In keeping with my efforts for trans-PARENT-cy I just got back from hand delivering my letter to UNCLE TOM. He was in a meeting, seemed like I ACCIDENTAL walked in on something. Bad timing, I guess. Anyway I gave it to the secretary of the Secretary, along with 8 copies to give to anyone interested.
As I was going downstairs, who do I run into but BRANDT DUNCAN, President of the Teachers Union. I just happened to have a copy of the letter left so I gave it to him. While we were exchanging pleasantries (He likes when I talk about my 4 wives. How sick is that?) JOHN FORD along with two men in suits passed us on the stairs. JOHN did say HI to me but didn't introduce me to his two friends. I think one of them was the MA SECRETARY OF EDUCATION but I don't know. I mean sometimes people are embarrassed about having DISABLED friends. I GET THAT A LOT.
So she wouldn't feel left out of the noose I mean "loop", I dropped off a letter to the MAYOR as well. Yeah, I've learned from Patti, you've got to be clear as mud.
Monday, February 13, 2012
HOW IS THIS FOR TRANSPARENCY PATTI?
February 12, 2012
Tom Iarrobino
Secretary of the Lynn School Committee
90 Commercial Street
Lynn, MA
Dear Mr. Iarrobino,
I am writing to request that you provide me with a written copy of the OPEN MIKE policy at the Lynn School Committee meetings. Also I would like a copy of the sign-upsheet for the speakers the night of Thursday February 9, 2012.
Under the authority of section 7-9 of the Lynn City Charter I will be conducting a petition drive to force a public hearing on the recent decision to not open the position of the superintendent for competition. My understanding of this passage states that a petition of 150 signatures delivered within 21 days of that decision will trigger the necessity of holding a public hearing on the matter within three months.
I am sure the citizens of Lynn can count on your cooperation on these matters. Thank you.
Respectfully,
Stanley H. Wotring Jr.
Parent
Tom Iarrobino
Secretary of the Lynn School Committee
90 Commercial Street
Lynn, MA
Dear Mr. Iarrobino,
I am writing to request that you provide me with a written copy of the OPEN MIKE policy at the Lynn School Committee meetings. Also I would like a copy of the sign-upsheet for the speakers the night of Thursday February 9, 2012.
Under the authority of section 7-9 of the Lynn City Charter I will be conducting a petition drive to force a public hearing on the recent decision to not open the position of the superintendent for competition. My understanding of this passage states that a petition of 150 signatures delivered within 21 days of that decision will trigger the necessity of holding a public hearing on the matter within three months.
I am sure the citizens of Lynn can count on your cooperation on these matters. Thank you.
Respectfully,
Stanley H. Wotring Jr.
Parent
Sunday, February 12, 2012
WAIT UNTIL GRANDMA FINDS OUT!
As you all have read here on this BLOG, REPRESENTATIVES WALSH and ERLICH were down at DREWICZ on Friday. I hear the state HEALTH DEPARTMENT and EPA were supposed to be there but I don't know for sure because info is hard to come by. It seems that EMPLOYEES were ordered to keep MUM. So I guess I'll leave that for another post.
BUT....,
what I did hear will probably cause GRANDMA to launch a full scale assault. It seems that medical supplies of some sort were stacked up against one of the affected walls - ooh! UNCLE TOM was instructed to have those potentially contaminated supplies disposed of. Come to find out they weren't but were moved along with the nurse to a new location. UNCLE TOM vouched for their safety.
SAFETY seems to be a growing concern at DREWICZ. I'm getting reports of cancers, miscarriages, and lung problems. People have been reading the WATCH and talking. GRANDMA, what are you doing for lunch tomorrow?
BUT....,
what I did hear will probably cause GRANDMA to launch a full scale assault. It seems that medical supplies of some sort were stacked up against one of the affected walls - ooh! UNCLE TOM was instructed to have those potentially contaminated supplies disposed of. Come to find out they weren't but were moved along with the nurse to a new location. UNCLE TOM vouched for their safety.
SAFETY seems to be a growing concern at DREWICZ. I'm getting reports of cancers, miscarriages, and lung problems. People have been reading the WATCH and talking. GRANDMA, what are you doing for lunch tomorrow?
ANYBODY WANT TO JOIN ME FOR LUNCH?
Well, I am going to suspend the rules here. Heck if Patti can do it, so can I. Lately I've been trying not to have anything negative on Sunday It is hard, but I have been trying but this is TIMELY.
It seems the SECRETARY OF EDUCATION FOR THE STATE OF MASSACHUSETTS is going to be visiting to visit COMMERCIAL STREET tomorrow from 9:45 am to 11 am and since I don't have a job other than this BLOG, I just might run into him down there. I mean I got to see UNCLE TOM about getting the OPEN-MIKE policy and the sign-up list. I am kind of curious to see if DIANE PARADIS'S name was even on it with all those other commuters.
While I'm there I'll let him know about planning on petitioning the LSC to demand a public hearing on opening up the superintendent's position. Ssh! Don't tell him I am thinking about going after a record of e mails to show inappropriate usage. I mean it's safe to write about it here because none of them READ my BLOG.
It seems the SECRETARY OF EDUCATION FOR THE STATE OF MASSACHUSETTS is going to be visiting to visit COMMERCIAL STREET tomorrow from 9:45 am to 11 am and since I don't have a job other than this BLOG, I just might run into him down there. I mean I got to see UNCLE TOM about getting the OPEN-MIKE policy and the sign-up list. I am kind of curious to see if DIANE PARADIS'S name was even on it with all those other commuters.
While I'm there I'll let him know about planning on petitioning the LSC to demand a public hearing on opening up the superintendent's position. Ssh! Don't tell him I am thinking about going after a record of e mails to show inappropriate usage. I mean it's safe to write about it here because none of them READ my BLOG.
COME HAVE SUPPER WITH SISSON!
Some of my GREATEST revelations and inspirations come when I go to McDonald's to have a $1 cup of coffee. I just love a refill. Today the "ion" word was EDUCATION! I learned something.
I learned that SISSON is having a fundraiser there (Boston St,) on Wed. Feb. 15, from 4 or 5 to 7 pm. So I urge everyone to remember"YOU DESERVE A BREAK THAT DAY" and when you fill your belly, you'll be eating with a purpose and you'll be served for a cause!
I learned that SISSON is having a fundraiser there (Boston St,) on Wed. Feb. 15, from 4 or 5 to 7 pm. So I urge everyone to remember"YOU DESERVE A BREAK THAT DAY" and when you fill your belly, you'll be eating with a purpose and you'll be served for a cause!
SAY H.E.Y! WHAT'S UP, I MEAN DOWN
The FORD SCHOOL, THE FOOD PROJECT,the YMCA, and the HIGHLANDS COALITION have all teamed up to fight childhood obesity. The partners have joined forces to form the H.E.Y club.
Nutrition classes are supplemented by excursions to the "Y" to EXERCISE! I believe the GRANT covers 15 families and they all get a membership at the why.
I GUESS THIS IS A CLUB THAT GROWS BY HAVING SHRINKING NUMBERS!
Nutrition classes are supplemented by excursions to the "Y" to EXERCISE! I believe the GRANT covers 15 families and they all get a membership at the why.
I GUESS THIS IS A CLUB THAT GROWS BY HAVING SHRINKING NUMBERS!
WHEN I WENT TO SCHOOL, WE ONLY GOT TO GO TO PITTSBURGH
"I want to be a soldier in the CHOCOLATE WARS", that's the battle cry of the FORD SCHOOL students signing up for the upcoming class trip for the fifth and some fourth graders. Usually FORD goes annually in alternating years to either NEW YORK or BOSTON, but this year will be a departure from the usual destinations to allow a visit to the birthplace of our nation, PHILADELPHIA.
A trip through AMISH COUNTRY is planned, along with a tour of HERSHEY. I hope they brush their teeth regularly.
A trip through AMISH COUNTRY is planned, along with a tour of HERSHEY. I hope they brush their teeth regularly.
THE LOGIC OF LOGISTICS
Through a VISION COALITION GRANT last week about 25 students were bused to LENS CRAFTERS to get NEW glasses from the FORD SCHOOL. Now MASS HEALTH provides any eligible student from ANY school with free glasses. (If I remember right, you can get TWO pair)
The problem is pairing the problem with the solution. That is what sets the FORD SCHOOL apart.
The problem is pairing the problem with the solution. That is what sets the FORD SCHOOL apart.
TURF WARS
Lynn Youth Council receives green light
Making it all legal like, like the lawyer that he is CHARLIE GALLO put forth the resolution for the LSC to adopt. I mean, sure the LYNN CITY COUNCIL already approved the creation of a LYNN YOUTH COUNCIL. I mean everybody thinks it's a good idea, but "AIN'T NOBODY GONNA TELL THESE LSC PEOPLE WHAT TO DO".
Making it all legal like, like the lawyer that he is CHARLIE GALLO put forth the resolution for the LSC to adopt. I mean, sure the LYNN CITY COUNCIL already approved the creation of a LYNN YOUTH COUNCIL. I mean everybody thinks it's a good idea, but "AIN'T NOBODY GONNA TELL THESE LSC PEOPLE WHAT TO DO".
THESE DOGS HAVE PEDIGREES
LYNN ENGLISH is not all about sports and ROTC. Receiving recognition for being AP SCHOLARS WITH HONOR were THANH BUI and JACQUELINE MA. Also, SELINA SOTOMAYOR was also an AP SCHOLAR.
Only SELINA was present for the handshakes from DR. LATHAM and the MAYOR but all got certificates.
Only SELINA was present for the handshakes from DR. LATHAM and the MAYOR but all got certificates.
TOP OF THE CLASS-ICAL
Students who score 3 or higher in 3 AP exams receive the distinction AP SCHOLAR. LCHS had 10 students receiving this honor. They were Nahiomy Alvarez, Kristen Kurpeil, Jarrod Macullar,
Jordan Pena,KathyTran, Cristina Freitas, Gabriella Galezzi, Courtney Gavin, Martin Nelson, and Carlos Ramirez. Topping the class at CLASSICAL as an AP SCHOLAR WITH HONOR was LESLIE LIM.
Everybody got handshakes from both the MAYOR and DR. LATHAM. Plus the MAYOR presented each with a lovely certificate, suitable for framing.
Jordan Pena,KathyTran, Cristina Freitas, Gabriella Galezzi, Courtney Gavin, Martin Nelson, and Carlos Ramirez. Topping the class at CLASSICAL as an AP SCHOLAR WITH HONOR was LESLIE LIM.
Everybody got handshakes from both the MAYOR and DR. LATHAM. Plus the MAYOR presented each with a lovely certificate, suitable for framing.
