As you all know by now that the North Adams School Board approved the reconfiguration of the elementary schools in last nights board meeting. According to the Daily Democrat our local paper
By a 3-2 vote — and against the wishes of most of the 100 or more community members in attendance — the board approved the recommendation of school administrators which surfaced publicly only a month earlier to shift classrooms at the elementary level.
Under the plan approved by the board, beginning with the 2009-2010 school year all pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classes will be located at Monmouth Elementary School, grades 1-2 will be located at Southeast Elementary, and grades 3 through 5 will be shifted to Northwest Elementary.
Board members Jo-Ellen Eidam, Curtis Rash and Juan Guiterrez voted to approve the proposal. Board president Gary Giessler and newest board member Michelle Stimpson voted against the move.
Meeting in the cafeteria at Northwest Elementary school to accommodate an anticipated heavy turnout, the board did not accept public comment prior to its vote. Giessler announced at the beginning of the board meeting that comments from those in attendance would be allowed at the end of the evening.
From the comments here on the site both before and after the vote. It is clear to see this decision will make many very unhappy. There is a lot of talk about trying to change how the school board is appointed and some stated publicly at last nights meeting that they will make a effort to require that the school board are elected officials instead of appointed. I for one think this is a good idea if nothing more than it will allow more community involvement in who is managing our childrens education.
323 Comments
I think it’s time to rally behind our children’s teachers and support them the best we can. They could not speak out in the meetings, they could not put their names on any petition. I would not doubt that repercussions would soon follow for those who are not towing the “company line”.Send a note to your teachers, thanking them for all they have done. Offer to help move or pack or whatever they need. They need the community support now more than ever.
I thought the School Board vote on 02/10/09 was to decide whether or not to research re-alignment further, not to vote Yes or No to the re-alignment.
I have not attended the re-alignment meetings, but I have talked to parents who did attend; I have also followed the newspaper articles and newscasts. I thought in one of the articles, or one of the newscasts, I either read or heard that Mr. Sirk said a decision would not be made so soon. I thought he said the vote at the February school board meeting was only to decide whether re-alignment was a viable option, not to make a deciding vote on the re-alignment. ????????? Evidently, that is not the case.
Now that the final decision (vote) has been made, I think it’s important for everyone to transfer their energies into helping the Staff and Students move forward with the transition. After that is successful, energies can be used to initiate the steps necessary to enact an elected school board for North Adams.
Shame on the administration for moving forward so quickly on this. Bravo to the two board members who kept the attitudes and concerns of the parents close to their hearts when they cast their votes. I feel the quick action by the administration is a very condescending tactic. I completed a parent survey at Back to School night. The parent survey asked about homework, changing the school hours, etc.. Re-alignment was NOT on the survey. It was obviously high on the administration’s agenda, but they failed to ask parents about it on their survey!
Let’s admit it, there are Pros and Cons to this change.
One of the biggest Pros I see is that children will move through the system together. When children go to church, play on ball teams, participate in scouts, etc., they will be with their classmates.
I also want to comment on some postings here about ‘neighborhood’ schools: not all children go to their ‘neighborhood’ school. Students at North Adams are bused from one end of the town and country to the other end every day. It’s no different for the parochial students who live in the North Adams district. It doesn’t matter where the students live or go to school, North Adams transports them to and from their city and country public/parochial schools every day.
Let’s continue to pray about this and support our Teachers, Staff and Students.
Well I support the teachers in their move. However, I don’t believe it should be over. If you give up now, the Administrators will be able to roll over any public opinion as well as “railroad” our kids into what ever program they see fit. After all, we pay the salaries for the school board and the Superintendent and therefore, they work for us. We are not pleased with their job performance so do something about it. If this was industry, you can bet something would be done for an unsatisfactory job. As long as Sirk has been Superintendent, his main focus was visibility. Well let’s help him out. Let’s get to work and make him and school board do our work and be visisble. If that means removing them from office, then so be it. He has no problem removing others from their positions. Don’t play dead. In this world, decisions can be changed.
Wow, I can’t believe there have been so few comments besides Eve and 2 others regarding this topic. I am upset about the reconfiguation, but now that it is a done deal, (which we all knew would be approved, even before the “vote”), I know there are a parents, teachers, staff, and students who are not happy about how this was just presented at the previous school board meeting and voted on and approved at the next meeting. I smell a RAT, and I think those reponsible need to be held accountable for the decisions “they” made. I have heard talk of an elected school board and am willing to press forward on finding out about how to go about doing this. It is time that our tax dollars pay for individuals willing to put forth the effort and take time to research these decisions. I am really upset that one of the members of the school board had kids that didn’t even attend a public school until they were in high school. What does Mr. Rash know about how our elementary system works when his own children didn’t even go to public schools. That also goes for Mrs. Stimpson. Her children also attended Zion from k-8. Ms. Eidam has been on the board for years and I would like to know why she is on the board. This is what we would find out if there was an elected school board. The taxpayers could ask these questions of the individuals running. Look to the South, (SA & AC), and do you see the problems NA has? NO!!!! Let’s get this ball rolling and get an elected school board to run our school system. Maybe then we would have have a school board who would not be afraid to speak up and just be “Yes” people and do what the superintendent wants. Is there anyone else out there willing to support this. I agree that we now have to support the teachers and staff and especially our kids who will be uprooted from the school they have grown to know and love. I just wonder if Mr. Sirk is going to get his hands dirty and help out with the move or disappear into his luxury office and show up when its all over with. He is no better than those Wall Street executives as far as I’m concerned. I could hardly stand looking at his smug face Tuesday evening. I’m not sure he cares about anyone but himself. What a fake.
BINGO! to Jezibell! I support you full heartedly in all that you say!
By the way, I just found this tidbit of information. Adams County is 3rd in the production of Meth in the State with 54 labs. Ranking behind the first place winner…Noble County with 80 Meth Labs.
It certainly seems something is going awry here in “River City”!
Meeting in the cafeteria at Northwest Elementary school to accommodate an anticipated heavy turnout, the board did not accept public comment prior to its vote.
Doesn’t this obviously tell the tale! NO comments prior to the vote. OF course no comments, it’s because the smug face cannot answer questions on the fly nor think on this feet. Didn’t you notice that he had everyone else do his so called explanations with prepared power points and fliers.
I agree with all of you. I am not pleased with the outcome. After many lost hours of sleep, I came to a conclusion. At this time I don’t feel like I can support NA schools, because they have not supported me. I am not talking teachers and staff (because they do a fabulous job), I mean the administration. I do not think I can continue to listen to a school board and superintendent whom are deceitful and dishonest. I just keep thinking, what’s next? What lie are they going to twist and manipulate next? Honesty and integrity goes a long way, when it concerns your child’s well being and safety.
Okay… I emailed both Matt Lehman (Indiana House Representative District 79) and Senator Travis Holdman ( Senate District 19) telling them about the reconfiguration ( ha! like they don’t know ), and asked about changing our school board from apponted to elected. I urge all of you to email them as well. Go to http://www.in.gov and the state legislatures are easy to find.The school board NEEDS TO BE ELECTED BY US TO SERVE US! I don’t know how to do it. Maybe some kind of local referendum on the ballet at next election time? Special Ballot? I have no idea…but if we don’t do something, who knows what else will happen?
Here it is…go to http://www.in.gov. On the left side of the page: go to City/County Government. Under government, click on contact legistlator.
Everyone needs to read this! WOW!
http://nwi.com/articles/2008/11/21/news/top_news/doce57e93e32aae0f2086257508000e9f9c.txt
I hope this link works…it’s about another community ( Valpo) unhappy with their
appointed school board and want to change to an elected one…hmmmm sound familiar?
I do agree with what you’ve said Jezibell but, as for Michelle, she has tried for the last 10 years to be an appointed school board member (I wonder why they didn’t want her in). She did NOT like the way things were being done in the administration.
I’ve been doing research and I have a call in to a lawyer. I’ll let everyone know as soon as I do.
I too support an elected board and one specifically that understand the educational system and how it pertains to children (k-12). Gary is truly the only one on there that understood that side of it and tried to express it. I too have emailed anyone who will listen. I suggest others do the same. I also urge us that have opposed the rashness of this decision to hold these people to the fire. They made their decision now they HAVE to make it work. They have huge responsibilities they just accepted and I plan on making sure they carry them out. That is until I can get a school board on there I can hold accountable and will take my concerns under consideration.
Make sure we take notice of who replaces Mr. Bieberich! His job description has been totally altered and at an unspecified amount of reimbursement. Mr Geissler refused to okay this job description since there was no dollar amount attached, but guess what – it passed because the dictator wanted it to. Let’s see who gets this job I bet one of Wylie’s cronies wo will get a remodeled office and assume some of the duties Wylie is getting paid for.
As for him getting his hands dirty packing – what a joke – the teachers are told they will pack up school things and nothing personal will be moved. Have you ever guessed how much of a classroom has been purchased by the teacher? Remember there is no money to buy anything from scotch tape to bandaids so most of the things in a classroom belong to the teacher. Just food for thought!
An elected school board is a petition process. I’m not sure of all the requirements yet- but am looking into it. This will mean parents getting together and actually have a paper petion signed. Email petions mean nothing.
I also want to find out how to get on the committee the paper mentioned made of administrators, staff, and parents due to this realignment.
I echo Gary Gisler- I must go forward and help support my child now. What I thought of the reconfiguration is a moot point now. I want to be on that committee to make this transition as smooth as possible for all children in North Adams.
This effects all of our children.
Then again- now that it doesn’t cost to transfer school districts I wonder if any will send their child to AC?
Might I make a suggestion…Why don’t we help the staff? Why don’t we go in and help them pack, I’m sure they would apprecaite it. Why don’t we load the boxes in our cars and trucks, I’m sure they would apprecaite it. Why don’t we ask them what they need in the classroom and buy it for them, I’m sure they would appreciate.
In the private school system, this is really how things get done. When we renovated our school and teachers had to move classrooms, and the library and the art room…that’s what the parents did. When a teacher wants to do a special project with the class or run out of materials, the parents buy it. Not everyone can help, but those who can do. In this instance, I realize that not everyone can drop 10 or 20 bucks on paper, pens, etc, but we can all pitch in and try to help make the move as pain free for the teachers as we can.
So why not ask them, what can we do to help instead of sitting here racking our brains trying to figure out how it’s all going to get done? Just a suggestion…
Private Schl Parent – do you think we have not all ready done that? There were many offers on the board meeting night to help our teachers pack & move. I have e-mailed my children’s teachers, past & present – with the offer to provide boxes and moving help. The private school systems have the families that have money to help with everything – the public school systems struggles with that help but those families that can provide also step up to the plate. Unfortuately the ones that aren’t financially able to help far outweigh the ones that can. I understand what you are saying but I don’t think you understand the huge differences between private schools vs. the public schools.
That’s where you are mistaken. My only point was that even those who can’t financially help with the needs of the classroom, can help with the move…no need to read more into my post than that.
As far as your comment about finances. You may not realize that there is a very large group of students in the private school system that aren’t “rich”. We parents either get help from the parrish for tuition or we do without so that we can send our kids there. We don’t have cable or a home phone and my parents help pay part of the tuition so that our kids can go to the private school…We aren’t rich, but we believe that it’s worth the sacrifice, and I can assure you that there are others like us. And, as I mentioned in an earlier post, I don’t send them there becasue I don’t think that NA can give them an adequate education, but because I want them to have a religious education along with reading, writing, and arithmatic. Just because kids go to a private school doesn’t mean that their parents are rich.
Hello and greetings to all, I am in the process of getting the information we need to make are stand and elect a school board. I am one person and I will need the help of many. I am not afraid to post my name. I have stood before this people and spoke my mind and I will continue to do so. Talk is talk and actions make things happen, so I am asking you the parents, grandparents, teachers, students and just good old commuinty members that feel that same why 450 other people do, lets stand together and make our voices count. Mr. Sirk drew the line in the sand and I intend to cross that line and make are voices count the next time.
Anyone wishing to help in this charge please send me an email with your information. please address the email as elected school board so I can weed out the junk mail.. here is my email dpdd6@yahoo.com
Thank you Jamie for doing this. My understanding is that in order to get an elected school board, a majority of REGISTERED VOTERS in said district need to sign the petition. Is this correct? I know a lot of the names on the petition against the reconfiguration were not even in the NACS district.
An elected school board is a good start. An elected school board is not a guarantee that something like this will not happen again. I have limited knowledge of the three who voted for the re-alignment. From what I do know of them, I believe they are all good people who have the best interest of our children in their minds. This has been a very difficult decision making process for them.
It’s important that we show Mr. Sirk and the School Board that the taxpayers and parents do not appreciate being patronized. ‘When they say it’s not about the money, it’s ALL about the money.’
In these tough times, we need leaders who can empathize with the parents. Tough times and tight budgets should not be a reason to ignore the parents. If anything, it should be a reason to do just the opposite.
Although I’ve not studied the dynamics of successful school systems, I would have to believe that similar to highly successful businesses, highly successful schools are those schools that look at their staff and parents as assets and care about their opinions. Good leaders strengthen morale, even when the economic times are tough.
From North Adams Mission Statement:
‘Serving as a trusted agent of the community, the mission of the North Adams Community Schools is to provide life-long learning opportunities for all individuals to grow and succeed in a changing world.’
From the articles I’ve read, the comments I’ve heard from parents and the comments on this blog, it sounds to me like our school system needs to find a way to gain our trust.
The same criticism some bloggers have said of Mr. Rash and Mrs. Stimpson, which their children did not go to the public elementary schools, can be said of our teachers. There are several North Adams teachers who either send their children to parochial schools or who live outside the North Adams District. Do you presume that a North Adams staffer who sends his/her children to a parochial school looks at our children differently because the staffer doesn’t use the public school system? I would hope not! Yes, it’s important that our school board represents the public school demographics. Let’s not kid ourselves, a public school parent is NOT going to sit on the board of a parochial school. But let’s not assume a school board member doesn’t care about our public school children because they didn’t send their children to the public schools. We just need to remind them that the public school is their priority when they are on the board. The interests and needs of the parochial schools should not weigh in on their decisions.
Let’s not kid ourselves; all schools in the area are faced with tough times. The grass is not always greener on the other side. It would be somewhat hypocritical of parents to say they do not want change for their children and then move their children to another school system. Unless, of course, their children are in preschool or kindergarten. I can understand their motive to change schools to get an administration who listens to the parents. Those who think it’s so much better elsewhere may be saddened to find it’s not better any where else. If you seriously want to move your children to another school, do your homework. Test scores aren’t everything. Talk to the students and staff; learn as much as you can about the other school.
Let’s continue to support our principals and staff.
Keep us posted on the Petition for an Elected School Board…let us know when and where we need to go to sign the Petition. Thank you.
We need people like Eve and Jezibell to run for a position on the School Board. They obviously do their homework!
‘When they say it’s not about the money, it’s ALL about the money.’
That is because they cannot legally do a re-alignment of any type for financial purposes only. State law says specifically it has to be done for educational purposes first. By saying it was not financial it covered legal obligations.
We have needed an ELECTED School Board for many years now!!! MOST other School Corporations in our state do have an Elected Board! Back in 1980, a push for an elected board in North Adams Schools was tried and it was a very screwy thing on the way the decision was made. The vote was in favor of an elected board by far, but, since the choices on the ballot were for three different options, none of the options received a 50% vote, so that automatically kept the un-elected appointed school board in place! IT WAS NOT a fair election at all in 1980, and I guarantee you that the powers in charge will try something like that again if people do really try to push for an elected school board again!!!! I hope that it is on the ballot again and I hope that an elected Board does pass with over 50% this time! I just want everyone to know what they are up against in advance in order for the mistakes of the push for an elected Board in 1980 are NOT repeated in this new try! If you do get this on the ballot again, YOU are more than welcome to put a Bill Board size sign in my ‘high visability’ yard in favor of an ELECTED School Board!!!!!
It sounds like the time is right for an elected school board. We need everyone to talk to their families, friends, neighbors, co-workers, everyone they are in contact with about why this is needed. Get the word out!!!! I am willing to help do whatever to see this get on the ballot whether it be by a referendum or whatever. ( Sorry I’m not up on the legal jargon). I must say I enjoyed seeing Wylie on the front page of the Democrat. He looked like he was shaking in his shoes. I feel sorry for all of the RIF’ed teachers and staff. I was speaking to someone today that works in the school system and was told that morale is at the lowest it has ever been. It’s a shame our State has put our schools in this situation. I will blame our state first, then our Superintendent. I know Wylie inherited alot of the problems when he took the job, but he DID have a hidden agenda. He knows it and so do alot of others. First of all, he shouldn’t have redecorated the Administration Offices as soon as he took over the helm. It’s public property, and anyone is able to walk in and see it. It’s quite nice. He talks out of both sides of his mouth and is not a good leader. If he was, he would be out there at the schools, talking to the staff and learning about what they do everyday. I’m not just talking about the teachers, but the support staff. They really do keep the school running. He has NO CLUE what they do. There isn’t even a job description for most of these individuals. They just do their jobs and quite well if I may say. He has an arrogance about him that he is the boss and it is his way or the highway. I’m not sure who was on the committee to hire him, but apparently there were not alot to choose from. I am interested to see the numbers next year at the beginning of school to see how much more the enrollment has gone down. I will leave you with this to think about, Most great leaders have one thing in common, they have a way to make their employees want to do the best job they can, because that leader makes them feel like they are an important part of the organization, they are made to feel like they are needed and are rewarded accordingly. There have been studies done that people will work for nothing for someone who makes them feel they are IMPORTANT and NEEDED. I do not think Wylie figured this out. If he doesn’t soon, he is going to have a school system that people will NOT want to work for, therefore, we won’t have the best new teachers at NA. We have some really wonderful, caring teachers at NA who love our children. But they are tired of everything that keeps getting thrown at them and all of the extra “stuff” like mapping, testing, etc. they are expected to do. It takes away from them teaching our children. Let the teachers teach our children. I certainly think it is worth an effort by this community to see NA get an elected school board. It is worth it for the future of our school system, our teachers, our children, the community.
Hello again.
I would like to thank all of you for you comments and postings. I have been in contact with the Brunes and trying to work out some details. I know this is going to be a long road to haul, but if we work as a team and keep in contact we will make it through this.
I would also like to reach out to the teachers that may read the postings. NA Teachers please know that from the emails and personal contacts that I have been receiving, this community stands behind you!!! Also on that note about comments. I am not out for any person gain other then to see my children be the best that they can be. I have been called a HERO by some people, I am flattered by this comment but I am just like you. One person with a voice but if we unite we are a community. Please tell your freinds and neighbors about this and make this happen. Good-by for now and keep your heads held high.
“Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.”
-Winston Chruchill
In response to Jezibell.
None of the staff, including teachers have a job description. There is a teacher contract that states items such as school day, what time you need to be there and when you can leave. It also mentions sick leave, etc.
Speaking of contracts, did you know that the teachers currently are working without a contract? Tis true! Wylie has refused to continue negoiations with the teachers union. Along with money, these talks also include items such as insurance, language regarding various items like prep times, etc. Many times I know that teacher’s prep time includes time driving from one school to another, or at least it used to.
Did you know that a traveling teacher only gets 200.00 for the year to travel to 2 schools and 300 to travel to 3 schools. If you figure this out, it doesn’t even meet the National Average of payment per mile.
The Internal Revenue Service on Jan. 1, 2009, will lower its standard mileage rate to 55 cents per mile—3.5 cents less than the current rate, which the government raised mid-year amid escalating fuel prices.
Also, take a look at the minutes that are online for school board meetings. I don’t beleive they are listed quite as accurate as they could be or should be. I believe that the minutes for the February meeting seem to be lacking information. http://www.nadams.k12.in.us/AdminBuilding/docs/Feb.%2010,%202009%20Minutes.pdf
As for Jezibell stating Wylie has no clue about what support staff does, I would just like to say he has no clue period.
I would like to end with information concering leadership skills:
L = Listening
Good listening is required in order to understand employee attitudes and motivators. Get to know your employees by asking a lot of open-ended questions. When you ask questions, you have a chance to listen, and when you listen, you begin to better understand employee motivations, body language and issues. Get them to speak of issues that confront them and enable them to find solutions. Offer challenges to corporate issues with solutions. And, provide credit to the employee with a solid reply.
E = Enthusiasm
Employees want to be motivated. This begins with positive energy and positive commitment. Your personal ills and corporate pressures are unimportant to your employees. They are concerned about number one- themselves. In good times and bad you must always express a positive and energetic attitude. Finish line energy gets finish line results.
A = Awareness
Be aware of issues that are non-verbal. Leaders must have a keen sense that denotes when employees are happy, frustrated, tired or overwhelmed. You must sense the issue and eliminate it quickly so that you keep organizational harmony.
D = Decisive
Employees loathe procrastinators, even if they are a procrastinator! They want quick, decisive and meaningful replies. Leaders do not ponder; they make quick decisions to difficult problems and find immediate solutions.
E = Equal
The cliché “equal pay, for equal treatment” is so true. Leaders do not treat employees based on title, age, race, religion et. al. Leaders understand that “everyone” and “anywhere” in the organization is equal. Leaders go by the principle that the sum of the parts is greater than the whole.
R = Reward
Adults desire more than just money with work. They desire recognition and kudos for a job well done. However, in today’s marketplace, employees although happy, are looking for more contentment from their current job. This sense of pride and self-worth is a large issue for most people.
If people feel that they make a difference, they will care about organizational objectives, if not, apathy emerges. In sum, the job affects the person and the person affects the job. So what can be accomplished to gain a better sense of company pride and loyalty? Establish a reward system and watch the attitudes soar!
S = Shallow Mission/Vision
Leaders understand the reasons of having corporate and divisional mission and vision statements. These statements of purpose enable employees to understand, 1) Who the firm is, 2) Where they are going? and 3) How they will get there. True leaders establish missions as a roadmap to future success.
H = Hypocrite
Leaders make decisions and stick with them. Leaders understand that reversing decisions make them a hypocrite. Further leaders take action when they offer action. For example, if a leader decides employees need training, he or she also takes the training. If a leader decides pay cuts are necessary to preserve profits they too take a cut. Leading by example creates a happier employee core and loyalty; contradicting the efforts creates dispassion, disbelief and attrition.
I = Isolate
Leaders believe in teamwork and team play. Every employee counts toward the bottom line. Leaders do not isolate themselves from the team and do no isolate the team from each other. As the saying goes, “There is no “I” in team”
P = Positive Communication
In good times and in bad leaders create positive communication and feedback to employees. Positive and meaningful communication creates loyalty and mutual exchange of ideas and attitudes. When ideas are fresh and positive, profits and productivity soar!
The Finish Line
The leader of tomorrow is changing from the top down style of management to a collegial approach where all become counterparts. Working together creates the compassion for work and productivity that both sides seek. Leaders who have created this style of management have names on the front door such as Cisco, UPS, Home Depot, Lowes, Wal-Mart, et al. These leaders are change agents and strive to become not only recognized brand names but also recognized leaders. Employ the ten leadership traits, incorporate these in your organization and daily efforts and watch productivity grow.
Although the aforementioned leadership qualities refers to business, I believe many of the qualities could and should be used in school systems.
How the Government Stimulus Plan Affects Education – this excerpt is taken from this:
Schools:
A main goal of education spending in the stimulus bill is to help keep teachers on the job.
Nearly 600,000 jobs in elementary and secondary schools could be eliminated by state budget cuts over the next three years, according to a study released this past week by the University of Washington. Fewer teachers means higher class sizes, something that districts are scrambling to prevent.
The stimulus sets up a $54 billion fund to help prevent or restore state budget cuts, of which $39 billion must go toward kindergarten through 12th grade and higher education. In addition, about $8 billion of the fund could be used for other priorities, including modernization and renovation of schools and colleges, though how much is unclear, because Congress decided not to specify a dollar figure.
The Education Department will distribute the money as quickly as it can over the next couple of years.
And it adds $25 billion extra to No Child Left Behind and special education programs, which help pay teacher salaries, among other things.
This money may go out much more slowly; states have five years to spend the dollars, and they have a history of spending them slowly. In fact, states don’t spend all the money; they return nearly $100 million to the federal treasury every year.
