I'm not accusing nobody of nothing, you decide that on your own. Now if you want to ask me about poetry, disability or what it's like to be poor, then we can talk.
Lynn school employee claims administration singled her job out for elimination
HOW TO HANDLE HOLLY
This has been a LONG running story.When I first broke it prior to the Civil Service ruling, it became my most viewed posting by around twice as much, having 663 views, "Public Confidential". A lot has happened since then but not much has changed.
The Department of Civil Service has issued a ruling but no one really wants to enforce it, because justice costs too much. We have two different legal systems, one criminal, one civil. "Criminal" is simple if LPS had used a gun and fired at Holly taking away her job like in a robbery, the police could go down to 90 Commercial Street with a basketful of handcuffs and throw the lot of them in the poky. BREAD AND WATER.
But this is a "Civil" matter. When you hear the word Civil it conjures up images of a "gentleman's agreement" where everybody does the right thing because it's the right thing to do. Unfortunately I know from personal (not personnel) experience if someone disagrees with the ruling they can often just not abide by it. There is nobody close to actually enforce it. By the time failure to follow the civil ruling becomes criminal enough to get someone to enforce it, most people have already given up. So the losers become winners by just dragging their feet.
That is what is happening here. Holly has been humiliated in hopes that she would submit to will of the master at our expense. It's not about money only. Mostly it is the politics of power.
Friday, September 23, 2011
EXPERIENCE MATTERS
You know, when our right you're right. And I have to give it to her. At the recent debate Patti Capano said EXPERIENCE MATTERS AND I HAVE IT and she does, serving I think 7 terms for LSC. But exactly what is her "experience", a proven track record of failure. To me, failure is a sign of somebody not knowing what they are doing.
Then we have VINNIE, I mean he topped the ticket. Got to give him credit for that. He does have the EXPERIENCE of being principal at three different schools. Over a career that tells me he's either one of two things: he is either a trouble-shooter or he's trouble. Look at the list of LEVEL 4 schools and you be the judge.
Then we have VINNIE, I mean he topped the ticket. Got to give him credit for that. He does have the EXPERIENCE of being principal at three different schools. Over a career that tells me he's either one of two things: he is either a trouble-shooter or he's trouble. Look at the list of LEVEL 4 schools and you be the judge.
RAISING AWARENESS
Good coverage, even if it was about two days after I first told you about it. Still there ARE more quotes and that's a good thing.
PHELAN NOT FOUND ON FACEBOOK
The last time I missed a LSC meeting, I was having my cataracts removed. It helped me see better. This time my right knee was swollen twice the size of my left so I couldn't even hobble away from the angry crowd.
Sounds like I didn't miss much. The fact is that teachers are hired to teach and they should be teaching responsible ways to communicate. It's a new world and in order to survive we can't have our head in the sand.
Funny and in a good way. Phelan was no where to be found in this coverage. The coverage was up front and was not a trumped-up opportunity for a failed folly, sensationalizing social media safety and security. Seriously.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
SPECIAL SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEETING TONIGHT AND I CAN'T GO
I wonder who will miss me? I did bump into Atty Mihos in Probate Court today with some client. I didn't know he handled divorces. Maybe there is hope for LPS.
That's for another posting. My knee is SEVERELY limiting my ability to ambulate (I like that word). It is another body part LPS is planning on throwing the BOOK at though. It's time for Social Media to FACE the music (I just hope there is no piracy involved or it will be some body's swan song. I guess we will see then if Mihos handles copyright infringement law too.).
Maybe I'll watch it on TV. It really doesn't matter, some of you out there thing I make some of these crazy things up anyway!
That's for another posting. My knee is SEVERELY limiting my ability to ambulate (I like that word). It is another body part LPS is planning on throwing the BOOK at though. It's time for Social Media to FACE the music (I just hope there is no piracy involved or it will be some body's swan song. I guess we will see then if Mihos handles copyright infringement law too.).
Maybe I'll watch it on TV. It really doesn't matter, some of you out there thing I make some of these crazy things up anyway!
ALMOST TWINS
You know I was in one of my moments of deep contemplation. I asked myself, "Self, why do you like RICK STARBARD so much?". I was really perplexed and then it came to me.
I just had to break it down, STAR - BARD. After all a "bard" is a poet and well. STAR is kind of like "premier" and everybody wants to be the best. So I guess my support is just a natural fit. Well almost. I mean it would be a better fit if RICK limped or something!
I just had to break it down, STAR - BARD. After all a "bard" is a poet and well. STAR is kind of like "premier" and everybody wants to be the best. So I guess my support is just a natural fit. Well almost. I mean it would be a better fit if RICK limped or something!
CAHILL CAME TO ME, CAUSE HE CARES?
I went to the HARRISON HARLEY HOOP HOUSE fundraiser at FORD SCHOOL and COUNCILLOR CAHILL waited patiently while I was talking to somebody else. Suddenly everybody wants to know what this disabled poet is doing. I almost watched the whole event unfold from my porch balcony because I was more hobbled than usual due to my right knee. But my wife gave me a Tylenol and kicked me out the door to go pay my respects to Harry's memory.
Anyway back to CAHILL. Coming to me is a clear sign that he is interested in the issues around education. Even though I don't sit at the altar of education, my blog does have the numbers and well that does give me some quasi-credentials. So I was happy to see to see him. (Insert Mae West joke).
Besides my man, COUNCILMAN FOR WARD 4 CANDIDATE, CEF ROSA speaks highly of him and I've been pretty clear on what I think about CEF.
Anyway back to CAHILL. Coming to me is a clear sign that he is interested in the issues around education. Even though I don't sit at the altar of education, my blog does have the numbers and well that does give me some quasi-credentials. So I was happy to see to see him. (Insert Mae West joke).