THE CHECK IS IN THE MAIL
Federal mandates that if a homeless child is placed out of district in some temporary housing, say a shelter or hotel, he is given the option of going to school where he is or be bused back to his original district. Seems like the sociably conscious thing to do.
The thing is school districts were told what to do but weren't given any funds to do it. It was the definition of an unfunded mandate. State auditor SUSAN BUMP took a look at this and said "Whoa! This is not fair and maybe unconstitutional.".
SO CONSEQUENTLY.....,
LPS will be getting reimbursed to the tune of $191,496 this year and a projected $213,169 next year. I guess we can buy some extra pencils.
The thing is school districts were told what to do but weren't given any funds to do it. It was the definition of an unfunded mandate. State auditor SUSAN BUMP took a look at this and said "Whoa! This is not fair and maybe unconstitutional.".
SO CONSEQUENTLY.....,
LPS will be getting reimbursed to the tune of $191,496 this year and a projected $213,169 next year. I guess we can buy some extra pencils.
Saturday, February 11, 2012
LSC PLEASE PAY ATTENTION
The GAUNTLET has been thrown down. We the citizens of LYNN demand that you as a committee take our concerns seriously. Education is too important to our children for us to be satisfied with anything but the best. That is why I will soon be organizing a petition to force a public hearing whereby a fair, competitive and open process can take place to insure that we have the best candidate for superintendent of LYNN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
If there is any doubt as to the depth of support to my position, I respectfully refer you to the pageviews my blog has received in the last two days.
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HOLD EVERYTHING! LET THEM EAT CAKE
I do have me some SMART readers. one of which referred me to the city charter:
http://www.ci.lynn.ma.us/cityhall_citycharter.shtml.
To save you a little time let me direct you to the pertinent section:
Section 7-9 Petitions to City Council and School Committee
The city council or the school committee shall hold a public hearing and shall act finally on every petition which is presented to it and which is signed by not less than one hundred and fifty voters. The hearing shall be held by the city council or the school committee, or in either case by a committee or sub-committee thereof, and final action taken with respect thereto, not later than three months following the date the said petition is filed with the clerk of the council or the secretary of the school committee as may be appropriate. Hearings on two or more petitions filed under this section may be held at the same time and place. Notice of the public hearing shall be by publication in a local newspaper, not less than seven days prior to such hearing which shall contain a general summary of the subject matter of the petition and the date, time and place at which the hearing will be held. A copy of the said notice shall be mailed to the ten petitioners whose names first appear on the petition.
Judging from my numbers, especially lately, 150 names on a piece of paper should be a piece of cake. As I've said before, "How do you like me now LSC?'.
http://www.ci.lynn.ma.us/cityhall_citycharter.shtml.
To save you a little time let me direct you to the pertinent section:
Section 7-9 Petitions to City Council and School Committee
The city council or the school committee shall hold a public hearing and shall act finally on every petition which is presented to it and which is signed by not less than one hundred and fifty voters. The hearing shall be held by the city council or the school committee, or in either case by a committee or sub-committee thereof, and final action taken with respect thereto, not later than three months following the date the said petition is filed with the clerk of the council or the secretary of the school committee as may be appropriate. Hearings on two or more petitions filed under this section may be held at the same time and place. Notice of the public hearing shall be by publication in a local newspaper, not less than seven days prior to such hearing which shall contain a general summary of the subject matter of the petition and the date, time and place at which the hearing will be held. A copy of the said notice shall be mailed to the ten petitioners whose names first appear on the petition.
Judging from my numbers, especially lately, 150 names on a piece of paper should be a piece of cake. As I've said before, "How do you like me now LSC?'.
BEGINNING TO TALK ABOUT THE MARSHALL PLAN
How do you know I'm not going to talk about recovery plans from old wars? You just NATURALLY assumed I am going to elaborate the new school proposal.
WELL...,
I AM.
The proposed construction cost is $65,000,000. This is only the HIGH end of the estimated costs but I ask you, "How many times you seen construction come at or under budget?". Makes you wonder why they even do feasibility study's at all. This state mandated one will cost $750,000. Lynn City Council already approved the money. Remember, we're supposed to be getting 80% back. Follow the money.
Since we get back 80% of the construction costs, that means we are on the hook for what $13,000,000. Can you spell T-A-X-E-S. I'm not sure whether that projection includes the cost of the feasibility but what the hey.
I see they are supposed to have a non-mandatory informational meeting at MARSHALL at 1:00 pm on February 15. We could go to the meeting and then do a late lunch..That kind of talk works up my appetite. One problem though, I don't know if it is an OPEN meeting or not and I didn't get an invitation..
WELL...,
I AM.
The proposed construction cost is $65,000,000. This is only the HIGH end of the estimated costs but I ask you, "How many times you seen construction come at or under budget?". Makes you wonder why they even do feasibility study's at all. This state mandated one will cost $750,000. Lynn City Council already approved the money. Remember, we're supposed to be getting 80% back. Follow the money.
Since we get back 80% of the construction costs, that means we are on the hook for what $13,000,000. Can you spell T-A-X-E-S. I'm not sure whether that projection includes the cost of the feasibility but what the hey.
I see they are supposed to have a non-mandatory informational meeting at MARSHALL at 1:00 pm on February 15. We could go to the meeting and then do a late lunch..That kind of talk works up my appetite. One problem though, I don't know if it is an OPEN meeting or not and I didn't get an invitation..
HANGING FROM (THE) GALLO
I am so confused. My poor little poet's mind just can't HANDLE all this stuff. You see I've got this friend, LORI, you see and she likes to play with NUMBERS, Well you see she likes to WRITE too and hold people ACCOUNTABLE for their JOBS. Imagine that?
Anyway she's got this e mail back and forth thing going with CHARLIE GALLO and it got me thinking I must have missed something at the last LSC meeting,I guess my crippledness is creeping up on me. You see, LORI is always spouting off statistics about how bad we are doing and she is not shy (unlike me) about letting people know about it.
Well one of the people she let know was GOOD-TIME CHARLIE GALLO and here is an excerpt from his response to her:
I had a copy of your email printed and in front of
me at the meeting last night, and planned to bring your concerns up if
they were not covered by the superintendent.
Just what was covered? I mean I thought I heard a lot about how good we are doing about being bad. That's sort of kind of related to the fact that what LORI is always saying "Bad is Bad, no matter if you are first of the worst", I'm sure you all heard the old saying about lipstick and pigs. Well LATHAM must be a top seller at AVON.
CHARLIE must be hoping they start caring a HAIRPIECE line.
I hear he's having a FUNDRAISER coming up on WED. I don't know for sure, my invitation must have gotten lost in the mail. Maybe he should rename it a DEFENSE fund.
Anyway she's got this e mail back and forth thing going with CHARLIE GALLO and it got me thinking I must have missed something at the last LSC meeting,I guess my crippledness is creeping up on me. You see, LORI is always spouting off statistics about how bad we are doing and she is not shy (unlike me) about letting people know about it.
Well one of the people she let know was GOOD-TIME CHARLIE GALLO and here is an excerpt from his response to her:
I had a copy of your email printed and in front of
me at the meeting last night, and planned to bring your concerns up if
they were not covered by the superintendent.
Just what was covered? I mean I thought I heard a lot about how good we are doing about being bad. That's sort of kind of related to the fact that what LORI is always saying "Bad is Bad, no matter if you are first of the worst", I'm sure you all heard the old saying about lipstick and pigs. Well LATHAM must be a top seller at AVON.
CHARLIE must be hoping they start caring a HAIRPIECE line.
I hear he's having a FUNDRAISER coming up on WED. I don't know for sure, my invitation must have gotten lost in the mail. Maybe he should rename it a DEFENSE fund.
YOUR WELCOME
We heard from some SUPER STUDENTS FROM SEWELL-ANDERSON (I was a little discombobulated when their teacher took the seat I ALWAYS sit in at these meetings) giving a fantastic presentation of the publication of their school newspaper, THE BOBCAT NEWS. They were GREAT little presentation. You know I like it when kids are playing with words.
BUT....,
when I started one at FORD a couple of years ago, I had to barge the OPEN-MIKE to get their attention. I did manage to score an article in the paper because I am a MEDIA HOUND (some people use other nouns). They are even publishing the FALCON without me this year but where have you heard about that other than this BLOG?
BUT....,
when I started one at FORD a couple of years ago, I had to barge the OPEN-MIKE to get their attention. I did manage to score an article in the paper because I am a MEDIA HOUND (some people use other nouns). They are even publishing the FALCON without me this year but where have you heard about that other than this BLOG?
IT'S THE PRINCIPAL OF THE MATTER
I can't let it go. Call it a POET'S PASSION FOR PROCEDURE but I got to know. I have left a phone message on a LSC member's (who shall remain nameless lest you find out it was Donna's), asking her to ask TOM IARIBINO if he would provide me with a written copy if the "OPEN-MIKE" policy and a copy of the sign-up list.
BUT THEN I GOT TO THINKING......,
heck I can't even understand me on the phone sometimes. I get nervous and my words get all jumbled up. One of the benefits of brain injury, so I think I'll make it down to his office MONDAY to request it in person. AFTER ALL, COMMERCIAL STREET IS "HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE". (I am not going to make any jokes about the COMMERCIAL STREET CROWD handicapping LPS)
You know, it would be terrible if DIANE PARADIS wasted all that time on the commute.
BUT THEN I GOT TO THINKING......,
heck I can't even understand me on the phone sometimes. I get nervous and my words get all jumbled up. One of the benefits of brain injury, so I think I'll make it down to his office MONDAY to request it in person. AFTER ALL, COMMERCIAL STREET IS "HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE". (I am not going to make any jokes about the COMMERCIAL STREET CROWD handicapping LPS)
You know, it would be terrible if DIANE PARADIS wasted all that time on the commute.
PRICKED BY A POINT OF PROCEDURE
Painful and puzzling, both at the same time, yup that's how I see it. I am talking about the "Request to Go into Executive Session to Discuss Contracts". You know the one the cancelled because they failed to post who the actual contract was for? Those pesky "Open Meeting" laws. I am curious now who's contract they were going to discuss. Hmmm. I bet whoever put it on the agenda knew. Curious!
MAYBE.....,
it was for...
the EXTENSION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT'S CONTRACT. Pretty presumptuous to put forth such a proposal, painfully hypocritical patriotic (remember at the swearing in she was the only person on stage who didn't cross their heart) pointed out about transparency. I believe the analogy she used was the old cliche of "putting the cart before the horse". I know, every body's old English teacher warned them about using tired, worn out cliches. Well this poet points out they are overused precisely because they are precise in pointing out the truth of the matter.
If it WAS the SUPERINTENDENT"S CONTRACT, why would you put it on before the decision had been made to extend it? If it wasn't, then who's was it?
