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Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Different takes on the Board meeting yesterday -- who covered it best (facts, quotes, context)?
Protesters Vow to Keep Fighting School ClosingsWBEZ
Sixteen Chicago Public Schools will be closed or revamped at the end of this school year. The Chicago Board of Education unanimously approved the plan yesterday.
Sixteen schools approved for closing, turnaround Catalyst
School Board approves final list after four-hour meeting
School closings OKd Sun Times
School Board members Wednesday approved plans to shutter or shake up 16 schools, despite angry complaints that they didn't tour all the buildings or read any transcripts of the public hearings.
Chicago parents, educators spar over proposed public school closingsCTDN
During today's Chicago Public Schools board meeting, parents make a last-ditch effort to stop officials from moving forward with plans to close schools in which students are struggling to learn.
When a School is More Than a SchoolCLTV
Our school is more than a learning institution, it is the fabric of our community. That's what parent Willie J. R. Fleming said Schiller Elementary School means to his family.
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Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 10:54 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
In the Preamble in the "Agreement between The Board Of Education of the City Of Chicago and the Chicago Teachers Union" it states, "It is recognized that teaching requires specialized qualifications as well as educational requirements and that the success of the educational program depends upon the maximum utilization of the abilities of teachers who are reasonably well satisfied with the conditions under which they work, who are assured of a fair reward AND SECURITY IN THEIR PROFESSION, and who are cooperatively working for the achievement of effective programs of education." Here are the results for the staffs at the schools that were whacked yesterday as of June 30, 2009. TURNAROUNDS: Fenger HS, Dulles, Johnson, and Berthune, the staff would have to reapply for their jobs and an organization would work with the school to change the culture. CPS Department of Human Resources would work with staff who need to find new jobs. CLOSINGS: Nia, Foundations, Princeton and South Chicago, CPS Department of Human Resources would work with staff to help them find new positions. CONSOLIDATIONS: Abbout, Davis, Medill and Schiller, Staff USUALLY follows the students EXCEPT where there are overlaps, which would then be subject to union rules. PHASEOUTS: Best Practice HS, Carpenter, Lathrop and Reed, staff would be determined by ENROLLMENT each year in accordance with union regulations. P.S.- If you do not feed your teachers, they will eat your students!
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 1:49 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Retired Principal quotes from the Preamble of what teachers call "The Contract." He emphasizes the phrase "security in their profession," which most teachers understand is a qualified condition.
Teachers should not be threatened with job loss because they become pregnant or see scandalous movies or belong to an organization or religious body that someone else doesn't like.
I think most teachers understand that jobs are not guaranteed forever, especially in the face of declining enrollment or changing trends (the decline of Latin for, say, Spanish instruction). Surely people realize a loss of 40,000 students this decade means there must be a commensurate loss of teaching jobs.
Despite the foregoing, I am still troubled by the "turnaround" process. I'm unsure whether making no distinction among teachers is a good or bad thing (versus, actually trying to figure out who the "good" and "bad" teachers are). Even if one accepts the idea of changing out the whole teaching staff of a school, it's hard to see why the clerks, custodians, and cafeteria staff must go, too.
What's the point in that? If only a custodian had cleaned better, school test scores would have gone up? That's a textbook example of a non sequitur.
Teachers should not be threatened with job loss because they become pregnant or see scandalous movies or belong to an organization or religious body that someone else doesn't like.
I think most teachers understand that jobs are not guaranteed forever, especially in the face of declining enrollment or changing trends (the decline of Latin for, say, Spanish instruction). Surely people realize a loss of 40,000 students this decade means there must be a commensurate loss of teaching jobs.
Despite the foregoing, I am still troubled by the "turnaround" process. I'm unsure whether making no distinction among teachers is a good or bad thing (versus, actually trying to figure out who the "good" and "bad" teachers are). Even if one accepts the idea of changing out the whole teaching staff of a school, it's hard to see why the clerks, custodians, and cafeteria staff must go, too.
What's the point in that? If only a custodian had cleaned better, school test scores would have gone up? That's a textbook example of a non sequitur.
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 4:53 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
To me the community protests seem backwards. Why are people protesting the turnaround of a poor performing school who has been put on probation, given funds and resources to improve.....but still falls short?.....What SHOULD be happening is parents and community groups proactively protesting when their school is not turned around FASTER! Think about it, these kids loose SO MUCH valuable time every year their schools do not improve!
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 5:35 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I am a little disturbed by Retired Principal's comment "If you do not feed the teachers, they will eat the students". Most teachers care about their students and although job security is important, many of us have continued to work with our students even with threats of school closings.
No one is guaranteed a job and no school is guaranteed that it will stay open. I was just thinking back to working on my resume and realizing that my high school closed the year after I graduated (1965), the first two schools that I taught in closed, the law firm that I worked when while in college is no longer in existence. I remember in one job coming in in the morning and being told that at noon the company was closing permanently. Fortunately for purposes of employment, our employer is the Board not the local school or I would be hard pressed to write a resume that an employer could verify. Teaching is one of the last jobs that people stay with their entire career and that is changing. Some people come to it after other careers and some people leave teaching to go into another field.