The stimulus bill also includes more than $4 billion for the Head Start and Early Head Start early education programs and for child care programs.
I just spoke with a parent who moved back from Marion so her child could attend North Adams, only to find that the mess that has been created. She is willing to go to bat for the children and the teachers, if you are too, please contact her at: 223-8596
She is working with Charlie.
I witnessed something Friday at Northwest- that under this new configuration won’t happen again.
At the talent show- a 5th grade and Kindergarten sibling team performed together. Who knows if we’ll even have a talent show next year- but we do know that there won’t be any kinder sibs performing with big brother or sis next year if there is. A bit sad IMO.
Ah well- we must move on and figure out our next step.
More sad news….we were told what principal would go where-only to learn ONCE AGAIN things have changed all around. Now supposedly they are all being moved aoround even more! Moral is at an all time low around all our schools! This move is going to be costly and SAD for all involved!
Awww………I understand Northwest Mom. I’m sorry to say that it probably won’t happen again. However, I am saddened that the parents in Decatur have obviously given up and rolled over to play dead.
I am concerned now that the promises that were made at the parent meetings on where the Principals will be has already changed. Now it seems Ms Lamen will be at Northwest. It seems odd that a Principal with such longevity as Mr. Rich has no say so in where he can or wants to be. He as well as Mr. Casper are just pawns on the board and moved at will.
Eve: I just got a letter from our representative in Indy, Matt Lehman. I sent off an email and received a letter that stated he knew there were alot of unhappy people here in Decatur and if we wanted an elected school board, we will have to deal with this at the local level… Hello??? Did he think I didn’t know that? I wrote him to ask him HOW and WHEN it can be done… His letter had a tone of ” There, there little upset taxpayer, I have more important things to tend to.” I am so thankful that people like Charlie and Jamie know where to go and who to talk to… I guess I’m not one of them…yet…..
Concerned Mom! Since State Representative Lehman apparently has little empathy for those of us in the North Adams School District and does not wish to supply you with the info needed to get the issue on the ballot to be voted on, then YOU and Everyone who wants representation for all needs to get a great candidate to run in 2010 to run against Matt Lehman!!!! That is the only way to get him out of office. Keep in mind that this State Legislative district is so ‘republican’ that Mr. Lehman can afford to act arrogant and condescending to you as the chance of voting him out of office is very very remote! I hope that you can get someone that would not be afraid to run against him and that you and the others on here would be committed to the ’cause’ enough to go door to door to campaign for that person!!!!! YOU may then have a chance of voting Mr. Lehman out!
Right on George. As I recall, it was “Keebie” in the last election for Mayor that wanted to create an elected school board. Obviously it wasn’t important last May.
Quick question on the talent show since I”m not familiar. Does each elementary have a talents show? If so, would it be possible to have 1 talent show (say at the middle or high school) therefore allowing for the opportunity for sibling groups and/or various grade groups to perform their talents together. Just a thought.
Well here’s the best one I’ve heard in a long time. Talking with a teacher today and they said Mr. Sirk stated had heard no negative comments about the reconfiguration. In fact Sirk stated that he had only heard positive feedback. Hmm……………………..
On a sadder note, also in the hall was a little girl crying. When the teacher asked her what was wrong, she stated, I have to go to a new school next year. I don’t want to go to a new school, I like this one. I won’t know who my teacher is, I don’t know who will teach Art, I won’t know who will teach Music and I don’t know who the Gym teacher is and I won’t know the Principal. Well, that pretty well sums it up. From the mouths of babes, stress has now hit them and it’s only February! Great job Mr. Sirk and the School Board who voted for the reconfiguration.
Mr. Sirk must have selective hearing, because I have witnessed him receiving much negative feedback. Maybe he has become forgetful and not able to remember what he has heard or said. Is he capable of running the system? Has altzheimers set in?
Its over people…why keep complaining and dragging everyone down? Yes things will be different. We have to move and and support our schools, teachers, and kids. Why not see if it works? As a teacher I am not sure if I am for or against it, but I am willing to give it a try.
Many people are making this seem that its going to be so horrible, like its an inconvienence for the parents more than the kids.
If you want an elected school board do it…that way the rich how can run for election and support it can keep winning every year. The mayor (as some said Keebie wanted an elected school board) can’t make that determination…there are MANY MANY steps needed to do so.
So, why not try and be supportive? When kids see their parents and other adults bashing things and getting upset over them, the kids do the same things even when they have no clue of how or what to feel.
I’m glad you share your opinions, i am all for it…but when does it stop?
I think you are missing the point totally, Teacher. It seems to me that Mr. Sirk DOES have selective hearing. He knows exactly what a mess he has created. Teachers working without a contract, reconfiguration of our Elementary School system, Riffing many staff, NO RAISES once again, (except for him). He is a real piece of work. I know of several people who have already enrolled their kids at AC and the parochial schools in Decatur for the 09-10 school year. Sirk thinks the enrollment was down this year, wait until next. I will support the elected school board and hopefully will see it happen. I think it is time that Teachers not only at North Adams, but all over the State are paid what they are worth. All of these people who are elected into office say that Education of our Children is the most important thing. Well then let’s start paying those who teach our children what they are worth. It seems to me that NA Superintendent, Mr. Wylie is paid Wayyy tooo much for the horrible job he is doing. I think the first thing our elected school board should do is Fire the Superintendent. Lets get someone in here who worries about the staff and teachers first. This reconfiguration is not more important that our teachers. Give them a contract Wylie. You have created this huge mess, deal with it. Get NA out of the mess. That is your job.
Thank You Jezibell!
The one thing you have to realize is that Mr. Compton started the whole mess…ask and you will see how he messed with funds so that no savings account funds were left…or how he screwed the teachers with dual enrollment money that had to be repaid…then maybe you will understand some of why Mr. Sirk is doing what he is doing. I totally understand your point of view and appreciate your stance, however. Hopefully things work out for the best.
Mr. Compton has nothing to do with Reconfiguration. That is totally Mr. Sirks idea and has been for several years. True, Compton was advised not to do dual enrollment, however, the State did change the formulas yearly in which the monies were to be repaid. As far as understanding what Sirk is doing, not a clue with most of it. I still contend that is he trying to make a name for himself, and move on to higher ground in the education world as well as Mrs. Lamon. Hopefully things will work out, however, I’m not holding my breath. Currently Adams Central has a waiting list of students from North Adams wanting to be enrolled. Zion, St. Joseph and Wyneken also have been advertising adamantly for new students. This will certainly diminish the monies received from the State for North Adams. It appears it will be a vicious circle spiraling downward that Mr. Sirk has begun.
With the principal changes of Mr. Rich & Mrs Lamon, where is Mr Casper? I think the Problem of Mr Compton has been beaten to death. Indiana schools are experiencing financial problems and other schools have cut staff at the top, not at the bottom and not starting over from scratch. The bottom line, too many lies have been told and untrue statistics shared – the staff will make the best with what they are given but who will be held accountable in the end? It will be the teachers – not the top gun who created this debacle.
Hello everyone, I want you to know that things are progessing good you may not see it, but it is. Please keep your heads high and yes support our teachers in this. I will keep you posted.
I hear Ms Lamon will no longer be at Monmouth and part time curriculum director since Wylie can’t justify another administrative person at the ad building. Seems to me that he was getting too muck flack about a new person there, so he scrapped that idea for at least now.
Ms. Lamon will be at NW – where will Mr. Casper be?
So why are parents taking their kids to other school systems? They didn’t want to drive across town to 2 different schools, but will drive to monroe and back each day for their kids? Why not try and attempt to support what is going on? Why not support our teachers. Jamie Tharp was adamant and upset about the situation, which he rightfully can be…but is he pulling his kids out of North Adams? No. He is doing what he feels is the right thing to do. he is supporting our teachers and then is doing the elected board thing. NOTICE…SUPPORTING OUR TEACHERS. by pulling kids out you are saying that our teachers basically suck. Teachers make the students better students…not the buildings they attend.
Supposedly now Mrs. Lamons will be at NW, Mr. Casper at Mon. and Mr. Rich at SE. Why do the principals need to be moved from their schools that they have been at for so many, many years (minus Mrs. Lamon’s of course)?? Why not keep them at their respective bldgs. where they and their secretaries know where records, forms, etc. are?? I understand that NW will have over 400 students in that bldg! Word is that Mrs. Lamon’s is bringing in her own people even wanting her own janitor? What the heck? Who is she to have her way? She’s the new kid on the block. Shouldn’t Mr. Casper and Mr. Rich have their own say as what support people go with them first? Many feel that it’s bad enough with all the changes going on with the students and half the staff that now we all have to deal with the principals moving also? What kid of continuity is there in this? I agree! What the staff wants most though through all this ,yes, is the support from the community more than anything. We will try to make it work for the sake of our students no matter where we all end up. We also all wish that SOMEONE would tell us what is happening and where we will all be because all these rumors are really tearing at our hearts and stomachs!
Where does Kim Fullove fit into this mixture?
To Terrified Teacher….Kim Fullove I presume, will be moving to Monmouth with the rest of the groups. At least that is what I understand. And there is a job up now that I heard was part Marna G. and Dale B. therefore combining these two positions next yr. unless I was told wrong??
To Teacher-
I think teachers of NA are doing a wonderful job. I do think as parents make their decisions of where to send their children, TRUST is the issue at hand here. I totally trust the teachers are going to do their best in whatever the situation becomes. What I have difficulty trusting in is our Superintendent and school boards decisions. They have not put the children and the community first in their decisions. They have not done their jobs.
And lets face it we cannot have an elected school board until at least 2010 because of ballots and elections. So we have at least a year and a half of them left . And that to me is very SCARY!!
Perhaps the principals are requesting specific buildings/grade levels? Maybe Mr. Rich prefers working with younger students and has requested the Southeast building? Maybe Mr. Casper wants more of a challenge than pre-schoolers and kindergarteners? If the teachers are moving with the students, I can understand why the principals would be moving, too.
To me, it made more sense to close one building and combine grades K-2 and 3-5. Evidently we have quite a few pre-K children to consider. Does anyone know anything about the North Adams pre-school program? Is it only for the children of students (high school parents) and teachers?
Do we need a full time principal for Monmouth next year? Are the pre-K kids in the building all day? I’d like to know more about the North Adams pre-K program and why it’s being lumped in to our elementary system.
So, how do parents get on the reconfiguration committee that Mr. Sirk mentioned? Can teachers volunteer for the committee? The reconfiguration committee is a perfect opportunity for the administration to help earn our trust back by opening the committee to taxpayers and teachers who want to make a positive difference. They could start with a link on the website for updates on the move, to openly share what is going on. The administration, teachers and staff could use the link, or create a blog, to post updates to help everyone with the transition. Let’s work together on this!
Guardian-
Parents of NA students received a letter explaining the reconfiguration in the mail on Saturday. If parents want to be on the committee, they are to call the schools principal.
I believe Marna G. (Mr. Sirk’s secretary) is retiring after this year. So I would guess that the new person will be taking Marna’s job and a portion of Dale’s job as he takes on some new responsibilities.
Dale will also be retiring this year.
Does anyone see the writing on the wall here. NA has lost alot of good people since Wylie took over. He has Marna G. working at the Middle school for the secretary that quit. She is supposedly retiring this year. But that has been rumored in the past, so I guess time will tell if she does. From what I gather from the job description of Mr. Bieberich’s postition, it sounds more like a combined postition to take over 3 jobs. Still, I don’t understand how Wylie can accept a raise and not give our teachers and support staff raises. Furthermore, the people I know who are taking their kids to AC are actually going into High School. So they are not elementary students that are transferring. But I know they have accepted many elementary students also. I’m sure there will be a large increase in the parochial school enrollment. I am still supporting an elected school board because it is time that we as taxpayers choose the ones who really want to make those difficult decisions and are not swayed by the Superintendent by bullying. As you know, I have absolutely NO respect for Mr. Sirk. I really don’t believe he cares about the staff at all, just his hidden agenda. And it seems to me that Ms. Lamon was hired by him, as she also has a hidden agenda. I have only heard from others that the only Superintendent in recent years that truely cared about the teachers and staff and was a very nice man, was Mr. Springer. I have never heard anything negative about him. I think Wylie needs to be a little worried about his job. Because when he get an elected school board, I hope the first thing on the agenda is to boot him and get someone in there who will not only put the students first but also the wonderful teachers and staff that make NA a great place. Like it has been said previouly, morale is at an all-time LOW. Does he really think he is doing the right thing by making promises of raises, and then renigging on them. Does he visit the schools and talk to the teachers and staff about their concerns? NO, NO, and NO.
He sits in his office and does, I’m not sure what, but he is not a movivator and will never be.
To Teacher –
In regards to your question as to why parents are willing to drive to AC and not across our own town. For me personally, taking my child to AC would ensure that he’s in the same building at least through his elementary career. I want him to develop a sense of security and comfort while he’s young and am concerned that will be hard to come by if he has to switch schools every two years. In two years I’ll have two kids in two different schools in NA, that would mean driving from Mon. to SE (about 25 minutes from our house to both schools) and I would much rather drive 20 minutes to & from AC to ensure that they would be together. I read in the Democrat an editoral that likened parents who are contemplating moving their kids as “taking their ball and going home”. To me that’s offensive because it looses sight of who we’re looking out for. I think we all agree that our kids are the number one priority and parents have that right to decide what they feel is best for them.
I understand there are some benefits to reconfiguring the schools but ultimately I’m concerned about the emotional well-being of my son. I’m very appreciative of my son’s teacher and all the NA teachers for that matter. Please don’t take the idea of parents moving their kids to different schools personally. Unfortunately, it’s a situation that we’ve been railroaded into and now are having to make some tough decisions based on what we feel is the best for our children.
Well the letter that I received also said that they may close a school. Gee Was that not one of the options to do instead of the reconfiguration? So now his is going to do two of those things on the list and cut teachers.
Well I heard that parents received thank you letters for attending the Board meet. Well guess what I did not receive one. I guess I know how he feels about us.
Yep! Welcome to lies from Sirkland. His favorite line is, well it’s not in stone. When that is said, you can bet your life it is in stone.
To Guardian: YOU need to get some facts straight. Yes SOME teachers are being MADE to move….they are NOT moving with the students. We will lose half our staff next yr and get a whole new half. One teacher that moved in recent yrs. was heard saying that it took a couple yrs. in a new bldg. just get get comfotable with everyone in the new school. This is a big deal to us as staff. It’s going to be hard enough with the students moving but WE also have feelings! This is heart wrenching and very stressful for the staff. No one wants their family tore apart ike this! I just WISH that the superintendant would realize what he is doing. We as staff will deal with it yes, BUT, he is breaking up three large families! The staff at the three schools for the most part DID NOT want this to happen and most are heart broken. AND there are so many rumors and NO ONE knows where they’ll be for sure and how many of us are loosing their jobs. The end of the year is always sad when we lose staff or they retire, etc. BUT THIS year end will be horrible for all! I for one have already shed tears as have others. We ARE real people Mr. Sirk, Mrs. Eidam, Mr.Rash and Mr. Gutierez…think if it were your family being torn apart!
Hello, well here it goes. Just to let you know that Mistie and I are trying our hardest right now. We have contacted NA and asked for appeal papers and was met with a look that was priceless. We then went back and asked to be put on the agenda for the March 10 Board meeting. And again we was greeted with odd looks. We then told that we would not be put on the agenda but would have time to talk at the end of the meeting.
I have not and will not “lay down and roll over”. Please support the teachers and staff. Remember you can come and voice your opinion at the meetings but please lets keep our heads. Yes the night of the Board meeting I spoke from my heart and was very upset.
Teachers, Staff, fellow community members. Lets show your support and be there for the meeting..
Just so you all know. We staff can not really speak up or say much as our jobs are, or surely would be, on the line. The staff at the three elementaries are also hurting over this and your support is appreciated! Thanks to all. Most os us I do believe support you too, Mr. Tharp.
Now the staff is being polled as to what grade, building, etc. they would like to be at – another futile attempt to appease staff nothing will happen but the almighty is making it look like it will – also there are rumors of retirements – oh right – are these more promises or threats? The NA staff is resilient and strong – they aren’y going to leave or lie down and play dead – they will go to work, adjust their life, form new friendships, but carry the heartache that we are not valued employees. Why rush – the state is to get quite a large sum of stimulus money – perhaps this will help alleviate the problem – the way the reconfiguration keeps changing – there is going to be little savings and I fear additional costs – I’m sure there will be many more items that I will need to purchase to prepare my new classroom! Time to start packing!
It is quite obvious that the almighty doesn’t care about teachers or he would have asked their opinions at the start. I ask this, what if all the elementary teachers refused to move? What would the almighty do then? Would he fire all the teachers and try to hire new prior to school starting? How many teachers would he have to replace then? There would certainly be something to file with the EEOC on that account I would believe. Harassment has always been rampant in this system towards teachers and staff and it appears that it is getting worse. Thanks to Sirk, Lamon and now Croner. The waiting list is growing at Adams Central as we speak. Oh wait, let’s close Southeast and annex it to Adams Central. Those teachers currently there could work for Adams Central and would get raises and certainly feel more wanted than they are at North Adams. It seems the middle and the south part of the county have always thought that North Adams isn’t where they want their children to attend school and thanks to Sirk and three board members, they are confirming that idea. I feel so sorry for the teachers who have to move. It is apparent that we do not live in a democracy at North Adams, but a dictatorship. Very similar to what appeared in history. The stature and theories are the same, however, his name was Napolean.
Sadstaff… I know and understand that your voices can not be heard do to the fact that you could lose you jobs..But if there is something I can do and be your voice please let me know and I will try my best to honor you and what you have to say. You have my email I will not disclose your information.
Today is Ash Wednesday and all week people have been talking about what their change is going to be for lent. . . .
Change in life is hard – first you are angry, then you grieve. . .and the process continues. That’s all part of the process.
I write today as a proud employee of North Adams Community Schools. Is it perfect ?- NO! Is it a good place to work and raise a family?- YES.
I have worked in other school corporations and can easily tell you that the grass is not greener on the other side. At North Adams I do not have Lunch Duty, Bus Duty, Recess Duty, Study Hall. I can leave the premise without begging my principal and signing in and out letting them know where I went, what I did and how long I was gone. I also get to work with wonderful children. Some even say as they leave – Thank you for teaching me today. Can any other job be better than that?
Do I agree with everything? Heavens no. But as I thought back – did I like everything in my other jobs starting with my babysitting career:
Babysitting (started age 11) – Did I enjoy changing dirty diapers? Being gone everyday in the summer? Telling parents about the behavior of their children – No.
High School – Local establishments and 1 summer Local Factory – at the factory I worked only steps away from the marketing department and do you think the director ever had the decency to say “Good Morning” or “Hi”. No, but I stayed, because I was responsible for purchasing my own clothes, paying for extra-curricular activities and putting gas in my car.
College – restaurants! Did I like working holidays or dealing with nasty customers? No, but I stayed because I wanted to put myself through college and have a career.
Professionally – education! Do I like working weekends at school, taking college courses through the summer, grading papers at home – No, but I stay because I love the kids and I also want to be able to pay for my home and put my children through college.
Presently- transition! Do I want to pack boxes and set up a new room – NO, but I look forward to meeting and having new friends, meeting new children and have others around me who I can talk with about the exact lessons, problems, etc.
I also look forward to talking about students when we here of accomplishments and we refer to them as North Adams Elementary students rather than “He was a Monmouth Kid”, “She went to Southeast”, “No, they attended Northwest”. The will be “OURS”.
As far as the principals – they are going exactly where they should be.
Mr. Casper will do an excellent job teaching the young child etiquette and procedures in a school. He does a wonderful job of keeping parents and teachers informed.
Mr. Rich is a compassionate person and will excel with the 1st and 2nd graders. They will adore him and Southeast.
Mrs. Lamon is an excellent disciplinarian (she’s fair and understands the needs of children) and also knows what is happening with government and the teachers and students are always one step ahead of changes from Indy. She will be a wonderful instructional leader for the teachers in grades 3-5.
I also appreciate our leaders saying we have a problem and we need to fix it before the hole is too deep. I also appreciate their willingness to do what they believe rather than being swayed by a few.
Today I stand tall and say thank you to North Adams for letting me make new friends in a job I love rather than making friends in the unemployment line like so many from Thunderbird and Fleetwood.
P.S. Did you know Dr. Springer had wanted to reconfigure all the schools so to combine all grade levels when the middle school was being built? He thought it would be a better educational program but did not pursue because he did not want to deal with the wrath of angry parents.
All I can say is….If it looks like weasel…talks like a weasel…and acts like a weasel….its a WEASEL.
Sadstaff,
I wasn’t suggesting that because the students were being moved that the teachers are tagging along for the fun of it. My point: if the teachers and students are being situated in new buildings, it would stand to reason that the principals may move to new buildings as well.
I fully understand where you are coming from. I’m as disappointed and frustrated that the staff has been forced to go through so much in such a short time. From No Child Left Behind to the focus on standardized testing (which go hand in hand) to reduced staff, it has put a big strain on our wonderful teachers.
Well here’s the latest Paul Gunsett, elementary Pe teacher and Asst. Wrestling coach will be teaching at cope. He either does Cope or wouldn’t have a job.
Proud– I couldn’t have said it better myself! Life is change-but it’s certainly better than the alternative! North Adams has been and continues to be a great place to work. I have always been treated with fairness and respect by past and present administration. Yes, change can be difficult. But whining, griping, complaining and focusing on every negative thing that you can think of only makes it worse. Yes, as a result of NCLB madates, teachers have been overburdened. Yes, teachers are being asked to do more with less. Yes, the bar has been raised, while more and more students come to our schools unprepared and ill-equipped. Yes, it seems like we are asked to reach unattainable goals with inadequate tools. Yes, many teachers are falling victim as a result of the fiscal challenges school districts face and reductions in force are inevitable. This is the reality that we live in today. This is the challenge that we face today. But every teacher I know worth their salt is prepared to rise to the challenge and do whatever it takes to insure that students at North Adams get the high quality education they need and deserve– no matter what building they are assigned, no matter how the grades are configured, or who their principal will be. I give Mr. Sirk credit for having the courage to make the unpopular decisons in order to begin to turn things around for the district. It is a very lonely position to be in. I don’t hear people screaming about the layoffs and job reductions at the local industries (Thunderbird and Fleetwood). How many North Adams staff have been affected by that? My guess is that there are far more than are affected by the NACS staff reductions. So, Eve—- Why aren’t you concerned about all of the people who have lost their jobs at Thunderbird????? Hmmmm
It is my belief that your attitude about your situation and circumstances makes all the difference. There are far worse things than grade reconfiguration and building and staffing changes. Those of us who have not received a pink slip should be counting our blessings instead of whining about having to pack and move. I, for one, am very thankful. I do not take my job for granted.
“Two men look out between the same bars; One sees the mud and one sees the stars.” ~Fredrick Langbridge
“The most powerful thing you can do to change the world, is to change your own beliefs about the nature of life, people, reality, to something more positive.” ~Shakti Gawain
Hey Proud,
I do agree with you on some parts. North Adams does have great teachers, principals and staff. But what you said on change…I don’t agree. I am the mother of a special needs child that has ASD. Can you tell me how to explain ” change” to a child with ASD!!! My son does not handle change well at all. Do you know what it is like when your child looks you in the eye and says he loves you, I didn’t have that the first 5 years of his life. I have that now!!! MR. Sirk and the school board have no idea how they have changed my world. They can vote this stupid plan without even a blink of a eye and my son is the one that pays the price. Some people think change is good, I am here to say change is not good when it comes to MY kids. My son has come to far from where he was to lose anything. I will fight with every breath in my body to not let my son lose it.
Plus you had talked about “Northwest student” “Southeast” “Monmouth” students, where does school proud come in there?
You had said Mr. Springer want this BUT he did not want to deal with angry parents….don’t you think that maybe , he thought “we” the parents know want is best for our kids, and he work as a team with parents instead of against them.
I thank you for all you do. The teachers at North Adams are great. And you guys work so hard for OUR kids.
You go Gracie!