MAYBE.....,
it was for...
the EXTENSION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT'S CONTRACT. Pretty presumptuous to put forth such a proposal, painfully hypocritical patriotic (remember at the swearing in she was the only person on stage who didn't cross their heart) pointed out about transparency. I believe the analogy she used was the old cliche of "putting the cart before the horse". I know, every body's old English teacher warned them about using tired, worn out cliches. Well this poet points out they are overused precisely because they are precise in pointing out the truth of the matter.
If it WAS the SUPERINTENDENT"S CONTRACT, why would you put it on before the decision had been made to extend it? If it wasn't, then who's was it?
Friday, February 10, 2012
DUALING DEPUTY DIVA'S
There they were all lined up in a ROW. Both prepared to lead the cheers of the audience. I was glad to see both of our players on the payroll on the sideline to lead the crowd on.
Yeah one might look better in a short skirt and bobby socks but the other has a doctorate. Some people think SMART IS SEXY. I ask you, "How many times you been married?".
Yeah one might look better in a short skirt and bobby socks but the other has a doctorate. Some people think SMART IS SEXY. I ask you, "How many times you been married?".
EXPENSIVE ENTERTAINMENT
As you may know, the serve a bang up lunch buffet down at the TIGER'S DEN. Cheap eats. The TECH kids let you taste the value of their education while not bankrupting your wallet. They try to make everything look good for less.
Value was on the minds of the crowd offering up piles of pathetic pre-programmed praise of a person who has a firm grip on their financial destiny's. These six figured servers, many imported from the offices nested in the floors above.
How many parents of children receiving any EDUCATIONAL SERVICES were there to vouch for those same services. Praise that is bought and paid for, is that like a BRIBE?. No maybe it is just a TIP. here's one for you, "Be careful who you listen to".
Value was on the minds of the crowd offering up piles of pathetic pre-programmed praise of a person who has a firm grip on their financial destiny's. These six figured servers, many imported from the offices nested in the floors above.
How many parents of children receiving any EDUCATIONAL SERVICES were there to vouch for those same services. Praise that is bought and paid for, is that like a BRIBE?. No maybe it is just a TIP. here's one for you, "Be careful who you listen to".
PEACE AT PICKERING IN A PICKLE
If the walls could talk, what would say? Perhaps they would talk of bullying in bathrooms Perhaps.Problems at the premier middle school in the district are quite puzzling.
DREWICZ DELIVERS DISASTER?
The plot thickens, Sources say that Representatives Steve Walsh and Lori Erlich were at Dreicwz today to what? Get a breath of that of that FRESH ISD approved air. Erlich has a history of intervening in MOLDY schools. Anybody remember PICKERING?
Anyway and also, there are other interesting things going on or have gone on at the school with the second largest SPED population. There are heating ducts that have been closed for TEN years. WHY? And then there is the 4 teachers in the past that died from CANCER.
Anyway and also, there are other interesting things going on or have gone on at the school with the second largest SPED population. There are heating ducts that have been closed for TEN years. WHY? And then there is the 4 teachers in the past that died from CANCER.
DOES ISD COVER THE SPREAD?
Last night while confetti was falling from the sky and kisses were exchanged in celebration of a well executed political coup, MOLD was still a growing problem at DREWICZ.
This morning ISD descended on the school like storm troopers. WHY if the air quality has been tested good? It turns out there may be other problems at the school. Stay tuned. The MOLD may not be the only thing they're are trying to cover up!
This morning ISD descended on the school like storm troopers. WHY if the air quality has been tested good? It turns out there may be other problems at the school. Stay tuned. The MOLD may not be the only thing they're are trying to cover up!
CALLED TO SERVE
FORD says the SC is supposed to support the SUPE.
Aren't I just a DUPE?
I thought his job was to serve each and every kid.
Not to serve the queen instead.
We deserve only the best,
not someone who is afraid of a test.
Come election time , his job will be on the line.
Of this vote, I will remind
Aren't I just a DUPE?
I thought his job was to serve each and every kid.
Not to serve the queen instead.
We deserve only the best,
not someone who is afraid of a test.
Come election time , his job will be on the line.
Of this vote, I will remind
NOW IT'S THE PARENT'S TURN
They heard from the people who were paid quite well to be there so time to speak up. Believe me they want to hear from you.
Patricia Capano: 781-581-7235 Maria Carrasco: 781-599-7375 Donna Coppola: 781-593-4433 John Ford: 781-598-6156 Charlie Gallo: 781-592-9498 Rick Starbard: 781-599-7999
Patricia Capano: 781-581-7235 Maria Carrasco: 781-599-7375 Donna Coppola: 781-593-4433 John Ford: 781-598-6156 Charlie Gallo: 781-592-9498 Rick Starbard: 781-599-7999
READY, SET, GO OFF TO THE POLITICAL SHOW
WALSH, PHELAN, or MCGEE,
whomever the candidate may be.
One thing I know,
JFK certainly must go.
Not only does she have no sense of fashion,
for our kids she has no PASSION.
To hold your signs, I may have to wait.
But my displeasure, I'm ready to state.
whomever the candidate may be.
One thing I know,
JFK certainly must go.
Not only does she have no sense of fashion,
for our kids she has no PASSION.
To hold your signs, I may have to wait.
But my displeasure, I'm ready to state.
LEAVING LYNN IS IN
In the crowd last night but remaining quiet was DR. RICH COWDELL. principal at MARSHALL. Getting a new school, LATHAM guaranteed another three years. We all know he's got those political genes. Heck even though MARSHALL is a FAILING school I like him.
BUT WHAT DOES IT SAY WHEN....
he's applied for another job. Rumours are he'll get it. I would NEVER call him a rat, he's got to good a smile, but what do they say about jumping ship?
BUT WHAT DOES IT SAY WHEN....
he's applied for another job. Rumours are he'll get it. I would NEVER call him a rat, he's got to good a smile, but what do they say about jumping ship?
ONE-TERM WONDER
JUDY gets her jollies crying foul
when a vote doesn't go her way she has a cow.
A loser among lawyers she often does show.
Now she's out to ruin our schools, don't you know.
Most would agree she's a possessor of wit,
but evidently that doesn't preclude her being a hypocrite.
You may be short but you could have stood tall.
For siding with corruption you surely will fall.
when a vote doesn't go her way she has a cow.
A loser among lawyers she often does show.
Now she's out to ruin our schools, don't you know.
Most would agree she's a possessor of wit,
but evidently that doesn't preclude her being a hypocrite.
You may be short but you could have stood tall.
For siding with corruption you surely will fall.
JUDY GOES BLONDE
“If you have Tom Brady for three years and he’s doing a good job, you don’t just stand by and say ‘Tom, we’re going to see what else is out there,’ because if I’m Tom Brady, I’m looking for another job,” Kennedy said.
MAYBE THE MAYOR HAS A MEMORY PROBLEM. You see there are plenty of examples of GREAT QUARTERBACKS that were let go from there teams even though they had good lifetime statistics, HALL OF FAME STATISTICS. Take JOE MONTANNA, BRETT FAVRE, and probably soon PEYTON MANNING. None of them led a team that were so close to the bottom as LPS is.
Oh yeah, BRADY has LOST his last two SUPERBOWLS.
MAYBE THE MAYOR HAS A MEMORY PROBLEM. You see there are plenty of examples of GREAT QUARTERBACKS that were let go from there teams even though they had good lifetime statistics, HALL OF FAME STATISTICS. Take JOE MONTANNA, BRETT FAVRE, and probably soon PEYTON MANNING. None of them led a team that were so close to the bottom as LPS is.
Oh yeah, BRADY has LOST his last two SUPERBOWLS.
IT AIN'T COMPLETLY OVER YET
Although a few BIG members of the senior administration are warming up their voices. Although a vote was taken and passed, 5 to 2 for the extension of the contract, no hard offer was finalized.
Both sides are going to have to agree on specifics, maybe just the EVALUATION TOOL. If both sides don't agree, then it becomes a question of whether there is a VALID contact. If a new one is not approved the old one will probably remain in place. It's something to argue about.
Both sides are going to have to agree on specifics, maybe just the EVALUATION TOOL. If both sides don't agree, then it becomes a question of whether there is a VALID contact. If a new one is not approved the old one will probably remain in place. It's something to argue about.
CHOOSE TO LOSE
GALLO sells out
when the crowd does shout
.
To hear you say,
"I'm just not that way".
But your eyes you close
to protect the status quo.
To not look for the best, you did choose,
so all the students of Lynn, did lose.
FAILING WE REMAIN,
ACCEPTANCE IS INSANE!
when the crowd does shout
.
To hear you say,
"I'm just not that way".
But your eyes you close
to protect the status quo.
To not look for the best, you did choose,
so all the students of Lynn, did lose.
FAILING WE REMAIN,
ACCEPTANCE IS INSANE!
HYPOCRACY AND LUNACY, TWO SIDES OF SAME COIN
Missing from last night's choreography of chaos was any representative from the SPED Department. Since the COMMERCIAL STREET CRONIES don't share the same office space maybe they didn't get the MARCHING ORDERS. Without the memo, obviously they didn't have a ticket to the coronation.
As a person in the crowd said to me, "The only thing missing was the confetti". The staged celebration did have a convention feel to it.
In the Personnel subcommittee and then before the whole committee, Patty Capano lamented that even just posting the superintendent's position without discussing it prior to taking a vote was wrong and would set a bad precedent. Surely she is not that stupid, she was asking that a vote should be taken to take a vote.
The whole purpose of taking a vote was to open it up for discussion. She cried about the need for transparency but voted AGAINST bring it before the WHOLE committee to DISCUSS. Her definition of TRANSPARENCY is a little foggy.
Then at the HEIGHT OF HYPOCRISY she led the charge to renew LATHAM'S contract without discussion. It was a DARK night for education last night.
As a person in the crowd said to me, "The only thing missing was the confetti". The staged celebration did have a convention feel to it.
In the Personnel subcommittee and then before the whole committee, Patty Capano lamented that even just posting the superintendent's position without discussing it prior to taking a vote was wrong and would set a bad precedent. Surely she is not that stupid, she was asking that a vote should be taken to take a vote.
The whole purpose of taking a vote was to open it up for discussion. She cried about the need for transparency but voted AGAINST bring it before the WHOLE committee to DISCUSS. Her definition of TRANSPARENCY is a little foggy.
Then at the HEIGHT OF HYPOCRISY she led the charge to renew LATHAM'S contract without discussion. It was a DARK night for education last night.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
MARIA'S MISTAKE
I really need to get to sleep but first I just want to lay out who voted for what. I'll get in to more in-depth analysis and poetry in the morning.-
In the personnel subcommittee, DONNA COPPOLA and MARIA CARRASCO voted to post the position of the superintendent. PATRICIA CAPANO did not, so the measure passed 3-2.
