CENTERBOARD PROMOTES READING

Lynn Reads: The Lynn Literacy Campaign
Tuesday, November 27, 2012 5:30pm to 6:30pm

Lynn Public Library
Everyone Welcome!

A Read Aloud
Hot Chocolate
Free Books

MEETINGS WHERE IT MATTERS

Parent and LYNN SCHOOL WATCH charter subscriber (maybe I shouldn't have said that, I could be putting his life in danger) JESSE JAEGER brought up a good point at the MARSHALL MEETING last night. Since the new MARSHALL with the WOTRING WING ( bet you thought I had forgot) won't be open until 2016 more emphasis should have been put on the parents of ELEMENTARY students.

PERHAPS.....,

meetings should be held at the regional ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS.Now the MSBA I think only mandated TWO public hearings which LPS has met that requiremet. Last night LYNN from PROJECT MANAGER promised more meetings at each of the BENCHMARK times....

MAYBE......,

JUST MAYBE.....

they could have neighborhood ones in the future.

EDUCATION IS AN ART

Lynn Open Studios City-Wide Event Lynn Open Studios hosts its first city-wide event the weekend of Friday, November 16th through Saturday, November 17th, 2012. “Get the LED OUT” kicks off at the Lynn Auditorium on Friday night and studios and businesses throughout the city are open on Saturday from 10 AM – 4 PM. The Lynn Museum and Historical Society, a partner in Open Studios, acts as home base for visitors for more information and will also host artists in its renovated first floor exhibition space. Artists and Businesses are encouraged to register for this event at www.lynnopenstudios.com. Artists can either list their studios, or take part at one of the group locations. Businesses can also list with Open Studios as business partners to be included in marketing initiatives. Artists who cannot participate on the day of open studios are encouraged to enter LynnArts’ Holiday Show and Sale. For more information, visit www.lynnarts.org. Lynn Open Studios is Sponsored by Lynn Housing and Neighborhood Development and The Lynn Museum and Historical Society. Supporters of this event include Mayor Judith Flanagan Kennedy, LynnHappens.com, EDIC, The Office of Economic and Community Development, Lynn Cultural Council, Central Exchange Arts District, and Extras for Creative Learning. For more information and directions, please visithttp://www.lynnopenstudios.comThis day is free and open to the public.
Important Traffic Information For The Wyoma Square Area Underground utility work will take place in Wyoma Square from Richardson Road to Severance Street starting the week of October 29th through the week of December 10th. Work is expected to be performed from 9 AM to 2 PM and 6 PM to 6 AM. Traffic delays will be significant and alternate routes are strongly encouraged during the listed construction times. CLICK ON THE RIGHT FOR MAP OF AREA

PARENTS TO PUT FORTH THEIR POWER

Look what I find out the morning after attending a PUBLIC HEARING with anemic attendance.

The LPOBE community education forum will be held on Wednesday, November 28th at 6pm at the Ford School.

I bet the LYNN PARENTS ORGANIZING FOR BETTER EDUCATION get a much better attendance of PARENTS who also VOTE. I wonder what politicians will show.

IT WAS WORSE THAN I THOUGHT

Look at an e mail I got about FORD'S FREAK-OUT:

...I heard that loathesome creature John Ford saying "she does this 
every f$*#ing time" about Dr. crane bringing  ...... CITIZENS to 
address their childrens' school committee/// let's make sure he's 
toast next November

We can not TOLERATE this sort of behavior from ELECTED officials around our kids.

Call the MAYOR!

Do you need her number?

Lynn City Hall and Memorial Auditorium
3 City Hall Square
Lynn, Massachusetts 01901
(781)-598-4000

TWEAKS ARE FOR TWERPS

I can't take credit for this question. It wasn't original with me. I was talking with one of my secret sources and the conversation turned interrogatory. I was asked what ever happened to those GOALS that guy came twice from the MASS ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL COMMITTEES to help them develop?

Supposedly we had a working document after the last meeting on OCT. 11 but DR. LATHAM just had to TWEAK them. Well we've had two LSC meetings and not a chirp about the tweaking. Was one of the goals to be more stealth?

WHOA THERE GARDY, BEFORE YOU BLAME THE PARENTS

Lynn school officials, residents discuss Marshall

No one is disappointed by last night's than me. The truth of the matter is that yeah, maybe LPS did enough to get the word out. Flyers were sent home, notives were posted and heck I even wrote a poem.

Well then, let's look at other matters like say maybe the fact that the meeting was in the back of the building and just seemed hard for us old people to get to. Signs would have been nice. I mean if someone would have been having a yard sale, the location would have been easier to find. Hey, up in the HIGHLANDS, we plaster the telephone poles and put fliers in mailboxes. 

JUST A THOUGHT!

PUBLIC MEETING FOR A PRIVATE SHOWING

I am guessing that the purpose of the PUBLIC MEETING tonight at MARSHALL is to disseminate and regurgitate information that has already been decided. So that begs the point, "What's the point?". The point is to sell you a shiny NEW building that you will pay for with higher taxes. That's you, not me because I'm poor. Poetry doesn't pay well.

Don't get me wrong, we need a new school and we are going to have to pay. And really pay, not just in higher rents, even for us poor people but in community cash for our neighborhoods. With better schools, we all learn to live better with one another.

So far a sight has been picked out and already approved by the LSC contingent on "soil testing". No date was ever set for the results or even any formal procedures to insure their enactment. Maybe they could test the ground at CLASSICAL at the same time to see if it is suitable for building.