It's discouraging though that the Board seems to place all the blame on the teachers at these schools and think that by bringing in inexperienced people, things will get better. Experience teaches us that it won't.
I hope we aren't looking at the future where there is little or no stability in the schools. Neighborhood schools are important to all of us and we need to insist that the Board find other ways to change schools where students are not making progress.
No one is guaranteed a job and no school is guaranteed that it will stay open. I was just thinking back to working on my resume and realizing that my high school closed the year after I graduated (1965), the first two schools that I taught in closed, the law firm that I worked when while in college is no longer in existence. I remember in one job coming in in the morning and being told that at noon the company was closing permanently. Fortunately for purposes of employment, our employer is the Board not the local school or I would be hard pressed to write a resume that an employer could verify. Teaching is one of the last jobs that people stay with their entire career and that is changing. Some people come to it after other careers and some people leave teaching to go into another field.
It's discouraging though that the Board seems to place all the blame on the teachers at these schools and think that by bringing in inexperienced people, things will get better. Experience teaches us that it won't.
I hope we aren't looking at the future where there is little or no stability in the schools. Neighborhood schools are important to all of us and we need to insist that the Board find other ways to change schools where students are not making progress.
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 9:30 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Thank you "protests are backwards", finally someone sees the big picture. Parents with kids at failing schools should be protesting everyday by being in the classrooms, volunteering in schools, helping good teachers, and calling the bluff of incompetent principals and teachers.
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 9:44 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Are you still on cannabis?
Take care of fake administratotrs who do not know how to run anything.
They are hand picked and have no idea what is going on.They do not care of kids,teachers,etc.They care about own salary hoping that they will be still alive for a while.
Take care of fake administratotrs who do not know how to run anything.
They are hand picked and have no idea what is going on.They do not care of kids,teachers,etc.They care about own salary hoping that they will be still alive for a while.
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 10:24 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I hope you are all happy! Quit complaining about these closings. Stormin Norman Van Lier died today. GODSPEED my friend.
Anyway, the schools they are closing are no good. I love how the parents and our UNION LEADER stand there and talk about how they are closing these schools in parts of the city that affect poor neighborhoods and underprivileged children. Last time I checked 75% of the city schools serve poor neighborhoods and underprivileged children. I mean seriously have any of you ever attended a P.D. with your CPS colleagues. I can't believe these people actually stand (most likely sit) in front of children. All they do is complain, complain, complain. If they are good they will land somewhere else, if not tough luck find a new profession.
Anyway, the schools they are closing are no good. I love how the parents and our UNION LEADER stand there and talk about how they are closing these schools in parts of the city that affect poor neighborhoods and underprivileged children. Last time I checked 75% of the city schools serve poor neighborhoods and underprivileged children. I mean seriously have any of you ever attended a P.D. with your CPS colleagues. I can't believe these people actually stand (most likely sit) in front of children. All they do is complain, complain, complain. If they are good they will land somewhere else, if not tough luck find a new profession.
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 11:00 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Who cares?The communist CORE?
Thu Feb 26, 2009 at 11:28 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Although the CBOE President was on the job for 2 days, the CEO for 2 weeks and the Board admitted they had not read the transcripts of the community hearing on closings, CBOE voted to close 16 schools rather than 22.
So the struggle for a world-class city in every neighborhood continues. Public awareness is increasing. See the Sun Times editorial found here:
http://www.suntimes.com/news/commentary/1448372,CST-EDT-edit25a.article
And here's a 10-minute CPS CEO Huberman speech (about 5 hours old news-wise). http://www.wbez.org/Content.aspx?audioID=32399
Many issues are covered, in this order: tests, best practices, performance/accountability system/transparency, central office relationship with schools, BEW over H.S., security-truancy-violence, culture of calm, and same accountability for neighborhood and charter schools.
There is much to agree and disagree with ... everyone's thoughts?
So the struggle for a world-class city in every neighborhood continues. Public awareness is increasing. See the Sun Times editorial found here:
http://www.suntimes.com/news/commentary/1448372,CST-EDT-edit25a.article
And here's a 10-minute CPS CEO Huberman speech (about 5 hours old news-wise). http://www.wbez.org/Content.aspx?audioID=32399
Many issues are covered, in this order: tests, best practices, performance/accountability system/transparency, central office relationship with schools, BEW over H.S., security-truancy-violence, culture of calm, and same accountability for neighborhood and charter schools.
There is much to agree and disagree with ... everyone's thoughts?