Then DONNA made a motion to bring the posting before the WHOLE committee. She was joined by MARIA. For all her complaints about not having an opportunity to discuss the posting PATRICIA voted against bringing the matter before the whole committee where it could be discussed. HOW DO YOU SPELL HYPOCRISY?`
Once the motion for the posting was put before the whole committee, it went down to defeat with the MAYOR,CHARLIE GALLO, JOHN FORD joining PATRICIA CAPANO siding with the "We;re failing just fine the way we are crowd".
DONNA COPPOLA, RICK STARBARD, and MARIA CARRASCO unsuccessfully to open up the contract for competition.
While DONNA, RICK, and MARIA were licking their wounds. LATHAM had put on the agenda the renewal of her contract for three more years. Do you remember I told you she was a smart lady.
Although they were not ready to lay out the particulars of the contract, they voted on the TIME only. meaning a guaranteed three more years, details to be worked out later. MARIA broke ranks and voted for the extension. MARIA,what were you thinking?
You can't hardly use the excuse of a language barrier because THERE WAS NO LANGUAGE IN THE CONTRACT. It was a BLANK check. She topped the list of city employees in the last released statistics at $184,000. What will it be for the next three?
In the personnel subcommittee, DONNA COPPOLA and MARIA CARRASCO voted to post the position of the superintendent. PATRICIA CAPANO did not, so the measure passed 3-2.
Then DONNA made a motion to bring the posting before the WHOLE committee. She was joined by MARIA. For all her complaints about not having an opportunity to discuss the posting PATRICIA voted against bringing the matter before the whole committee where it could be discussed. HOW DO YOU SPELL HYPOCRISY?`
Once the motion for the posting was put before the whole committee, it went down to defeat with the MAYOR,CHARLIE GALLO, JOHN FORD joining PATRICIA CAPANO siding with the "We;re failing just fine the way we are crowd".
DONNA COPPOLA, RICK STARBARD, and MARIA CARRASCO unsuccessfully to open up the contract for competition.
While DONNA, RICK, and MARIA were licking their wounds. LATHAM had put on the agenda the renewal of her contract for three more years. Do you remember I told you she was a smart lady.
Although they were not ready to lay out the particulars of the contract, they voted on the TIME only. meaning a guaranteed three more years, details to be worked out later. MARIA broke ranks and voted for the extension. MARIA,what were you thinking?
You can't hardly use the excuse of a language barrier because THERE WAS NO LANGUAGE IN THE CONTRACT. It was a BLANK check. She topped the list of city employees in the last released statistics at $184,000. What will it be for the next three?
CLEARING THE AIR OF CORRUPTION
Even though I have so much I want to say about the sham that was tonight, I am going to take a breather where quality is good. The same may not be able to be said at DREWICZ. Unconfirmed rumours report that the STATE may be stepping in as early as TOMORROW to investigate the MOLD MESS.
WHO KNEW WHAT and WHEN DID THEY KNOW IT? Aren't those always the standard questions these type of investigations ask? Looks like OUR HONORABLE MAYOR may be left holding the bag for sweeping the matter under the rug!
WHO KNEW WHAT and WHEN DID THEY KNOW IT? Aren't those always the standard questions these type of investigations ask? Looks like OUR HONORABLE MAYOR may be left holding the bag for sweeping the matter under the rug!
BULLY BRIGADE BOWLS OVER PROFESSIONAL POLITICIANS
A terrible travesty occurred tonight. An imported crowd featuring a PRINCIPAL POSSE full of out-of-towners, mercenaries, and hired guns invaded the den of the TIGERS to wage war leaving our young as casualties.
There are reasons why their is a policy why no out of towners can speak at these meetings. They don't have a vested interest in the schools in LYNN. Sure they are employees but where do they send their kids? They don't have any skin in the game.
I pointed this out to ATTORNEY MIHOS in OPEN MIKE after PATRICIA CAPANO "suspended the rules" to allow for the slaughter of innocent school children. They look to the ADULTS to protect them inspire them to exemplify non-bullying behavior. Instead they are treated to a dictatorial oration of "This is MY playground and we are going to PLAY by MY RULES".
Tonight three lawyers sat at the head table yet NONE of them so much as whispered a question of ethics. Their inaction only served to reinforce the tainted perception of the profession.
There are reasons why their is a policy why no out of towners can speak at these meetings. They don't have a vested interest in the schools in LYNN. Sure they are employees but where do they send their kids? They don't have any skin in the game.
I pointed this out to ATTORNEY MIHOS in OPEN MIKE after PATRICIA CAPANO "suspended the rules" to allow for the slaughter of innocent school children. They look to the ADULTS to protect them inspire them to exemplify non-bullying behavior. Instead they are treated to a dictatorial oration of "This is MY playground and we are going to PLAY by MY RULES".
Tonight three lawyers sat at the head table yet NONE of them so much as whispered a question of ethics. Their inaction only served to reinforce the tainted perception of the profession.
WHEN POETS ATTACK
Where do I begin? First let me say STEVE WALSH or TOM MCGEE, if you need a poet in your campaign for MAYOR then I'm your man. Actually anybody that wants to run against MADAME can employ me.
THROW,CHARLIE, THROW
Here is your chance to be a true player.
Don't let your vote be given for a favor.
Let reason, the chips to fall where they may.
If she's the best candidate, surely she stay.
Even in the NFL, they take a second look.
Throw the CHALLENGE FLAG to get us off the hook,
Don't let your vote be given for a favor.
Let reason, the chips to fall where they may.
If she's the best candidate, surely she stay.
Even in the NFL, they take a second look.
Throw the CHALLENGE FLAG to get us off the hook,
THE MAYOR'S NEW MUSICAL CAREER
OUR MOST HONORABLE MAYOR has a new record deal. She has publicly acknowledged not liking the culture of hiring practices in this city. Look at the way the recent DEPUTY was hired. Now she has the chance to OPEN the SUPERINTENDENT'S position up. We can get the BEST person, no matter who it is.
She doesn't have worry about any LAW DEPARTMENT not being able to carry her tune!
She doesn't have worry about any LAW DEPARTMENT not being able to carry her tune!
DOES THE MAYOR HAVE A CELLULITE PROBLEM?
Oops! I meant celluloid, like in film. I mean she is on camera questioning DR. LATHAM'S fiscal acumen during her very public evaluation. I got to get with the program, nowadays it's a DIGITAL DILEMMA. Thank you again LYNNCAM
Then there was that MEETING OF THE WHOLE. that our MOST HONORABLE MAYOR called to bring to light questionable spending practices, like the $800 a day pair of consultants or the $9000 a week camp thing.
No it looks to me like the MAYOR has little choice to vote for posting the SUPERINTENDENT'S position. WILL SHE BE FIRM TO HER FISCAL DIETARY REGIMEN OR WILL SHE GIGGLE?
The thing that makes WEIGHT WATCHERS work is the support you get from your fellow dieters. JUDY needs that support. Give her a call to show that you care or if you like you could drop her a note of encouragement at jkenndy@ci.lynn.ma.us. She really could use your help.
Then there was that MEETING OF THE WHOLE. that our MOST HONORABLE MAYOR called to bring to light questionable spending practices, like the $800 a day pair of consultants or the $9000 a week camp thing.
No it looks to me like the MAYOR has little choice to vote for posting the SUPERINTENDENT'S position. WILL SHE BE FIRM TO HER FISCAL DIETARY REGIMEN OR WILL SHE GIGGLE?
The thing that makes WEIGHT WATCHERS work is the support you get from your fellow dieters. JUDY needs that support. Give her a call to show that you care or if you like you could drop her a note of encouragement at jkenndy@ci.lynn.ma.us. She really could use your help.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
MY INNOVATIVE PROPOSAL
Well, maybe it's not my idea, it's really a conglomerate of a lot of people ideas and it's really not that innovative because other people are trying to implement at least parts of it. But it makes me feel smart to say I've got this idea.I know I'm not as smart as all these school people but you know what they say about faking it.
Okay, everybody wants a better education, a better school for their kids. We have overcrowding issues at our middle schools. Projections are that even with the increase in size granted by the MSBA the new MARSHALL is still going to be small. Then there are the students packed into BREED like sardines.
My solution (as it was mine or even original) is the establishment of a STEM based middle school right were the administration have their offices. I mean they are moving to BENNETT STREET didn't they say now. We have all those labs right next door at TECH and they could put EXCITEMENT into education. I mean they kind of already tried with the wildly successful CAMP EXPLORER last summer. If I am not mistaken (and you all know my track record) I think that was DR. WARRY'S baby.
Then there is all that WRAP-AROUND stuff. It's that new concept in education that says we got to be concern with all aspects of a kids life that affects his access to education. That new, old stuff has been going on at the FORD SCHOOL for twenty years.
So I am proposing we bring together all of these ideas, MARRY (it is a favorite word of mine) them if you will into a new innovative, INNOVATION MIDDLE SCHOOL at 90 Commercial Street. Here comes my one original contribution to the idea, we could call it CRANE'S ACADEMY.
I admit I might have stolen the name ACADEMY from PLATO or ARISTOTLE, one of those old, dead Greek guys but I don't think they will say anything. As for the CRANE'S part, maybe I was thinking of the beach up IPSWICH way. Yeah sure, that was it.
Anyway it was just a thought, a poor poet with his muse musing.
Okay, everybody wants a better education, a better school for their kids. We have overcrowding issues at our middle schools. Projections are that even with the increase in size granted by the MSBA the new MARSHALL is still going to be small. Then there are the students packed into BREED like sardines.
My solution (as it was mine or even original) is the establishment of a STEM based middle school right were the administration have their offices. I mean they are moving to BENNETT STREET didn't they say now. We have all those labs right next door at TECH and they could put EXCITEMENT into education. I mean they kind of already tried with the wildly successful CAMP EXPLORER last summer. If I am not mistaken (and you all know my track record) I think that was DR. WARRY'S baby.
Then there is all that WRAP-AROUND stuff. It's that new concept in education that says we got to be concern with all aspects of a kids life that affects his access to education. That new, old stuff has been going on at the FORD SCHOOL for twenty years.
So I am proposing we bring together all of these ideas, MARRY (it is a favorite word of mine) them if you will into a new innovative, INNOVATION MIDDLE SCHOOL at 90 Commercial Street. Here comes my one original contribution to the idea, we could call it CRANE'S ACADEMY.
I admit I might have stolen the name ACADEMY from PLATO or ARISTOTLE, one of those old, dead Greek guys but I don't think they will say anything. As for the CRANE'S part, maybe I was thinking of the beach up IPSWICH way. Yeah sure, that was it.
Anyway it was just a thought, a poor poet with his muse musing.