This blog has been a great outlet to see the support that the teachers have from the community and parents – not administration. Proud states that she does not have duties that teachers in other school systems have – does she know why? It is because the North Adams Teachers’ Association (Union) has bargained these issues and gained these things for the teachers – even those who not belong to the Association, much to the chagrin of the present administration. Isn’t it strange that since Mr. Sirk has appeared on the scene there is little or no talk for a contract and many teachers have not joined the Association because they are not getting a raise, etc. Could it be possible that Mr. Sirk is trying to break the Association and the teachers would therefore assume some of these roles again that the Association has fought hard to attain? Besides the community and parents standing firm the teachers need to stand behind Mr. Brunstrup and the Association and fight this practice. Who is going to be doing recess, lunch, etc. when the support staff is gone? Staff is being cut at all levels and now Mr. Casper is going to be a full time principal when the original plan was to save money by having Mrs. Lamon serving as principal and curriculum director. This cost saving effort is turning into an expensive circus.
Yes I am excited about meeting new staff and students in my new building and as I pack up, I pack up many memories of past students and staff who have crossed my path. I have worked with fantastic staff, students and parents and anticipate that next year I will do the same!
Why have COPE anyway? How many students are served?
What is COPE?
Could someone please tell me what COPE is?
Proud- I’m with you! Those of us that are fortunate enough to be employed in the midst of this economic crisis should be counting our blessings. I am thankful and would not think of complaining. I know far too many people who are experiencing much greater difficulty right now than I am. Packing and moving to another building is a small inconvenience compared to those who may be packing to move out of their home due to foreclosure or unemployment. North Adams has always been a great place to work and I agree that the grass is not always greener somewhere else. I guess it’s all relative, and a matter of perspective. I guess I am just a “glass is half-full” person, and refuse to be sucked into the negativity that is festering among so many right now. It is toxic and serves noone well. And why is North Adams taking so much heat for having to RIF teachers while local industries like Thunderbird and Fleetwood have been forced to layoff many more employees than North Adams? I find that interesting. Maybe Eve can explain. She seems to have all the answers.
Melissa -
I feel for you – more than you could ever understand.
(I don’t want this comment to come off in a negative way, I’m just trying to understand your dilemma.)
Why do you think your son will lose the progress you have seen?
I am a person who believes that if parents don’t fight for he kids, no one will; however, maybe your fight should be to figure out what is needed to make this transition the best for your child.
Have you contacted your currect principal and asked to be on the committee that is discussing the needs of the students and how to achieve that? That may be your first step.
The principals are LISTENING. Talk with them, work with them – - they will work with you. They want to see your child be successful!
Melissa -
I forgot to tell you – I probably had my mom moment after my child had been sick for months – -
Our child smiled at us after receiving the appropriate medication for a rare disease – the smile came 2 days after finding out our child was not going to die. I think the feeling I had that day was the same feeling you had. . .
I have to admit – my child still has special needs (and will forever)- we use coping skills daily – meet with doctors and counselors to learn new ones – and I have a very close relationship with certain people within the school.
Jamie Tharp: Thank you for your concern and for your words. I do believe in what you are doing and appreciate it. I am thankful to people like you and Charlie Brune who are willing to go to bat for the cause. I hope and pray we do have an elected school board some day. I think the whole way they went about this was a lot of the problem for all the rucus though!
Now unfortunately come the cuts. Paul Gunsett and Sara Rhymer to name the latest 2 victims. At least Mr. Gunsett still has a job but we loose a wonderful person in Mrs. Rhymer…..only to hear that Ray Caseywill be teaching PE!!! How can someone justify this?? I don’t know, but things are going to be bad and cuts hurtful no matter where we go….but how can someone who has not taught PE for years replace someone like Mrs. Rhymer? How many other high school teachers have been paid for teaching one or two classes? We are just begining to hear of the cuts and they aren’t even to the support staff yet! From what I understand that these will also be cut deep. Those poor people are not even making 10 bucks yet. Just how is this going to save us much money? They really are needed in the bldgs.
I do not agree with the way this whole thing was done and all, but please be assured that your children will NOT suffer if we can help it at all. WE WILL be there for them, no matter where we all end up, with open arms and hearts!
We are a family that has been impacted by the recent layoffs in the community factories. It has been difficult times lately. I do not feel it is even fair to compare Fleetwood or Thunderbird employees to our teaching and support staff.
Everyone in this community contributes in different ways and that is what makes this community tick. The one key difference between the schools and factories, is our children. Irregardless of the economy, our children will still be walking into a school. We need to have a full support staff and teachers. These are children and we are responsible for giving them every opportunity for a great education.
Paul is going to Cope – where is Matt Lose going – was he riffed? Sarah Rhymer (PE) was riffed and Ray Casey will be teaching elementary PE – does he have a PE endorsement? SE & NW will be sharing a counselor and a high school counselor was riffed – I thought that through this reconfiguration no more teachers were going to be losing their jobs. How can parents want their children taught by people who are not prepared to teach the area they are assigned to? Has Mr. Sirk again told falsehoods to only continue to drop more bombs and create utter havoc. The transitions between the schools are going to be difficult enough but the staff changes will create an atmosphere where the children will have no stable adult to confide in and yes many of them seek out a trusted adult who they have known for 3-4 years! I just pray that this will not continue to deteriorate!
Proud,,,,
How do I have a close relationship with different schools. Every two years.
You didnt get me any info. HOW do I as a parent help a child with ASD deal with change? YOu dont know how I feel, does you child have ASD???
When comparing Thunderbird, Fleetwood, etc. with school jobs, why do you think there is less money for the school system – it is because the appraised value in Adams County, especially North Adams is down due to the loss of businesses and jobs and because the legislature that is seeing the effects of the recession is not allowing additional money for schools. The money that Mitch Daniels continues to proclaim he has saved homeowners through property taxes is one reason there is less money in the “money pool” to fish from. I would gladly pay more property taxes if it meant better school and keeping the school personnel we presently have.
Also COPE is a program for Middle School students who are unable to function in the regular school classroom mainly due to discipline or social problems. It serves approximately 5-6 students each year. The high school version is ACCESS.
Dr. Springer did advocate the reconfiguration of the schools, but after research of similar schools and the formation of teacher search committees and polling parents, he decided it was not appropriate for North Adams.
Tickled Pink…………………thank you for your vote of confidence. LOL!
In answer to Terrified Teacher……..
Name: RAYMOND J CASEY
License No: 320163 Issue: 08/17/1979 Expire: LIFE Void No:
College: BALL STATE UNIVERSITY Degree: MASTER
Preparation: SECONDARY Gradation: PROFESSIONAL Basis: BULLETIN 400
Action: CONVERSION Status: Active Intern:
Subject Areas:
Area Setting Competency
Physical Education 7-12 MINOR
Speech And Drama 7-12 MAJOR
So if Mr. Casey has a minor in grades 7-12, how can he teach elementary grades? Does he have an endorsement? Or is this one of Mr. Sirk’s job cuts, he going to make it work…..
I was told at all the parent meetings that there would be consistency at the schools. That the children would only be at different building. That they would still see familiar faces. Faces that they know and TRUST. NOT a high school communication teacher. Way to go, Mr. Sirk. Is this just another one of your “transition” points? In the real world, they seem like LIES!!
How is one PE teacher and one counselor going to provide the same level of services the students received when each school had their own last year. These people may be good, but there are only so many hours in a school day for them to provide the students with their skills. Possibly the student’s time in the special classes is being cut – if this is true where are they going to find time for collaboration among the grade level teachers which was the primary reason Mr. Sirk said he was doing this. Are special classes, art, music & PE going to be provided to the Monmouth students?
Unfortunately, in the real world, Mr. Sirk is bound by state law, contract language, tenure protections, and collective bargaining constraints that dictate the handling of reductions in force. Mr. Sirk is not able to arbitrarily dismiss teachers. What results as positions are riffed is a ripple effect, as teachers with seniority holding positions that must be riffed may have to be reassigned, displacing teachers with less seniority. It is unfortunate, but that is the system that Mr. Sirk has to operate under.
Also- What makes you think Mr. Casey will be assigned to an elementary? I think people are getting ahead of themselves and making assumptions that may not be based on fact. You know what they say about people who assume…….
According the PE endorsement for Casey- he cannot teach PE at a level lower than 7th grade. This would be illegal according to state law.
There is no way he should be in an elementary building come fall.-
Anyone know what’s going on with the counselors?
I’m already feeling kicked in the stomach knowing that Neal Rich will no longer be at Northwest with my child. She’s losing so many familiar faces- I’m sickened by the fact that she may lose more.
Thankful……a Superintendent can dismiss anyone they want. A poor evaluation, too many complaints, not teaching to the standards, etc. Any one of these can be placed upon a teacher with little recourse from the teacher. Whether they are true or not. As for seniority in this system, it ceases to exist. Especially when it comes to keeping those you want who jump on the boat as compared to those who have opinions and creative ideas. If you want to know what classes a teacher has or what credentials, just visit this site and place that teachers name in the search area…..be aware that if they are female and married, they may be listed under their maiden name. http://dc.doe.in.gov/public/EducatorLookup/TeacherInquiry.aspx
Melissa- I would encourage you to contact your building principal and ask to be involved on the student services transition committee. This committee will be addressing issues related to special needs children, high ability students, and other special programs. Your insight and experience would be very valuable. I have the greatest admiration and respect for parents of children with special needs. I believe that a representative from the Adams-Wells Special Services Co-op will be serving on the committee to provide expertise related to special needs children. It isvery important that the people who know and understand the needs be represented on this committee.
I feel Wylie the weasel is trying to make name for himself…..sorry Mr. Sirk it’s going to be a total nightmare come this fall….with all the crying and scared kids wondering WHY this is being done to them and I wonder where you will be…HMMM…probably hiding under your desk quivering asking yourself..WHAT HAVE I DONE?????
Eve- I don’t believe that is the case. The law protects the rights of teachers from being arbitraily dismissed without cause through tenure statutes. Teachers cannot be dismissed without showing documented just cause and following procedural requirements. Why do you think that Ray Casey has not been dismissed? If Mr. Sirk could arbitrarily dismiss teachers, I am sure that Ray Casey would not be reassigned to a P.E. position. I have several family members who serve in school administration positions and am far too familiar with the nightmares that they have experienced in trying to dismiss poor qulaity teachers due to all the protections of public school teachers.
Thankful-
I understand the guidelines that Mr. Sirk must follow regarding the reduction of staff, etc. I guess what I meant to say that must not have been clear is that there are many in the community that feel as I do. We do not know what Mr. Sirk’s agenda is and no one seems to be telling us.
At all the parent meetings, he made such an effort to let us parents know that the kids were just switching buildings. They would still see familiar faces. Now my daughter does not have the same principal, gym teacher, and who knows what is next….
So I guess if I assume the worst its probably because I feel this situation keeps on getting worse.
Monmouth Mom- I understand that. I think that as much as possible, it is Mr. Sirk’s intent to maintain as much continuity as possible. He may not have anticipated the ripple effect resulting from the RIFs. I think the change in building principals makes sense. It plays to each of their strengths and it is my understanding that they are all very happy with their new assignments. I think that most if not all of the teacher RIFs have been completed. People keep talking about Mr. Sirk’s agenda or ulterior motives and I just don’t know what that means. What do people think is in this for him? How does he benefit personally? What “feather in the cap” is worth the kind of scrutiny he has been under? Apparently I am missing something.
If Mr. Sirk cared about the scrutiny he was under, he may have made different decisions. Ones the community of Decatur would support whole heartedly. He and the school board’s decision has impacted many families.
I think he has an agenda based on the fact he has known and been working on this reconfiguration for a period of time now. This idea was only brought to public knowledge 2 months ago. If he really wanted community support, he should have been honest and forthcoming from the start.
Can Mr. Casey really teach P.E., as he was huge a few years ago. Can he really teach P.E. and run around with the kids?? Just wondering. I know he had a stomach surgery, but I hope his body can hold up. WOW . He is a super drama and communications teacher, and the plays that his students put on are great. They need to keep him at the High school or are they going to get rid of the drama dept.
Just a few comments from an outsider looking in…
Possibly he didn’t inform the public of the reconfiguration because he knew that there would be people who didn’t like it, but he also knew that he really didn’t have another option. I’m certainly not saying that he handled this situation as well as he could have. Did anyone consider the fact that he knew from looking at the numbers that the reconfiguration may be necessary, therefore he started with a small group of people to “explore” the idea just in case. Then when the numbers started coming in and he realized that the was going to have to come up with a boat load of money somewhere in the system, then it was time to bring the reconfiguration out to the public. I’m not saying that $ was that only reason it came up when it did, but I do believe he probably had something to do with his ultimate decision to pursue the reconfiguration. In my opinion…He waited to tell the public because he didn’t want the entire year marred with turmoil.
As for what’s in it for him…I don’t think anything is in it for him. I’m sorry, but it seems completely illogical, even if this reconfiguration works, that he has much if anything to gain personally from this entire experience.
As for those who are concerned with how their children with handle the new buildings, teachers, classrooms, etc. Thousands of kids move to new schools every year…Granted, it may be because a family move or something, but it happens all the time. It is the parents responsibility to prepare their children for the change. Take them to the open houses, show them around the building, introduce them to the teachers, principal and support staff. Keep the lines of communication open with them, so that they can be comfortable discussing their fears and concerns with you in case a counselor isn’t avaialble.
Even if you don’t like it, may I recoomend that you start speaking postively about the change in front of your child. What you and your spouse, significant other, and friends want to discuss in private is entirely up to you.
I can’t think of a single viable option that the community would have supported whole-heartedly. Under the current circumstances, he was in a no-win situation. Was the process perfect?? NO. But in the end, I agree with Private School Parent– his options were limited -if he had any. Should the process have been more inclusive? Probably so. But I agree with PSP again on this. He probably saw the writing on the wall and did not want to drag this out all year through the court of public opinion. And after seeing the way some people have responded, I can’t say that I blame him. If you asked, him, he would probably acknowledge some mistakes and say he would do some things differently if he had it to do over again. But now it is time to move forward, and the transtion team committees offer a way for people to get on board and be a part of the process to ease the transition for our kids and students– to be a part of the soloution instead of part of the problem. So are we going to keep complaining or do something constructive to insure that the transition is as smooth as possible. All it takes is a shift in thinking.
Private School Parent
I will support this move when it takes place. And yes, I am very careful about what we discuss in front of our children. I will make this transition the most fun it can be even if I don’t agree with it. I will be there to support the teachers.
As for your opinion on Mr. Sirk and what he has chosen to do. You have your opinion and I have mine. Were you at any public meetings to hear for yourself before you made your opinion? Ultimately, public school children will either thrive or suffer because of this decision.
Terrified Teacher – Matt Lose was also RIFFed today.
Honestly, No, I did not attend any of the public meetings. I did, however, discuss the situation with teacher and other staff at the public school as well as the school my children attend. In addition, I went straight to the source and had several conversations with Mr. Sirk. That is how I formed my opinion. I did not need to hear all of the opinions of all the parents in order to form my own. As you stated so eloquently…You have your opinion and I have mine…And that’s okay…That’s what keeps the world spinning.
In response to Private School parents post. I do not know you and it really does not matter if I do. What I do know is you have no understanding of public school or education in general. You state that kids move all the time and they are able to adjust. What are you basing that on (obviously your own opinion). ALL research indicates that transient students (students that move a lot) score very low on standardized test, have more discipline issues, have poor self a steam, are typically below grade level in reading, and have a hard time feeling a part of their school (fitting in). I have a question for PSP. How many special education students attend the school your kids attend? I guarantee you it is a very small amount if any at all. We were told this reconfiguration was based on Monmouth not getting Title 1 money. We now know that would not be the case next year with or without the reconfiguration. PSP why don’t you explain how this reconfiguration has anything to do with “numbers”. As far as I can tell all three schools are still going to be open. A closing note. I don’t believe Mr. Sirk is going to have to worry about “the numbers coming in”. He is going to have to worry about the numbers going out. He wanted this change so he is personally responsible for the outcomes (good and bad). Mr. Sirk accountability is a two way street. You are now accountable to all the parents, teachers, students, and community members. You convinced the school board to adopt this reconfiguration. I hope they hold you responsible for the harm this change has caused if it does not work. I will be watching the ISTEP scores and NWEA growth to help you gage this plans effectiveness. We will use your current school data as a base line for continued improvement (according to you it will be significant).
The kids will have their friends with them during these transitions. And Decatur is a small town and most kids know or will have atleast seen these teachers at some point in time prior to having them. I do, however, feel for the parents of kids with special needs. Working with kids with pervasive developmental disorders, I understand that change is so hard for them. Is it possible to have the parent assist in these transitions by accompanying them to class a few times? That is what is done where I work. I must add that I don’t think Mr. Sirk is doing this to spite anyone. He was my kid’s principle some time and I will remember him being extremely kind, gentle spoken even when we didn’t see eye to eye. It all comes down to money and the budget even at the expense of the kids. I think it will make them stronger.
Private Schl Parent….
I understand what you are saying. I will have 3 kids in three different schools. Has it possible to be at 3 different schools at once? I dont talk about this in front of my kids. I went to the meetings with a opened minded to see what MR SIRK had to say plus talked to him one on one . AND still to this day I dont have ANY prove that this is the best thing to do. Plus I have a son that is in first grade, He has ASD. How can I make this easier on him? I have talked to his DRs and they have said , that it is going to be very hard on him. SO you tell me what I am suppose to do??? If I move them to a different school system or move him every 2 to three years. I have spent many nights cring and thinking as a mother fix this.
Mr Sirk he has hidden so much from the commuity. He is not honest. And I have heard so many times he was a great prinicipal, But he sucks as leading our school. I think his head has got to big for his body. He needs to go back to southeast and learn to care for the kids as he once did.
Thankful…..
do you have kids this is going to affect????
Just heard that Mr Casey cannot teach elementary PE so there is a possibility that Mr, Bergman will be teaching it – I still do not see how they are going to schedule the special classes so the teachers can have collaboration time. With 6 sections of each grade level that would mean that there would have to be 6 activities going on for the students all at the same time to free all 6 teachers up. If this is not feasible, the point about group planning has just gone out the window, Of course I guess this isn’t my concern – the higher beings will create more hours in the day to allow all teachers their release time, plan time, lunch and hopefully a restroom break.
I think the writing is on the wall. Sirk is cleaning house his way. He is moving those that he really doesn’t like, or that may have alot of senority and are the higher paid teachers, thinking they will get fed up and just leave NA. It is obvious. Look at what he did his first year to the HS Band Director. He demoted her to the elementary school. Now if the rumor is true that he is moving Mr. Casey to teach elementary PE, I think then is evident what Sirk’s agenda is. I know that he needs to cut 1.5 million from next years budget, but what will he do when he needs to cut even more from the reduced enrollment numbers after next year. I feel for the teachers and staff of NA. It has to be a very difficult time for all of them. NA has many wonderful teachers who care about the kids. But what is Sirk doing? He is nothing more than a bullying dictator. I’m glad my kids are out of school and they live in another state and my grandchildren will go to school elsewhere. It is really unfortunate that this is happening here in Decatur. Everyone used to talk about Compton being horrible. Well guess what, I think he looks like a saint compared to Wylie.
jezibell,
You hit right on the head!!!! Everything you said is so true. You go Girl!
WHEN we get the elected school board first on the agenda firer Sirk. The teachers at North Adams are great. I am very proud to say they teache my kids. But I am here to say SIRK sucks at his job. What happen to the part where the school board said NO techers would be cut. Yet the lies and dishonest keeps coming out. I teach my kids not to lie , but maybe Sirk needs a lesson in this.
Private Schl Parent
You talked one on one with Sirk. I hate to tell ya but he lies just a Gracie said..”If it looks like weasel…talks like a weasel…and acts like a weasel….its a WEASEL.”
Public School Parent- The research that you refer to is related to students who are very transient, moving from school to school and district to district, at random, even multiple times within a school year, for reasons totally unrelated to grade configuration. Those very transient students are typically impacted by multiple factors that impact their school achievement such as poverty, instable family structure, homelessness, etc. In addition, it is not clear whether Monmouth would be eligible for Title I funds next year. It appears that the figures used by those in the community who claim to “know” did not account for non-public school children which must be included in the count for Title I. This changes the percentages significantly. It is more likely that Monmouth would still not be eligible without the reconfiguration.
Melissa- The answer is YES.
Tickled Pink….
Charlie B called the lady at Indiana Department of Ed and it is a FACT monmouth will get title one next year. If you would like I can get you that number so you could call too.
Thankful….
I mit affect you!!! But let me ask you this….. Willl you have kids in differnet schools. Or do you have just one that it affects? DO you have any kids with specail needs. YOU guys have things to say but until you walk in my shoes and see how this is messing up my life. Come see how my life is with a child with ASD. Its not a easy road. and change does not go well. I would not change the way my child is. And I will do everything in my power to help him, even if I have to change him to a different school, AC, Zion. OR if I have to move I will for my child. BUT I will tell you this, this is far from over….
Melissa- I am aware that Charlie Brune called the state– and as I said before, he did not have all of the information to get the correct answer. He was using only Monmouth enrollment figures and did not include the non-public school students who must also be included in the figures. When non-public school student are accounted for, the numbers change significantly. Sometimes people claim to have the facts– but because they don’t understand the process, they get it wrong.
Tickeled Pink…
I guess you are the GOD of ALL GODs…..Have you ever thought you dont have the facts…
Tickeled Pink
Question for you….. if this is such a great thing….when why is 98 % of adams county aganist this??? Since you know all the answers?
Tickeled Pink… You seem to very informed on what you are saying and you appear to be very well educated. Mr. Sirk is this you? I put my name on this blog cause I was not afraid to stand behind what I say. Tickeled Pink If you are Mr. SIrk or Mrs. Lamon quit hiding behind a name.
You go Jamie!!!!!!
That’s hysterical! I’m flattered, but I can assure you, I am not Mr. Sirk or Mrs. Lamon and definitely not God. LOL! I doubt that they take this blog very seriously, and are too busy to be blogging– especially God! I just do my research and ask questions. I don’t claim to have all of the answers– far from it. But I share what I have learned so that people hear both sides and can draw their own opinions based on the facts and not just the hype. I do not rely on Charlie Brune or Mr. Sirk or anyone else to do the research for me. I don’t expect you to agree or even believe what I say. I would hope that you wouldn’t take my word for it. I hope it just gives you some food for thought and that you do the research on your own and don’t depend on anyone else. Anyone can research it for themselves. Like the majority of the people on this blog, I choose to remain anonymous. I guess that I mistakenly thought this blog was open to everyone to share their views and opinions, not just to people who agree. My Bad!!!
Tp you are correct. That is what makes this such a great Country because we all can view our points. My thing was that if Mr. SIrk or Mrs. Lamon was hiding behind the scenes, I believe that a public servants should not hide themselves and come forward if they chose to be on this site. You have that right to be anonymous and I stand behind your choice to do so.
You are all very entertaining. Thank you for providing us with such great insight into what is really wrong with the North Adams school district. It is obvious that there needs to be an adult language arts program offered for aspiring community activists. Eve, Jammie, Mellissa, and Jezibell, please turn off your computers and open a book (maybe one about grammar and sentence structure).
Remember, reading is fun-da-mental!
Tickled Pink:
I am writing in response to your transient “spin” (I call it that because that is what you are attempting to do). I know the research and I know what a transient student is. For the sake of everyone reading, a transient student by definition is a student “remaining in a place only a brief time.” We can debate what “brief time” means, but there is no debate that this new reconfiguration causes students to move two more times than most every other student in Indiana. You cannot tell me that these extra moves will have no negative impact on student achievement. Research shows that any type of transiency creates a decline in student achievement. With respect to “poverty” being a contributing factor, I could not agree more. So, let’s take a look at “poverty” in North Adams. Monmouth currently has 40% students qualifying for free and reduced lunch. Southeast has 52% and Northwest has 59%. Since we can agree that both moving schools and poverty have a negative effect on student achievement, why are they reconfiguring the schools? There is already a “poverty” problem, so let’s make it worse by changing buildings, teachers, teaching methods, and the environment the students are accustomed to every two years. You also mentioned unstable home life being a contributing factor. All the more reason to give students the most stability as possible throughout their education. Since it obvious that you are either a teacher or an administrator, we can agree that research and data drives all decisions that are made. The research that is out there already indicates that this is a bad decision, which leaves only data to guide this decision. This time next year when the ISTEP tests and AYP results are posted and they have not improved, I will expect you to admit that you stood on the wrong side of the fence.