STRIKING A NERVE

Lynn council OKs $4M bond hearing

We are going to need to pass a BOND! No question.

BUT......,

we have to be VILIGANT and make sure our money is well spent. Our record of fiscal mismanagement is CLASSIC-AL.

MEET ME AT MARSHALL

I'll be sitting in the front row,
looking forward to the big show.

Glued to my special seat
so CLASSICAL we don't repeat.

A new school we sorely need
but not because of a politicians greed.

Our classrooms they are too full
with no room for any more bull.

Putting it in the right place we must,
it all comes down to just who you should trust.

HERE IS YOUR CHANCE YOUR CHANCE TO CONTRIBUTE

Cleo Hereford uploaded a file in the group WATCHING LYNN SCHOOLS.

If any Lynn public school parents would be willing to fill out the attached survey, it would be greatly appreciated. Please send to c.herefor@alum.wellesley.edu

LPOBE Survey (ENG).docx

Preview · Download

Thank you CLEO

WORRIED ABOUT THE NEW MARSHALL

You know since JOHN FORD is on the building committee and is kind of responsible for getting the word out, I wonder just that word will be. I know we are going to need to pass a BOND but maybe it's his lips that need a bond. I would hate to see PROFANITY prevent PASSAGE.

CLEO CLEARS UP COMMITTEE'S CONCERNS

• An Education: Lynn School Committee Parameters Per the City Charter

  uneducacion.blogspot.com

LORI LAMENTS LAZINESS

I have sent emails to the mayor, the school committee, Tim Phelan, and even to Steven Walsh expressing my outrage over the deplorable behavior of John Ford and that I think it should be demanded by all that he resign. I don't know the process involved for such an issue, or if there even is one, but at the very least, they should all call for his resignation even if they cannot make him resign. I wonder if I will even get a response from any of them, or if they plan on doing what they typically do, which is to ignore me and the issue in hopes it will just go away and people will forget about it and move on. I know people were talking about sending the link to the media.....has anyone done this? It will be interesting to see if the different media outlets think this behavior of an aide to state Representative Steven Walsh and a school committee member is newsworthy. Who knows, maybe they won't......but maybe they will??

IT'S ALL ABOUT THE HOLE

Let's all appeal to REP. STEVE WALSH to find funding for the implementation of ther FORD VOCABULARY BUILDER PROGRAM. Surely his office deserves some credit for this language learning lesson.

I'm sure he wants the success of this program to conyinue.

WELL, MAYBE NOT.

Anyway shoot him an e mail: Steven.Walsh@mahouse.gov

LESSONS FROM LORI

I think everyone should contact Jeff Wulfson, the Deputy Commissioner of Dept. of Education, at JWulfson@doe.mass.edu letting him know about the overcrowding issues our schools are facing, particularly the fact that Ford School has a 5th grade class without a classroom. I wonder if the state thinks this is acceptable or even legal? Who knows, maybe they do??

POETRY POINTS TO PROBLEMS

Lynn super: School space sore subject

Imitation may be the greatest form of flattery.
But you see, it really doesn't matter to me.

Crowding in the schools is such a mess.
That is the problem we must address.

Attention to the issue is my goal.
Still, seeing poetry promoted is good for the soul.

With a simple repeating of a sound,
An old new method has been found.

LOOKY HERE. LORI IS ON THE LOOSE

LORI'S response to the ITEM finally getting around to this issue. I guess they had to raise their prices to be able to cover it. Seems like they have had some space issues of their own.

I am glad to see that the Item finally decided to do a story on this issue which was discussed at the school committee meeting on November 7, but I think the residents and voters of Lynn also would have like to known about the lack of respect the parents and Dr. Crane received from members of the school committee, particularly Patti Capano and John Ford.  John Ford's deplorable behavior can be heard by going to the lynn schools website and watching the meeting.  If you fast forward to about 1:03:30, you will not only hear John Ford use profanity several times, but you will also hear him insult and disrespect Dr. Crane.  I think his actions were appalling, extremely unprofessional, unbecoming of a school committee member and I think he should resign as a school committee member!     

NEW FOUNDATION TO PROMOTE READING

Using funds from the deposits from the return of empties, this new foundation, LONGNECKS FOR LITERACY,  reading materials will be purchased for distribution to all students who did not score PROFICIENT on the MCAS. This BOTTLES FOR BOOKS BENEFIT will help quench certain officials desire to provide a better education for our kids.

                              stay thirsty, my friend!

PARENTS FROM THE PAST, POINT OUT PROBLEMS

Dedicated to punitive small minded local school committees everywhere or anywhere it fits

Jeannie C. Riley - Harper Valley P.T.A.

www.youtube.com

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slide_guitar This is a vintage live performance by Jeannie C. Riley of her hit song, "Harper Valley P.T.A.", written by Tom T. H...

LOOK MA, I MADE THE PAPERS

In today's Daily Item – 11/13/2012
Ford’s language was inappropriate

To The Item Editor:

I am appalled at the vulgar and unprofessional language used by Lynn School Committee member John Ford, at the Nov. 8 public meeting. He actually referred to Ford School principal Dr. Crane as
an A------ and it was broadcast over LynnCAM disgracing our city. Failure of our elected officials to live up to the same standards only insures our district’s continued failing status.

Where is our Mayor, who servesas chairman of the school committee, on this issue? Not seeking disciplinary action only implies complicity.

ALLITERATION ABOUT THE ADMINISTRATION

Lynn super: School space sore subject

Way to go THOR. I am impressed by your use of alliteration. Such an original and creative expression of titillating titles. Could you tell me where to go to school to learn such journalistic jargon.