AS A FORMER VOLUNTEER LIBRARIAN, HOW COULD I NOT RE-POST THIS?
Another call for Children books. Centerboard is having a Book Fair, please contact Jan Plourde at jplourde@theCenterboard.org to arrange the drop off. We are committed to helping young children read at grade level by the third grade. We need your help. Please share with your friends.
POSTING PRESSURE
What harm can there be?
All we want to do is see.
A little competition is healthy for all.
Are you afraid you'll take a fall?
Are you sure who your friends will be?
Political winds are blowing for all to see.
Your fate rides on either KENNEDY or GALLO
The will of the people, who will follow?.
All we want to do is see.
A little competition is healthy for all.
Are you afraid you'll take a fall?
Are you sure who your friends will be?
Political winds are blowing for all to see.
Your fate rides on either KENNEDY or GALLO
The will of the people, who will follow?.
YOU HAD TO ASK
uneducacion.blogspot.com
Well CLEO you asked and well I try my best to give you what you want, I know it's a sickness, I have but I am on the 4th step to recovery.
LYNN is the 5th largest school district and does have many different factors contributing to its poor academic standing. NO ONE PERSON CAN CONTROL ALL THOSE FACTORS. Each sub-group demands that its interest receive paramount importance. It's just not FEASIBLY PRACTICAL.
BUT....,
like I always say, :It's not just where we are at, but how we got there". We closed down schools, now we are overcrowded. We have an ever increasing influx of immigrants, but how are we doing on the cultural diversity of the administration? We have a drop-out problem, what are we actually getting for all the money we are spending?
You know in professional athletics, the coach doesn't play in the game but he is the first fired when the team loses. Why? It's not really about money, it's leadership.
THE TIGERS ARE KINGS IN THIS JUNGLE
TECH athletics continue to dominate. There's plenty to be proud of in TIGER (I mean TITLE) TOWN.
Tech Continues Its Reign Tigers Claim Lynn Swim Title
Tech Continues Its Reign Tigers Claim Lynn Swim Title
NO TALKING IN SCHOOL BUT THIS IS ABOUT SCHOOL
I CAN'T STAND IT. I'VE BEEN NICE TOO LONG! Ask any of my 3 ex-wives, I am not that NICE ( my current wife might say some good things if you don't bring up the cap on the toothpaste thing).
Where was the representation from LPS? I was there for ALL the speakers and only heard from CHARLIE GALLO from the LSC and he spoke more from personal experience and history than about the cataclysmic effects these proposed changes would have on the public school systems. I understand that RICK STARBARD and JOHN FORD participated as audience members taking the opportunity to educate themselves on the issue.
MISSING was DR. LATHAM or any of the COMMERCIAL STREET CROWD. The ramifications of these proposed changes will have multiple impacts, social, economic, and educational. We just heard how LPS is now mandated to be interested and involved in all matters that effect the student's ability to access education. That was the justification for hiring a new WRAP-AROUND person at 75K plus benefits a year, yet the administration was noticeably absent from the discussion on such important matters.
It goes without saying I urge you to contact ALL your elected officials on the impending devastation caused by these changes. HOWEVER, don't stop there. Contact DR. LATHAM and DEMAND to know why LPS failed to publicly proclaim the havoc these proposed changes would have on the student's of LPS.
IT MAY HAVE HAD A LICKING BUT THIS WATCH WILL KEEP TICKING
This news may come as a disappointing blow to some. It looks like the WATCH is going to stick around.
Although I won't be able to view the beautiful vegetation of the FORD garden much longer, it looks like an acceptable move will avoid relocation to the streets of LYNN.
SO....,
LPS BEWARE!
You will continue to be held accountable and when deserved, praised for your efforts regarding the education of our children.
Although I won't be able to view the beautiful vegetation of the FORD garden much longer, it looks like an acceptable move will avoid relocation to the streets of LYNN.
SO....,
LPS BEWARE!
You will continue to be held accountable and when deserved, praised for your efforts regarding the education of our children.
LATHAM LET'S FLY, "LET'S OPEN LVTI"
I am not a one dimensional POET. After a meeting with delegates from the NEW LYNN COALITION yesterday to discuss the proposal to OCCUPY LVTI, DR. LATHAM wholeheartedly endorsed the concept.
True to her word, she was open to more community involvement in maximizing the usage of school facilities for more community participation. It was agreed that the NEW LYNN COALITION would present their POWERPOINT presentation to the whole LSC for their approval.
An intermediate appointment has already been set up with DR. LATHAM to hammer out more details. It is hoped to have a small pilot program up and running by MARCH.
JOHN FORD and CHARLIE GALLO from the LSCattended yesterday's meeting.
True to her word, she was open to more community involvement in maximizing the usage of school facilities for more community participation. It was agreed that the NEW LYNN COALITION would present their POWERPOINT presentation to the whole LSC for their approval.
An intermediate appointment has already been set up with DR. LATHAM to hammer out more details. It is hoped to have a small pilot program up and running by MARCH.
JOHN FORD and CHARLIE GALLO from the LSCattended yesterday's meeting.
EXCUSE ME, MARSHALL HAS GAS!
Gas leak evacuates Marshall; Lynn school re-opens today
Possibly as a precursor to the EXPLOSIVE THURSDAY NIGHT MEETING of the LSC, MARSHALL once again demonstrated why we need a new school building.
SADLY, I think PICKERING needs a new building worse than MARSHALL but hey, I am glad we are getting one for now. That's a debate for another POET.
Possibly as a precursor to the EXPLOSIVE THURSDAY NIGHT MEETING of the LSC, MARSHALL once again demonstrated why we need a new school building.
SADLY, I think PICKERING needs a new building worse than MARSHALL but hey, I am glad we are getting one for now. That's a debate for another POET.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
GALLO GOES ALL THE WAY TO MBTA
I SCREWED UP. SURPRISE! Here I am trying to take this picture with my fancy I-phone and I end up shooting a video instead. It's not like I could yell "CHARLIE, come back, come back I am an idiot and all thumbs. I HAVE SOME MEASURE OF SELF RESPECT. Besides with terms like HD and digital, math rules here and I can't admit MATH ever trumps POETRY".
ANYWAY......,
I was at the MBTA WORKSHOP last night where the proposed changes to the MBTA schedules and fares were presented. Well over 100 people voiced their displeasure. Elected officials from a state senator, our state Representatives., and city councilmen and school committee members from around the area commented on their resistance to the devastation that these proposals would cause.
The LSC and LPS were only represented by CHARLIE GALLO. The effects of such MONUMENTAL changes that these proposals should have warranted more involvement from these entities. Thank God CHARLIE was there to REPRESENT.
Admittedly even though he spoke well, I don't think he expressed the WIDESPREAD effects that these proposed changes would have. Be that as it may, he was THERE.
LEGAL EAGLE GALLO TO PERCH WITH STUDENTS
Word of the street is there was a question of authority on whether or not the LYNN CITY COUNCIL ordinance recently passed would legally allow for the creation of a student school committee. Rather than waste time splitting legal hairs over what seems to be an overwhelmingly popular matter, new LSC member CHARLIE GALLO is rumoured to be planning on introducing a resolution allowing for the creation of just such a body.
The idea is to provide official cover allowing student - LSC interaction. This will show that the LSC takes their involvement seriously and gives them and it, the respect the whole matter deserves.
The idea is to provide official cover allowing student - LSC interaction. This will show that the LSC takes their involvement seriously and gives them and it, the respect the whole matter deserves.
MAKE MADAME MAYOR MEDDLE IN THIS MESS
During SUPERINTENDENT LATHAM very public examination (I feel violated) our MOST HONORABLE MAYOR mentioned that she was less than pleased with the good doctor's fiduciary talents (roll the tape, THANK YOU LYNNCAM).
That sounds to me like the MAYOR has already publicly expressed her reservations about the frugal frivolities that have come out of the superintendent's office (how about slow motion on this replay). So this upcoming vote gives you a chance to put OUR MONEY where YOUR mouth is.
REMEMBER $800 A DAY CONSULTANTS!
That sounds to me like the MAYOR has already publicly expressed her reservations about the frugal frivolities that have come out of the superintendent's office (how about slow motion on this replay). So this upcoming vote gives you a chance to put OUR MONEY where YOUR mouth is.
REMEMBER $800 A DAY CONSULTANTS!
| Lynn City
Hall and Memorial Auditorium Lynn, Massachusetts 01901 (781)-598-4000 |
GIVE GALLO GOOD ADVICE
Before this wine has had a chance to age or mature as we say in the biz, the bottle has been uncorked and Gallo is about to be judged. Will he in a blue ribbon for his steadfast care for our children's education or has his decision-making been tainted by the establishment?
Being a virgin in the LSC game, I'm sure he could use your help in deciding whether or not we want the best for our children. Give him a call to show him your support, (781) 592-9498.
Being a virgin in the LSC game, I'm sure he could use your help in deciding whether or not we want the best for our children. Give him a call to show him your support, (781) 592-9498.
BARGAIN HUNTERS
Latham’s contract topic of debate for Lynn school board
IT'S NOT FAIR. A poor, disabled poet just can't keep up. I mean we have CLEO on the ball. CHRIS STEVENS is starting to crank out good stories that don't need two eggs and a cup of flour.
Now a parent, LORI is getting into the mix. Today, she's hogging the my spotlight and over the weekend she stole my thunder about the disappearance of AYP. Can't a guy get a break? Well at least none of them are rhyming.
I am so upset. Okay, I'm going to collect myself for a moment. TALK AMONGST YOURSELVES. After your little self-directed conversation, you really should give a phone call to your LSC members. Our kids deserve the best. We want the best.
Maybe it's LATHAM and maybe PIGS CAN FLY (don't laugh I seen in a commercial for baked beans they can), but we need to do a little comparison shopping.
Anyway in case you lost any of your LSC members numbers, her they are again:
Patricia Capano: 781-581-7235 Maria Carrasco: 781-599-7375 Donna Coppola: 781-593-4433 John Ford: 781-598-6156 Charlie Gallo: 781-592-9498 Rick Starbard: 781-599-7999
Monday, February 6, 2012
PAC PUSHING TOWARD PEAK
Okay, we are not there yet. In fact, we are not even close. But with our NEW location at the FORD SCHOOL, I think we are moving in the right direction.
It was learned tonight that child care will be available. It looks like we will have more translation services available at the school. Dr. Menino freed up some money so that snacks were available, coffee and cookies. I LOVE ME SOME COOKIES!
Joining DR. MENINO there tonight were RICK STARBARD, LSC member, JESSICA MCLAUGHLIN, and PARENT LIAISON, FRANCES MARTINEZ.