Oh yes…..I believe tickled pink has got his or her fingers in on this reconfiguration. This person knows waaaay too much. Come on TP …Who are you????
You know…everyone has a right to post on this blog…anonymously or otherwise. Who am I that I know about things? Who knows who anyone else is ( except for Mr. Tharp)? This is just a virtual coffee shop, if you will, so we can get things off of our chests. Now , there are postings of conjecture, conspiracies and rumors, to be sure. Stop trying to figure who anyone else is…it doesn’t matter. Do you know that I am an aide at North Adams? Of course not. Am I a teacher? Maybe…but with everyone’s input and compassion for our children, maybe we can completely emilinate the school board. Why do we have one? Oversight? Hmmm…just some thoughts…
This gets funnier by the minute. I am nobody that has any influence. Just putting my two cents worth in like everyone else.
Public School Parent– I am interested in reading the research that you are citing on the impact of transiency on student achievement. I am honestly not trying to “spin” anything. I have just not personally seen any research that suggests that schools with grade level configurations have a similar impact on student achievement as that of transient students that move frequently from school to school, district to district, etc. If there is some research that you are aware of, I am really interested in reading it. If you can direct me to some, I would appreciate it. Maybe I can be convinced. My point was simply that students who are very transient dut to challenging life circumstances typically experience multiple factors that place them at much greater risk for poor academic achievement. But your point is well taken– many NA students are experiencing poverty and unstable family situations, and that should be considered. I have an open mind, and would really be interested in the research on this subject, so if you can direct me to somethng you have seen, I would appreciate it. Thanks.
A few of definitions that I have run across when I searched for “student transiency” that negatively impacts academic achievement:
1. Students making unscheduled and non-promotional school changes from one school to another as a consequence of a residential change, often described as “bouncing” or “ping-ponging”. Transient school children tend to be disproportionately low income, low achieving, high needs chidren who may over the course of several years withdraw and reenroll in the same set of school districts multiple times.
2. Non-routine and unshcheduled movement of students from one school or school district to another.
3. Moving from one school to another for reasons other than grade promotion.
I am having trouble seeing how these definitions would apply to grade level configuration. I have not seen “remaining in a place a brief time” provided as a definition for student transiency in anything that I have read. Where can I find that?
Tickeled Pink,
” I guess that I mistakenly thought this blog was open to everyone to share their views and opinions, not just to people who agree. My Bad!!!”
This blog most certainly is for everyone to voice their opinions. I really encourage differing viewpoints without them its just a cheerleading site for a particular issue. All opinions are welcome.
Tickeled Pink………
YOU THINK THIS FUNNY!!!!! My kids and you think this is funny by the min. YOU ARE A COLD HEART PERSON!!! Your name says it all. I wish you would come live my life and you will see this is not funny. This whole thing is not funny. Maybe you need to do some research on the impact of special needs. ASD is not FUNNY! How would you feel when you see change coming and you know your child would take a step back instead of forward. How would that make you feel? You would not be sitting there says this stuff is FUNNY. This affects so many familys and I am so blowen away, at you thinking this is funny………unbelievable
Melissa- I did not mean that the issue of the reconfiguration is funny. I aplogize if that is how it came across. What is funny to me is that because I express a different opinion or take the time to share some research, people are more concened about who I am instead of the content of what I am saying. I am a person who has compassion, and I do care about your concerns as a parent of a special needs child. And believe it or not, I have taken the time to look up some research on ASD and realize that change is more difficult for your child. I do not know enough about ASD to make any comments about the impact of reconfiguration on your child. I leave that to the professionals who are experienced in this area and the parents who know their children best. I strongly encourage you to advocate for your child by getting involved on the committee that will be adressing the specific concerns related to special needs children. Your insight and input is needed. I do understand that this is very difficult for you as well as many other families. I do not find that funny at all.
Tickled Pink:
This is the last time I will address you in this forum. I see no point when everything you say supports my position. The only difference is semantics (how the words are interpreted). For example, how can you say that changing to three different elementary school is not “bouncing” or “ping-ponging”? I will start by challenging you to provide me with the research you are using to support this reconfiguration. Please make sure it is peer reviewed, from a recognized school or professor, or a scholar who has spent a significant amount of time researching the issue. Also, make sure the research involves a school system similar to North Adams. (Cherry picking the Internet is not a respected practice.)
Here are a few quotes from respected experts in the field:
John Alspaugh (Professor of Education at University of Missouri-Columbia): “It doesn’t make a difference what grade that transition occurs; it’s consistent. When you reduce the number of transitions, you reduce the number of hits you take on achievement.” Translation: The less students move, the better they will do.
John Alspaugh, again: “When you have a transition in the first year in a new organization, you always have an achievement drop.” Translation: First grade students and third grade students will be impacted the most in this new reconfiguration. Third grade will be easy to monitor through ISTEP results.
As I mentioned in an earlier post, poverty in North Adams is already an issue and it will get worse with the recent lay-offs.
Ruby Payne (respected expert on how poverty impacts education) says: “Poor students are more eager to work hard in a teacher’s class when they feel a personal relationship with a teacher.” (Students will lose the personal relationships they formed with past teachers who they left behind in one of their transitions.)
Ruby Payne, again: “Transition almost always means a great disruption to your sense of self.” “Teachers can’t help their poor students unless they first understand them.” Continuity and stability cannot be emphasized enough for student success, especially those experiencing poverty and all the stress factors that go along with that.
Tickled Pink: You are a very knowledgeable person and I respect the educational background you must have. It is okay for two people to disagree on an issue. There is no way we can debate this issue in this forum. With that being said, I will meet you face-to- face to debate the pros and cons of this reconfiguration. I will present all research that I have supporting my position. All I need you to do is name the place and time so that our full knowledge on the issue can be debated.
Tickled Pink,
The evidence is against you! Let’s take a look at a few of the reasons why you must be one of those bad teachers or administrators.
1.You can write complete sentences without grammatical errors.
2.Your sentence structure is correct and fluid.
3.Your thought process is lucid (logical).
4.You use big words. Sometimes they sound like scary words (transient, impacted, anonymous).
5.You use even more frightening phrases i.e. “student transiency that negatively impacts academic achievement”. Are you sure you’re not with the “government”. Do you fly a black helicopter? Have you been listening to my thoughts? Sorry, I digress.
6.You aren’t letting your emotions be the sole determinate of your direction.
7.You are not following the rantings of certain people who would just assume we focus on the school reconfiguration instead of why their family business is laying off hundreds of our neighbors.
Thank you again for the quality entertainment that this blog has provided us. Now, maybe we can discuss how we can take this educational opportunity and insure that our children are better educated and have more secure opportunities than we did.
Flatsix… bravo…
Concerned Mom et al,
Before you start to throw flowers at my feet, please understand that I fully support the reconfiguration.
Here are my reasons:
Our little town is facing enormous hurdles related to poor leadership in the private sector. The failures and selfish actions of these individuals to adequately prepare their companies for the future have brought an economic plague to Decatur. I realize that many of you fear change. However, change is inevitable. The changes that we are experiencing within our school system are not only inevitable, but necessary to correct the mistakes of the past.
We are very fortunate that there are successful members of our community guiding our school system through this very turbulent period. Remember, success will create greater success and complacency and fear will only create ignorance and hate. Stop following the scared and uninformed, and help the administration, teachers, and students make this a successful transition to the future.
Stop whining about the past and start making a positive contribution to the future of our town!
Flatsix….
What company in the USA, is not laying people off. Its people like you that say stop whinning about the past and move to the future. That make me mad.
“Stop following the scared and uninformed, and help the administration, teachers, and students make this a successful transition to the future. ” THats is what you said. I am here to tell you I am very scaried from my kids and I am here to tell you…. you are the one that is not informed. Have you ever worked with a child with ASD? Just in case you dont know what ASD is autism spectrum disorder.. until you do research on that and get the facts. Dont call me uninformed… you can call me scaried because I am. FOR MY sons future. The teachers at NA and MY self have worked to hard for my son to go back works.
Is the administration, going to come to my house and help me gain everything my son loses with this move, NO THEY WONT . it will be the great teachers and MYSELF. They wont know how it feels when my son wont give me a kiss and say he loves me before I lay him down at night. Or the great skills he has now reading and writing how it will affect him.
SO until you get all the facts about how this affects every live in ADAMS County. JUST dont call me uninformed…
Flatsix:
I respect your opinion and would hope that you respect others as well. Your philosophy statements are very prophetic but let us not forget some of the most important philosophical statements: “Let history guide the way.” And “History is doomed to repeat itself.” This reconfiguration has been tried in other communities and it did not fulfill all the promises that were presented. In fact some schools that went to this type of configuration ultimately switched back. I disagree that in all cases complacency creates fear. Making a move for the wrong reasons will create more harm then good. Have you seen anything from the administration that shows how this will improve student achievement? I have heard a lot of conjecture from them but nothing concrete. Ask the administration how they are going to evaluate the effectiveness of this plan. I have seen nothing addressing that. How is this going to save money? Oh that’s right, Mr. Sirk can cut more teachers which will make class sizes even larger (He stated at the public meetings he would not cut teachers). As far as the “scared” and “uninformed” statement. How do you know that the dissenting community members are uninformed? They are certainly not scared. Also, as far as I know a large majority of the teachers, parents and community do not agree with this change. Are you saying that people who do not agree should not voice their concern while holding the administration responsible? The last time I looked, us as Americans are free to express our thoughts and opinions as well as free to assemble. I guess if our founding fathers reasoned like you we would still be under British control. You are correct that change is inevitable, but the change needs to be for the right reasons. I agree with you that we need to be progressive in our thinking. A progressive approach does not mean there will be no consequences. We as people experience things then we react to the experiences with change. What did North Adams experience that demanded this change (it is not financial all three schools will still be open). I would have no problem following these “great leaders” you speak of if they had some kind of accountability. Who are they accountable to? I did not vote for them. Did you? The ballot box is the only way to hold public officials accountable. It is time to let the people vote. 2010 is the next time an elected school board can be on the ballot. Let’s get the signatures and start the road to accountability.
Flatsix
YOU posted a blog on February 28…..
First….I graduted along time ago. I dont have to make sure my typing is the best. All I have to do is speak from the heart.
Second…. its your choice to hide behind a name. I dont hide behind a name because I am not scaried to tell you my view on things.
BUT before you TRY to belittle people ……..Try something my grandma use to tell me …..THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK……
this is blog is to share your views and thoughts….NOT TO BELITTLE people….
Public School parent……
WELL PUT!!!!!!!!!
I think what we all need to focus on this point is to keep the school board and administrators accountable. They said that if parents are concerned where are they? Meaning the school board meetings!
Let’s prove to them, that we did not roll over and die. Lets be there show them we care about the decisions they make and hold them to some accountablity. Whether we had a choice of them sitting on this school board, they are supposed to be working for people of this community. If they don’t it will be a no brainer that they will not be sitting there in 2010.
I will not vote someone who does not listen to what I think is best for my child and at least take it into some serious consideration. The next school board meeting is March 10 @ 7:30.
Public School Parent
I wondered how long it would take to invoke the ideals of the founding fathers into our little conversation. Isn’t it funny how we all think of ourselves as revolutionaries or patriots? Think about this before you start looking for lanterns in the bell towers of distant churches. The founding fathers were not following the status-quo. They were making changes to their environment for themselves and their posterity. The citizens that did not want change were the Tories. The Tories or Loyalists were typically older; less willing to break with old loyalties, often connected to their environment, and included many established merchants with business connections across the Empire, as well as royal officials. Sound familiar? They wanted things to stay the same. They were happy under British rule. They did not want changes made to their environment. Change scared them. The patriots were interested in creating a new environment and following a new path to prosperity. Many of the Tories threatened to leave and let this fledgling country die on the vine. Again, does this sound familiar? Your fear and concerns are valid, but don’t waste your obvious passion on the negatives. Be a patriot and embrace the positives of change.
Side bar:
It’s always about money – don’t kid yourselves. If we had a strong and stable tax base, none of this would be an issue. We would continue to pour money into the same old system. However, changes to the tax environment created a deficit that must be addressed. Would you like to pay more in taxes?
Good grief. This is quite a history lesson. Flatsix, not sure where all this is coming from, but do agree that it is all about money.
Flatsix…I’m also a mother of a son with special needs and until you can walk a day in Mellissa and my shoes you have no clue what it will do to them and from what I’ve read you sound like a very rude-know it all. Anyone who can belittle someone for their grammer, etc. I can only imagine what you say about special needs childern.
Flatsix:
Thanks for the British history lesson on Tories. Please use all facts if you are going try to baffle us with your wisdom. Tories is a British term for a form of British Government. It all makes sense now. You are a member of the Tories party, a sympathizer of the North Adams King, someone who wants to bring the kings of old back into power. If you were in favor of a king over our current representative government, why didn’t you just say so? I have wasted all this time trying to convince you that every person should have a voice in the process. I truly apologize if I have offended your belief in the dictatorship rule. I am still unsure of your position/title in the king’s court. Could you please let me know so that I can address you properly? I wondered why you had been attacking others spelling and grammar on this site. You have cleared that up as well. Everyone knows that rich, elite monarchs look down on their subjects. You attack others’ weaknesses to mask your own. What is your weakness that you are hiding? Perhaps we can find you the help you desperately seek. It would do you good to know that only about 50% of the country has a college degree or specialized training after their schooling is complete. But we know your king has provided you all the training you need to rule over and ostracize the peasants.
The main grievance of the Revolutionaries was taxation without representation. Sounds kind of similar to what we have in our unelected school board. The Revolutionaries did not want the king dictating rules, laws, and taxes on the people if their voice was not going to be heard in the process. The people took the matter into their own hands and poured the taxed tea into the Boston Harbor (Boston Tea Party). Yes, you are correct the people did want change, but the change they wanted was a representative government. A government that worked for the people and was made up by the people, not a government that looked down on people and dictated change without meaningful discussion from everyone that would be affected by that change. Again, I will state that you are correct – change is inevitable, but change needs to have PURPOSE and REASON. You do not change for change sake. If that was the case, why do we still have the same guiding principals in The Constitution? Change is inevitable and necessary, but is not made without careful consideration from all stakeholders. Then again, you would not understand how to give careful consideration to an idea. You simply do what your king tells you.
Change during the revolutionary period came from the bottom up, not the top down. If it wasn’t for the peasants and farmers, the fledgling nation would have “died on the vine.” Thank goodness you were not around then to embrace the rich elite’s agenda. The people elected representatives to make necessary change.
In response to your money question, I would pay more in taxes if it meant keeping class sizes small. Isn’t that what they are doing in the Southeast (Homestead) school district? Mr. Sirk will not have to worry about saving any more money because he is going to lose enough students to make up any budget deficit. He will get to cut more teachers. He seems to like doing that after promising the public that he would not do so.
Please mark any spelling and grammar errors and I will stay after school to correct them. I would not want to make a member of the king’s court angry.
I am confused. There have been several meetings for the administration of North Adams to explain this reconfiguration to the public. I also have a family member who is employed by the district. From the meetings and the limited information provided to NA employees, I have not heard ANY research or reasons WHY this reconfiguration is a positive change for our students. On the other hand, there is research provided by community members against the reconfiguration. Anyone, please put it in simple terms – what is the benefit? Do you propose that student achievement will increase? Is this how the administration wants to save money by cutting teachers? What is the purpose? No one I talk to seems to have the answer. If anyone knows, please enlighten me.
Well here it goes please read. I told you we where working on something
e are a committee called “Our Children, Our Future”, and we are working to stop the reconfiguration plan for the North Adams elementary schools that was recently voted in at the February 10, 2009, School Board meeting. You are receiving this email because your email address was either on the petition to halt the reconfiguration, or someone who thought you might be interested emailed this to you.
We have been advised by legal counsel to encourage citizens to contact the elected officials who appointed the School Board members. So, we are asking you to please send a polite letter or email to each elected official who appoints School Board members to tell them to rescind the reconfiguration vote at the next Board meeting, which is March 10, 2009.
Below is the contact information for each elected official. Following the contact list are several options for letters that you can choose from to send, or feel free to write your own. We also urge you to contact the School Board members directly and ask them to rescind their vote at the next Board meeting. Their contact information is at the bottom of the contact list, and there are sample letters for Board members at the end of this email. Please feel free to distribute this email to as many people as possible, and ask them to email or mail these requests to the following officials. It is best to email the Mayor and City Council members by Tuesday, March 3, since that is the date of their next City Council meeting.
If you would like to attend the next City Council meeting and School Board meeting to show your support for rescinding the reconfiguration plan, the meetings are as follows:
- City Council meeting at City Hall – Tuesday, March 3, 7:30 p.m.
* School Board meeting at Administration Building – Tuesday, March 10, 7:30 p.m.
Sincerely,
Charlie and Jean Brune and committee members
Mayor and City Council, who appointed Curt Rash and Gary Giessler:
225 W. Monroe St., Decatur, IN 46733
John L. Schultz , Mayor, 136 Westlawn Dr., Decatur, IN 46733
260-724-8105 (home), 724-7171 (City Hall), decaturmayor@onlyinternet.net
Barbara L. Engle , Council-At-Large, 916 Waynesboro Rd., Decatur, IN 46733
260-724-7408, bengle@decaturin.org
Matthew J. Dyer , Council-1st District, 216 Adams St., Decatur, IN 46733
260-724-8794, mdyer@decaturin.org
Charles E. Cook , Council-2nd District, 415 Gage Ave., Decatur, IN 46733
260-724-4172, ccook@decaturin.org
William L. Crone (Bill) , Council-3rd District, 1136 Oak Grove Pl., Decatur, IN 46733
260-223-7879, bcrone@decaturin.org
Kenneth L. Meyer , Council-4th District, 428 N. 3rd St., Decatur, IN 46733
260-724-2913, kmeyer@decaturin.org
Township Trustees, who appointed Jo Ellen Eidam and Michelle Stimpson:
Preble Township Trustee and Advisors
Darrel Ehlerding, Trustee, 8340 N 600 W, Decatur, IN 46733, 547-4229
Larry Bieberich, Advisor, 6595 N 500 W, Decatur, IN 46733, 547-4265
Jacqueline Hoffman, Advisor, 6473 N 450 W, 547-4309
Michael Werling, Advisor, 10641 NW Winchester Rd., Decatur, IN 46733, 260-639-6132
Root Township Trustee and Advisors
Daniel Bieberich, Trustee, 8220 N. Piqua Rd., Decatur, IN 46733, 724-4608
Dwight Pierce, Advisor, 2110 W 900 N, Decatur, IN 46733, 724-7082
Fred Kunkel, Advisor, 726 E 850 N, Decatur, IN 46733, 728-2696
Union Township Trustee and Advisors
Rex Mihm, Trustee, 9757 N 500 E, Decatur, IN 46733, 724-8614
Barry Scherer, Advisor, 3820 E 1200 N 1, Monroeville, IN 46773, (260) 623-3198
Leo Thieme, Advisor, 6950 E 700 N, Decatur, IN 46733, 724-7517
Ruth Schamerloh, Advisor, 7687 N 500 E, Decatur, IN 46733, 724-7945
School Board Members:
Gary Giessler, 152 Brookwood Dr., Decatur, IN 46733, 724-8932
Curt Rash, 415 John St., Decatur, IN 46733, 728-9166
Juan Guiterrez, 4217 N 100 E, Decatur, IN 46733, 724-4494
Jo Ellen Eidam, 8589 N 200 W, Decatur, IN 46733, 724-4994
Michelle Stimpson, 1472 E. 900 N, Decatur, IN 46733, 724-4504
Or letters can be sent to the Board members at: North Adams Community Schools,
625 Stadium Drive, PO Box 670, Decatur, IN 46733-0670.
—————————————————————-
Sample letters to elected officials:
Dear XXXXXX:
I am a citizen in the North Adams Community Schools district, and I am opposed to the School Board’s recent decision to reconfigure our elementary schools by grade level.
In spite of a huge majority of parents and concerned citizens against this, and studies that say this type of reconfiguration results in achievement drops, the School Board passed the plan with absolutely no discussion. Not one School Board member directed any questions to the Administration who proposed this plan or to those who submitted evidence against this plan. There was also a petition signed by over 450 citizens who were against this plan.
I feel the reason the School Board did not take any of the public’s opinions or studies into consideration is because the only entity they have to answer to is the school administration. You, however, as an elected official, do hold an office in which you are charged to represent the majority of your constituents.
As the entity that appointed School Board members (Board member name here) and (Board member name here), I am asking you to contact them and ask them to rescind the February 10, 2009, vote to adopt the school reconfiguration plan. I ask you to direct (Board member) and (Board member) to say at the March 10, 2009, School Board meeting that you are asking them to rescind the vote. A clear majority of citizens in this school district are against this plan, and I am asking you to represent your constituents by asking your appointed School Board member to act accordingly. Thank you for taking your responsibility in this matter seriously.
Dear XXXXXX:
I am not at all for the Reconfiguration Plan that the North Adams School Board voted in at the February 10, 2009, meeting. You appointed (Board member name here) and (Board member name here) to the Board, and I am asking you to contact them and ask them to rescind the vote. There are a lot of people against this plan, and there was a petition of over 450 names that proved it. Thank you.
Dear XXXXXXX:
I am a parent of a North Adams elementary student, and I feel that the School Board did not represent me or the majority of the parents who showed up to oppose the reconfiguration plan at the school meetings. We had a petition of over 450 names of people against this plan, and a lot of parents spoke against it, but the Board voted it in anyway. Since you appointed (Board member name here) and (Board member name here), I am asking you to contact them and tell them to vote to rescind this plan. You’re an elected official, and I ask that you be a voice for the people who elected you. Thank you.
Dear XXXXXX:
Please call (Board member name here) and (Board member name here) and tell them to rescind the School Board vote for the reconfiguration plan at the schools. You appointed them, and you should tell them to represent the public by voting the plan out at the next Board meeting. Thank you.
_________________________________
Sample letters to School Board members:
Dear XXXXXX:
I am a citizen in the North Adams Community Schools district, and I am opposed to the School Board’s recent decision to reconfigure our elementary schools by grade level.
In spite of a huge majority of parents and concerned citizens against this, and studies that say this type of reconfiguration results in achievement drops, the School Board passed the plan with absolutely no discussion. No School Board member directed any questions to the Administration who proposed this plan or to those who submitted evidence against this plan. There was also a petition signed by over 450 citizens who were against this plan.
I am asking you to represent the citizens of North Adams Community Schools, and rescind the February 10, 2009, vote to adopt the school reconfiguration plan. I ask you to rescind this at the March 10, 2009, School Board meeting. A clear majority of citizens in this school district are against this plan, and I am asking you to represent your constituents by acting accordingly. Thank you.
Dear XXXXXX:
I am not at all for the Reconfiguration Plan that the North Adams School Board voted in at the February 10, 2009, meeting. I am asking you to rescind the vote at the next School Board meeting. There are a lot of people against this plan, and there was a petition of over 450 names that proved it. Thank you.
Dear XXXXXXX:
I am a parent of a North Adams elementary student, and I feel that the School Board did not represent me or the majority of the parents who showed up to oppose the reconfiguration plan at the school meetings. We had a petition of over 450 names of people against this plan, and a lot of parents spoke against it, but the Board voted it in anyway. I am asking you to vote to rescind this plan at the next School Board meeting. Thank you.
Dear XXXXXX:
I am asking you to please rescind the School Board vote for the elementary school reconfiguration plan at the next School Board Meeting. So many people in the community are shocked that the Board voted this plan in when it was obvious that nearly everybody at the school meetings were against it. There is also a petition of 450 names that you didn’t see, since it was not allowed to be presented to the Board. Please listen to the citizens of North Adams and rescind the vote to reconfigure the elementary schools. Thank you.
Public School Parent
LOL!
Very Good! You got me! Great fun!
I realize that an elected school board is all the rage on this blog. However, have you given any thought to who would actually run? Would it be political has-beens and want-a-bes? Maybe those despised elite that you have spoken about would spend some of their money and run? Is this who you really want making decisions about your child’s education? Talk about people with agendas!