FUN-RAISING, NICKELS FOR EDUCATION

Look what is going on the same night as the second public hearing about the new MARSHALL.

Re-Election Fundraiser for Judith Flanagan Kennedy

The Committee to Elect Judith Flanagan Kennedy is holding a re-election fundraiser on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 from 6-9 PM. The Dirty Floorboards will provide the entertainment. We look forward to seeing everyone I have seen the three sites supposedly being considered on a flier sent home from school. GUESS WHAT? They have already decided. Around a week or so after the last the LSC voted 7-0 to go with the BROOKLINE ST. SITE. So much for the public. In lieu of a BOND maybe JUDY LONGNECKS is planning a drive and plans to raise the needed funds from bottle deposits.

FORD'S FINALE

Of FORD LPS should be ashamed.
His potty-mouth must be tamed.

His talk of a principal was unprincipled.
There is a way to prove he is not invincible.

Now, it has came time
For MR. FORD to resign.

A LITTLE LEARY ABOUT FACTEAU

Does anybody have any info on the fact that FACTEAU-LEARY'S Assistant Director (Vice-principal) is on a LEAVE OF ABSENCE? I don't care about the why's. It's probably none of my business. What I want to know is there someone in an ACTING position or are we going without? I mean when we went through this with the other middle schools there seemed to be more info to go on.

LEHS ROTC AND LPS BAND DOES US PROUD

Just returned from a moving ceremony at LYNN CITY HALL ceremony honoring our veterans. Precision displays were put on by the LYNN ENGLISH Marine Corps, JR.ROTC. A stirring rendition of patriotic songs were performed by LYNN PUBLIC SCHOOL BAND, A chilling performance by FARDIN ISLAM with his echo of TAPS.LPS FINE ARTS director JOESPH PICONE was representing LPS ADMINISTRATION. He mentioned DR. LATHAM and expressed her gratitude. He went further on to say she would have been here but had another engagement.

REALLY?

The citizens of LYNN pay her in the neighborhood of a quarter of a million dollars a year in salary and she can't make such a solemn and important ceremony? Where were either of her two well paid deputies? The LSC was represented by MARIA CARRASCO and RICK STARBARD. LSC CHAIRPERSON MAYOR JUDITH FLANAGAN KENNEDY was also present of course.

Why wasn't DR. LATHAM there?

IT'S MY PARTY AND I'LL TELL YOU IF I WANT TO

Pizzas are always good for a party but $2200 for them ($1200 in one day), well that could feed an army (even on Veteran's Day).

THEN AGAIN,

some people do look as if they have a healthy appetite.

ONE THING,

we know, it couldn't be for those SNACK STARVED kids at HOOD SCHOOL who had to have parents go publicly embarrass LPS at a LSC meeting because of their lunch on the run.

REMEMBER MR. FORD AND MS. CAPANO?

I don't believe they were browbeaten for speaking out. When it comes to FORD SCHOOL, the LUCKY LATHAM GANG (FORD and CAPANO) make it personal.

LORI IS MAD ABOUT MORE THAN LANGUAGE

"It wasn't just the fact that he used profanity, it was the fact that he greatly disrespected and insulted Dr. Crane, who we all know is a well-respected woman and principal in our city. I am pretty sure John Ford proved to be the one who is a disgrace, not Dr. Crane. She was merely trying to get the children of her school the attention, resources and services they so desperately need and deserve. Every single principal in our district should be taking the same action and speaking at school committee meetings!! Again, John Ford should resign as school committee member and the mayor and city council should demand it!!"

ROSES FOR OUR RAMS

CLASSICAL HIGH coaches ROB UPTON and JUSTINA ALICUDO were chosen by their peers in the NORTHEASTERN CONFERENCE as co-coaches of the year in the NORTH division.

GOOD JOB!

APPOINTMENTS ANNOUNCED

Congratulations to STEVEN MARTIN for being appointed Girl's Winter Track Coach for UNKNOWN HIGH and to MARIANNE DUNCAN was appointed as a Guidance Counselor at BREED MIDDLE SCHOOL.(It is KNOWN that MARIANNE has an in with the LYNN TEACHER'S UNION since PRESIDENT BRANDT is her husband)

FORD'S FUTURE FAILURE

I don't understand something. Why when LPS is going to have to go before the voters and BEG for a BOND, would LSC MEMBER JOHN FORD put down parents who also are potential voters?

Looks like they won't have to wait until his next election fir a referendum.

Of course I could help with passage of the BOND......,

NOT.

FIRST-AID FOR FREAKIN FORD'S FOUL MOUTH FINALLY?

Does anyone else see a pattern here? First LSC member JOHN FORD talked about colleagues SLASHING throats. His latest rambling involves disparaging parents and verbally abusing a revered school principal.

Sounds like a medication issue to me. We all need to support him in this difficult times and hope against hope that he gets the HELP he so sorely needs and his mental stability returns.

WRONG AIN'T ALWAYS ILLEGAL

You would think that FORD'S FOUL-MOUTHED OUTBURST would be covered by

Code of Conduct (268A, Section 23)

 under the MA STATE ETHICS Commission but I don't think it is.

THEN AGAIN......,

I'm no lawyer. So I would recommend, trying for yourself to find out

:http://www.mass.gov/ethics/opinions-and-rulings/enforcement-matters/

You could always ask DR. LATHAM for advice.