Fri Feb 27, 2009 at 7:14 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
A lot of these anonymous comments sound like people from outside the education field ("your CPS colleagues", "Parents with kids at failing schools", other separating comments). I'm wondering who you are that you have the right to tell parents what they SHOULD be doing for their students. They know their students and if they are protesting to keep schools open, they probably know their schools. They aren't paid to do this, they are choosing to take their time to do this - so it must be something they strongly believe in. As a teacher at a school where parents are often too busy to come out and support their students, I applaud parents who stand up politically on any issue to fight for a good education for their students.
I could never imagine having the temerity to tell a CPS parent who has students in the schools that have been labeled as failing what to do unless you've walked a mile in their shoes. Until you know what it is like to have a student in a "failing" school, why don't you try listening to their experiences instead?
And to Stormin' Normin: I stand and teach for 5 periods every day and as a teacher at a school that fits all the criteria to be turned around, I think I speak for most the staff in my building when I say I don't want to "land somewhere else" -- I chose this school and I want to stay here.
I could never imagine having the temerity to tell a CPS parent who has students in the schools that have been labeled as failing what to do unless you've walked a mile in their shoes. Until you know what it is like to have a student in a "failing" school, why don't you try listening to their experiences instead?
And to Stormin' Normin: I stand and teach for 5 periods every day and as a teacher at a school that fits all the criteria to be turned around, I think I speak for most the staff in my building when I say I don't want to "land somewhere else" -- I chose this school and I want to stay here.
Fri Feb 27, 2009 at 10:25 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Danielle,
The next time you are "standing", take a stroll down the hallway and look in the classrooms of 7-10 classrooms. I guarantee that more than 70% are sitting. If your school has criteria for a turnout, I bet a handful of teachers were concerned and vowed to be reflective and improve their own practices.
The next time you are "standing", take a stroll down the hallway and look in the classrooms of 7-10 classrooms. I guarantee that more than 70% are sitting. If your school has criteria for a turnout, I bet a handful of teachers were concerned and vowed to be reflective and improve their own practices.
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 7:52 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
On my free periods, I run errands around the school do look in the classrooms I pass and I don't see teachers sitting. Please stop assuming what is going on inside these schools and go actually learn about it. Why are you (anonymously) trying to turn teachers against each other? In my school we realize were are in the struggle to teach students (in a school that is being sabotaged by CPS policies) together and that if we want to help our students we all must work.
I know it's hard to believe, but there are several outside forces that affect our students' lives (and test scores).... it's not just about what is happening in the building. This is something people in the classroom generally realize rather quickly.
I know it's hard to believe, but there are several outside forces that affect our students' lives (and test scores).... it's not just about what is happening in the building. This is something people in the classroom generally realize rather quickly.
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 9:20 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
"...I guarantee that more than 70% are sitting. If your school has criteria for a turnout, I bet a handful of teachers were concerned and vowed to be reflective and improve their own practices..." (to Danielle, yesterday).
So what?
Danielle, don't waste your valuable time on cowards and fools who hide behind the fig leaf of bloggernonymity and just want to waste your time. If "to Danielle" wants to take off the fig leaf (do you really think there is much underneath it?), then he's worth the time. Otherwise, he's probably one of those University of Chicago graduate students who also pioneered the notion that you could learn something meaningful about a classroom (teacher; program) with a "two minute walk through..."
This stupidity -- viz., that teachers are only doing their job if they are standing, gesticulating, or running around like a crazed Marva Collins on Wall Street steroids -- is simple BS. No matter how much it's refuted, it's still repeated over and over by right wing nut cases as "proof" that teachers are not teaching.
Twenty-five years ago, we at Substance refuted every part of the Marva Collins hoax (that's what we called it, and proved in three long stories, investigative). One of the mainstays of the Marva hoax was a talking point about how you need "a good pair of legs" to be a good teacher. That was nonsense, then and now.
In some days and in some classrooms, some teachers have to do different things on different days. Some days teachers have to move around. Others, we sit. Still others we do a little bit of both. But to repeat nonsense -- and then challenge real teachers to explain themselves -- is simply to waste peoples' times. Anyone who has actually taught knows this, but since the Noise Machine is always turned up loudest when the teacher bashing music is played, it's simply going to be repeated (always by anonymous, naturally).
Next thing you know, we'll hear that charter school tout nonsense about how in the public schools, the teachers are trampling the children to get out of the building and to their cars at "three o'clock" (or whatever the fictional hour of dismissal may be). That one I actually checked out twice, once from a right wing pundit whose "op eds" were circulated through the right wing circuit. (He had never taught and had never witnessed such tramplings, but "had heard").
The other was from a guy at Chicago International Northtown Campus (the old Good Counsel). He had never taught in a public schools, never actually seen the tramplings, but, again, "had heard" (and was telling that Whopper at a news conference touting charter schools with Arne Duncan standing a few feet from his lying SOS self).
But on that particular day, he wasn't the biggest lying SOS in the room. That, of course, was Arne Duncan. That was a fig leaf we just stopped bothering to pull off, because Chicago always had a corporate "reporter" or two who would rush up to Arne and kneel down and put it back on.