FYI
You quoted the number 50% regarding national post secondary education rates. Did you know that less than 24% of Indiana residents have any form of post secondary education? In this state we have some of the best colleges and universities in the world! The world! Yet we as a populous don’t seem to value education (I am chastised for expecting good grammar and sentence structure from adults). Instead of worrying about how our children will cope with new teachers and new school buildings, maybe we should worry about how we can help the existing teachers help our children learn.
Our founding fathers would want us to be competitive! LOL!
Flatsix you are an, come on spell it with me, I-D-I-O-T. Obviously you are trying to make yourself look like some kind of big shot. I really don’t care about what you say about my use of grammer, sentence structure and blah, blah, blah. You don’t impress me with your big words, and the talk of kings and history. I think 95% of those who write one this blog are concerned citizens, and want the best for their children and grandchildren. I work in Decatur and pay taxes (property & county). We need to have people on the school board who will listen to us, and understand fully if something needs changed. I fully believe from the way I have seen the NA school board vote on items on the agenda in the past that the superintendent has always swayed the board to vote for what they want. We need board members with a back bone. I don’t believe that the 3 board members who voted for the reconfiguration think it was the best thing. They took the easy way out by voting Yes. This whole reconfiguration is just part of the changes Wylie had on his agenda when he was hired as our superintendent. Look at what has gone on since he became our fearless leader. Thank you Jamie for the sample letters and names. I will be sending mine out tomorrow. I will also make copies for my family and friends and neighbors and co-workers. (oops sorry Flatsix, I believe that is not good sentence structure).
On the concerns about transient children, etc. – Let’s keep in mind that transient children are moving from one home to another. When transient children enter a new school building, they are entering a new classroom with kids they do not know. Our children will be in their same homes. When our children start school in a new building, their friends will be with them. To me, referring to the students at North Adams as ‘transient’ is an exaggeration.
Well hello,
Just wanted to let you all know that new “monies” have arrived from the State at North Adams, but guess what. It’s not being put in the “General Fund” at this time. Now why do you suppose that is. Well………..let’s see if new monies were deposited in the General Fund it would look like we don’t have such a deficit…..and possibly the teachers could negoiate a contract, which by the way they have none……still. It would also look as if so many teachers would not have to be riffed…. Just some politcal tactics to support the situation that is brewing and bubbling here in “river city”
Melissa-
I truly feel your concern for your child. I do have a special ed background and fully understand how difficult transitions can be for ASD students (and those with similar transitioning problems). Several have suggested that you join one of the committees to help with the change for next year. I wonder if it is possible for students like your child to remain in the same buidling at the beginning of next year and make the transition to their new school over the course of the year. I know this will slow down how quickly special ed teachers can be moved between buildings next year, but it may be an option. I’ll admit that I do not work in NA, so I cannot say how feasible this would be or how open the admin would be to an idea like this (although from what I hear, it may be met with quite a bit of oposition). I’m sure there are several students in the district who have the same problem your son has with moving and would benefit from an extended transition period. Just a thought!
Focused….
“I wonder if it is possible for students like your child to remain in the same buidling at the beginning of next year and make the transition to their new school over the course of the year” that is what you said……tell me this….so he is going to fall behind because of the move. So start him out at one school get use to new kids the slowing move him to a different school. That would be worse then start school at a different school. He would far behind even more. He could say at the school he is at because different grade…. I am unsure what you are meaning…..please explain to make sure I have it right>???
Mellisa, You noted in a an earlier post “DO you have any kids with specail needs. YOU guys have things to say but until you walk in my shoes and see how this is messing up my life. Come see how my life is with a child with ASD. Its not a easy road. and change does not go well. I would not change the way my child is. And I will do everything in my power to help him, even if I have to change him to a different school, AC, Zion.”
I would recommend the public school. Unfortunately, the private school system doesn’t tend to have the staff and/or training to offer students with special needs the type of assistance you can get in the public school system.
Melissa,
If you son would be staying in the same school next year this wouldn’t be necessary. I do not know what level your son is integrated into the gen ed classroom (this obviously would be taken into consideration when he transitions). Let’s say, for example, he is primarily in a self-contained room. I suggest that he could stay at his current school at the beginning of the year with his current special needs teacher. He and the teacher would take field trips to the new school, visit with new teachers, and get to know the building. Small trips at first (if new things really overwhelm him), then longer ones, perhaps sitting in on the new teacher’s lessons. At least part of his day would be in his comfort zone (his original school) so he wouldn’t be completely overwhelmed. Eventually, he would spend the entire day at the new school.
Of course, if your son is primarily in the gen ed room most of the day then this scenario would not be benneficial to him at the beginning of the year. I doubt that NA will have all the teacher movings figured out as quickly as he would need to begin tranistioning (ie: the end of this year). You may also consider bringing him into his new building before school starts, meet his new teachers, walk around, etc. Perhaps he can help his new teacher in his new classroom for a few minutes each day (sort papers, clean desks, sharpen pencils) to become aquainted.
I suggest voicing your concerns to your son’s special needs teacher. Together you can work out a transition plan that will work for him.
Is there any way to get an injunction to stop the reconfiguration? I thought there was a board memeber that doesn’t even live in Adams county? Is that not illegal?
Also- any counselor news? I’m dreading to see any more changes at my daughter’s school.
Almost forgot- what is going on with the petition for an elected school board?
Private Schl Parent…
Please explain what you mean about private schools…. ARE YOU SAYING MY SON IS TO “SPECAIL NEEDS” FOR PRIVATE SCHOOLS.
If that is what you are saying then you have crossed the line.
Northwest Mom-
If you scroll back to Jamie Tharp’s latest entry, it will explain where we are and what we need you to do to help. Email and call our elected officials. Let them know that we are upset with the decisions that have been made. They hopefully will respond to the school board members they appointed.
The soonest an elected school board can be on a ballot looks to be the primary of May 2010.
Private School Parent-
I do not know who you think you are? You need to think before you type. You have no business suggesting what parents should do with THEIR children.
Why are you so concerned if your children will not be impacted by the move since they are in a private school?
Northwest Mom—
We are still making progress with the elected school board. That problem will take sometime and a lot of help. Right now we have a deadline of June to try and put a stop to the reconfiguration. Not that the Elected School Board is not important, we just want to make sure we have all the I’s dotted and the T’s crossed. We do not want to make the same mistakes that happen in the 1980 election.
Private school parent ….As a mother of a son with special needs myself. I’m reading your post the way Mellissa is.. that private schools are too good for special needs childern…how sad!!!! Do you think these kids want to be this way….NO!! I see enough when I take my son to a store….the staring…heads twisting on their shoulders ( that includes adults) It truly makes me sick, but in my and god’s eyes he is perfect!!!!
Ok folks Lets please refrain from making this a personal issue between each other. The issue at hand is the school reorganization, and an elected school board. If you don’t agree with another persons comments feel free to point out errors , flaws in logic, or facts to dispute their arugment. Calling each other names and shouting at each other is not going to accomplish anything. Remember when you are leaving a comments to think how it might come across to others. The draw back to having online discussions vs face to face converstaions is that often when you type something you fully understand what your trying say but others can interpret it completely different.
Admin
Thank you Gracie…….. I pray someday he goes through What we go through everyday. Its people like him that make me sick!!!! Private Schl Parent
The latest I’ve heard about the counselors is Mrs. Pettibone will go to the high school and Mrs. Krismore will do NW & SE. I don’t think Monmouth has one and I don’t know what Mrs. Bauman is doing. This is sad – each school needs a full time counselor!
Admin….I DID NOT call anyone names. I’m simply sticking up for my son….If I don’t …WHO WILL????
For Gracie and Mellissa:
As someone who has worked with children on the autism spectrum at every level at North Adams, I can assure you that the Adams Wells teachers that work with your children are just sick. Can someone please explain to me how the ED teacher at Monmouth, who sometimes has the IEPs for these kids, can be in three buildings at once? She is the only teacher for students with ED. Will these students be bussed to Adams Central like the moderate/severe elementary students go? It breaks my heart to think the administration did not take these kids into account! What is wrong with these administrators???
I did not interpret Private School Parent’s comments at all that way. I think what she meant was that the public schools have more resources and are better equipped to meet the needs of children with special needs due to the Adams-Wells Co-op services. I don’t know whether or not that is true, but I think that is what she meant.
This blog seems to have taken an ugly turn with personal accusations and hostile remarks. I get that this is really personal for a lot of people, but I really think that everyone has the best interest of kids at heart, even if we don’t all agree about what that is.
Also- I heard that Judy Baumann would be at SE and Kris Crismore would cover NW and Monmouth along with the Park Center program. Don’t know that for a fact– it’s just what I heard.
And Eve- How do you get all of your “inside” information? How in the world do you know what fund the new money is being deposited in? Are you referring to money from the stimulus package? or other state funding? Let’s just say teacher’s negotiate a new contract based on very temporary “new Monies” from the stimulus package? What happens when that money runs out and NA can’t support those increases? That would mean even more cuts. Maybe that is not the money you are referring to. Just wondering. Can you explain please????
Public School Parent
I think I will respectfully agree to disagree. I have already conceded that I have seen no conclusive research to support any single type of grade level configuration. All configurations can be successful depending on the needs, strengths and resources of the school community. I have also commented previously (I think on the first blog) on the Alspaugh research that continues to be cited, so I won’t belabor that point other than to say that the Alspaugh research that I have reviewed does not address elementary grade configurations–it is research on the transitions to middle and high school. Either we are looking at different research studies (which is possible) or simply have different interpretations of the research because we are viewing it through a different lens.
I also commented previously on Ruby Payne. While her work has merit and she is considered an expert on the impact of poverty on achievement, her work is not based on research and she continues to be one of the most controversial figures in education because of that– in addition to the fact that she is making a boat-laod of money with her canned presentations on her “Framework for Undestanding and Working with Students from Poverty”. I think she has some good insight and lessons learned from her experience that have value, but again, it is not based on research. That being said, I will end with one of her quotes that has stuck with me since I attended her training several years ago…. “If you’re beating a dead horse, it’s time to get off”.
So, I agree- there is no need for us to continue this conversation. We are just two thoughtful, interested people who happen to have a different point of view on the issue. I can live with that. I don’t feel the need to change your mind or anyone else’s for that matter. You have given me some things to think about and challenged my ideas without insults or accusations. I appreciate that. Thanks!
And to Flatsix– Thanks for taking the heat off of me! From the criteria you listed, I would say that makes you you one of those bad teachers or administrators as well. If I had known our writing was being critiqued, I would have corrrected some of those typos and misspellings!
Gotta go- my black helicopter awaits! LOL!
And to everyone else– This situation is a little bit like the election campaign. We can accept the reconfiguration decision and decide to do whatever it takes to make it successful for our kids, or we can take a Rush Limbaugh approach and hope that because we don’t agree with it, it fails. But who pays the price if we allow that to happen? I realize that there are still people fighting the fight and it may not be over yet. But if/when the time comes that it is decided, I hope that everyone will do what they can to make this a positive experience and provide the support that is needed to make it successful.
I need to add that my son was termed “special needs” and for him to get the assistance needed, he was to be transported for a period of time from his “private school” to Northwest school where Adams Wells special services was available. I think that is what private school parent was trying to say. Not that private school is “too good” for your child, only that they are limited with staffing who can provide added assistance for those who need it. I don’t see any shame is calling him special needs. And if a child has difficulty with change, well, that is quite a stressful day (going from school to school in one day).
Gracie,
My post wasn’t meant specifically for you. The general tone of several comments were starting to be taken a bit too personal. I don’t want to see a good discussion get to the point where commentors start attacking each other personally. I did a bit of catching up on comments today and It just happened I made my post right after yours.
As I mentioned in my original post my family isn’t personally affected by this action and I have taken a pretty neutral stance on the issue. I would however like to see an elected school board in the future.
If NA didn’t buy into the Ruby Payne philosophy, why did they spend all of the money to buy study books for us and spend our lunch hours for two years, studying and trying to apply her ideas to our situations – why did they pay big bucks just this year to bring in one of her presenters and get us enthused about her ideas only to the next week starting to hear rumors of the reconfiguration. I guess there is money to throw away when the powers that be want to throw it, but they refuse to send any to the teachers and support staff – they do not value us!!! We will go in there this fall and put our whole hearts into helping the children of Decatur make this transition, but it would be great if we knew we held any value to the administratioin and school board! Thanks parents for the support you have shown us through this blog! My heart bleeds for Melissa!
It’s Time!!!
Hello all. The “Our Children Our Future” committee will be at the Spot Light on Decatur on the 14th of March. The committee will be there to gain signatures for the future Elected School Board in 2010 May election. We will also be asking for donates to help out with this cause. We have found out there on some expenses when trying to go through the process and we are asking you, the people of the North Adams Community School District to join in and help not only through donations but with man and woman power.
“Our Children Our Future” committee is also asking you as concerned citizens to be at the March 10th School Board meeting to show support.
Jamie….
Is there an address that monies can be sent to? Does this committee have a booth at Spotlight on Decatur? Where will the booth be located? You do know that North Adams Community Schools also will be having a booth there that day?
I’m truly upset- yet again- over this ridiculous reconfiguration. My child is already upset about losing her principal, secretary, and lower level teachers… to tell her that she’s lost her gym teacher and her beloved counselor….
I know Krissmore is a good counselor- but she’s not the person my child is familar with- all 3 elementary schools need a counselor- why can’t they just leave this alone?!
My child is already asking me if her music and art teachers are going to be the same. I don’t know isn’t helping much in her transition–I hope this can be stopped- but I won’t hold my breath.
I’m going to help my child out as much as possible- but who knows what all that will entail by the beginning of next year if Wiley keeps up these “changes” that we were told weren’t happening.
Melissa, not in the least…All I was saying is generally speaking, the private schools do not have the “man power” to offer one on one service to special needs kids. I appologize if my statement was interpreted any other way. I guess I was attempting to help look out for your son so that you would understand that most private school settings (at least that I am familiar with) are not very well suited for one on one assitance with special needs students.
Hello….
We are a committee called “Our Children, Our Future”, and we are working to stop the reconfiguration plan for the North Adams elementary schools and elected school boardt.
We need your help….. If you could help send emails to school board..etc
WE need to stand together and work to get this stop.
Please send me your email so I can send you information on ways to get you voice heard.
Mellissa Cox
amagjcox@yahoo.com
Plus work to get a elected school board to Adams County…
terrified teacher….
Thanks for your support……it really means alot…..
I am sorry you (teachers) have to go through all this. Its you guys and our children we have to fight this to the end. Please remember that you guys do a great job teaching our kids. From the bottom of my heart THANKS!!!!!
So it begins…..
Everyone wants an elected school board. I must ask this question once again. Who will run? Who will be the chosen ones? What will be their determining vision? Will it be research based education? Or will it be public opinion?
Some of you might have responsibilities in the business community. Do you let the emotions and fleeting fears of your employees or customers dictate direction or corporate policy?
Some of you hold public service positions. Do you follow the popular opinions of the day, or do you follow your training and understanding of the law?
How will an elected school board function with objectivity when the possibility of running afoul of a few outspoken individuals is guaranteed to result in the focused personal ridicule we are see today? Even the chosen ones will eventually develop ideological differences. Will you then turn on each other? What will the litmus test be for perspective candidates? I’m sure you have answers to all of these questions – please advise accordingly.
AND IT BEGINS>>>>>>
The is alot of great people in Adams County that would make a great school board, that would work with the parents instead of against them.
AND IT BEGINS>>>>>>
you never really answered the questions. What is the pros of this Reconfiguration????
Flatsix….First of all ….I don’t believe you’ve ever said if you any childern this will affect….if not… why are you so worried about this whole situation? I think your trying to impress us with all your big fancy words. If your going to post a comment please try to use words we all understand!!
To those who may think an Elected School Board is not the answer…
I don’t think many on this blog assume that an Elected School Board is the final answer.
In my opinion, I think one of the aggravating factors in the reconfiguration process is the manner in which the parents and taxpayers were treated by Mr. Sirk and the administration. When the administration treated them with condescending tones and left questions unanswered, the parents and taxpayers got upset.
At least with an Elected School Board, the members of the board will be accountable to those who elect them. Public opinion should be taken into consideration when casting votes. Especially when the votes will affect the daily lives of so many families.
Public opinion should not be the ONLY deciding factor when casting votes. Of course, school success, student development, budgets and so many other things should also be taken into consideration when casting votes.
At least Gary Geissler admitted that part of the reason he voted against reconfiguration was because the families in Decatur are already going through economic difficulties; he didn’t want to add more stress to families who are already have their share of stress.
Will an Elected School Board assure a perfect school administration? Of course not.
A successful leader would have illustrated the benefits of reconfiguration. From what I understand from comments on this blog and from what I’ve learned after talking to other parents, the advantages of reconfiguration were either not explained well or the parents feel the advantages were not compelling enough to justify moving so quickly to reconfigure the school grade level format.
Just like corporate CEO’s and public service leaders – school board members and school administrators are in the positions to receive ridicule from others. It’s part of their jobs.
Gracie, I guess we could ask the same question of the two community people who initiated the petition to stop the reconfiguration, attended the first board meeting with a five (or more) page statement opposing a plan that they admittedly knew nothing about, while taking pride in annoucing the fact that they had “shot down” a similar proposal previously, incited people at the initial parent meetings seeking signatures to a petition as folks entered the doors, before they even had an opportunity to hear the proposal or provide input. I don’t hear you questioning the Brune’s motivation for getting involved in the issue. I don’t think they have any children that will be affected either. So, what’s the difference????
These are the beneifts of reconfiguration that were listed on a handout that I received at the SE parent meeting.
•Eliminates issues of inequity of supplemental services currently offered at some but not all buildings (Title I services, 21st Century after school tutoring/reading & math interventions, Preschool and early child behavioral supports)
•All students would experience the same set of factors as they move through the system together (resources, experiences, facilities, etc) promoting educational equity and balance of diversity
•Eliminates unhealthy/unwarranted competition, comparisons, and distinctions between schools
•Increases continuity/consistency of curriculum among same grade levels
•Provides increased opportunity for grade level teacher collaboration, grade level curriculum planning, and mentoring for pre-professional teachers
•Professional development of an entire grade level can occur at common planning meetings/staff development days
•Supports developmentally appropriate environments and instructional practices. Academic and social-emotional needs of each grade level can be met in a developmentally appropriate manner
•Consolidation of family-focused early childhood programs/services provides solid foundation that promotes later school success
•Maximizes use of fiscal, physical and human resources/Reduces duplication of equipment and materials specific to each grade level
•Provides more opportunity to match students to teachers according to learning and teacher styles
•Provides more opportunity to distribute students with special needs, challenging behaviors or limited English among classrooms
•Enhances targeted leadership and targeted academic instruction, intervention and enrichment programs, and positive learning environments specific to grade level.
•Enhances ability for teachers to focus on school improvements relevant to particular grade levels
•Grade level configuration increases flexibility for ability grouping/regrouping (low/high ability)
•Grade level configuration increases ability to maintain uniformity among class sizes
•Reduces potential for negative role models and bullying by older students
•Makes most efficient use of fiscal and physical resources
•Resources/equipment such as library/media center/ playground/technology can be geared to specific age range
•Grade level configuration enhances and supports the key elements that are proven to contribute to high levels of academic achievement: school leadership; highly qualified teachers, targeted professional development, quality instructional programs; and supplemental services that support student academic achievement and social adjustment.
•Consolidation of family-focused early childhood programs/services provides solid foundation that promotes later school success
Thankful…
OK now that we know you can copy things. GOOD job……I am proud of you.
Now think about the cons….
What about kids that need a older student to help them get around at the beginning of the year. My son has a 5th grade last year everyday helped him get to class. What about teacher old students to help small kids.
What about the set back in Istep?
I could go on and on. I know there could be pros to this but YOU and 3 other WOMEN…..are not listen how this affects the kids.
Dear Thankful,
I’m not sure if you believe in the reconfiguration or not. However, here are some comments to your flyer.
1. •Eliminates unhealthy/unwarranted competition, comparisons, and distinctions between schools – Does this mean that all athlectics will be given up also?
Those wrestling, football, basketball, soccer, tennis, golf, volleyball and others certainly spur competition, comparisons between schools. What about the community softball, wrestling in elementary school and the Decatur football league.
2. •Increases continuity/consistency of curriculum among same grade levels
Flatsix:
I did not know research based decision making was important to North Adams administrators. I have not seen any that supports this reconfiguration. Research should be the determining factor in a decision such as this. Why has none been presented to support the administrations claims? It looks like this decision was rammed down the community’s throat with out any real evidence that it will or can help student achievement. I can’t help but laugh at your mentioning of a vision. Are you serious? This administration has not told the community how they will evaluate the reconfigurations effectiveness. They have no vision. How can they make a road map for the future when they can’t even give the community a straight answer? I sat at the Northwest meeting and heard Mr. Sirk say “This proposal will NOT cause any teachers to be RIF’ed. You can spin this how ever you want. The bottom line is that this administration is no longer effective because they can not be trusted. Real leadership would have presented a well thought out plan that included ways to evaluate the plans strengths and weakness so interventions could be used when needed. I also laugh at your use of the word “few” when describing the community members against this plan. You need to take a good look in the mirror. You are a small minority that supports this proposal. Don’t make yourself out to be more than what you are.
As far as your “litmus” test question for an elected school board. Anyone that is trusted with the responsibility of our children must be honest and have a high standard of ethics. The community will not always agree with decisions made but if they are given all the facts and offered a REAL opportunity to voice their concerns most will accept change. Trying times always brings out visionaries and leaders. I can promise anyone reading this that the “Our Children, Our Future” has brought out some very “great” leaders that have a vision that will always have your children’s best interests at heart. You will always have a voice with and through us. I hope to see everyone at the “Spotlight on Decatur” March 14.
Public School Parent-
Thank you and well said.
Melissa Cox– OUCH! Don’t shoot the mesenger. I think you were the one that asked for the Pros. I was just passing on the information. I guess I thought that you really wanted to know. How stupid of me. Why do you feel the need to be so hostile? I understand that this is very difficult for you and I do have compassion for you. But honestly, you are making it a little difficult . I have not seen anyone on this blog respond to you with the kind of hostility that you have demonstrated toward other people. I totally understand your concern for your child’s welfare. I realize that there are special considerations for children with special needs. It seems to me that your time would be better served by working with your child’s teachers and building principals or serving on one of the transition committees to help plan for your child’s transition instead of lashing out at people on this blog. So, have you made that call yet to get involved?
Thankful, most of us are the parents that received or went to meetings and got the exact same letters with the exact same statements but without the proof. So again I say to you….what I have said to them…Those facts sound nice….now PROVE IT.
So little research and credibility was offered to parents and the community, especially seeing the resistance that was put up. That would be all the more reason to back up what was being claimed. Add in the little acknowledgment that these people (the administration and the school board) are making huge decisions that will affect our children and of course, parents are left feeling aggravated and want a change.
It is easy to provide the facts, however to have any sort of credibility with me and most parents I know; the facts have to be backed up with proof. I have researched this myself and the research presented seems completely slanted.
And to answer your question about the Brune’s….Never ever did they hide their motives and offer blank stares to parents comments. They were upfront with their goal and they do have children in the NA School District. You don’t have to be an elementary parent to care what is going on here. I applaud them for caring enough to take the time and effort to fight for what they think is right. Can you say the same time and effort was provided through the administration? I am not sure I can.
Please attend the next school board Meeting on March 10th and continue to take the interest we have all shown here. As long as we have an appointed school board we need to remind them they are responsible to us even if we are for or against them.
Thankful…..
Sorry to come across like that.
Yes I have called my childs school and have got on a committee.
To the group “Our Children, Our Future” -
Curious as to what you think will happen if you do get something to change? We all know something has to happen as money must be saved – - just wondering what the “vision” is?
Public School parent….
Well done>>>>
2. Icreases continuity/consistency of curriculum among same grade levels
They already have that, it’s called Curriculum Mapping. What about the theory that lessons and techniques are geared towards the kids abilitities and whether they are auditory, tacktile, or lecture type learners.