Lynn Public Schools Administrative Offices 90 Commercial Street Lynn, Massachusetts 01905 (781) 593-1680 Regular Office Hou

Didn't she UNSUCCESSFULLY file a claim on LSC MEMBER RICK STARBARD? My memory may fail me though, I have BRAIN DAMAGE or have I told you?

I FORGOT.

PHELAN'S ON FORD'S FREAK OUT

Here is a copy of the letter I am sendind LYNN CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT TIM PHELAN about FOUL-MOUTH FORD'S FIASCO. Here is his e mail address,tphelan@lynnma.gov.

Dear Councilman Phelan,

Last spring in council chambers you expressed to me your commitment to the importance of choosing your words. That is why I am sure you join me in being outraged at the careless and coarse language used by John Ford at the recent school committee meeting on Nov. 8. This verbal slip-up was carried on LynnCAM thereby serving as a source of embarrassment for the city of Lynn.

I realize since Mr. Ford is a duly elected member of the Lynn School Committee you are somewhat limited in your response. Still I would hope you would come out with a public expression of your disapproval. I will be looking forward to your response.

Sincerely,
Stanley H. Wotring, Jr.

MEETING AT MARSHALL

Marshall Middle School Public Forum # 2 Wednesday, November 14, 201 | 7 PMMarshall Middle School Cafeteria | 19 Porter Street  The Thurgood Marshall Middle School project benefits the entire Lynn community by improving amenities, increasing property values, and enhancing the educational program our students. Please join us at this important second public forum meeting!
Download this presentation	DOWNLOAD Marshall Public Forum Presentation #1

WATCH CURTAILING SATELLITE OFFICE HOURS

Thanks to COMCAST'S "INTERNET ESSENTIALS" I will severely restricting the time spent at my BOSTON STREET OFFICE. This will allow for me to be a little more productive so I'll be able to WATCH out more for what's going on.

The downside is I have to make my own coffee and refills aren't free.

HERE WE GO WITH THE ITEM AGAIN

Dear Editor,

I am appalled at the vulgar and unprofessional language used by Lynn School Committee member, John Ford, at the Nov. 8 public meeting. He actually referred to Ford School principal Dr. Crane as an A-hole and it was broadcast over LynnCAM disgracing our city. Failure of our elected officials to live up to the same standards only insures our district's continued failing status.

Where is our Mayor, who serves as chairman of the school committee, on this issue? Not seeking disciplinary action only implies complicity.


OKAY, I SENT MINE. NOW YOU SEND YOURS.
 letters@itemlive.com.

SEE WHAT LORI SAID

Representative Walsh:

As a Lynn resident and parent, I am appalled by John Ford's deplorable behavior at the public school committee meeting that took place on November, 7, 2012. His utter lack of respect for Dr. Crane, who is one of the principals in the school district he is suppose to be representing, was absolutely unacceptable. As an elected school committee member, he is expected to conduct himself in a professional manner, particularly during a public meeting. As you can imagine, the broadcast of the public school committee meeting, including the audio of Mr. Ford's foul and utterly inappropriate comments, have gone viral. Dr. Crane is well-respected principal and woman in our community and we are outraged by John Ford's comments about her. I think he owes Dr. Crane and our community a public apology and that he should resign from his position as a school committee member. His actions not only reflect poorly on our city and school district, they also reflect poorly on you. Since John Ford works for you and represents you, I think you should be just as appalled and outraged by his inappropriate and unacceptable behavior."

POSTCARDS TO JUDY

I thought I would drop our mayor a line letting her know about FOUL-MOUTHED FORD. Feel free to let her know how you feel.

November 10, 2012

Dear Honorable Mayor Judith Flanagan Kennedy,

I am writing to express my disgust and displeasure at the profanity exposed by a member of the Lynn School Committee, John Ford, at the last committee hearing. Mr. Ford was heard to refer to Dr. Crane, principal at the Ford School as an “Asshole”. Surely I need not remind you that these meetings are broadcast live over LynnCAM and replayed several times.

Such unprofessionalism reflects poorly on our great city and should not be tolerated.  Failure to address this instance would place you in the continuous position of condoning this behavior. I am sure this is not a position you wish to find yourself.

I look forward to your positive action and your willingness to seek a  resolution that will lead to a prevention of future displays.

Stanley H. Wotring, Jr.

Her e mail address is: jkennedy@ci.lynn.ma.us.

WHAT IT TAKES TO TEACH IN LYNN

Of the new hires listed in the personnel moves on last Thursday's LSC agenda,7 out of 8 are UNCERTIFIED. Do you see a pattern here? I know they were all long term subs but if we want to not remain a LEVEL 4 DISTRICT we got to do better.

Of course when we have SCHOOL COMMITTEE MEMBERS(FOUL MOUTHED FORD verbally abuse school principals what should we expect?