My favorite fig leaf smoother, before he retired, was Andy Shaw. This was partly because he knew better back from the days when his Mom taught at Lane Tech and he would never have dared do the teacher bashing that characterized his latter years. So he was doubly obnovious. Anyway, whether the fig leaf was in front of Mayor Daley or in front of Arne Duncan, Andy would always begin his question with something like...
"Mr. Mayor, can you first tell us how great you are -- and then go on after telling us how bad the teachers are -- to telling us again how really cool this latest program you're discussing is, before you return to letting me know how really virile you also are..."
Etc.
So what?
Danielle, don't waste your valuable time on cowards and fools who hide behind the fig leaf of bloggernonymity and just want to waste your time. If "to Danielle" wants to take off the fig leaf (do you really think there is much underneath it?), then he's worth the time. Otherwise, he's probably one of those University of Chicago graduate students who also pioneered the notion that you could learn something meaningful about a classroom (teacher; program) with a "two minute walk through..."
This stupidity -- viz., that teachers are only doing their job if they are standing, gesticulating, or running around like a crazed Marva Collins on Wall Street steroids -- is simple BS. No matter how much it's refuted, it's still repeated over and over by right wing nut cases as "proof" that teachers are not teaching.
Twenty-five years ago, we at Substance refuted every part of the Marva Collins hoax (that's what we called it, and proved in three long stories, investigative). One of the mainstays of the Marva hoax was a talking point about how you need "a good pair of legs" to be a good teacher. That was nonsense, then and now.
In some days and in some classrooms, some teachers have to do different things on different days. Some days teachers have to move around. Others, we sit. Still others we do a little bit of both. But to repeat nonsense -- and then challenge real teachers to explain themselves -- is simply to waste peoples' times. Anyone who has actually taught knows this, but since the Noise Machine is always turned up loudest when the teacher bashing music is played, it's simply going to be repeated (always by anonymous, naturally).
Next thing you know, we'll hear that charter school tout nonsense about how in the public schools, the teachers are trampling the children to get out of the building and to their cars at "three o'clock" (or whatever the fictional hour of dismissal may be). That one I actually checked out twice, once from a right wing pundit whose "op eds" were circulated through the right wing circuit. (He had never taught and had never witnessed such tramplings, but "had heard").
The other was from a guy at Chicago International Northtown Campus (the old Good Counsel). He had never taught in a public schools, never actually seen the tramplings, but, again, "had heard" (and was telling that Whopper at a news conference touting charter schools with Arne Duncan standing a few feet from his lying SOS self).
But on that particular day, he wasn't the biggest lying SOS in the room. That, of course, was Arne Duncan. That was a fig leaf we just stopped bothering to pull off, because Chicago always had a corporate "reporter" or two who would rush up to Arne and kneel down and put it back on.
My favorite fig leaf smoother, before he retired, was Andy Shaw. This was partly because he knew better back from the days when his Mom taught at Lane Tech and he would never have dared do the teacher bashing that characterized his latter years. So he was doubly obnovious. Anyway, whether the fig leaf was in front of Mayor Daley or in front of Arne Duncan, Andy would always begin his question with something like...
"Mr. Mayor, can you first tell us how great you are -- and then go on after telling us how bad the teachers are -- to telling us again how really cool this latest program you're discussing is, before you return to letting me know how really virile you also are..."
Etc.
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 10:07 AM
.
We have experienced first hand commitment to the children with 5 minute walk thru of a program that was "audited" once in ten weeks. As the result of the walk thru we lost one staff position and 15 student positions. The walk thru expert was neither an educator nor experienced in the field that was the programs focus. The major complaint was that we did not have all the students sitting at desks in a room receiving instruction for a program that is teaching students entrepreneurial ideas to develop a business around technology trouble shooting and repairs.
OUR KIDS WERE OUT DOING JOBS AROUND THE SCHOOL AND REMOTE LOCATIONS IN THE COMMUNITY.
Exactly what we were teaching them to do.
The only real administrator is one that knows how to do the job they are overseeing. And not only knows how, but actively does the job to understand the issues individuals under their responsibility have to deal with.
Anything less is Administrative Deception .
All the literature on school change, reform and improvement cite the importance of school administrators actively working with teachers not above teachers.
By the way I can sit in my chair all day and teach more than any clowns in a downtown office that fake their jobs and believe they are making a difference from their ivory tower.
The only difference that counts is in the trenches, giving the students what they need:
A good safe environment to learn and grow.
Anything else is a scam and not education.
John Kugler
High School Technology Teacher
kuglerjohn@comcast.net
OUR KIDS WERE OUT DOING JOBS AROUND THE SCHOOL AND REMOTE LOCATIONS IN THE COMMUNITY.
Exactly what we were teaching them to do.