3. •Grade level configuration increases flexibility for ability grouping/regrouping (low/high ability)
Ah…………I believe this may have had another name in early education…..it’s called laning and by the way, that was found to be detrimental to students. They all knew which class the “dumb” kids were in. That certianly doesn’t create competition between classes or students at all. LOL!
4.Provides increased opportunity for grade level teacher collaboration, grade level curriculum planning, and mentoring for pre-professional teachers
Not really sure how this one is going to happen. Currently the “special” teachers such as Art, Music and PE have classes switching among themselves so that classroom teachers are free to collborate. They only have 2 teachers for each “special” right now. Kinda tough to work it out so that 6 classroom teachers can all be free at the same time to chat.
5. Professional development of an entire grade level can occur at common planning meetings/staff development days
Now I harldy think that reconfiguration would promote this more so than they could schedule it right now. Let’s see…….all the third grades teachers are gone on the same day and replaced by subs. Hmmmmmmmmm……..what kind of learning and help will those subs and students for that matter be getting while all their teachers are gone. Oh, an aha moment here, they can all watch the same movie together. That’s it.
6. Supports developmentally appropriate environments and instructional practices. Academic and social-emotional needs of each grade level can be met in a developmentally appropriate manner
Exactly what does this educational rhetoric mean? Do you mean to tell me that currently they aren’t providing appropriate environments and instructional practices for students int he same grade. We don’t aren’t able to provide academic and social-emotional needs for students in various grades. Shame on North Adams. I can’t believe as long as North Adams has been a school system, they haven’t provided these things.
7. Enhances ability for teachers to focus on school improvements relevant to particular grade levels
Oh, this is a good one. school improvements relevant to grade levels. Doesn’t this really mean, let’s watch those numbers so we can become a 4 Star School and make the Superintendent visibly efficient, outstanding and of course many accolades thrown his way. Let’s not attempt to realize that students from the 3 schools have different lives, home and social issues as well as just plain needing love from an adult. Forget they are humans and just become a number for those administrators to push around until they get the correct numbers.
8. All students would experience the same set of factors as they move through the system together (resources, experiences, facilities, etc) promoting educational equity and balance of diversity
God forbid if we want any student at North Adams to be diversified. Let’s not let them be creative either. We want equality and cookie cutters to leave the hallowed halls. After all, we all know that students and humans are all alike and let’s strive to make them that way if they aren’t. Let’s all sit, stand, cross our legs, and recite jargon to start each day to insure we have no gray matter that can be used to think on our own. Puppets come to mind here.
9. Provides more opportunity to match students to teachers according to learning and teacher styles
Great! Not like we can’t or couldn’t do this now. There are no school boundaries currently, so why couldn’t this be done prior to reconfiguration? Oh, I know, because only those students who would make the numbers work for certain schools were allowed to attend that school. Hmmmmmm……..Nothing has been mentioned about the opportunity to match students to according to learning styles of administrators here. Was that just an oversight, or this doeesn’t matter.
10. Maximizes use of fiscal, physical and human resources/Reduces duplication of equipment and materials specific to each grade level
This one is just baloney. We already have duplication of equipment and materials. Does this mean that what we already have will sold? Maximize use of physical and human resources tell you right there that people are loosing their jobs. For example, we won’t need 3 librarians, 3 counselors, etc.
11. Grade level configuration increases ability to maintain uniformity among class sizes
Again,this could be done right now. Without school boundaries the students could be uniform.
12. Reduces potential for negative role models and bullying by older students
Let’s see. Last I noticed, 5th graders are still older than 3rd graders and 2nd graders are still older than 1st graders. So……….they are going to segregate buses next? Are they going to run buses that only pick up 5th graders and then another to pick up only 4th graders and so on. NOT! Oh, and there certainly won’t be any negative role models within each grade level. I’m sure of it.
13. •Maximizes use of fiscal, physical and human resources/Reduces duplication of equipment and materials specific to each grade level
Makes most efficient use of fiscal and physical resources
Not really sure who proofed the flyer, but by golly, these look like the same statement to me. OH, maybe they just wanted more points on their flyer so we stated 2 times in a somewhat different way. LOL! Yeah! Education at it’s best here.
14. Resources/equipment such as library/media center/ playground/technology can be geared to specific age range
Ok, this is a good one. Are we now going to be moving playground equipment? I’m sure that all three schools have appropriate playground equipment for all the grades that attend that school. Oh wait, maybe we are going to save money by buying more that is appropriate to the school and grade level. That’s it!
15. Grade level configuration enhances and supports the key elements that are proven to contribute to high levels of academic achievement: school leadership; highly qualified teachers, targeted professional development, quality instructional programs; and supplemental services that support student academic achievement and social adjustment.
Correct me if I’m wrong here, but I really don’t see Kindergarten worried about school leadership or are we talking about placing administrators at the level the Superintendent thinks they should be at until they get ticked off and retire? Hmmmmm…….Supplemental services, we are going to have any, the aids will be next on the “chopping” block. Wait and see. They have already cut supplemental services in the form of counselors, custodial staff, etc.
16. Consolidation of family-focused early childhood programs/services provides solid foundation that promotes later school success
•Consolidation of family-focused early childhood programs/services provides solid foundation that promotes later school success
Once again this was listed twice on their flyer. Another ploy to make it look like there are more advantages to Reconfiguration than there really are or those who were preparing the flyer were either not proof reading or being instructed to hit significate points of the administrators beliefs and interest twice.
Hopefully this has caused several to re-investigate this flyer and yet have additional questions that are unanswered. When reading those documents or flyers released, please be aware of the lack of professionalism and educational documentation that is lacking. In business, if you are going to present a sale or even at the company board meeting, you would certainly determine if your i’s were dotted and your t’s crossed to borrow a phrase from another on this blog.
Eve— You are really a piece of work! My head is spinning! I have never seen anything quite like it! You can take anything and put a negative spin on it. I cannot imagine what it is like to live in your world. It must be really be depressing! Generally, even when rational folks oppose an idea, they can be objective and see that there can be some benefits. There are two sides to everything. There are always pros and cons, benefits and challenges. Do you seriously think that you have to completely refute any potential benefit of this plan? “Me thinks thou dost protest too much!” Good Grief! Get real!
Melissa Cox- Great! I am glad to hear that. Your input will be invaluable. You can serve on a committee and still support the initiative to stop the plan. But at least if you are involved, you will be able to advocate for your child in the event that the plan goes forward. You may also increase your own comfort level if you are able to see that people are working on your child’s behalf. You have much to contribute due to your personal experience.
Just the Devil’s Advocate in seeking reality and keeping others in check. Thanks for the compliment
Oh, so that’s what you were doing? I think reality is somewhere in between the two extremes. It’s time to start to find some common ground. I am still waiting to hear more about the “new monies” that you spoke of earlier. What monies were you referring to?
I hope everyone is aware that all 3 buildings will not have access to the 21st century grant tutoring. This was a Northwest grant and must stay a NW grant so the 3-4-5 grades will be receiving the benefits of the grant – not Monmouth or SE.
Am I going to have to share a teacher’s edition since there will not be duplication of materials?
As far as the Brune’s motive – they have seen their children prosper and grow in the North Adams public school system and have been fantastic contributors to the Decatur Community. They have no motive other than they want to see the community prosper and grow and they want the students to have community support and the best education possible.
Are the school board members of Adams Central and South Adams elite and don’t listen to their electors? If I remember there was a problem with some of the decisions at South Adams and those people who didn’t listen to their constituents were ousted.
As far as businesses listening to the ideas of the public – I think that is what they do if they plan to be successful businesses.
This plan will save $186,000 according to Mr. Sirk – I could save that amount without any of this by taking the ideas from the CEO’s who are trying to restart the economy – they decided to not replace several of the emoployees and agreed to take a salary of $1. By Mr. Sirk taking a salary of $1 and not replacing Mr. Bieberich (Dr. Springer did both jobs) and the school board each taking $1 salary I have just saved well over $200,ooo and no one had to move or no teachers lost their jobs!
Terrified Teacher,
I like your thinking! I realize that it was sarcasm, but it does bring up some good discussion points. Let’s apply your ideas to the broader spectrum of NA schools. What if the teachers actually paid for their health care? Can you imagine the savings? I think that there are a lot of us in the business world that would prefer the option of paying only a dollar for health care. This is quite a perk. Also, how about a 5% pay cut. North Adams teachers already make more than AC and SA.
I agree with you. Times are tough. In business we have had to cut salaries, benefits, and perks. We do this so we don’t have to let valuable employees go. What do you think? Would you be willing to apply the same standards to all NA employees, or just the ones you don’t like?
EVE.
Yes we will have a booth, not sure of the location and the address is 1717 Winchester Rd. Decatur In 46733
Just to let you all know. The School Board has what they call a work session prior to the regular meeting. This starts at 630 I encourage you to show up at that time if you plan to come to the Board meeting at 7:30 this is open to the public. But for some reason I can not find the minutes to this meeting anywhere.
Jamie,
Thanks for the info. Just for fun, wouldn’t it be a gas if your booth was next to the North Adams booth. LOL!
Flatsix…..
Why would you cut the teachers pay? They are the ones that have the biggest impact on our children. NA has the best teachers around. They dont get paided enough. Why would you what to cut there pay? That just dont make since to me!!!!!
Flat six-
I’ve read all these blogs & did comment early on- but you are quite a stand-out! You are entitled to your opinion (which most, including I, do not agree with). But I think you “cleverly” crossed the line with your comments:
“Some of you might have responsibilities in the business community. Do you let the emotion and fleeting fears of your employees or customers dictate your corporate policy?” and….
“Some of you hold public service positions. Do you follow the popular opinions of the day or day you follow your training & understanding of the law?”
That was a personal jab at the Brunes for their business ownership & we all know that Jamie Tharp is a police officer. Because they are brave enough to disclose who they are does not give you that right to attack them personally. They are fighting for something they believe in, that they are passionate about-that has nothing to do with their positions in the community. I don’t see you putting yourself out there like that and you don’t have to but don’t make it personal against them. They have never put their jobs or business positions in this argument.
Flatsix:
I’m not sure where you get your information, but South Adams and Adams Central both have a higher pay scale than NA – NA has one of the lowest pay scales in the area. I suggested the cuts at the top, because they are all powerful and they are the ones who are creating this mess and really, do the board members rely on this money to live? Yes we get most of our insurance paid for, but so do many employees in many businesses – that is one of the perks. Our insurance rate that we pay has not increased, but the co-pay and deductible have both raised, so in the past ten years I have already taken approximately a 10% pay cut since we haven’t even received a cost of living increase it is probably more than that. I would gladly pay more taxes if it meant stopping this madness!
Terrified,
Actually, AC and SA employees have a much lower take home check (I have family that teache in both districts). How many of you reading this blog receive free health care? Every company that I have ever worked with requires significant employee contributions towards health care costs. I dont think a dollar a year could be considered significant by any standards. I wish I only had to pay a dollar for the coverage that you receive.
Instead of complaining about your present and future working conditions, maybe you should be thankful that you have this opportunity, and based on what I have seen and heard it is a wonderful opportunity. Talk about biting the hand that feeds you.
Excuse me – I don’t believe I was complaining – “I wasn’t complaining – but stating a fact. Take home pay is irrelevant – base pay is what counts. I could have a very small check if I wanted to take out savings, dental, retirement, Commyunity Fund, etc. No one has ever heard me complain about my check – my point was – you are wrong! NA has one of the lowest base pays around. My point is that there are many administrative jobs that could be performed by job sharing rather than creating an entirely new job description (ie Mr Bieberich’s) that includes some of Wylie’s jobs. In the classroom as well as with the support staff, we have been asked to pick up the slack when people have been eliminated, off sick, etc, why not at all levels – starting at the top? My main concern is the credibility that has been lost because of the outright lies that have been told and the expenses that will be incurred by this move. I’m sure they will be appreciable and will cut into the $186,000 savings that is reportedly going to take place. East Allen has a similar situation and they are going to solve it by a reduction in staff through attrition. The 10 teachers that have been riffed will have saved about $300,000 – why does he need to continue to hack away at the morale of the staff? People continue to be upset because the schools are not all receiving the same services – most of the teachers who were riffed are Title I teachers – how are these services going to be provided with no teachers to teach them?
Flatsix……
Where does it give you the right to talk about the teachers health care, I feel sorry for the teachers at North Adams. They work hard everyday to give our kids a great education, and have to work for poor leadership like the adm that we have now….
Why does it give you a right to belittle teachers and say they should be the one to have to cut there pay checks… Come on grow up!!!!
As far as the low blows to the Brunes and Jamie Tharp. All I can say is I am blessed to have someone in our court who believe what that say and dont back down. They are fighting for something they believe in. Why must you bring in there personal life?
FLATSIX-You appear to be here to spout off facts about this but are you truly sure of everything that you think is happening in the NA school system versus others? I am not convinced you are. If you are…please prove it. It is an empty argument when you cannot back it up and I don’t mean by saying, “I know someone who knows someone…”
The $1 insurance you speak of is not across the board for all employees.
My point here to those reading is…don’t believe everything that is being offered up as fact without proof.
Lastly, go to the school board meeting March 10th @ 7:30 whether you are for or against this and continue to make your voice heard.
A comment…Let us not all be fooled or mistaken…There is NO ONE on this blog that has all the facts…I highly recommend if you want all the facts that you look elsewhere. All this offers is a place for people to get support and try to find answers to questions, but I agree whole heartedly with Concerned Parent, if you want cold, hard facts, you will have to find them yourself…
With that said, I’m not sure who you’d ask…lol…doesn’t seem like anyone (even those at the “top”) have the answers you’re all looking for…
TT–I don’t question that the Brune’s motives are anything but sincere. My comment was simply in response to others on this blog who charge that if people are not personally affected by the elementary configuration, they shouldn’t be concerned about it. I don’t question the motives of anyone on this blog. I think everyone has the same hopes for the commuity and wants the best opportunities for students. Anyone shoudl have the right to express their opinion, whether they are directly affected or not.
I can’t wait to see the people line up for that Superintendent job that pays $1. That’s brilliant! But let’s take it another step. Teachers could do what the waitresses at some restuarants did and start working for tips only. It would be a little like merit pay.
And while there will be moving costs the initial year that may offeset some savings, those are one time expenses that will not be long-term.
As far as the 21st Century program goes, all children will eventually attend NW and will have the opportunity to benefit from those services during the 3-4-5 ISTEP years when it is probably needed most.
Flatstix, just a quit comment that means no harm: You said “North Adams teachers already make more than AC and SA”, you didn’t say take home pay…what you make and what you bring home are 2 separate things. SA and AC do make more than NA….some NA people bring more home depending on what they have taken out.
We haven’t had a real raise is 7 years (had a one time stipend twice now), our insurance went up this year….the only people that pay $1 for insurance are those on the “single” plan…family plan is $135 or so with atleast a $2500 family deductible. I dropped the plan last year, thank God, and got on my spouse’s insurance.
As a teacher in NA schools, i agree that people shoudl have to pay more for the insurance in order to save money…thats one thing Mr. Sirk did this year…he said the corporation wasn’t picking up the increase…the employees were themselves.
I agree that they could trim the fat in other places such as not replacing Dale B…have Mr. Sirk do both possibly…or divide responsibilites.
I like the idea that the parents and public are FINALLY involved in something that has to do with school. Although i don’t agree with everyone’s comments I find it GREAT that everyone is expressing their ideas, comments and concerns.
The reconfiguration is going to move forward…all the teachers that are getting let go have gotten let go (had to as of March 1). Why can’t you (family, public, etc) keep going forward with your plans (elected school board) and ALSO support the teachers, staff, and students and help everyone succeed in this transitional time?
I can see both pro’s and con’s to it, but its happening and I am going to try and support it and move forward and will take any parental/community involvement or support in my classroom and school that i can get.
Thanks for everyone sharing…
Thankful….
I must disagree with you about the afterschool program at Northwest. I have a first grade and a KG in the afterschool program. And it has help them alot. So dont say it better for the 4-5 Istep years.
To Flatsix and Terrified Teacher – on Health Care Costs – does ANYONE who reads this blog and works for a living receive free or low cost health coverage? If the Teacher’s are receiving low cost health care coverage, they are living with a benefit (perk) from the 80’s and early 90’s. To keep their bottom lines from being gobbled up by health care costs, companies have increased their deductibles and reduced their contributions to their health plans. Because of the high premium costs and slim bottom lines, some companies are not offering health plan coverage at all. That’s the way I understand it from outside the education system. The ‘perk’ the teachers are receiving is a benefit from the Teacher’s Union at the cost of the taxpayers. That’s the way I see it from outside the education system.
To me it’s very simple – if the teachers are receiving a low deductible health plan at a low cost for the teachers, they are receiving a ‘perk’ the majority of taxpayers do not receive. Ask your neighbor how much he/she pays for health coverage. Ask someone who has just lost his/her job how much it costs for COBRA coverage.
This blog is about reconfiguration, which includes budgets…I told myself I wasn’t going to post on this any more, but I guess not, the low cost health care perk comment must have touched a nerve.
I do have Program and Funding questions, maybe someone can answer them –
What is up with the Early Childhood Program? What are the age levels? Who may send their children to the program? Was the program covered under the 21st Century grant at Northwest and if so, how will it continue to be funded while at Monmouth? This Early Childhood Program is new to me and I don’t see anything about it on the North Adams website. I apologize if these questions have already been answered on the blog – it could be I lost the information in the plethora of posts.
NA Teacher – Thank you for the information about the cost of health insurance. Your post didn’t appear until after I had posted my comment. A $2,500 deductible is reasonable, compared to outside the educational system. Not sure if $135 you mention is weekly, bi-weekly or monthly. If $135 is bi-weekly, that, too, is some what reasonable for some plans compared to outside the educational system. To receive free or $1 single coverage is a great perk.
Guardian:
The Early Childhood Center would be made up of all NACS kindergartens, the Even Start pre-school that is currently at Northwest, and all of the kids in the Even Start building next to ACCESS. This includes infant care, a toddler room, an adult learning room, several offices and other rooms. Currently, all of the children there either have parents who work at North Adams, attend Bellmont, or have a parent currently enrolled in the Even Start program. Also, I believe, the special needs preschool that is currently at St. Marks will also move to Monmouth. I think at one of the meetings, Mr. Sirk had mentioned having a tuition pre-school, but I haven’t heard anything more about that. Hope that helps!
Concerned Mom – Your information does help, it answers the questions very well. I did not realize the school system was responsible for these programs.
Guardian:
I think it’s a combination of 21st Century monies and perhaps Even Start, tho I thought President Bush deep sixed that back a few years. They really have a great program over there. I know quite a few of the moms that have gone through. The program helps them graduate, get a GED, take parenting classes, help with college classes. It is a good bunch of people. I am not sure where their pay comes from. I would think North Adams, but I am not sure.
As to the Even Start Program that Kim runs (the one next to the access building) I believe NA is their “fiscal agent” meaning the money runs through NA, but the funding for it is a federal or state program (not sure which one). So NA doesn’t actually pays those peoples salaries, although they do pay the cost for the building that they are in and it’s upkeep, maintenance, utilities, etc. as well as transportation costs to get the kids and parents to the program.
An added thought – only NA staff are able to get insurance for $1. If you want to include your family, dental and vision, the price goes up to over $400 a month that comes out of the staff’s paycheck, year round. There are very few people who take only the single plan, so again Flatsix – you are wrong!
All children will not benefit from the 21st century grant (when the preschoolers get to 3-4-5) because the grant is only a 3 year grant for NW and who knows whether it will be received again or even applied for.
Will the Even Start building be empty but still need upkeep? The Even Start program also services the girls who have a baby and have not finished high school and provides day care for them while they attend school. It is definitely a positive program, because the girls also are required to take parenting classes, etc.
I definitely feel it is a perk to receive inexpensive health care insurance, but it needs to be taken as a perk since the teachers have not received a raise this century! I definitely feel for the people who have lost their health insurance through job loss and have helped families with medical expenses and are not able to pay.
Melissa- I agree that younger chidren can also benefit from the 21st Century program, but it makes sense to me to target all NA children in grades 3-4-5 during the years when the curriculum becomes more challenging rather than a third of the children grades K-5. I have also heard from some school teachers that many Kindergarten children struggle with the extended day.
Hello all.
It has been brought to my attention that some not all of the NACS teachers are put off as well as community members. I received an email from a teacher today and like I said some not all, feel that by parents moving their children out of NACS makes the teachers feel as if they our the ones that our being punished. These teachers truly care for our children and want to see them excel. So please in the days, weeks, months and years to come. Take the time and say thank you.
Well enough of that. Thank you all who felt that they needed to stand up for me. If that person or persons feel that they need to do that. Fine I will keep my head held high and continue to fight the fight because if they feel that they need to try and knock me or the Burnes down. Well they must feel that we are on top.
More Later
To thankful – Remediation is much more effective when the child is younger rather than wait until third grade and the child is very far behind his/her peers and has convinced himself that he can’t do it and is “stupid”. As much as I feel No Child Left Behind does not address the true needs of the American children, the premise, based on research, is that a child needs to be reading at grade level by third grade and that is why money was earmarked for early childhood education and small class sizes were recommended at the lower elementary grade. As much as I think this reconfiguration is a big mistake, I am excited to move on and work with the fantastic students and parents of North Adams – with or without the trust and support of the administration.
I was pleased to see the article regarding the Tharps and Brunes on the front page of the Democrat today. Thy attended the City Council meeting last evening and voiced their opinions and concerns regarding the reconfiguration and also addressed getting an elected school board. We are so fortunate to have Jamie, Charlie and Jason go to bat for those of us who oppose this reconfiguration fiasco. I will support them anyway I am able and have already contacted several of our local leaders who appoint those who are now our NA school board. I was just wondering if anyone has heard an official number of teachers who have been riffed for next year? I am so excited to see this get off the ground and running. It is time we elect those who will make decisions based on facts and the truth and not just vote YES because that is what they have been led to believe by our Superintendent, that is the best thing for our school system. If we had to vote today, and all of the same people who are now on the board were running, I would only vote for two , Mr. Geissler and Mrs. Stimpson. I think they voted from their guts. One other thing I need to have clarified. Did Sirk agree to be paid $1.00 for his salary for the next school year or did I misinterpret that?
Jezibell,
Thank you. Well for the support come to the school board March 10th to help show to the board the numbers of people who are still against this. As far as the $1 I am not sure. Sorry can not help you there.
And for the rest of you please come to the meetings this is one of many ways we will need your help. We will let you know in the future as to what else we as a community will need your help with.
I am aware of that research and agree wholeheartedly. Some even argue that children must be reading at grade level by grade 1. My understanding is that North Adams has early intervention and Title I funding that supports the needs of children in those early grades in addition to Pre-K progams that target children most at risk. It is also my understanding from the presentation that Krista Schloss gave that it is in the intermediate grades that NA children begin to have more difficulty and fall behind. So my thinking was that if K-1 Children have access to early intervention and Title I services, then it would make sense to target ALL NA children at grades 3-4-5 when they appear to be demonstrating some decline, rather than just a third of those students. I do not argue your point that earlier is better. I am just looking at the information that was provided specific to the needs of NA students and thinking about the best use of current resources.
Jezibell
Sirk definitely did not agree to the $1 – he probably put in for a raise instead. I found it interesting how East Allen was addressing their reconfiguration – study it for a year and survey parents and community and then discuss possible reconfiguration – not hide and when we’re found out tell the people what we’re going to do. It was also interesting that Decatur’s economic plight was also highlighted on tv- too bad Decatur citizens have to deal with both traumas!
This comment refers to the Evenstart program. I am very concerned about the students at Bellmont and ACCESS that have a baby in the daycare at Evenstart. Those students will have to drive that child to Monmouth then to Bellmont and back again to pick up that child after school. Will those students still be able to attend the parenting classes Evenstart offers? These students are trying hard to finish their education and be a parent. Adding the stress and extra expense of driving extra miles to Monmouth concerns me. Is $187,000 the price we have to pay for more high school dropouts or heaven forbid a car accident on the way back and forth to Monmouth?
Mr. Tharp,
Has “Our Children, Our Future” set up a website with further information?
Thankful!!!!
Are you talking about the after school program or early intervention ?
Melissa- I am saying that since K-1 children have access to supplemental support through early intervention and Title I services, it seems to make sense to have the 21st century after school program target all NA students in grades 3-4-5 since that is the point at which NA is seeing a decline in achievement. Is that more clear?