FORD'S FOUL-MOUTHED FOULUP

Addresses

State House

Room 236

Boston, MA 02133

Phone:617-722-2430

Fax:617-722-2339

Email:Steven.Walsh@mahouse.gov

I encourage everyone to inform REPRESENTATIVE WALSH of the language used by one of his aides, JOHN FORD. in a PUBLIC MEETING. It reflects poorly on him, 

LORI LET'S THEM HAVE IT

I am contacting all of you because I am watching last night's school committee meeting online and I am appalled by what I am hearing come out of John Ford's mouth!!  He is a school committee member who is suppose to be representing our schools and district and have the well-being of our schools, district and children as his only focus and goal.  I cannot begin to express my outrage over his utter lack of respect for one of our principals, particularly at a public meeting!  For those of you who may not know what I am talking about, I suggest you watch last night's school committee meeting and listen to Mr. Ford's comments that occurred at 1:03:35.  I also agree with Donna Coppolla that Patti Capano's comments to the parents of the Ford school were disrespectful and dismissive.  A school committee meeting is exactly the place where parents should come to express their concerns regarding the education of their children, or in this case, the lack of education.  Also, I thought Patti's contempt for Dr. Crane was evident when she inappropriately began scolding Dr. Crane about how the situation was handled.  Furthermore, I found Patti's comments about Dr. Crane's lack of communication to be quite hypocritical, since it is my understanding that Dr. Latham initiated this situation by charging into Dr. Crane's school and unplugging computers and making changes without even notifying Dr. Crane. 

 

After watching this meeting, it was clear to me and I am sure many others, that there is a complete disregard and lack of respect for some of our principals and parents by members of this committee.  I think this lack of respect is absolutely having a negative impact on the Ford school and all the children who attend it and that it needs to stop immediately!!   Respect for others, effective communication and professionalism are all qualities that begin at the top of the organizational structure.  I think it's about time that the leaders of our school district and some members of this school committee stop letting their personal feelings toward individuals interfere with their role and responsibilities to this district and the children who attend school in it.

 

 

Thank you

 

Lori D'Amico

JUST DROPPING A LINE

The following comments have been submitted from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education website (at http://www.doe.mass.edu/contact/qanda.aspx):

Name: Stanley H. Wotring, Jr.
Email: stanleywotring@msn.com
Phone: 339 440-6350
Subject: 
Address Line 1: 148 Maple Street
Address Line 2: Apt #2
City: Lynn
State: Ma
Zip: 01904
Comments: At last nights Lynn School Committee meeting there have been multiple reports of a profanity-laced comment in regards to a group of parents from the SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL from FORD SCHOOL. This is unacceptable and unprofessional behavior.

 · 

PROFANITY AS A SECOND LANGUAGE

Don't let JOHN FORD get away with with his FOUL LANGUAGE. Let's get him the HELP he needs. Contact the Mass Association of School Committees to report his PROFANITY PUT DOWN.

http://www.doe.mass.edu/contact/qanda.aspx

YOU DON'T SAY

Sometimes what you don't say says it all.

Last night at the LSC meeting it was not mentioned at the opening of the start of the meeting about the passing of DEBBIE STONE, the much loved PARENT LIAISON to LPS.

Given last night's treatment of PARENTS, I am not surprised.

PARENTS PUT DOWN

I was OUTRAGED at the treatment that PARENTS got at last night's LSC MEETING. After being asked to give their perspective on the overcrowding issues at FORD SCHOOL, they were then chastised by LSC members JOHN :THE RIPPER" FORD and PATTI CAPANO.

Why would any parent want to get involved in their child's education with leaders like these? Representatives from the FORD SCHOOL SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL were told they shouldn't have come before the LSC with their problems.

FUNNY......,

the TITLE 1 legislation that created their existence (and provides for $6 million +) also requires a representative from each schools SIC to sit in on a meeting at the CENTRAL OFFICE. (Is this happening?)

Our MARVELOUS MAYOR, who is also chairperson of the LSC, has been too preoccupied with the AFFAIRS of her office to give this matter the attention it deserves.

LYNN ENGLISH STUDENT KO-ed

Evidently the princiPAL at LYNN ENGLISH prefers the  attention of YOU TUBE. Remember the COOK STREET CAPER and all the NATIONAL attention it generated?

You would think that having a student that has been called on to fight for her country would generate the kind of positive WORLD ATTENTION that would help rebuild  the positive image that LPS wants

BUT NO.........,

it seems that COMMANDANT STRANGIE feels that this is not a reason enough for excusing her absence, meaning the student will FLUNK for representing her country.

HAPPY VETERAN'S DAY!

Give CATHE a call to encourage PrinciPAL STRANGIE a little PATRIOTIC nudge.

Lynn Public Schools Administrative Offices 90 Commercial Street Lynn, Massachusetts 01905 (781) 593-1680

NEW HIRES, OLD WAYS

LPS hired 8 teachers according to the personnel list on tonight's agenda, 7 of them are NOT  CERTIFIED. What LEVEL are again?

JOHN FORD'S POTTY MOUTH ON PARADE?

Look at what I found on FACEBOOK. Does this mean VULGARITY is our new second language?


My hearing isn't the best but I did hear John Ford say, because he didn't cover the mike. "Everytime she wants something she parades all these people down she's an AH Nice John. These people who are parading down are the Ford School school council which every school is required to have by the DOE.

TAXPAYER'S PIZZA PARTY

After tonight's LSC meeting I overheard LSC committee member DONNA COPPOLA questioning DR. WARRY to explain a discovery DONNA had made in last month's warrants about a $2200 PIZZA expenditures, $1200 in one day.

At first DR. WARRY refused to waste her time tracking the suspicious slices down. Her neck blushed like a fiery red tomato sauce. DONNA said that she thought the taxpayers would be interested to know that. So DR. WARRY got a little saucy and promised to look into it.

I hope they got delivery because I think we got served.

DAYS OF OUR WORLD - FAST ONES DON'T ALWAYS INVOLVE FOOD

Time to once again visit the land of NESOPOTAMIA. The EVIL QUEEN is commissioning the opening of a new fast food franchise, DUNCAN DOUGH-NUTS.