Tonight's meeting was about FINAL APPROVAL of the BY-LAWS and after a procedural spat over bringing up an item not on the posted agenda. DR. MENINO felt that her staying for the meeting was not a productive use of her time. CHAIRMAN DAVE ELLIS breathes ROBERT'S RULES and is a stickler for them.
In the words of my favorite urban philosopher, RODNEY KING, "Can't we all just get along?".
Anyway after DR, MENINO'S untimely departure, with JESSICA'S help, it was put on the agenda for the next business meeting to discuss ways to improve communication.
It was learned tonight that child care will be available. It looks like we will have more translation services available at the school. Dr. Menino freed up some money so that snacks were available, coffee and cookies. I LOVE ME SOME COOKIES!
Joining DR. MENINO there tonight were RICK STARBARD, LSC member, JESSICA MCLAUGHLIN, and PARENT LIAISON, FRANCES MARTINEZ.
Tonight's meeting was about FINAL APPROVAL of the BY-LAWS and after a procedural spat over bringing up an item not on the posted agenda. DR. MENINO felt that her staying for the meeting was not a productive use of her time. CHAIRMAN DAVE ELLIS breathes ROBERT'S RULES and is a stickler for them.
In the words of my favorite urban philosopher, RODNEY KING, "Can't we all just get along?".
Anyway after DR, MENINO'S untimely departure, with JESSICA'S help, it was put on the agenda for the next business meeting to discuss ways to improve communication.
THE OTHER SUBJECT
It pains me to talk about this but if I want to be a responsible if not respected guerrilla journalist, I must. Okay, here goes. I want to talk about ..... MATH. Well, are you happy. We POETS feel the same about MATH as a VAMPIRE feels about LIGHT. I could explode from the exposure.
BUT ...,
this is my JOB. You know, the one that doesn't PAY.
Oh well, I can't avoid it any longer. FORD has a MATH TEAM. I just shiver when I think of that. I hear there are 15 of them signed up. The plan is to compete against other schools if they can get the LOGISTICS (a nice MATH word, I feel a little better) worked out.
All of this talk brings back memories (nightmares, really) of when I was a snot nosed high school punk competing in the MATH FIELD DAY'S. Since then I had an accident, been in a coma, and had some sense knocked into my head. THANK YOU!
BUT ...,
this is my JOB. You know, the one that doesn't PAY.
Oh well, I can't avoid it any longer. FORD has a MATH TEAM. I just shiver when I think of that. I hear there are 15 of them signed up. The plan is to compete against other schools if they can get the LOGISTICS (a nice MATH word, I feel a little better) worked out.
All of this talk brings back memories (nightmares, really) of when I was a snot nosed high school punk competing in the MATH FIELD DAY'S. Since then I had an accident, been in a coma, and had some sense knocked into my head. THANK YOU!
ARE WE GETTING A NEW QUARTERBACK?
Cleo beat me too it. I feel like TOM BRADY and she's my ELI. It is an interesting agenda. Does it mean we are getting a new superintendent? Well let's just say DR. LATHAM doesn't need to pack her bags yet. It looks like this may not be a direct commentary on her just a little window shopping. Don't clip those coupons just yet.
A couple of votes have to be taken first. The first one being in the personnel subcommittee so that the process of beginning the posting can be brought before the Whole committee and only then can the process of the posting can begin.
WHAT WILL DEFINITELY HOW EVERYONE IS GOING TO VOTE! I will definitely let you know.
AYP, NO MORE? WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
Well this poet sure don't know. The rhetoric surrounding all the possible changes do sound interesting, but I'm afraid there are more questions than answers. Of course that's the way with any change. The only way you can have all the answers is to stay the same and well we didn't have all the answers (hence failing) and that's why we are changing, WAIT A MINUTE, I'M GETTING DIZZY WRITING THIS! It's kind of like a dog chasing its tail.
On the surface, this micro-accountability this new DART system, http://www.doe.mass.edu/apa/dart/, will provide could empower parents to demand more from their school systems but it should surprise no one who knows me, NUMBERS SCARE ME. I wake up in cold sweats when I dream of the number 3. Luckily, I was only around the number 2 for 5 months and I didn't even need a lawyer.
On the surface, this micro-accountability this new DART system, http://www.doe.mass.edu/apa/dart/, will provide could empower parents to demand more from their school systems but it should surprise no one who knows me, NUMBERS SCARE ME. I wake up in cold sweats when I dream of the number 3. Luckily, I was only around the number 2 for 5 months and I didn't even need a lawyer.
MOLD ON HOLD?
Lynn’s Drewicz School given a clean bill of health
THIS SEEMS LIKE GOOD NEWS!
I don't have any reason to doubt it.
UNLESS....,
you remember the ASBESTOS pictures I posted last summer and well this isn't the FIRST time there has been a mold issue at DREWICZ (or other schools for that matter). Come on these are old buildings, this problem is going to happen.
My BIGGEST issue was confusion round this issue.
WHO KNEW WHAT AND WHEN DID THEY KNOW IT?
If GRANDMA HADN"T HAD THE GOODS,
how long before this problem would have had a resolution?
THIS SEEMS LIKE GOOD NEWS!
I don't have any reason to doubt it.
UNLESS....,
you remember the ASBESTOS pictures I posted last summer and well this isn't the FIRST time there has been a mold issue at DREWICZ (or other schools for that matter). Come on these are old buildings, this problem is going to happen.
My BIGGEST issue was confusion round this issue.
WHO KNEW WHAT AND WHEN DID THEY KNOW IT?
If GRANDMA HADN"T HAD THE GOODS,
how long before this problem would have had a resolution?
WAIVER FEVER
Level 4 no more?
Who knows
which way it goes?
No one knows for sure.
Academics is an art,
and statistics are the way
that we have chosen to say
to have DART show the way.
Who knows
which way it goes?
No one knows for sure.
Academics is an art,
and statistics are the way
that we have chosen to say
to have DART show the way.
POET PACKS THEM IN
FORD SCHOOL students were treated to a performance by esteemed POET JEFF NATHAN who entertained the audience with his funny rhymes and comedic recitation of original works. Active audience participation was encouraged and every one's attention was focused on the message.
WHAT WAS THAT MESSAGE? That words are powerful.
GAME CHANGER
We can't hit the benchmarks
so we remove it.
No longer held hostage to
a seemingly unattainable AYP.
So it's back to the start
with the introduction of DART.
http://www.doe.mass.edu/apa/dart/
so we remove it.
No longer held hostage to
a seemingly unattainable AYP.
So it's back to the start
with the introduction of DART.
http://www.doe.mass.edu/apa/dart/
CHOOSE WISELY, GRASSHOPPER
I would venture to said that the SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT is the most powerful single person in town. Think about it, that office controls around 50% of the city budget.
The city is mandated to give a certain percentage of revenue to LPS. Our city government only has control over the small excess it chooses to give. For the majority of the LPS budget our elected city officials are impotent when it comes to affecting that amount.
Most of the day to day expenditures never see the light of scrutiny. Most of the times our duly elected LSC members are left to rule on policies and comment on expenses after they have been generated and the bills have been paid.
Even once they have been exposed, there is little they can do about it. Take for example the MAYOR'S recent very public examination of LPS's fiscal atrocities, the revelation that LPS was paying $8000 a day each for two consultants who lived at the same address sparked outrage.
But, you know what? Nothing was done about it. WHY? Because nothing could be done about it. The news came to light at a "meeting of the whole" where no votes were taken. None could be taken. Ah yeah, we were all told that this pair of consultants had suspended their services when wind of this exposure was leaked.
But did you also hear it mentioned that if we didn't provide the services that these two consultants provided we were going to have to pay a ton of grant money back? I would guess that this "consulting" will find it's way back into the budget and no one will notice. GOD SAVE THE GRANT MONEY!
The GRANT money provides the potential for the greatest degree of abuse and it's out of the purview of local oversight. Yes, federal, state, or even foundations can be pretty stringent and at the same time they can be pretty lose at times. Accountants love this stuff. It's all just a shell game and we choose the shells.
Take the recent STATE MANDATED COMPLIANCE OFFICER. I would guess that what should have been a PENALTY to LPS probably turned out to be a benefit to a few selected people. Rumour has it that the person who got the FAT administrative job had been sequestered in the dungeons of COMMERCIAL STREET after tangling with the queen at her previous position at the ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL. Because the GRANT funding her isolation was running out, it was opportune that this so-called penalty provided the perfect opportunity to have her return from seclusion paid for by state provided monies. This is all just a poet's speculation.
In order that the superintendent share the wealth with friends, a new DEPUTY position was not only created but the credentials were tailored just so a particular person would be privy to the position. I might be wrong, but tell me how many candidates were interviewed for the position?
All of this to keep the superintendent happy. You see in so many ways our kids are held hostage to the whims of the superintendent and the ransom is their future. As parents, no sacrifice is to great for the welfare of our children. As such the superintendent, any superintendent holds a metaphorical gun to our heads. Study hard and nobody gets hurt! Don't you want to have confidence in the person who has their finger on the trigger? WE MUST HAVE THE BEST PERSON POSSIBLE FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS AT THAT POSITION.
The city is mandated to give a certain percentage of revenue to LPS. Our city government only has control over the small excess it chooses to give. For the majority of the LPS budget our elected city officials are impotent when it comes to affecting that amount.
Most of the day to day expenditures never see the light of scrutiny. Most of the times our duly elected LSC members are left to rule on policies and comment on expenses after they have been generated and the bills have been paid.
Even once they have been exposed, there is little they can do about it. Take for example the MAYOR'S recent very public examination of LPS's fiscal atrocities, the revelation that LPS was paying $8000 a day each for two consultants who lived at the same address sparked outrage.
But, you know what? Nothing was done about it. WHY? Because nothing could be done about it. The news came to light at a "meeting of the whole" where no votes were taken. None could be taken. Ah yeah, we were all told that this pair of consultants had suspended their services when wind of this exposure was leaked.
But did you also hear it mentioned that if we didn't provide the services that these two consultants provided we were going to have to pay a ton of grant money back? I would guess that this "consulting" will find it's way back into the budget and no one will notice. GOD SAVE THE GRANT MONEY!
The GRANT money provides the potential for the greatest degree of abuse and it's out of the purview of local oversight. Yes, federal, state, or even foundations can be pretty stringent and at the same time they can be pretty lose at times. Accountants love this stuff. It's all just a shell game and we choose the shells.
Take the recent STATE MANDATED COMPLIANCE OFFICER. I would guess that what should have been a PENALTY to LPS probably turned out to be a benefit to a few selected people. Rumour has it that the person who got the FAT administrative job had been sequestered in the dungeons of COMMERCIAL STREET after tangling with the queen at her previous position at the ALTERNATIVE SCHOOL. Because the GRANT funding her isolation was running out, it was opportune that this so-called penalty provided the perfect opportunity to have her return from seclusion paid for by state provided monies. This is all just a poet's speculation.