When comparing teacher compensation among the various school districts, you have to look at the whole picture and not salary alone. You also have to consider the fringe benefits provided by each district such as the cost of health insurance and the % of that paid by the district. I don’t know if this still stands true or not, but in the past, NA teachers came out ahead of other local districts when the entire package was considered. It is possible that has changed in recent years. I don’t know.
Lifer….
We do not at this time, but I would not count it out either..Also I was misspoken. Tuesday March 10th school board meeting, There is NO WORK meeting prior to the open meeting Sorry I stand corrected.
Well let’s make a deal Wylie is at it again. One of the teachers that was riffed a week ago, had now been offered a position for 50% time. Hm…….seems like my prior statement of the Superintendent being able to fired and hire at wim may be the truth. LOL!
Doesn’t seem like we are saving too much money so far.
Could someone tell me why we have 2 teachers with a band that only has 13 students in it? Of course one of them also subs for German after that person resigned. However, they are phasing German out of the high school and the students only 2 years of foreign language for their diploma……no 1st year German students were started this year, consequently, they could drop German this coming year. Therefore, not needing the sub which happens to be one of the 2 teachers in band. I believe we could be saving nearly 30,000 right there. My student had signed up for German and was told they wouldn’t be having German anymore so they were placed in another class. If anyone can answer this for me, please help.
The only thing I know about the German classes is that when Mrs Heimann retired (God love her) they had an extremely hard time finding anyone to replace her. They did higher what I beleive was another teacher’s spouse, but he wasn’t actually a licensed teacher (so I heard) but he could speak German and so they got a waiver from the state to higher him. I believe he is gone now (the person that resigned that Eve was referring to). My assumption is again, they can’t find anyone certified to teach it and are therefore phasing it out. So, my question/comment is…In order to get one of the “fancy” diplomas (as opposed to the regular one that I got) don’t you have to have like 3 years of the same forgein language or 2 years of 2 different forgein languages…If so, what options are left?
Looks like “stir the pot” Eve is at it again, making charges about things that she most likely knows very little about. But she sure knows how to fuel the fire, whether or not she has any real facts. A word of caution– just because Eve says it, doesn’t make it so. I’m still waiting for the details on the “new monies” that she referred to several comments ago. So what’s up with that?
My dearest Susie Q………
If only you would do some research. It is a wonderful thing to learn new things and become abreast of new theories, techniques and plans available in society. If you need help, I can assist you. To start with, you can visit the Indiana Department of Education website and find out the liecense history and all classes taught by every teacher in Indiana as well as the qualifications of Administrators. It is updated every year by the end of October. If you need further assistance, feel free to contact me via this site.
Susie Q- “Looks like “stir the pot” Eve is at it again” – Is this really necessary?
concerned parent…..
I do recall that the reconfiguration was to save money. Hmmmmmmmmm……….
Does anyone read what is happening in other school systems rather than just our system. Read about East Noble and East Allen…….
They both are considering reconfiguration so sorts, but both of those systems are asking the parents and teachers first. In the case of East Allen, they are going to investigate for a year prior to making decisions. We on the other hand did it in a month with the parents and teachers knowing about it. Seems a bit hasty, wouldn’t you agree?
I suppose it wouldn’t be necessary if the majority of Eve’s comments were not mere rumor and innuendo, not to mention inflammatory for the soul purpose of fanning the flames and keeping people all fired up over this issue. I am interested in factual information, which has been agreed, can’t be found on this blog. Unfortunately, I think there are many who take what is written here by some as the gospel truth. I don’t need any assistance from Eve– I am fully capable of getting information on my own. I am very familiar with the IDOE website. So, in the words of the infamous Sarah Palin, “Thanks, but no thanks to that bridge to nowhere”. I agree that the comment was a little out of line- But I think when people flat out call people a liar, dictator, — that too, is completely uncalled for.
Susie Q
You wouldn’t happen to work for North Adams now would you?
Who gives a flying pig where anyone works? On another note, how do you get on a committee if you : a)don’t work at North Adams or b) don’t have students at the elementary level?
Contact Mr. Sirk himself or a principal in one of the elementary schools.
concerned mom……..
I don’t recal addressing that question to you, but thanks for putting your half a pence in. Good luck getting on a committee.
This could be a soap opera called “As the School Churns” LOL got to have some comedy in this, but not funny for children or the parents. May want to check out the Batesville School System in Batesville, IN. They are considering re-doing their configuration. This is due to the effect of the eonomy and the result of Honda plant in Greensburg, IN. Just an idea
Okay – the latest is out – Paul Gunsett is back at SE as PE – Toney Bergman is at NW there is possibly a half time person at Monmouth in PE and there are only 4 kindergarten teachers. Eight teachers reduced to 4 – are we having big classes or 1/2 day kindergarten – it continues to look like we are taking a step backward! Don’t know about COPE – Did Matt get rehired?
As much as I wish this reconfiguration could be changed, it must happen immediately because boxes are being packed and the move is to be completed as soon as school is out – as close to May 31 as possible! Art – Susan Wenger at NW, Donna McGill at SE – Music – Jackie Sanderson at SE, Janice Reynolds at NW! This was today who knows what tomorrow will bring!
For anyone who is interested, Mr. Sirk will be giving the “state of the schools” address for the Decatur Chamber of Commerce March luncheon on Monday, March 9th. It’s too late to get in for the actual lunch, but anyone can come to Woodcrest at 12:30 pm for the presentation in the Porter Auditorium. I will caution to anyone with an interest in coming that this is not an open forum question and answer type presentation. Generally speaking, this is more of a “business meeting” where he talks and we listen…No comments are generally made from the audience and questions are not generally taken. That’s not to say that Mr. Sirk wouldn’t be avaialble after the presentation (as presenters often are) for questions.
Private Schl Parent,
You sure do know alot about Mr. Sirk for being a private school parent??
“Does anyone read what is happening in other school systems rather than just our system. Read about East Noble and East Allen…….”
I don’t know much about East Noble, but I have been following the East Allen proposals. Don’t kid yourself into believing that EACS is putting their decisions on hold “to investigate further” or gather input from parents/community. EACS suprintendent is retiring and a new superintendent will come on board in November. Considering the mayhem that would ensue if EACS would move forward with their most recent proposal to close Paul Harding High School and redistribute those students between Heritage and New Haven,. I am sure that Kay Novotny has no interest in taking that on during her final days of her position as Superintendent, and no School Board in their right minds would go ahead with a proposal like that when a new superintendent is taking over in the Fall. And by the way, on the “listening tours” conducted by the Superintendent and her staff, no specific plans were laid out for parents or community members other than to discuss the possibility of closing two schools. No schools were identified until the deputy sperintendent presented two recent proposals to the School Board. EACS district spans the entire east side of Allen county from the north to the south. The district covers the greatest span of area of any Indiana school district. There is a stark contrast in the demographics of the student enrollment of Leo at the northeast end of the county and Paul Harding at the southeast. Leo has only 3% minority students and only 9% free/reduced lunch compared to Harding which is 91% minority and 68% free/reduced. (Thanks to the IDOE website.. LOL!) A proposal to close Harding is bound to fuel racial tension as well as hostility among socioeconomic classes. If EACS decides sometime in the future to follow through with this proposal, it won’t matter how many parent meetings, surveys, and focus groups or “listening tours” are conducted. In the end, the district will do what they believe is fiscally and educationally sound, regardless of the input from the parents/community. They will let the chips fall where they may, because they are in a no-win situation. It will be impossible to make everyone happy, and the potential is there for a very volatile response. Some sector of the community is not going to get what they want. They will feel they did not have a voice or their concerns were not heard because it didn’t go their way regardless of the opportunity for input, or the illusion of it.
Suzie Q-
So what is your point? Are you comparing apples to apples?
The difference between what is going on in East Allen and NA is that East Allen is willing to at least look at possibilites for a year instead of hiding in the board room and when teachers started hearing rumors about the reconfiguration the “parent meetings” were held. There is no way that North Adams and East Allen can be compared due to the demographics, but in both the East Noble and the East Allen the community have been given the opportunity to help examine the plans – just imagine what other proposals may have come up if NA would have been given a year to investigate – we may have come up with a unique plan that would benefit the community, parents and most of all students. I’m still not sure how this will impact the special needs students and where the special needs students will be housed since we have only 1 EH class that draws from all schools and all grade levels and the students are mainstreamed for a portion of the day as well as the LD and MIMH students. I think there are many things that should have been looked at before jumping off the bridge!
Monmouth Mom- Definitely not making comparisons, just trying to shed some light on why EACS is not making decisions right now. It was just a response to the question about whether or not we were looking at other districts that are looking at various configuration changes. My point was actually that you can’t really compare NA to EACS. They are way too different. And I believe it would take much more time to make decisions in a district such as EACS because there are multiple issues. My understanding though, is that they have not done things much differently than NA, and when they had the public “listening tours” the public wasn’t given any information to form an opinion. The specifics were not shared until the proposals were presented at the Board meeting. At least, parents were provided with the actual proposed plan at NA p and they could form an opinion based on a specific plan that they could wrap their heads around. I personally am still on the fence. I see pros and cons to both sides. I got sucked in by the combative nature of some of the comments on this blog, and probably took the other side just because I didn’t like the way people came across with the unnecessary accusations, personal attacks, and hostile remarks. But them I found myself behaving much the same way, and that can be very toxic. I personally apologize to anyone that I have offended– especially Eve. I just have to say, you really pushed my buttons– but that’s no excuse. I think that the “Our Children, Our Future” committee would stand a much better chance of influencing people like me who are still unsure, if they toned it down a bit and made it less personal. For me– the hostility is just a turn off– and I don’t think I am alone. And it is clear how easily one can be drawn into the drama.
Susie Q..
You are so right about the drama. This is getting too off subject for me. I won’t post again
Suzie Q-
Thanks for the explaining your post. You are right about the comparison between EA and NA schools. I did not mean anything against you personally. Sorry if you took it that way. Sometimes it is difficult to understand what people mean.
Our Childen, Our Future Committee is not a hostile group. They are just standing up for what the community believes in and what they feel is best for their children. I don’t know how many people that have posted that are actually on the committee. Please don’t defile the good works of this group due to someone on the blog.
Monmouth Mom, Yes, you are right. There is no way to know whether or not people commenting on this blog are part of the OCOF committee, and I should not make assumptions. I will keep that in mind. I would not discourage any group from advocating for what they believe is in the best interest of their children. I just know that how it is done will influnece whether or not they are really heard. I think the opposition got off to a rocky start becuase of the high level of emotion. Maybe now, people are more equipped to express their feelings calmly and with less anger. I just think that people also need to be open to the possibilities that this opportunity may provide for our kids as well. It’s all about balance, I guess.
Why are they bringing a HS Foodball coach to teach PE at the elementary level? Shouldn’t he stay at the HS level?
This is nuts! I do not want a HS teacher teaching my kid. Not to mention I could care less about football (yeah, a minority in this town) so his football record does not impress me one bit.
Northwest Mom, Mr. Bergman had been at the elementary teaching PE just a few years ago. At Northwest in fact. So don’t worry he can handle the elementarychildren. I really think people need to concentrate on the subject and quit bashing one another. I was not and am not for this move but it went through and now we must go on with it no matter what. I do feel the main subject should be that we ALL work TOGETHER to make this move work for the good of the CHILDREN! It’s going to be rough and hard yes but OUR main concern is to make it smooth as we can for them! I feel the school board and those higher ups have biten off much more than they can chew but we all need to try. If it fails…well, then we can tell them we said so! Now we should just continue the job of getting an elected school board.
Susie Q – What possibilty of opportunities are you referring to? You’re asking people to be open…just curious what you think the benefits are.
Hello all:
Well I was away from the computer over the weekend and wow! Yes as Most of you know I am part of OCOF. I am not speaking for the whole group but I know that I feel that everone is in titled to their own opinion and I welcome it. No matter how all this turns out, like most of you have stated. What is good for the children. Maybe we are wrong maybe we are right.
Just remember that we all live here I think. And we all have to run into each other at some point since this is a small town.
I don’t think you guys will have to worry about Ray Casey teaching PE. I heard yesterday from 2 “seasoned” teachers at the high school that he’s gone for next year. From what I gathered, he was told that they could only have him for 1/3 time (I’m assuming becuase of lack of demand/need for his speech classses) and he didn’t want to do that. So, ultimately, I’m not sure if he quit or was Riffed or whatever, but I guess he’s gone for next year…Has anyone else heard anything on that?
Ray was offered 1/3 pay as a teacher…this year he is full time but only teaching 2 classes (and 3 study halls)…thus they got smart and offered him the 1/3 or nothing. Gotta give him credit for the speech team success but when it comes to teaching 2 classes you can’t be full time. I am a full time teacher (10 years) and I don’t knwo if he declined for next year or not…but i do know the 1/3 part is true…no PE either.
What happened at the school board meeting?
http://www.wane.com/dpp/news/Local_WANE_Decatur_Group_opposes_reconfiguration_20090310_2234
Check this out for info about the school board meeting.
Well as most or some of you know the meeting did not go as we had planned. Michelle Stimpson stood up and spoke her mind and told the board to rescind the vote, which no one second it.
We are not done OCOF will just turn the page and continue on. Teachers please keep doing the great job that you are doing with Our Children and our future. Please don’t think that what we are doing with the school board is against you. I am not just saying this to gain support from you. I have just heard that many of you fill like you have no voice. For those teachers that want to inform me of the good or bad here is my email again dpdd6@yahoo.com
Jamie,
Did you honestly think they’d rescind the vote? I knew they wouldn’t.
I think what you folks are doing is a good thing. I would like to see this stopped. I honestly don’t know if that is possible though.
I am still upset that teachers were riffed- after we were told no teachers would be lost if the reconfiguration was approved.
My child is upset on how her school is changing– I haven’t told her about losing Sarah Rhymer yet. She adores her P.E. teacher and honestly- I was hoping to avoid the “big changes” until she hit middle school. That was taken from me.
I have not said anything in front of my child about this- other than we’ll work through it together and it will all turn out. What else am I to do to help her through this transition?
If the reconfiguration is stopped- by some miracle- then wonderful– I just know that I have to move forward in helping my child be “okay” next year.
I don’t even want to think about what the 2010-11 school year might bring.
Is there still a drama dept. at the high school, or does Mr. Low do this now.
Too bad for Mr. casey, as he did have a great speech team. Oh well, lots of people are losing their jobs.
Well here are my thoughts on last nights School Board meeting. Mrs Stimpson is my Hero she did what she felt was in her heart and that the community was not properly informed by the Superintendent of what was going to take place. Mrs. Stimpson also did something that alot of other people/Board members would never do an that is do what is RIGHT. I heard @ the last city council meeting that Mayor Fred Isch presided over and a statement from that the mayor of Berne made was very clear- Fred told me when I first took office to always do what is RIGHT and everything will work out. With that being said I do not feel that the other school board members did what was right.
Jo-Ellen is the # 2 person at Adams Memorial Hospital-Juan Guiterrez wife is the department head of Corprate Medical at AMH- Curt works in Anderson IN for the bank and is not in town to much. Do you see the big PICTURE coming together. Wylie Sirk likes to control his board and he tells them what he thinks that they need to here. I don’t think he controls Gary Geissler or Michelle Stimpson. Mr. Sirk is hired by the school board and can be removed by the school board. Mr. Sirk is the root of the big problem , why because he does NOT COMMUNICATE!!!!!!!
Barry Humble talked about the safe schools project and the point that he continued to drive home was that of Community support with every body. Not Wylie he would serve us well in Washington DC where they tell us what they think we need to hear on a daily basis.
Jeanne Smith talked to the crowd at the board meeting and never really addressed the members of the school board I did not see that she was on the agenda to speak but she was probably a player that was setup by your Honest and Trustworthy Superintendent with all these facts that she just happened to be able to write down during the board meeting. If she is that talented maybe she could run the school system.
my next point is that “we are not going to get rid of teachers” and that is exactly what they are doing. Well what about the Admin. Staff you are top heavy in that department why do we need to pay for a principal for pre-school/K. I know why because Wylies replacement at Southeast school Becca Lamon (which he hire personally for his replacement) is the low person in seniority and she is his yes person and will do what ever it takes to protect him and make him look good. Now don’t we all feel better when we present both sides of the coin.
In closing the good old Boys/Girls club is still alive and doing quite well in North Adams School District when it comes to the Admin Staff/The Click
I thought that we live in a Democracy not a Dictatorship
I have alot of respect for Michelle Stimpson for standing up and trying to appeal to the other 4 school board members to overturn the vote on the reconfiguration that was passed at the February school board meeting. I think it is great that we have someone with a backbone who isn’t afraid to speak up for what she believes in. As I’m sitting here writing this, I just heard on the news that the East Noble School system has also voted for realignment, but are closing an elementary and realigning the Middle school grades. I wasn’t listening real close but did hear that much.
I would be interested to know how many staff have been riffed, and who they are. I have heard about Mr. Casey and Sarah Rhymer, but would like a more complete list. Is this a secret too, like the realignment was?? I would think they would have discussed it at the school board meeting Tuesday night. I feel bad for those teachers and staff who will not have a job next year. I hope and pray they will find one in another school system or parochial schools.
Curious to know if anyone read the article about Sirk’s state of the school address. Seems funny to me that it is made at Woodcrest (a retirement/nursing home) during the lunch hour. And there was no mention of the grade realignment according to the article in the Democrat. Seems to me if he is going to
make a state of North Adams Schools, he should do it at the school board meeting where those who have students have a chance to ask questions. He sugar coated everything and kept all of the stuff that was going on under wraps. I would like to know if anyone besides the residents of Woodcrest attended. I know this is where it is usually done, but curious as to why??? Also have you noticed the only people speaking up for Sirk at the school board meeting, may also be doing so in order to keep their jobs. I feel sorry the staff of NA and everything they must be going through right now. All I can say is time will tell if all of this will work out for the good of NA schools.
They did have the reduction of force on the school board agenda. They had a list of teachers, but only school officials and school board members got a copy of the list. Everyone else who attended the meeting received an agenda for the meeting with a comment behind (see attached list). To the best of my knowledge no one in the public received a copy.
Also I was very impressed to see township trustees and city council members at the school board meeting. I am glad they could see how our school board runs their meetings.
I do know that people of the community did attend the State of the Schools address.
How do we get to see all the board minutes even in the special meetings that we know that they called. ( no not executive session) Mr. Tim Wilson asked that they share their action plan with the public. If you look at the march 11th issue of the local newspaper you will see the wylie has laid out his priorities when it comes to better education for your child the LAST item is Communicate with the Parents/Community. I am not a supporter of this superintendent and feel that it is time for wylie sirk to go bye bye. As I look through the bogg people are very concerned with the amount of $$$$ wylie makes. This will make you all happy-he is appointed Superintendent and spend $15,000 Dollars of the taxpayers money to update HIS office. remember wylie is like the emperor with his new clothes. No teacher raises why. Because we need to pay all the Admin staff that we are so top heavy in big dollars wise to do nothing. here is my wish list or bye bye list
#1 Wylie Sirk-mr I hate confrontation
#2 Becca Lamon
#3 Jeanne Smith
#4 Frank Montgomery
#5 Scot Croner
Jezibell…the State of the School address is something that is put on every year by the Decatur Chamber of Commerce during the business luncheon series. I posted prior to the address to remind people that they were welcome to come and hear what Mr. Sirk had to say, but that generally it is not a discussion. As for why it was at Woodcrest over the lunch hour, it’s becuase that’s where the Chamber always has these luncheons and as they are designed for business people to attend, they are held over the lunch hour. There were a few people from the “public” that I don’t normally see attend these meetings, but for the most part, it was the same group of business and professional people that usually attend. As for what was discussed, he discussed the over all state of the school system, ISTEP scores, fianances and yes, even the realignment. He also reamained after for anyone who wanted to speak with him and ask questions. I hope this answers your question.
As far as RIFed teachers are concerned. If you listen to the radio, WZBD, after each of the school board meetings since teachers started getting “pink slips” around December/January time frame, they do say what teachers were RIFed. They always do a section on hirings/firings, reasignements, etc. I’m not sure what they list in the paper as I’m not a subscriber…So, I don’t know that there is a “laundry list” of people who have been let go this year, but I know that it is public knowledge and I would guess you can get a transcript of the board meetings for about the last 3-4 months and they would all be in there.
Kim and John,
You are right on and I couldn’t agree more with your comments and suggestions for those that should be gone. I can’t believe North Adams hired someone as Superintendent who left twice for “greener grass” and then returned only to be rehired each time. I have never seen nor heard of anyone creating more problems than he has in one year. Remember, this is only year two. What fun it is to look forward to year three. He has told staff members that he doesn’t have to follow senority while reconfiguring the system. How’s that for some self centered authority?
He and his hand chosen co-horts in crime, Lamon and Croner have assisted him in creating a hostile environment for staff and community.
How many job interviews have you had that asked what your experience was prior to hiring you or listed in the job description? ……..the number of years of experience needed for the job. North Adams has a Superintendent who thrives on those with little to no experience since they can be swayed and “bullied” into his way of thinking. Croner threatened people with their jobs during the first week of school if you weren’t “on board” with him and Wylie. He demanded respect. Well I’m here to tell you, you don’t get respect that way. You earn it. Just ask Mr. Bittner……….., Mr. Giessler………Mr. Casper……..Mr. Rich……, Mr. Wellman……..Mr. Zerkel……..Mr. Lietz ….and all the other former Principals who had longevity as an Administrator. HOw much negativity can you remember having about these fine individuals? You do not enforce your beliefs and ideals upon those who work with you. I say “with” you, not “for” you. As you see, a school system is a government entity paid through tax dollars. They should “work together” At least that is the theory. However, in this system it does not seem to work that way. There is a saying in the education world………those can’t teach, become Administrators. That says it all.
I believe that they should clean house at the administration office..starting at the top. They ought to be ashamed of themselves, but what goes around will come around..hopefully soon. I guess that is business, but it still is not right, as the “super” downright lied to the community and staff. I remember when the “super” left to become a doctor…why didn’t he???
I wonder if the laid off staff can get unemployment benefits, or will the school system fight that too. Not a great place to work it seems…they don’t value their employees. They ought to be ashamed of themselves telling lies to get what they want. Not ethical in business. This is a teachable moment to the children..don’t tell lies…but the administration did. Not good.
I know people are pyssed off, but come on…try supporting US TEACHERS and STUDENTS…complain all you want about Wylie and how “he spent $15,000 of taxpayer money” (even though its a fund where you use it or lose it…and it wasn’t close to $15,000).
This forum gets brought up A LOT at school during our prep times when we get the chance to talk about it. We think that Brune and Tharp and alot of others are out to make us look bad. Do we really think that? no, but they way some of you talk on here you make it out to be that the teachers, staff, and others are bad people in NA.
Help the students adjust, please. let them know that we are here to help them and YOU in the transition.
I am glad to see that some of the people on OCOF are on the committees that are being formed to aid in the reconfiguration…i hope you aren’t on those committeess to sabotage them.
NA Teacher
I don’t believe that I have ever talked bad about the teachers. If you look at what I have written, I try to encourage the teachers each time, I write.
As far as a sabotage noooo we the OCOF are not out to hurt no one. We are just fighting for what we believe in. and I hope you fight just as hard for something that you believe in.
I have tried not to get personal with anyone on this site, but sorry NA ask any teacher that might have talked with me or emailed me and you will know the truth.
And as I have tried to do in each letter. Teachers keep your heads held high and know that OCOF is behind you if you choose to view this the same way we do. If you oppose what OCOF stands for, then SHOW us the proof. SHOW us
NA Teacher…….
The parents of NA are behind the teachers of NA. North Adams has the best teachers around. I am thankful my kids have the teachers they do.
I understand that OCOF is behind the teachers, kids , parents and community.
How has people on this website put down the teachers?
You comment:
“I know people are pyssed off, but come on…try supporting US TEACHERS and STUDENTS…complain all you want about Wylie and how “he spent $15,000 of taxpayer money” (even though its a fund where you use it or lose it…and it wasn’t close to $15,000).