EQ is just NUTS over the way DOUGH BREEDS. EQ is just trying to form a more perfect UNION. She'll do anything that CAN be DUN.

GROWING UP IN THE CITY - WINE AND CHEESE FUNDRAISER

• • Saturday, November 17, 2012
  • 5:00pm until 8:00pm

• Fundraiser to benefit LYSOA, Inc. Tickets $25/single, $40/couple. Includes tour of VisionSpace Art Gallery. Proceeds to help meet matching funds grant challenge from Amelia Peabody Foundation. The PERFECT way to end your day of touring artists lofts and galleries on Saturday, Nov. 17th!

16 City Hall Square, Lynn, MA

16 City Hall Square, Lynn, MA

View Map · Get Directions

SHUT-DOWN SABOTAGE REVEALED

Everybody knows I'm none too bright. So that is why I am counting on you guys to help me figure this out. You see LPS is quick to point out how proud they are of the new WASHINGTON STEM SCHOOL and at the same time CLOSED down computers at FORD SCHOOL.

Well I'm glad they are going to MAYBE shed some light on this dim-witted plan at tonight's LPS MEETING. Come on by I'll save you a seat.

BEELINE TO BROOKLINE

The race is on for this site

but it won’t be run

without a fight.

For me, the battle with be fun.

Making sure we are doing right

and this place is the one

so we can avoid any surprising fright

or construction from which we should run.

On no shady deals we should bite,

soil testing needs to be done

and trains pose a danger that might

be exposed when brought out in the sun.

SAD NEWS FOR SPED

The WATCH learned yesterday of the passing of DEBBIE STONE, the PAS PARENT LIAISON  who was on MEDICAL LEAVE. She will be sorely missed by all of the lives she touched.

BASHING BULLDOG

A LYNN ENGLISH student, RASHIDA ELLIS has been chosen by USA BOXING to represent our country on the USA YOUTH NATIONAL TEAM at the 2012 YOUTH WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS in YEREVAN, ARMENIA.

As a part of the US NATIONAL TEAM RASHIDA will have to be absent from school from NOV. 5th to NOV. 21st to participate in a training camp in SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO. Now I know that normally an extended absence if it was unexcused would mandate automatica failing for the semester. I am sure that the cance and privilege to represent LPS and our country on the world stage will be EXCUSED.

This is just a necessary step to take for the 2016 OLYMPICS. LYNN ENGLISH should be proud!

GETTING A BROOKLINE DOMAIN NAME

I was talking to someone bunkered in the BOOKLINE battle zone. She was a homeowner who hadn't heard of a definitive MARSHALL PLAN for site selection. It seems no one has contacted her yet that her house is history.

I offered my nonlegal, nonbiding, and fat-free (I just threw that in, I thought it sounded cool.) opinion of my understanding of IMMINENT DOMAIN.

"They'll take it and you can fight in court for how much but you better pack your bags.

COBBETT COMES THROUGH FOR CAUSE

This time, tradition aids sick Lynn schoolmate
This shows how a school can come together. Our community can and should be our extended family. Thank you to the organizers. All of our lessons don't come from books.

LSC NOV. 8 MEETING MENU

17th Regular Meeting | Policy Sub-Committee

Hope you're not too hungry cause it looks like there are slim pickings.

DIRTY DEEDS

MARSHALL by the rails
Idea not safe enough for trails

Land not safe enough for kids in an apartment complex to play.
So put a school there, we'll find a way.

The soil they must test
To put one fear to rest.

Still one will remain
Some invincible child hit by a train.

Can't wait to find out who owns what
to soothe that feeling in my gut.

MILESTONES AND MILLSTONES

My hope is to hit 200,000 views before the end of the year. Given my average monthly totals the past few months that is an attainable goal. Think about what it represents in the desire for parental involvement. Since our historic public hearing on the posting of the SUPERINTENDENT'S position (Yes we lost but our voices were heard), we have STOPPED LPS from mislabeling a school as an INNOVATION one. WATCHED the grassroots growing of a NEW parent's organization, LYNN PARENT'S ORGANIZING for a BETTER EDUCATION (LPOBE).

The pressure that EXPOSURE has placed on the LPS administration has quite possibly forced them to me more responsive and user-friendly. The pressure will not lessen and will focus on possible hidden agendas and prevention of a repeat of the CLASSICAL CONSTRUCTION CHAOS at the new MARSHALL.

PHEW! FINALLY

Lynn band provides students with Motivation Through Music

After TWO postings on this GREAT program,1). after a recent LSC meeting and 2). after a recent concert at PICKERING the ITEM has gotten around to FLESHING out my scoop.

I mean, my staff is overworked and ME, I am too tired and I don't spell well. 

Then again, I hear they HIRED a PR firm - why haven't they got the word out or

MAYBE

they are too busy working on BOND PROPAGANDA!

I mean where did JUGGLING JUDY put all that FREE CASH she trimmed from last years budget? 

WASN'T IT ABOUT $16 MILLION DOLLARS?

That is in the neighborhood of what we need for a NEW MARSHALL. 

Just wondering,what do we need a BOND/ TAX INCREASE for again then?

ACCIDENTAL COMEDY

Surely the timing was purely coincidental. The fact that the community meeting for the NEW MARSHALL and MAYOR KENNEDY’S ELECTION FUNDRAISER is on the same night is kind of funny.

1. Fundraiser Mayor Judith Kennedy at the Franco-American Hall, 6-8 PM

2.Public hearing at Marshall School regarding Brookine Street location for new school - 7 p.m

 Some people will make an appearance at both. That means a lot of political power will not be able to focus their full attention on the school building issue.