In order that the superintendent share the wealth with friends, a new DEPUTY position was not only created but the credentials were tailored just so a particular person would be privy to the position. I might be wrong, but tell me how many candidates were interviewed for the position?
All of this to keep the superintendent happy. You see in so many ways our kids are held hostage to the whims of the superintendent and the ransom is their future. As parents, no sacrifice is to great for the welfare of our children. As such the superintendent, any superintendent holds a metaphorical gun to our heads. Study hard and nobody gets hurt! Don't you want to have confidence in the person who has their finger on the trigger? WE MUST HAVE THE BEST PERSON POSSIBLE FOR THE NEXT THREE YEARS AT THAT POSITION.
REMEMBER THE RECORD
Our esteemed superintendent's contract is coming up for renewal. We need to be viligent in our duties and make sure we have the best person for the job. A little comparison shopping never hurts anyone. Maybe someone will find some coupons and we can get a discount.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
LYNN'S LEADERS IN HISTORY
FROM: THE HIGHLANDS WATCH
The HIGHLANDS COALITION will repeat their wildly successful event where community members took turns reciting a speech by LYNN's own, former slave and abolitionist leader FREDRICK DOUGLASS on July 3rd at HIGHROCK PARK this year again on July 3rd.
BUT....,
if you can't wait or don't want to wait that long to pay homage to one of LYNN'S LEADERS from the past, you can attend this event, timed in conjunction with BLACK HISTORY month:
The HIGHLANDS COALITION will repeat their wildly successful event where community members took turns reciting a speech by LYNN's own, former slave and abolitionist leader FREDRICK DOUGLASS on July 3rd at HIGHROCK PARK this year again on July 3rd.
BUT....,
if you can't wait or don't want to wait that long to pay homage to one of LYNN'S LEADERS from the past, you can attend this event, timed in conjunction with BLACK HISTORY month:
PUTTING IT IN PRINT
The FORD SCHOOL has already put out two issues of a student run newspaper. I HAVE HAD NO PART IN THIS. All of the credit goes to MS, MITZ and the STUDENTS involved. It's great to see kids that age to appreciate the POWER of the PRESS.
LESSONS FOR LIVING
Tomorrow I get to go again to a SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL MEETING at the FORD SCHOOL. I've missed a couple of meetings because of that work thing. It will be great to work on positive steps toward progress.
I'm pretty sure some ed reform law mandated the establishment of these councils and I would guess that EVERY school has them. I would encourage everyone to check them out. We all need to be involved in some capacity in our children's education whether it's the PTO or the BAND BOOSTERS.
AS PARENTS, WE ARE THE GREATEST TEACHERS, WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR KID TO LEARN?
I'm pretty sure some ed reform law mandated the establishment of these councils and I would guess that EVERY school has them. I would encourage everyone to check them out. We all need to be involved in some capacity in our children's education whether it's the PTO or the BAND BOOSTERS.
AS PARENTS, WE ARE THE GREATEST TEACHERS, WHAT DO YOU WANT YOUR KID TO LEARN?
A POST-SUPERBOWL PARTY PERHAPS?
I am so excited I want to do my own touchdown poetry pirouette, a metaphor montage.
Tomorrow at the FORD SCHOOL a POET will be center stage celebrating the language of comedy and childhood. JEFF NATHAN will treat power that the rhythm of words can have. It would be great if ALL students at EVERY school.
Tomorrow at the FORD SCHOOL a POET will be center stage celebrating the language of comedy and childhood. JEFF NATHAN will treat power that the rhythm of words can have. It would be great if ALL students at EVERY school.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
LIFE LESSONS OR ADMINISTRATIVE SKILLS SET
Remember way back to December 8, 2011, there was an LSC meeting when they first heard all of this SPED CIRCUIT BREAKER money would be coming available? Back then the proposed that one of the NEW positions they would be adding was a LIFE SKILLS teacher at BREED.
Well at least that would have been DIRECT SERVICES and SPECIAL NEEDS. Seems to me that would be a good investment of the excess. Now I don't have all the numbers in front of me, nor do I really want them.
BUT...,
I don't see how causing an overcrowding at COMMERCIAL STREET (which is supposed to be at BENNETT STREET) does anything to relieve any at BREED. The sheer fact they were contemplating adding a teacher in DEC. indicates there must have been some population problems.
Was there a mass exodus of students? A turnaround in trends, perhaps? I did not here any public explanation for this lack of action or change in direction. Am I entitled to one? Not really, I'm nobody special. I tell who is: "The parents of those BREED students who are being done a disservice just so some COMMERCIAL STREET CRONIES can pilfer particular pennies from premium programs".
Well at least that would have been DIRECT SERVICES and SPECIAL NEEDS. Seems to me that would be a good investment of the excess. Now I don't have all the numbers in front of me, nor do I really want them.
BUT...,
I don't see how causing an overcrowding at COMMERCIAL STREET (which is supposed to be at BENNETT STREET) does anything to relieve any at BREED. The sheer fact they were contemplating adding a teacher in DEC. indicates there must have been some population problems.
Was there a mass exodus of students? A turnaround in trends, perhaps? I did not here any public explanation for this lack of action or change in direction. Am I entitled to one? Not really, I'm nobody special. I tell who is: "The parents of those BREED students who are being done a disservice just so some COMMERCIAL STREET CRONIES can pilfer particular pennies from premium programs".
DETAILED ANALYNALTICS REAL TIMELY
Teasing is my art
as we all wait for DART.
Results we will soon be shown
so progress will be known.
When the ship of state has finally sailed
only then will all be unveiled.
as we all wait for DART.
Results we will soon be shown
so progress will be known.
When the ship of state has finally sailed
only then will all be unveiled.
LEADERS AND LOSERS
Here I was sitting watching the news yesterday (Oh no, I've become my father). It was the Dylan Ratigan Show on MSNBC (well I haven't completely turned into my father, he watches FOX).
Anyway he was talking about the value and importance of a leader,a good leader. The example he gave wasn't political it just illustrated the difference one person , the right person can make.
That person was JIM HARBAUGH, the coach of the SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS. He was able to take basically to take the same personnel from last year's losing team and transformed them into a winning team. The BIG difference between this year's team and last was HIM, the man in charge.
LPS has a chance coming up to PICK someone to lead LPS the next three years. It could be DR. LATHAM but I ask you what's her record?
Anyway he was talking about the value and importance of a leader,a good leader. The example he gave wasn't political it just illustrated the difference one person , the right person can make.
That person was JIM HARBAUGH, the coach of the SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS. He was able to take basically to take the same personnel from last year's losing team and transformed them into a winning team. The BIG difference between this year's team and last was HIM, the man in charge.
LPS has a chance coming up to PICK someone to lead LPS the next three years. It could be DR. LATHAM but I ask you what's her record?
PAC TO GET PUNCH
There's power in numbers. That's why PAC has MOVED to the FORD SCHOOL to have it's meetings (next one:Mon. Feb. 6 at 7pm).
It is simply because we believe more parents will be able to attend our meetings. You have to speak up before your voice is heard.
It is simply because we believe more parents will be able to attend our meetings. You have to speak up before your voice is heard.
Friday, February 3, 2012
GOOD WRITERS JOURNAL EVERYDAY
SO....,
I did take a suggestion and try to contact the LYNN JOURNAL and see if they would be interested in featuring a column by this POET. I sent an e mail early this afternoon to JOSH the editor. Now I am not asking anyone to send a letter of support to editor@lynnjournal.com, but I will tell you that creatively the idea is attractive to me.
I did take a suggestion and try to contact the LYNN JOURNAL and see if they would be interested in featuring a column by this POET. I sent an e mail early this afternoon to JOSH the editor. Now I am not asking anyone to send a letter of support to editor@lynnjournal.com, but I will tell you that creatively the idea is attractive to me.
MUSIC TO MY EARS
I must have struck a chord with the citizens of LYNN. I can't go anywhere without someone talking to me about my BLOG. I may not be able to carry a tune but my writing must be singing out loud. It's not so much that I march to a different drummer, it's just I don't march to their drummer.
MOVING VIOLATION?
Does anybody remember BENNETT STREET? You know, the old FORD ANNEX? There has been talk of moving all of the offices at COMMERCIAL STREET down there and bring down the SPED department to join them. This consolidation would free up the building currently housing SPED to be sold giving LPS a nice one-time infusion of cash. Studies have been done and paid for.
Our MOST HONORABLE MAYOR has combed through the budget looking for waste and extravagant expenditures. Why haven't we seen more progress on this budgetary avenue? I hear that some don't like the new street address.
Our MOST HONORABLE MAYOR has combed through the budget looking for waste and extravagant expenditures. Why haven't we seen more progress on this budgetary avenue? I hear that some don't like the new street address.
FUTURE WATCH
If you really think about this article PAC may be growing in the future. Ugh! I can't say "growing" without thinking of the MOLD that was growing behind the wall at DREWICZ.
PAC PARENTS PEAK INTEREST?
PAC is PREPARED to move. Starting Monday February 6, PAC will start meeting at the FORD SCHOOL at 7 pm. The meetings are always the first and third Monday's of the months that school is in session. Come on down and get involved, together our voices will be heard.
At the last LSC, PAC board member SHAWN TARASUIK personally invited all the LSC members to come to our meetings so we can all work together. I guess, we will see how important they think parents are.
At the last LSC, PAC board member SHAWN TARASUIK personally invited all the LSC members to come to our meetings so we can all work together. I guess, we will see how important they think parents are.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
THE COST OF SUCCESS, LPS STYLE
School Department Should be Cutting High Paid Positions
I was looking at this story from last week. They must be reading my blog and you know what they can't add either or maybe they maybe they just forgot like I am prone to do sometimes.
I mean they added up DR. LATHAM'S and SUE ROWE'S cost and ball parked at around
$400,000. Nice field.
But the LPS line-up has a few other heavy hitters in the line-up. There is DR. WARRY, the OTHER deputy at about $130,000 with another Confidential Secretary ($350 a month + 50K/year) and we need to add another 100K for SUE ROWE'S replacement (you wouldn't want to have a vacancy would you?), so that's roughly another $300,000.
SO....,
that's $400,000 + $300,000 = the 16th lowest out of 297 school districts in the STATE when they do the testing that they do. You would think with those kind of salaries, we would have a better team.
I was looking at this story from last week. They must be reading my blog and you know what they can't add either or maybe they maybe they just forgot like I am prone to do sometimes.
I mean they added up DR. LATHAM'S and SUE ROWE'S cost and ball parked at around
$400,000. Nice field.