The only real administrator is one that knows how to do the job they are overseeing. And not only knows how, but actively does the job to understand the issues individuals under their responsibility have to deal with.
Anything less is Administrative Deception .
All the literature on school change, reform and improvement cite the importance of school administrators actively working with teachers not above teachers.
By the way I can sit in my chair all day and teach more than any clowns in a downtown office that fake their jobs and believe they are making a difference from their ivory tower.
The only difference that counts is in the trenches, giving the students what they need:
A good safe environment to learn and grow.
Anything else is a scam and not education.
John Kugler
High School Technology Teacher
kuglerjohn@comcast.net
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 10:22 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I think George is right. There is little point discussing the issue with people who will just snark from behind their computers. There is no integrity involved, and they might as well be saying, "I am willing to bet that if you went to Mayor Daley's office, he would be eating infant brains while wearing a coat made of kittens!"
The reason to comment and blog is so that we can see integrity, learn from each others and network off of the blog. There will always be those who try to fabricate and make up stuff to serve their agenda which are not strong enough to stand on the truth or assuage their giant egos and nagging consciences.
I hope they will meet the challenge from the Fenger staff that was ignored at the hearing--come out and honestly observe and interact at our schools. We just want what's best for the kids. If I believed that turnaround resulted in better opportunities for my kids, so be it. But there's no way to tell that because you have a bunch of arm chair quarterbacks who are not remotely interested in educating every child, nor in supporting good teaching in tough environments.
We see this all the time with the movement from "bad schools" to "good schools". Suddenly the "bad teachers" are seen as "good teachers".
What do you think would happen if you put "good administrators" or "good teachers" from the easier environments and put them in our shoes?
The reason to comment and blog is so that we can see integrity, learn from each others and network off of the blog. There will always be those who try to fabricate and make up stuff to serve their agenda which are not strong enough to stand on the truth or assuage their giant egos and nagging consciences.
I hope they will meet the challenge from the Fenger staff that was ignored at the hearing--come out and honestly observe and interact at our schools. We just want what's best for the kids. If I believed that turnaround resulted in better opportunities for my kids, so be it. But there's no way to tell that because you have a bunch of arm chair quarterbacks who are not remotely interested in educating every child, nor in supporting good teaching in tough environments.
We see this all the time with the movement from "bad schools" to "good schools". Suddenly the "bad teachers" are seen as "good teachers".
What do you think would happen if you put "good administrators" or "good teachers" from the easier environments and put them in our shoes?
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 10:25 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Nice post, Kugler. This is an important component--a lack of understanding of what good instruction looks like. Whomever authorized that walkthrough and program cut should be tossed to the curb on Tuesday.
A quiet, orderly classroom is not a good classroom, and children should be seen, heard and the power of their actions felt across the civic landscape.
A quiet, orderly classroom is not a good classroom, and children should be seen, heard and the power of their actions felt across the civic landscape.
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 10:48 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
xian maybe that is a good way to save money administrators tossed to the curb
if we get rid of the top heavy slackers who not only cut our resources but have absolutely no positive effect on the classroom environments across the city we might start to see a change. I say throw them all into classrooms as resource aids at 15k salary stipends dependent on student satisfaction.
Oh, kugler how could you say that! how about those students that do not like me. Well it is not about liking a teacher it is about a student that believes they are learning something useful and not being lied to. I strive to have 95% compliance with course competencies that is my job. My students know it and appreciate it. I want them ALL to succeed.
Anyone who tries to hinder my work or hurt my students is acting against what is right.
my students come first. downtown comes last.
they are the ones that are disposable and should be the first to be cut unless they can quantify what direct results they have for students success.
John Kugler
kuglerjohn@comcast.net
PS that is a trick assignment. if you are not working directly with students there is no way to have an impact on their success. No Way! any other justification for administrative waste is just a fantasy for all those that realized that working with students is not their cup of tea, but do not have the guts to get another degree or duke it out in the private sector.
PPS venting.
if we get rid of the top heavy slackers who not only cut our resources but have absolutely no positive effect on the classroom environments across the city we might start to see a change. I say throw them all into classrooms as resource aids at 15k salary stipends dependent on student satisfaction.
Oh, kugler how could you say that! how about those students that do not like me. Well it is not about liking a teacher it is about a student that believes they are learning something useful and not being lied to. I strive to have 95% compliance with course competencies that is my job. My students know it and appreciate it. I want them ALL to succeed.
Anyone who tries to hinder my work or hurt my students is acting against what is right.
my students come first. downtown comes last.
they are the ones that are disposable and should be the first to be cut unless they can quantify what direct results they have for students success.
John Kugler
kuglerjohn@comcast.net
PS that is a trick assignment. if you are not working directly with students there is no way to have an impact on their success. No Way! any other justification for administrative waste is just a fantasy for all those that realized that working with students is not their cup of tea, but do not have the guts to get another degree or duke it out in the private sector.
PPS venting.