Why didn’t he use that money for paper for the schools or things that would benefit the schools.? The teachers have to watch there spending, at least they do where I work.
Why not buy things the teachers could use?
I want to know how to get on the OCOF committee and help.
To NA Teacher
Well isn’t it nice to see that we can hide our true identity. I have heard from many teachers out their and they all are saying the same thing and its not what you are saying. I feel that you are just another plant or wylie good old boy/girl trying to make this situation look rosie. Well I think people should be upset and they have a good reason to be this way. The admin. staff needs to be on a accelerated career path to somewhere other than North Adams. Maybe wylie can be the grand marshall for the exit parade for you folks. We as parents have a right to get the truth which is not going to come out any time soon.
Jamie, as a teacher the one thing that this blog has displayed is the support that your committee and the NA school patrons have extended to the teachers of North Adams – I haven’t talked to one teacher who feels there is a lack of support in what you are doing – only that you are trying to do what’s best for the children first, teachers second and parents and taxpayers third. Thanks for your support!
Terrified Teacher:
Thank you! and keep up the GOOD work
Sirk reported to the board that the Indiana Department of Education has recognized the school’s 21st Century Community Learning Center — an after-school program based at Northwest Elementary School — as one of the best in the state.
The program, which is designed to assist students with academic and physical activities, was “highly-rewarded” by state educators based on site visits during 2008.
“Krista Schloss, Sue Sprunger and the 21st Century staff are to be greatly commended for their high standards of performance and excellent work in this after-school program,” said Sirk.
Well let’s dive deeper into this. Northwest, whose Principal is Neal Rich is being moved to Southeast. One of the staff members, Sue Sprunger, who is currently the Media Specialist at Northwest is being moved to the Middle School. Krista Schloss is the grant writer headquartered at the Administration Building. Hmmmmmmmmmmm…………………..could this be another great program that will bite the dust with the upcoming reconfiguration. Perhaps Mrs. Lamon and her handpicked Media Specialist, who by the way used to be a music teacher whereas Mrs. Sprunger previously taught 2nd grade will be able to continue this outstanding program. Some food for thought.
NA Teacher:
I am sorry that you feel that the “Our Children, Our Future” committee is “out to make you look bad.” I do not know what would give you that idea. I have only heard positive and encouraging comments come from the committee members about the North Adams teaching staff. If you are confused about what the committee stands for, read our vision statement to see the path that will be followed. Members of the committee will be at Spotlight on Decatur this Saturday. You and anyone else that has concerns or questions should stop by our booth to discuss them with us. We want everyone in the community to take ownership in this movement. We do not want to isolate or ostracize any person, regardless of what they believe is the correct path for our schools. There are two opinions on the subject of reconfiguration. We simply want to make sure that both sides are heard and all facts are presented in a professional and transparent manner. Creating dialogue and debate over an issue as important as this one is a very powerful way to find truth. I have been to every meeting of this committee since its inception. Not one time have I heard anything negative said about any North Adams teacher or student. The focus is on what is in the best interest of the students and the options that are available. The committee is not trying to create controversy. It is simply looking for the best solution in our current situation. After all facts are known, if it turns out that the reconfiguration was the “best” option available, then we will acknowledge that. However, at this time, we feel other options are available and in the best interest of our children.
Southeast Parent-
The OFOC committee will have a booth at Spotlight on Saturday. We also will have forms in which you may sign up to offer your help. Also we will be accepting donations to help with the cost of attorney fees, etc.
NA Teacher-
The teachers of NA schools have my full 100%. I stand behind them and will support them in any way that I can. I think we have awesome teachers and have never said any differently.
Kim- What do you mean by the truth? Why do some feel so strongly that they have not been given the truth? Is it possible that people just see things differently and have different opinions , perspectives and points of view? Does that necessarily make anyone a liar? Is it possible that people hear what they are open to hear and resist anything that is counter to their own beliefs/opinions? Is it possible that the information that is being provided by the loudest voices of those who oppose this change may not be completely accurate? I don’t have the answers to those questions, but I have seen time and time again, information on this blog that has turned out to be totally inaccurate. So, does that make people liars, or simply mistaken? The personal attacks and accusations are not useful, and are probably counterproductive. I think that the tone that Tim Wilson has taken in his approach is more likley to be heard. He is focused on factual information and appears open and willing to listen to both sides of the issue. He is not making judgements about people or demanding that heads roll. I, for one, appreciate Mr. Wilson’s solution focused approach.
NA Teacher the correct spelling of “pyssed” is actually PISSED and yes many are PISSED off at what is happening. Not at the teachers, but what is adm. is doing.
To all…I am sorry for blabbing my mouth in an earlier post. I am just so frustrated and stressed with everything.
I see your (parents/community) side of things and I am very happy that people are FINALLY getting involved with our schools..very very pleased.
I just always come back to “if they stop the reconfiguration I could lose my job”…i know i should think of students first, but even in teaching we have to look out for our jobs and family, especially these days. I know with over 10 years experience in NA i shouldn’t HAVE to worry, but obviously that isn’t the case anymore.
So, i am sorry for just rambling…I know Jamie and Charlie and others (OCOF) are truly for the best thing. I know if there were more concrete data behind a reconfiguration of this sort they would be behind it.
Thanks for hearing me out…i know everyone supports us and no matter which direction it goes will be there for us and the kids.
Tim Wilson, Jamie Tharp, Charlie (and family) AND everyone else have always seemed to support the staff and WE appreciate it very much. At least this is one petition we CAN sign. See you Saturday at Spotlight! I hope you get thousands of signatures! Thanks to all in this great town for the way you are standing behind the staff. Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we must go forth with the move.
To Susie Q
First of all I feel that the way that this reconfiguration has taken place is poor at best. You are right on some points but I am referring to someone not giving their true name and feel that it may be Lamon, Corral or the other wylie supporters. But to each his/her own. Hell I may not be who you think that I am. That is our right. If I taught at North Adams I would never give out my real name that would be like signning your own death cert. on a blogg like this.
To the Teachers of North Adams, I tip my Hat to you. You want to do what is right-TEACH THE KIDS- you have not had a raise in over 10 years and you still produce year in and year out. You spend your own $$$ to supplement your classroom so that your students get that little extra. North Adams now expects that. You truly are the foundation to what the fundamentals of education are all about. Teachers like Linda Wellman, Cindy Engle, Donna Curry, Mary Sue Kreigel, and other educators and support from Neil Rich & Mike Casper-You and the rest of the staff are the real deal!!!
Thanks for doing what is right.
For the other gang members that don,t play well with others: Becca Lamon, Kim Corral, Jeanne Smith, Wylie Sirk, Kim Fullove, and the rest of you that don,t support the teachers shame on YOU.
I have yet to hear Wylie say that he will take a reduction in pay to help the situation out. We are dealing with peoples lifes but it seem to me that he will ALWAY take care of # one first ( WYLIE) and then his Admin Staff 2nd. Teachers are way down the food chain in his book. He is very power hungry and will make quick/poor decisions without first evaluating/reseaching the situation and then look like the total idiot when he tries to present something in public foum because he has failed to do his homework.
I know that you may feel that I am bashing Becca Lamon but my informants tell me that she and Kim Corral act very childish and lack professionalism at work. To me that show the rest of the staff that their are two standards in which to follow ” Do as I say not as I Do”. We have alot of people that are looking at this Blogg Dailey and they need to look at everything that is presented and not all of mine may be factual but I write what I hear or see through actions.
To Jamie and Charlie Your committee has my support. You have done your homework and have gathered the truth even though Wylie will disagree. Thats ok because the truth shall prevail. Maybe you can teach Wylie how to research and compile facts and how to present this information without shaking and not having answers for questions. You along with Michelle Stimpson should stand as an example to other that if you stand-up for what is right that things will work themselves out in the long run.
To Becca and Kim and Wylie and Jeanne and Kim I am not trying to make you hate me but I want you to see the big picture and try to do what is right alway treat people the way that you want to be treated. There are always other options out their that we can look at. By only seeing in Black and White we are limiting our possibilities to growth and to a wounderful teaching staff and community that wants nothing more than to be COMMUNICATED WITH and NOT LIED TO. Thanks
Visit the booth at Spotlight on Decatur and sign the petition. I just came from there and low and behold, North Adams doesn’t have any money, but…..they are giving away gift certificates for food.
Hmmm……………….can’t buy bandaids, cups or stuff for the nurse, but gift certificates. Figure that one out.
I did stop by the booth- and guess what? ALL of the door prizes being given by North Adams were donated by local businesses who apparently still support the school district. So your point is????? I just don’t get this petty nit-picking. Usually when that occurs, it is a sign of desperation.
Susie Q
I only wish you had a sense of the big picture. You obviously have no clue how business and politics work, expecially in a small town, let alone globally. I’m starting to believe that you have never ventured past the boundaries of Adams, Allen or Wells counties, let alone State and Country boundaries. There is an entire world out there that doesn’t roll over and play dead. Infact, how do you think Obama was elected? He didn’t take “no” for an answer nor roll over and play dead in the face of adversity. If you wish to personally attack me on this open forum where opinions are voiced, I will certainly continue to share my mind, ideals, and goals.
To further this conversation, do you understand fundraising and you scratch my back and I’ll scratch your’s?
By the way, the following is a statement from your earlier posting.
I personally apologize to anyone that I have offended– especially Eve. I just have to say, you really pushed my buttons– but that’s no excuse.
Apparently, this was only a plastic attempt and not truthfully meant. It seems that your buttons can still be pushed. I have done my job!
Here is the website for the online petition:
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/rescind-north-adams-schools-elementary-reconfiguration/signatures.html
ATTENTION ALL DISCRUNTLED AND ANGRY NA EMPLOYEES
After reading the past several posts, I have had a change of heart. I think the voices of the teachers should be heard. In fact, I think it would be an excellent form of protest if all of you simultaneously resigned. Unify your voices against the reconfiguration by refusing to work for Mr. Sirk, Mr. Croner, Mrs. Lamon and the others on your “list”. Stop compromising your integrity.
Besides, my daughter and several other new graduates will be looking for teaching jobs this spring.
Am I the only one that has noticed that these “concerned NA employees” are blogging during school hours. You are wasting my tax dollars and compromising my children’s education every time you log on to this site during school hours.
SHAME ON YOU!!!!!
You talk about taking action. I am going to take action. I will be complaining to Mr. Sirk and the board members (Eve, thanks for the contact info) about how NA employees are wasting tax payer dollars blogging during school hours. I will also volunteer my company’s resources to help the NA IT personnel identify and track those teachers that are blogging instead of teaching. In the real world, I terminate employees that misuse corporate computers. Check you contracts – I bet NA does too.
Maybe you don’t like the people on the “list” because they actually expect you to work.
Flatsix…
Well we know where you stand now. I just hope that you are not with the school system.. Other wise we would not have any teachers left. I was at spot light on Decatur today and I talked with many different people today.
It is a sad day when a teacher can do not stand up for what they believe in.Teachers keep up the good work.
Flat six,
Good job. I like your idea of having all teacher’s resign and refuse to work for Mr. Sirk, Mrs. Lamon and Mr. Corner.
As far as tracking down which teachers are blogging at school, the computers are networked and this can already be tracked as well as emails, etc. Nice gesture of offering your assistance to the IT department though.
Flatsix….
Boy, I would not to work for you. Have you ever heard the word “TEAM”.
How can the voice of teachers be heard? IF they speak what they feel there job is on the line. What a great ADIM. we have when a teahcer cant voice what they feel.
Its people like Flatsix that dont listen to people and stick to a one side story.
As far as “SHAME” dont you sit there and try to put this on our teachers. Teachers of NA are the backdone to out childrens future. They work hard to give out kids the best future they can. Put shame where shame should be put —-the NA ADMIN staff….. Lamon, Corral, Jeanne Smith, Sirk, Fullove, Gary G., Rash, Juan. and the rest of you that don,t support the teachers shame on you.
TEAHCERS OF NA keep up the GREAT work you do everyday.
ONE more question. Why ae they bring a guy down to teach PE when that Great man just brought home a STATE title in football to teach PE. Leave him where he is. HE did a great job. First time in Bellmont history. Why take that great leader from Bellmont? Anyone have any answers? Or it this just another SIRK/Lamon mission.
Flatsix and Eve,
WOW! What a great idea. While you’re at it make sure to check everyone’s computers. After all if there is a SCHOOL policy against this kind of activity no one should be doing it. I wouldn’t think for a second that any administrator would be on this site during school hours. Also be sure to check the phone records. I am sure it applies to the phones as well. I wonder if Mr. Sirk is working on his doctorate during school hours. You should be given a medal for thinking of such a great idea. Also, don’t forget to check that all teachers start and quit teaching at the contractual time. We don’t want anyone violating any school rule or contractual agreement. Everyone knows that teachers arrive before, and stay after they are required. That is why during their prep time they are allowed to take care of personal business. This has to be the worst post ever put on here. I would hate to work for you. It is obvious by your lack of social skills that your “company” is performing below expectations. I think we need to find out who you are so you can be fired. As far as your daughter needing a job. Why doesn’t she work for you? She could learn from the best. I wouldn’t want my daughter learning how to cherry pick rules while conveniently avoiding others. You try to talk like a leader on here. Do not be fooled. You are a follower and always will be. Oh no! Look at the time it’s 10:00. YOU are late for your strategy meeting with Sirk and Lamon. Don’t forget to pick up donuts and Sirks dry cleaning on your way.
So have us resign so your kid can get a job with the corporation you despise? Hmmm..sounds like a wonderful idea!
There are many teaching jobs available in other states that pay signing bonus, incentive pay, GIVE raises, etc….maybe they should go there with you!
Jamie…thanks for your support to us teachers.
Oh, my! I certainly hope that you really don’t think I support such an idea. LOL! I do, however, think that all the teachers taking a personal day, that can’t be refused by law, on the same day would prove a point. I hear they have difficulties finding subs currently. Everyone taking the same day, would surely create a new awareness for Mr. Sirk.
Since our Flatsix business leader wants us to only teach during school hours and be held accountable so his daughter gets a job, I advocate punching a timeclock and paying the teachers overtime for the non-school hours that they work as well as time and a half and double time during vacations and holidays that we go in to make preparations, record grades etc. Perhaps we can even have a portable timeclock to punch in and out at home when we are grading papers or making preparations. Do we also turn bills for our electricity, gas, insurnce, etc. on our home as well as rent for our “home office”. Of course I am being sarcastic and when I went into education I knew what it entailed and the time outside of the classroom that I would be doing school things – I am still glad that I became a teacher and am not complaining about the pay, etc. I would just like to have some respect from the administrators and school board for what I do and be asked my opinion on changes and curriculum, not told after the fact – thanks parents for the support you have given us and continue to give us! Oh by the way, do I need to clock in and out to use the restroom?
LOL! You go terrified teacher. I’m behind you and support you whole heartedly!
Hey lets all get behind Jamies group and show-up at the next school board meeting. Approx 40 people were at the last one and that number needs to increase. Always remember to conduct yourselves professional at all times when at the board meeting don’t act like Jeanne Smith and tell the crowd how wonderful that the Admin staff is. We sh0ould always set a positive tone.
Now onto the board members Jo-Ellen is the senior ranking member with I think close to 20 years. I think she has also made the statement that she may retire from the board. If this is not true please let the readers know because I know that you read these bloggs. but a positive note I thank you for your years of service to the school its not an easy job.
Curt Rash- Nice guy kind a quite and reserved how about looking up when we are talking to you. Thanks
more later
To Flatsix: NO…SHAME ON YOU for not supporting the teachers through this mess. Your daughter will soon find out what all it invovles to be a teacher. Hopefully she is never in our situation! But you however need to get a life and quit the nit-picking! You complain because someone might be on blogging for a couple of minutes during their down time??? Too bad for you! Don’t worry about complaining to those on ‘the list’ either. They have also abused their time and want to spend even more dollars. I heard that Becca and Kim have recently been seen roaming the halls at NW looking around at the ‘ugly carpet and painted walls’ in the building. Humm, thought we had no money to fix up the buildings? Especially only if a select couple of people do not like the color! Staff is also being told to have things boxed up and ready to move the day after the kids leave! Now just tell me when are the staff suppose to be doing this packing?? During recess or their plan time….or what about staying after school and spend your nights packing? Sorry but I would not be spending my own time on this so a lot would get done while the students are still there. They give the teachers no choice. Staff have been on pins and needles throughout this and YOU Flatsix are of no help to anyone! Some staff have yet to be told where they are going. Word is the para’s will be cut in half! I do hope this is incorrect as they would only be doing recess and not ever have the time to help the children! These young children need as much help as they can these days!
So in closing I’d just like to say to Flatsix: just think if it were your daughter in there working with us! Maybe you’d feel and act just a little differently!?
Thanks again to all those that support the staff.
Actually, there’s plenty of shame to go around from what I’ve read on this blog. I certainly don’t want my children believing that standing up for what they believe or disagreeing with someone about an issue requires or even allows for the kind of personal attacks I’ve read here.
Are we really all so self-righteous that only our ideas and belief are genuine and valid?
Do we really presume to know another person’s heart and mind in the decisions that they make or the belief that they have.
Can we really continue proclaiming to want truth, all the while reaching for innuendo, sarcasm, misinformation and sometimes outright lies?
Are we really concerned for our children’s future…let’s teach and encourage them to be better people than some who’ve posted here.
I have no doubt that my post, just like others, will generate more anger and sarcasm, questions about who I work for, what/who I support, whose back pocket I’m in. Fine…after all…you’re right and I’m not, you’re sincere and I’m not, you’re well-informed and I’m not, you’re well-intentioned and I’m not. What arrogance!
Greatly Disappointed– Amen Sister– or Brother! You speak the truth!
Greatly Disappointed…
The point is the ADIM did not listen the school board did not listen. I am sorry I do feel this is a personal attack on our teachers and children.How do you not feel that way? So we are to roll over and take this stuff?
I’ve noticed there has been a few people still signing the old petition should’nt the old one be removed so people know to sign the “rescind the reconfiguration petition” not the old one??
I agree that the teachers should all take a sick day on the same day. Let them try to fill all the positions with subs, as many times the subs are not really appreciated by all anyway, and we usually put up with the horrible discipline problems. Usually some teachers do appreciate us, but not everyone does. I guess it is just part of the job.
Dear Voter: You are soo very right on the Substitute Teachers not getting any appreciation at all! My Sis used to be a Sub Teacher in the High School here and the discipline problems that the Sub Teachers have to put up with is terrible! Many of the kids that have a Sub Teacher for class feel that it is a free day to just screw around in class! The Office will NOT back up the Sub Teachers in a Discipline problem many times! Oh Well, it will not mean much very much longer anyway as Decatur will soon be a Ghost Town once the Fleetwood and Thunderbird factories go out of business! It sure is too bad that the Previous Mayor did NOT have the ‘vision’ to try to diversify our City Economy by even attempting to attract other large scale industrial plants to our City! He had twenty years in office as Mayor and really did no good for the long term Economic Growth of this town, with the exception of supplying his son in law a job on the City Payroll. I just feel so bad for the Citizens of this Town as there is NOTHING to look forward to in here to be able to live the middle class dream anymore. Hopefully, an elected School Board will be a start to change this mess by at least having the School Board be accountable to the actual voters instead of only being accountable to the City Officials who appoint the current ones! I support Mr. Tharp 150% on his energy and efforts for the Citizens of Decatur !!!!
How true and something to think about.
adamscountyvoter – But that is exactly my point! Your feelings and opinions are absolutely valid, but so are mine. Some people who have posted here make it sound as if every single North Adams parent and teacher is 100% against this. And if you’re not against it, something’s wrong with you. Well, I have talked to lots of people in the community, many of them parents and some of them teachers as this seems to be the topic of the day wherever I go. And, to be honest, none of those conversations, pro or con the reconfiguration, ever included calling people names or insinuating that information presented was all lies or that school board members can’t be trusted to make informed decisions (elected or not) unlike what I’ve read on this blog over and over again. Some of the people I’ve talked to actually think this reconfiguration will be a positive thing for our children. Their opinions should count also, right?
I attended the board meetings as well as one of the parent meetings and not everyone there was there because they were against the reconfiguration. Some people were there to listen and to formulate their own opinion. I don’t know exactly what percentage of parents and teachers are not happy with this reconfiguration, but I am sure it isn’t all of them.
I’ve read lots of negative remarks about lots of people made by folk on this blog who evidently believe they alone have all the facts. Well, I for one, have no reason not to believe that the North Adams school board members, each and every one of them, listened to the parents and teachers who spoke up, weighed the pros and cons for children, took into account our community’s and our school’s financial situation and made the decision they thought was best. I certainly can disagree with their vote without questioning their integrity or anyone else’s for that matter.
Ultimately, the decision’s now been made and, as with all decisions, not everyone is happy about it, but it seems to me that it’s time to move forward. Time to help the children, the parents, and the teachers make this transition as smoothly as possible. I believe there are committees in place for parents to be part of that process if we choose to get involved.
I guess I’m just tired of all the negativity that never seems to never end. Rather than continuing to argue over right or wrong, I’d rather begin working to make this change in our schools grow into something positive for our community…God knows we could use some positives these days!
Well I know it has been some time since I wrote last but here it is. We are still moving forward with our plans. I know that it seams that we are not making any head way but I think we are. Thanks to all of you that showed up at SPOT LIGHT and showed your support and asked questions. I even thank the people that showed up that did not sign but asked questions. I would also like to thank the people that donated to the cause. I know that times are tough and as always the community came together and give with their all.
I know I talked with some teachers and staff while we were there and I tell you. I am proud to have you teachers in our school because I know that deep in your hearts you are doing what you can to make this as easy on the kids as possible.
And for everyone else if you see a School Board Member out and about take the time to talk with them about the idea of becoming an elected School Board.
more later
I just want our economy to get better, so the students may stick around Decatur when they graduate. (The parents need good jobs, so they can afford to stick around Decatur, too. ) They need a great education and jobs to live in Decatur. Just an opinion. Teachers at many other schools are being laid off, and classes being dropped, too, so they can meet the budget. I trust that all in the school system will eventually work out, as it sounds like the decsion is made. I don’t know, but I do hope for the best for the children’s sake and their education, as they are our future.
Maybe just better encourage the children to well in school, and one day they will graduate. By that time this mess will hopefully be worked out…change is really difficult. Really I hope for the best and have been praying for the children. 
Hello to all I did not complete my finding on the rest of the school board members I think we are to Juan Guttierez He is JoEllens puppet what ever she wants him to do he will do. He seems to really not like confrontation maybe he is related to Wylie Sirk. Michelle Stimpson the new member did not know how to take her at first but I think she don’t take Shit of nobody. For her to read that statement at the last board meeting to GUTS and she is ok in my book. Gary Geissler he is the president and also speaks the truth he makes his mind up quickly and holds fast but wants the board to do what is right.
I feel that North Adams Superintendent has got something big that he is covering up and thinks that we are all STUPID but if I were you Mr. Sirk I would be very nervous right now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Greatly Disappointed – I don’t disagree that there are two sides to the coin, whether they be good or bad but my question is why shouldn’t we stand up and do something if we don’t believe it’s right? Why is it that three people can make a decision that affects hundreds of parents and children and we’re expected to just lay down and take it? You mentioned that not everyone has the answers so why should the school board members be treated any differently? Are we sure that they did their research? I would hope that they did but what if they didn’t or didn’t get the full picture? I think it’s unfair to say that we can’t or shouldn’t fight for something we believe in.
I’ve talked to people about this as well, and you’re right, they aren’t all against it, some do think it’s a good idea for one reason or another and that’s ok, that’s their right. It seems that that same courtesy should be extended to us that are against it. I support and appreciate all the teachers of NA, we have wonderful teachers who I’m certain will do the best that they can to make this transition easy for our children. Even though I believe in our teachers, it’s not going to stop my efforts to halt the reconfiguration. Think of where we would be in this world if people who were faced with a situation they didn’t like just laid down and took it…I’m thankful for those that stand up for what they believe in and try to make a difference. When the dust settles and the smoke clears and this is all behind us, I want my children to know that their mom stood up for something she believed in and tried to make a difference. What’s wrong with that?
I’m closing the comments on this post as its become extremely large and I believe most have had ample opportunity to voice their opinions on this particular post.