But the LPS line-up has a few other heavy hitters in the line-up. There is DR. WARRY, the OTHER deputy at about $130,000 with another Confidential Secretary ($350 a month + 50K/year) and we need to add another 100K for SUE ROWE'S replacement (you wouldn't want to have a vacancy would you?), so that's roughly another $300,000.
SO....,
that's $400,000 + $300,000 = the 16th lowest out of 297 school districts in the STATE when they do the testing that they do. You would think with those kind of salaries, we would have a better team.
AN OPPORTUNITY LOST
Where Was the Mayor, As Usual?
Here I am looking at the LYNN JOURNAL'S website to see if I could find an address to see if they could use a poet and lo and behold I found this story.
Catchy story but it did kind of miss a couple of GOOD points. Being in a FAILING school district, the CHAIRMAN of the SCHOOL COMMITTEE should have been there to break bread with the MA SECRETARY of EDUCATION. Were there any LSC people there? What about DR. LATHAM or either of the TWO deputies? I WOULD HAVE BEEN THERE BUT I DIDN'T GET THE MEMO. I am not on the email chain.
NOT TO MENTION....
there is talk about opening that NEW INNOVATION SCHOOL and some of us have QUESTIONS. It would have been perfect time to BRIEFLY mention that we could possibly, maybe, well okay definitely, be asking for an exemption to a REDISTRICTING RESTRICTION.
Maybe there is none, I'm getting old and maybe I heard wrong. Then again, I'm a POET and well, we like to make things up. But you know, I've been saying this stuff for a while and nobody has said I;m WRONG.
Here I am looking at the LYNN JOURNAL'S website to see if I could find an address to see if they could use a poet and lo and behold I found this story.
Catchy story but it did kind of miss a couple of GOOD points. Being in a FAILING school district, the CHAIRMAN of the SCHOOL COMMITTEE should have been there to break bread with the MA SECRETARY of EDUCATION. Were there any LSC people there? What about DR. LATHAM or either of the TWO deputies? I WOULD HAVE BEEN THERE BUT I DIDN'T GET THE MEMO. I am not on the email chain.
NOT TO MENTION....
there is talk about opening that NEW INNOVATION SCHOOL and some of us have QUESTIONS. It would have been perfect time to BRIEFLY mention that we could possibly, maybe, well okay definitely, be asking for an exemption to a REDISTRICTING RESTRICTION.
Maybe there is none, I'm getting old and maybe I heard wrong. Then again, I'm a POET and well, we like to make things up. But you know, I've been saying this stuff for a while and nobody has said I;m WRONG.
WHAT YOU GOING TO DO WHEN YOU CAN'T CHECK THAT DIAL?
Sadly, time is close to running out on the WATCH. Becoming poor has finally caught up with me and my jokes about the homeless shelter having "Internet access" maybe something I find out VERY soon.
Between mounting personal problems and deteriorating physical condition the WATCH may soon have to stop. I wouldn't be surprised to see a little COMMERCIAL STREET CHIP IN for a going away present.
Between mounting personal problems and deteriorating physical condition the WATCH may soon have to stop. I wouldn't be surprised to see a little COMMERCIAL STREET CHIP IN for a going away present.
DO YOU KNOW THEY SHOCK THAT PA GROUNDHOG TO COME OUT OF HIS HOLE?
Today being GROUNDHOG DAY, it seems appropriate to wonder if DR. LATHAM will see her shadow soon, meaning three more years of educational winter? Her contract comes up for renewal soon but we got to let her know I think 60 days in advance if we are not planning to renew it, I thought it was a 90 day notice we had to give but I've been told it's only 60. Honestly though, the legal department did not run the contract by me for my opinion.
The LEARNING NOR'EASTER we have been suffering under has relegated us to the 16th lowest performing district out of 297 districts in the state. This is not my weather report but the states. Here is an excerpt from a letter from DOE detailing this claim:
Just like those weather forecasts that allow you to Zone in the radar for your particular location, I got a link that allows you to sift through all the clutter and hone in on LYNN'S PERFORMANCE:
http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/mcas/performance_level.aspx?linkid=32&orgcode=01630000&orgtypecode=5
Call your LSC members and tell them you'd like to see our educational spring "around the corner" and you don't want to see no shadow.
The LEARNING NOR'EASTER we have been suffering under has relegated us to the 16th lowest performing district out of 297 districts in the state. This is not my weather report but the states. Here is an excerpt from a letter from DOE detailing this claim:
State law requires that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education annually identify school districts that are among the lowest-performing 10 percent based on a combination of the district’s English language arts proficiency index and mathematics proficiency index for the two prior years. We do this because state law creates an exception for such districts to exceed the standard cap on the amount they could normally contribute to charter school tuition. Details are in the state regulations on charter schools here: http://www.doe.mass.edu/lawsregs/603cmr1.html?section=all.
In 2011 the lowest 10 percent based on combined ELA and math proficiency indices totaled 30 out of 297 districts. Lynn was the 16th lowest performing district using this measure. Charter schools and regional vocational schools are also considered districts in Massachusetts, but we exclude them from this calculation. Just like those weather forecasts that allow you to Zone in the radar for your particular location, I got a link that allows you to sift through all the clutter and hone in on LYNN'S PERFORMANCE:
http://profiles.doe.mass.edu/mcas/performance_level.aspx?linkid=32&orgcode=01630000&orgtypecode=5
Call your LSC members and tell them you'd like to see our educational spring "around the corner" and you don't want to see no shadow.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
WE ARE NOT ALONE, BUT.. - A POET'S PERSPECTIVE..
Overcrowding is a statewide problem. No doubt about it. Cleo outlined the problem that all of Massachusetts faces like the TRUE scholar that she is"
She quite accurately pointed outs LPS's attempt at a solution.
"The Lynn Public School District increased from 13,547 students in 2010-11 to 13,731 in 2011-12. This has resulted in a proposal for the opening an innovation school at the elementary level (Washington) to help lower class sizes at a few of the most populated schools which are mostly those that house the lower grades."
PROBLEM !
Not with Cleo's assessment, no it's right on the money.
No you see, I seem to remember them talking before both redesign plans were completed several discussions where the topic was the fact that you couldn't redistrict the kids out of the LEVEL 4 schools. I remember DR. LATHAM assuring everyone that we COULD in extreme cases, She was flying solo on that opinion. Not necessarily wrong, just alone.
As much as it PAINS me to say this but ASSUME she was right and exceptions were made in EXTREME cases.
BUT....,
as CLEO so eloquently pointed out, OVERCROWDING is a STATEWIDE problem. Extreme just became average. How confident is everyone now?
She quite accurately pointed outs LPS's attempt at a solution.
"The Lynn Public School District increased from 13,547 students in 2010-11 to 13,731 in 2011-12. This has resulted in a proposal for the opening an innovation school at the elementary level (Washington) to help lower class sizes at a few of the most populated schools which are mostly those that house the lower grades."
PROBLEM !
Not with Cleo's assessment, no it's right on the money.
No you see, I seem to remember them talking before both redesign plans were completed several discussions where the topic was the fact that you couldn't redistrict the kids out of the LEVEL 4 schools. I remember DR. LATHAM assuring everyone that we COULD in extreme cases, She was flying solo on that opinion. Not necessarily wrong, just alone.
As much as it PAINS me to say this but ASSUME she was right and exceptions were made in EXTREME cases.
BUT....,
as CLEO so eloquently pointed out, OVERCROWDING is a STATEWIDE problem. Extreme just became average. How confident is everyone now?
POETRY PREMIER
As you can see, I am not much of a photographer either. But I was so excited when I saw this I couldn't contain myself. A program of poetry is pronounced. Young kids to be entertained by the power of poetry. Even though poetry is my passion, I was perplexed I didn't know about this presentation.
JEFF NATHAN
FORD SCHOOL
FEBRUARY 6, 2012
KNOWLEDGE HAS ITS COSTS
Here is a GREAT story about a GREAT program: More Great Know Atoms Science
BUT....,
not only does the program only exist in a few cllasses, there are serious questions about this Mcscience in a box sustainability when GE and foundation funding dry up. There are sustainability questions.
BUT....,
not only does the program only exist in a few cllasses, there are serious questions about this Mcscience in a box sustainability when GE and foundation funding dry up. There are sustainability questions.
RACE TO NOWHERE
Wrap your head around
the Wrap-Around.
Paying a $75,000 fee
for what others do free.
It becomes duplication
without explanation.
No money for a book
and after two we're on the hook.
the Wrap-Around.
Paying a $75,000 fee
for what others do free.
It becomes duplication
without explanation.
No money for a book
and after two we're on the hook.
GIVE IN NOW, GRANDMA'S GOT THE GUNS
I warned you, she's packing for bears or in this case stinky little spores. So now let's see those test resuts! I told you so, here look:
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2886901703941.2132149.1602134425&type=1&l=07ef362afe
Now about those test results. This could get UGLY!
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.2886901703941.2132149.1602134425&type=1&l=07ef362afe
Now about those test results. This could get UGLY!
PAYING FOR OUR FUTURE
There seems to be a lot of talk about costs in education, particularly SPED. PRIVATIZATION is a consideration. It seems like we are going in opposite directions. The ones who are paid the least want more while the ones who are paid the most want to give everyone else less.
However this problem is not localized to one department, one area. It's the law of the jungle. A little respect doesn't cost money though and it gets better results. Results are something that is lacking.
However this problem is not localized to one department, one area. It's the law of the jungle. A little respect doesn't cost money though and it gets better results. Results are something that is lacking.
DON'T MESS WITH GRANDMA!
You know I'm in PAC with Shawn Tarasuik. He is soon to be retiring from the military, there is his HUGE size, and that haircut. All yeah, did I mention his NAVY SEAL connection?
All of that being said, who really intimidates me is his MOTHER. She is all over this MOLD issue at DREWICZ like white on rice. With a background in insurance claims adjusting (now that's scary), she is carefully developing a strategy to hold school officials accountable for the safety and welfare of not only her grandchild but all of the students and teachers at DREWICZ.
With mounds of research providing tactical support and photographs providing additional intelligence, she is methodically waging a campaign of caring. Questions about response time loom large in LPS reaction to this issue. "What did they know and when did they know it." are questions that will remain after the air quality test results are given, when they are given.
All of that being said, who really intimidates me is his MOTHER. She is all over this MOLD issue at DREWICZ like white on rice. With a background in insurance claims adjusting (now that's scary), she is carefully developing a strategy to hold school officials accountable for the safety and welfare of not only her grandchild but all of the students and teachers at DREWICZ.
With mounds of research providing tactical support and photographs providing additional intelligence, she is methodically waging a campaign of caring. Questions about response time loom large in LPS reaction to this issue. "What did they know and when did they know it." are questions that will remain after the air quality test results are given, when they are given.
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