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 12:46 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Different teachers have different styles and whether you teach standing up or sitting down or a combination of thet two, it's what you teach and how much you care that matters. My disability makes it difficult for me to stand long periods of time so I chose to work in SPED where my class size was smaller. I sat at the table with my students around me and shifted who sat by me so that I could work individually with different students throughout the school day. I remember how scared I was when I was told that the District Supt. had said that he would fire any teacher that he caught sitting down. Then I realized that he would be in violation of the ADA and would have a major lawsuit on his hands and that of the Board.
I also know that some students become very nervous when the teacher moves around the room especially during testing. They are focused more on the movement and less on concentrating on the test. Yes, teachers need to be aware of what the students are doing but trust the teacher's judgement as a professional who will do everything in our power to meet the students' needs.
I also know that some students become very nervous when the teacher moves around the room especially during testing. They are focused more on the movement and less on concentrating on the test. Yes, teachers need to be aware of what the students are doing but trust the teacher's judgement as a professional who will do everything in our power to meet the students' needs.
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 3:36 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Why not Marshall or Robeson?They are on the bottom in our district.
Is there any corelation between downtown staffers and principals?
Is there any corelation between downtown staffers and principals?
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 4:22 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I work part-time in the schools and I know that the students do watch you like a hawk! I have observed often that if you sit down
sometimes if not often it is interpreted as a signal to the masses that you have let your guard down and that can be further interpreted that the student can act up if given the opportunity
Therefore I have learned over the years that with many years of
lunch room and playground duty,that your body posture is exteremely important to the task of teaching and learning.
I still love my work after many years and many experiences,and am finding that what all of us truly value is that which is truly important.
sometimes if not often it is interpreted as a signal to the masses that you have let your guard down and that can be further interpreted that the student can act up if given the opportunity
Therefore I have learned over the years that with many years of
lunch room and playground duty,that your body posture is exteremely important to the task of teaching and learning.
I still love my work after many years and many experiences,and am finding that what all of us truly value is that which is truly important.
Sat Feb 28, 2009 at 5:49 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I was thinking about what George wrote and after reading what Marricat wrote I definitely want to apologize for what I was saying. I do recognize the witch hunt on veteran teachers and I was not trying to support the very wrong idea that not standing some how makes you a bad teacher.
So I want to rescind anything I may have said in that direction and apologize for it.
So I want to rescind anything I may have said in that direction and apologize for it.
Sun Mar 1, 2009 at 5:14 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I was only responding to "to danielle..." [sic, by the way] and that mindless claim about teachers sitting down, as if that were a measure of anything.
My point was, is, and will be that the right wingers and other sphincters who are looking for ways to teacher bash will pick up the silliest talking point and repeat it over and over and over and over and over for decades. We exposed every iteration of the Marva Collins Hoax by 1983, but it still went on and on and one to this day (the Heritage Foundation's "No Excuses" report five years ago) because it was one of those mainstays of the rights wing's attack on public education.
And because rich people were willing to continue to fund Marva's predations and claims.
Now the same has been exploded across the USA by the charter schools' attack on real public schools, with Chicago (again, as in Marva Collins) as the main site of the lies and hoaxes. Only now there is a popular Democratic President in the White House utilizing the same teacher bashing anecdotes that a popular (some of the time) Republican President utilized 26 years ago to attack public schools and push the agendas to replace public schools.
As long as we let these little lies lie around waiting to be picked up by demagogues, we're just waiting for the same tribes of liars and privatizers to launch another "A Nation at Risk" in our faces and find another dozen excuses to privatize our key public service so they can pad their own private pockets (behind the smokescreen of "educational entrepreneurship" and the mumblings and "I'll get back to you on thats" of Arne Duncan).
When Barack Obama chose one of Chicago's Big Lies (the Dodge "Renaissance Academy" fairy tale) and one of America's biggest liars (Chicago's Arne Duncan) we knew all we needed to know about their long-term plans for public education -- and not just in the cities. The time for starry eyes and teary ones about puppies and "Hope" are over. The tears in Chicago last Wednesday (when Chicago's Board of Education voted to destroy another 16 public schools) were real, coming from little children who had a good school with small classes (South Chicago) and many others.
The lies and liars will always be well subsidized. It's time to call them out, make sure they know we're watching, stop their apologists from getting away with that noisome propaganda, and ultimately save public education.
My point was, is, and will be that the right wingers and other sphincters who are looking for ways to teacher bash will pick up the silliest talking point and repeat it over and over and over and over and over for decades. We exposed every iteration of the Marva Collins Hoax by 1983, but it still went on and on and one to this day (the Heritage Foundation's "No Excuses" report five years ago) because it was one of those mainstays of the rights wing's attack on public education.
And because rich people were willing to continue to fund Marva's predations and claims.