A plate of catered food is a little cheaper than concrete and steel.

POWER PLAY PERPETUATES

From the following article, Board: Lynn needs new schools, this statement was made:

Ford said a first-grade space crunch in the Ford School has been addressed, and said Tracy School Principal Pattye Griffin and Tracy teachers are managing the West Lynn school’s enrollment.

REALLY NOW.

Let's look at how they addressed it and by the way it's not done yet.

DR. LATHAM, on her own accord, tore out 30 or so computers out of a class that were being used in a proven and documented program, IMAGINE LEARNING. LPS has already paid for 40 licenses for this program, Does that me we are throwing that money away?

There has been parent protest about this move. Two front page articles in the ITEM about this POWER PLAY. I have heard MAYOR KENNEDY has urged calm and restraint on this issue. I have SEEN her AVOID the issue when it was attempted to be placed before the LSC last meeting.

She promised to put it on the agenda for the NEXT LSC meeting. HMM.....,

that sounds to me like it has not been addressed.

JOHN FORD is

EITHER

telling a BOLD FACE lie or was taken out of context. US, writers/journalists/poets are bad about that.

OR......,

the MAYOR really answers to DR. LATHAM. I mean face it, the schools are very important in a re-election campaign. Doing the right thing must not be as important as being there.

Politics is a dirty game just don't underestimate the power of poetry.

BOND BONANZA BAFFLES BUT HEY!

The WATCH is thinking of changing its (my) mind. I've been saying we ought to build the NEW MARSHALL on the site of the old MARSHALL.

SILLY ME....

I was thinking of trying to SAVE the city money, but it seems like somebody spiked the drinking water at city hall and COMMERCIAL STREET because of all of this BOND TALK, I think they think even the toilets flush with cash.

SO......,

now I want to switch my preference to KEANY PARK. Take whatever land you need on the other side of the street of VOLUNTEER FIELD. Sorry COMPARE and churches, but this educational recreational complex would be.....SWEET.

PICKERING PRANCES

PICKERING MIDDLE SCHOOL is going to salvage their dance savaged by the storm, SANDY. The beat goes on                

                            Thursday NOV 1
                             From 5:30-800 pm

Got to get FOOTLOOSE.

CAN YOU EXPLAIN THIS......?

The Daily Item: Developer changes Lynn plan from housing to ..

I need a little help following the logic here. You see, I'm not as smart as some of these people with their FANCY degrees.

First we have this statement:

In an interview with the Daily Item prior to Tuesday's council meeting, Lynch said high-speed drivers on Brookline might pose a threat to children living in Cricket's proposed apartment building.

THEN....

the apartment idea is quashed, SO......

the entire LSC voted 7-0 to build the new MARSHALL at the same site putting up to 1100 kids in danger daily at multiple times.

COUNCILMAN CYR who was a champion of the neighbor's concerns AGAINST the development proposal ....

SUDDENLY becomes a leading PROPONENT of the site for the school.

What's that I smell?

UP ON THE ROOF

Because of space limitations at the BROOKLINE ST. site for the new MARSHALL, I heard talk about exploring adding GREEN SPACE to the rooftop. You know I don't like the location.....

BUT....,

going GREEN with the roof is a GREAT idea no matter where the rest of the building is or how many floors there are to it.....

SO.....

get a hold of my friends at the HIGHLANDS COALITION cause they got research!

FORD SCHOOL'S EXAMPLE GROWS RESULTS

 Breed teacher plants seeds for hands-on learning class

 Where have I read this story before? I don't know, maybe ............. FORD SCHOOL and their INTERNATIONAL GARDEN. My friends at the HIGHLANDS COALITION will take great satisfaction that their (by that I mean our) ideas are taking root across the city.

KUDOS TO CLASSICAL

 Classical attempts to close communications gap with parents
GREAT JOB, CLASSICAL PRINCIPAL CONSTANTINO! Teaching, that's what schools are supposed to do and teach that's what you are doing. Parents can't accept responsibility if they don't know what it is.

I have been getting HUGE numbers lately on a post on the school's responsibility to tell parents how to get involved!

OUT AHEAD ON SANDY

Congratulations to DR. LATHAM for being decisive and a leader on storm readiness. LPS was the FIRST school system that I saw cancel school. I got a voice recording call from my son's principal, MR. RITERHAUS from PICKERING on SATURDAY.

Being first of first is better than being first of last.

TEAM SPIRIT

On NOVEMBER 1 LSC member RICK STARBARD threw himself on the proverbial grenade and volunteered to maybe attend the Annual Business meeting of the MASSACHUSETTS ASSOCIATIONS of SCHOOL COMMITTEES. The entire rest of the LSC was only too happy to let him fall on the #2 pencil,

NURSING NEWS

We, by that I mean THEY since my paychecks don’t come from CATHE’S CREW, have a new school nurse at LPS. Joining their team will be TERRY ARSENAULT, RN. Now mind you, TERRY’S degree is of the four year variety, a BSN.

FAMILY TIES

FAMILY TIES

I can’t keep up with the comedy put forth by LPS. How’s this for IRONY? On the same day that the LSC executes the $90 thousand contract complete with a small pay raise for LSC SECRETARY TOM IAARIBINO we have a presentation by brother RICHARD on LPS’S VISITOR POLICY.

I mean really, why we would want to have strangers getting our money.

FAMILY FIRST.