Besides my man, COUNCILMAN FOR WARD 4 CANDIDATE, CEF ROSA speaks highly of him and I've been pretty clear on what I think about CEF.
CLEO TAKES CHARGE
Somebody else is asking questions. I guess it's contagious.
An Education: A Q & A with KIPP Lynn Principal Anna Breen
An Education: A Q & A with KIPP Lynn Principal Anna Breen
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
PLANTING OF A PLAQUE
FROM "THE HIGHLANDS WATCH"
Tonight was the Harrison Harley Memorial Celebration/Fundraiser (Harry was all about raising money). All of the money raised has been committed to be directed to the completion of the construction of the HARRISON HARLY HOOP HOUSE (I can not take credit for that eloquent example of alliteration ecstasy, I wish I could).
Politicians were more prolific than weeds in the garden tonight. From the LYNN CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES TIM PHELAN, DAN CAHILL, RICH COLUCCI (all incumbents) accompanied by HONG NET, CLAY WALSH, and (my man) CEF ROSA. The LSC CANDIDATES present were RICK STARBARD,MARIA CARRASCO (both LS members) and seeking election for the first-time were CHARLIE GALLO and DELORES DIFILLIPO (Hey I think I spelled it right).
Harry would have been thrilled at the level of attention this event garnered and was smiling down at the fact NICK and ANDY jumped at the opportunity to make this a "teaching moment" with an explanation of aquaponics and the use of fish poop to produce green food. Does anyone want a slice of watermelon?
Tonight was the Harrison Harley Memorial Celebration/Fundraiser (Harry was all about raising money). All of the money raised has been committed to be directed to the completion of the construction of the HARRISON HARLY HOOP HOUSE (I can not take credit for that eloquent example of alliteration ecstasy, I wish I could).
Politicians were more prolific than weeds in the garden tonight. From the LYNN CITY COUNCIL CANDIDATES TIM PHELAN, DAN CAHILL, RICH COLUCCI (all incumbents) accompanied by HONG NET, CLAY WALSH, and (my man) CEF ROSA. The LSC CANDIDATES present were RICK STARBARD,MARIA CARRASCO (both LS members) and seeking election for the first-time were CHARLIE GALLO and DELORES DIFILLIPO (Hey I think I spelled it right).
Harry would have been thrilled at the level of attention this event garnered and was smiling down at the fact NICK and ANDY jumped at the opportunity to make this a "teaching moment" with an explanation of aquaponics and the use of fish poop to produce green food. Does anyone want a slice of watermelon?
SURPRISE, SURPRISE
Once again the FORD SCHOOL leads the way. This time it was in child safety and making sure that the children return home safely at the end of the school day. Working in conjunction with the RMV and DAVE HEGAN in transportation for LPS a surprise inspection was held on all the vechicles contracted to provide service this afternoon.
Thankfully, all the vehicles passed without any major violations preventing any kids from having a safe ride home. It seems that FORD is the only school to have this level of commitment to safety. It is my understanding that the RMV would welcome other schools to afford them the opportunity to work with them. Let's all work together to keep our kids safe!
Thankfully, all the vehicles passed without any major violations preventing any kids from having a safe ride home. It seems that FORD is the only school to have this level of commitment to safety. It is my understanding that the RMV would welcome other schools to afford them the opportunity to work with them. Let's all work together to keep our kids safe!
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
HONG SLIPS THROUGH HOLE IN LYNN JOURNAL'S NET?
I heard this about a dear friend of the WATCH and I just can't or don't want to believe it. One of my secret sources told me tonight that the LYNN JOURNAL has failed to give any coverage to HONG NET. Is there some clandestine conspiracy about Cambodian city council candidates? It's hard to believe a journalistic beacon like the LJ would engage in any questionable practices. Without a doubt some one will dig up some recent post that will exonerate that prestigious publication. After all, isn't it the same publication that anointed Dr. Latham - Woman of the Year?
Primary Results!
I "stole" this off Facebook! Sue me!
I guess it shows the importance of "dressing for success"!
I guess it shows the importance of "dressing for success"!
YOU CAN KISS MY MCAS
I forwarded the same e mail to my friend Cleo to try and see if she could re-size it so I could post the raw data on blogger because I am too busy writing poetry and stuff to bother with it (Okay, I didn't know how to do it. Are you happy?).
It looks prettier. There are colors. Not everybody is happy with any take. That's because everybody can and does put their own spin on the numbers. I'm just not sure how much you can quantify learning. Knowledge is not something that is dispensed out of a lesson plan, it is taken from books and shared by teachers who are happy to expose our children to the wealth of their experience. Education is a process, not a dispensation.
An Education: Lynn & the MCAS 2011: Part I
It looks prettier. There are colors. Not everybody is happy with any take. That's because everybody can and does put their own spin on the numbers. I'm just not sure how much you can quantify learning. Knowledge is not something that is dispensed out of a lesson plan, it is taken from books and shared by teachers who are happy to expose our children to the wealth of their experience. Education is a process, not a dispensation.
An Education: Lynn & the MCAS 2011: Part I
Monday, September 19, 2011
RICK'S GOT THE RIGHT STUFF
If there is any doubt or misunderstanding about my feelings about RICK STARBARD as a candidate for LSC due to my satire and less than serious takes on a very serious matter. RICK"S background gives a real-world passion on what can a theoretical nightmare. I may not always agree with his positions but I never doubt his sincerity. It's all about being willing to learn.
Kwick, A Kool-Aid Kontraversey
From what I hear my BFF stirred up a little stink with her take on the AYP numbers, you have to forgive her, KoolAid intoxication. Maybe I'd better analyze the numbers myself. I've been BUSY plaing lawyer/parent. I don't have a degree in either.
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