Now the same has been exploded across the USA by the charter schools' attack on real public schools, with Chicago (again, as in Marva Collins) as the main site of the lies and hoaxes. Only now there is a popular Democratic President in the White House utilizing the same teacher bashing anecdotes that a popular (some of the time) Republican President utilized 26 years ago to attack public schools and push the agendas to replace public schools.
As long as we let these little lies lie around waiting to be picked up by demagogues, we're just waiting for the same tribes of liars and privatizers to launch another "A Nation at Risk" in our faces and find another dozen excuses to privatize our key public service so they can pad their own private pockets (behind the smokescreen of "educational entrepreneurship" and the mumblings and "I'll get back to you on thats" of Arne Duncan).
When Barack Obama chose one of Chicago's Big Lies (the Dodge "Renaissance Academy" fairy tale) and one of America's biggest liars (Chicago's Arne Duncan) we knew all we needed to know about their long-term plans for public education -- and not just in the cities. The time for starry eyes and teary ones about puppies and "Hope" are over. The tears in Chicago last Wednesday (when Chicago's Board of Education voted to destroy another 16 public schools) were real, coming from little children who had a good school with small classes (South Chicago) and many others.
The lies and liars will always be well subsidized. It's time to call them out, make sure they know we're watching, stop their apologists from getting away with that noisome propaganda, and ultimately save public education.
Sun Mar 1, 2009 at 7:26 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Media Monsters
In my case it was only the modern group formerly known as the AV. Boys.
The difference was that now computers, not Du Kanes, were what they ran.
These kids are light years ahead of me and almost every teacher in the joint.
when it comes to technology. I let them hang in the library and we put together
computers with discarded parts .Right under the nose of the powers to be
they pulled off a school wide HALO tournament.
This group helped everyone from the Principal, to the case manager ,to me
and any kid in the school who needed them. All wound up with hundreds of service learning hours infinitely more important were the technology problems they solved and the real self confidence that instills these kids were good. .
I could not get them a grade since it was not a class. My hat is off to Dr.Kluger
and his group of troubleshooters.
If your class was like my kids I know how smart ,self directed, confident and
inquisitive These Media Monsters( they picked the name) are and unless the
inquisitor understood how such kids operate no evaluation from them is correct.
In my case it was only the modern group formerly known as the AV. Boys.
The difference was that now computers, not Du Kanes, were what they ran.
These kids are light years ahead of me and almost every teacher in the joint.
when it comes to technology. I let them hang in the library and we put together
computers with discarded parts .Right under the nose of the powers to be
they pulled off a school wide HALO tournament.
This group helped everyone from the Principal, to the case manager ,to me
and any kid in the school who needed them. All wound up with hundreds of service learning hours infinitely more important were the technology problems they solved and the real self confidence that instills these kids were good. .
I could not get them a grade since it was not a class. My hat is off to Dr.Kluger
and his group of troubleshooters.
If your class was like my kids I know how smart ,self directed, confident and
inquisitive These Media Monsters( they picked the name) are and unless the
inquisitor understood how such kids operate no evaluation from them is correct.
Sun Mar 1, 2009 at 7:28 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Sorry it should be Dr.Kugler.
Sun Mar 1, 2009 at 10:31 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Dear Colleagues:
Please let me know if the information provided is helpful:
RE:Job Fair(Statewide)
Where:The Shannon Center St Xavier University
3700 W 103 Rd St
When:March 7,2009 9:00-2:00(Sat)
Sponsor:IASB
Cost:$5 Cheaper than McCormick parking lot
Please let me know if the information provided is helpful:
RE:Job Fair(Statewide)
Where:The Shannon Center St Xavier University
3700 W 103 Rd St
When:March 7,2009 9:00-2:00(Sat)
Sponsor:IASB
Cost:$5 Cheaper than McCormick parking lot
Sun Mar 1, 2009 at 2:37 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Respectfully responding to the person from CORE. I am a CPS parent.......a VERY involved parent in my children's school and in helping my children with their homework and reading to them every day and doing all the things parents need to do to help their children succeed. I know things are tough for a lot of people, but reality is that EVERYONE has something going on in their lives that causes stress. It is hard. But, how can parents protest to support a failing school. I believe proactive, collaborative efforts between CPS, administrators and the community can reap positive results. All this bitching and complaining is so immature and counterproductive. Stop protesting change and start demanding and helping achieve success.
Sun Mar 1, 2009 at 7:04 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Dear Parent:
Your comment is a best example how media could be used to manipulate our minds.
Today on Ch 5 our new CPS CEO stated that we have to deal with leadership crisis.It is very hard not to agree with him.
Leave alone teachers they just teach.
The true problems are:ineffective,corrupt administrators, poverty and absence of role models in our students lives.
Open your eyes and stop jump on people who are really powerless in this unfair, corrupt world.
Your comment is a best example how media could be used to manipulate our minds.
Today on Ch 5 our new CPS CEO stated that we have to deal with leadership crisis.It is very hard not to agree with him.
Leave alone teachers they just teach.