THE FUDGE FACTOR

There was some confusion at THURSDAY night's LSC MEETING over the need for LYNN WOODS PTO to come before the LSC to ask for permission.

IT WAS PLAIN TO ME (as opposed to with nuts).

They wanted the FREE advertising on LYNNCAM. Those meetings are played over and over again (THANK GOODNESS).

PLUS....,

I might mention it in the WATCH and I do have a little audience.

WALKING TO WASHINGTON

Let me get this straight - WE ARE ASKING FIRST GRADERS TO CROSS THE LYNNWAY?

I guess we should not worry TOO much. Those short legs make them SMALL targets for oncoming traffic.

CLASS ACTION

Congratulations to ELLEN MORIARTY, new SCIENCE DEPARTMENT at CLASSICAL. This an exciting time to be involved in SCIENCE with all of this emphasis on STEM.....

UNLESS.....,

you teach at FORD SCHOOL....

where they UNHOOK your COMPUTERS.

LYNN WINS!

Well it's not exactly school related

UNLESS.....,

you take into consideration they practice at LYNN ENGLISH......

AND.....

we're talking about my DAUGHTER is on the

WINNING TEAM.

You see the girls from EAST LYNN POP WARNER B ADVANCED SQUAD won first place in the NORTHEAST CHEERLEADING COMPETITION. Seems I'm not the only WOTRING with a big mouth!

THERE'S PROBABLY NO KRYPTONITE AROUND ANYWAY

I seem to recall a vote at a recent LPS meeting to authorize paying some money to have an INDEPENDENT chemist look over the test results from the INGALLS GARDEN to verify that the LEAD LEVEL in the garden was at an acceptable level.

Everybody agreed, SAFETY FIRST.

BUT THEN,

interest just seemed to die. Former princiPAL KIM POWERS moved up and on, our kids were left hanging.

Maybe I missed the meeting where the results were read and since they don't put COMMUNICATIONS on-line, too bad for me.

LOCAL REALITY SHOW BORN?

Featured on the new DANCING WITH THE STARS-LPS EDITION will be a new dance, THE SWING SPACE SHUFFLE.

It has been said that all of the administrative offices in COMMERCIAL STREET were going to be moved to BENNETT STREET where they would be combined with the SPED DEPARTMENT from their BROADWAY OFFICES in the old NEW MEDICO building. The MAYOR even stated some of that FREE CASH, about $16 million, she squeezed out of last years budget would be used to pay for the move. I mean everybody thought there would still be plenty of money left after cleaning up the DPW DEBACLE from the ACCOUNTING IRREGULARITIES.

These moves would leave both COMMERCIAL STREET and BROADWAY empty. Wasn't one of the compelling reasons for choosing the BROOKLINE spot for the new MARSHALL so we wouldn't have to pay/find SWING SPACE?

Looks like we already had it. HMMM,

UNLESS,

there is a SUPER SECRET plan to open up GAMBLING CASINOS at these locations. IT is legal in MA now and we already have a little experience in CRAPS. Look a the sewage problems at CLASSICAL.

Now don't jump to any conclusions, I wouldn't want to start any RUMORS.

MUSIC MOVES PICKERING

Yesterday PICKERING students were treated to a positive performance from musicians and were treated with a free CD. If I remember correctly, this was BRENDAN CREIGHTON'S baby.

WATCH STRAIGHTENED UP

The WATCH was wrong again, sorta. It was one of those not in kind but in degree things or vice versa. It seems that the MCHUGH as a new UNCERTIFIED teacher listed at LTVI was NOT the son of the LPS BUSINESS MANAGER. It was his BROTHER. No nepotism going on here. Move right along.

DON’T YOU FEEL BETTER?

DONNA'S DOING DUE DILIGENCE

Lynn board unanimous: Brookline Street new Marshall site

I am glad to see the site will be TESTED. It is so unlike me to start trouble but when it come to the SAFETY of our kids I might make an exception. I am a little concerned when you put the cart before the horse because you sometimes step in HORSE*#@$.

The MAYOR'S insistence that this site will be containment-free because of the fact that these tracks are used for commercial traffic rather than freight provides little comfort to me. It's not the CARGO that concerns me it's the years of exhaust settling in the soil.

No worries though, I'm not SMART like the powers that be that put this deal together. No one cares about my support for any bond that may be needed.

WRITING THE RIGHT CHECK

I wonder if this PR firm was hired to convince us we are NOT OVERCROWDED.

Money well spent and this is coming from a writer.

No one knows better than me (metaphorically speaking, we all know DR. LATHAM is smarter than me) the power of the WRITTEN WORD.

I AM ANXIOUS TO READ THE PR POETRY!

WORKING FOR A SOLUTION

Lynn student leads local immigration movement

Just complaining about problems like the UNACCOMPANIED MINORS influx of 50+ kids does nothing. These kids will remain here so how do you want them to turn out? Positive programs like this one should be encouraged and touted. I see this as promoting responsibility for yourself.

The cards may be stacked against you but with a little help, you can "cut the deck".

WHERE IN THE WORLD IS JUDY?

I am truly concerned. Our lovely little MAYOR has been missing from this computer caper. As chairman of the LSC, she ought have weighed in, offered a position, or anything. Unless her BOSS wants her to keep quiet on this.

Try calling her office. If she is there, I bet she will PERSONALLY answer the phone.

DON'T HAVE THE NUMBER? DON'T WORRY.

Lynn City Hall and Memorial Auditorium 3 City Hall Square Lynn, Massachusetts 01901 (781)-598-4000

I GOT YOU!