The true problems are:ineffective,corrupt administrators, poverty and absence of role models in our students lives.
Open your eyes and stop jump on people who are really powerless in this unfair, corrupt world.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 4:31 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
"All this bitching and complaining is so immature and counterproductive. Stop protesting change and start demanding and helping achieve success..." (Backwards, yesterday).
The day you stop hiding behind your anonymous tags we can discuss how silly those two sentences are. But until you have a name and a school where your "kids" actually go, don't you dare call out teachers who are trying to stop the destruction of dozens of schools serving thousands of children. Just because your own kids aren't being hurt right now doesn't mean all this is not being done in your name. And those stupid -- that's the only word -- one liners (quoted above) are only giving aid and comfort to the people who are sabotaging, then destroying, public schools in this town.
Let me know when you are ready to end cowardice. Then we can talk about precise realities.
The day you stop hiding behind your anonymous tags we can discuss how silly those two sentences are. But until you have a name and a school where your "kids" actually go, don't you dare call out teachers who are trying to stop the destruction of dozens of schools serving thousands of children. Just because your own kids aren't being hurt right now doesn't mean all this is not being done in your name. And those stupid -- that's the only word -- one liners (quoted above) are only giving aid and comfort to the people who are sabotaging, then destroying, public schools in this town.
Let me know when you are ready to end cowardice. Then we can talk about precise realities.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 9:24 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Just to clarify. I am NOT criticizing any teachers. I never even mention teachers. For the most part they do an amazing job under unimaginable circumstances. I have nothing but the deepest respect for the teachers and am sorry if my statements conveyed otherwise. My issue is that people do not start protesting until a school is on a turnaround/close list....after probation periods, etc. Why don't community groups and parents protest before it gets to the point of turnaround. OR better yet, not protest and try to effect change. Positive collaboration with CPS, parents and the schools can go a long way. It is sad that every year a school waits to be improved is a HUGE missed year for the students.
Whether you believe I have kids or not and post a name is really irrelevant. I know who I am and that I have kids in CPS.
Whether you believe I have kids or not and post a name is really irrelevant. I know who I am and that I have kids in CPS.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 10:24 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I am a CPS parent as well. I am also one who believes in "bitching and complaining." It's how this country was founded. As a matter of fact, I don't believe ENOUGH "bitching and complaining" has been done. It seems "protests are backwards" wants us to prescribe to the "resistance is futile" way of doing things. CPS does NOT collaborate with anyone, least of all with those in communities where they are dismantling a school. CPS calls the shots. By the time they call for a vote on school closings, etc, it is a done deal.
As highlighted by this last round of closings, etc, some school communities did not feel they were going to be closed, "turnarounded," whatever because they were improving. Several of them were doing great work, and parents in those schools were indeed working with staff to improve their schools. Still, CPS had them on the chopping block. Result: Some were STILL zonked; a couple got a reprieve...for now. This realization kind of makes a mockery of your theory, "protests are backwards."
A few questions for ya': Why is is that the solution is to close the school and turn it over to some private entity? Why doesn't CPS, if there aim is really true, work with the community, see what THEIR needs are, and then help the school achieve its goals while leaving the community, students, and staff intact? Why is it neccessary, if their goal is to truly help students presently attending the schools, to CLOSE the school, replace this or that in rather haphazard ways, and then reopen the school? And...why continue to do it when it has not been proven that these "turnarounds," revamping, whatever they're calling it today, are any more successful than the traditional schools? Also, why is it that most of the areas CPS has identified as "priority communities" have in fact not been serviced, while those communities in transition have been? Hmmmmm....
As highlighted by this last round of closings, etc, some school communities did not feel they were going to be closed, "turnarounded," whatever because they were improving. Several of them were doing great work, and parents in those schools were indeed working with staff to improve their schools. Still, CPS had them on the chopping block. Result: Some were STILL zonked; a couple got a reprieve...for now. This realization kind of makes a mockery of your theory, "protests are backwards."
A few questions for ya': Why is is that the solution is to close the school and turn it over to some private entity? Why doesn't CPS, if there aim is really true, work with the community, see what THEIR needs are, and then help the school achieve its goals while leaving the community, students, and staff intact? Why is it neccessary, if their goal is to truly help students presently attending the schools, to CLOSE the school, replace this or that in rather haphazard ways, and then reopen the school? And...why continue to do it when it has not been proven that these "turnarounds," revamping, whatever they're calling it today, are any more successful than the traditional schools? Also, why is it that most of the areas CPS has identified as "priority communities" have in fact not been serviced, while those communities in transition have been? Hmmmmm....
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 10:52 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
We need a new system for administration in schools, perhaps a online computerized version, How can a female a.p. bully teachers about dress code when she is showing her entire breast (extremely low cleavage) If we get bail out money for the schools who is going to insure transparency, at the school level? distribution of resources is already unfair, why add more money for administrators to divide with their friends, and dare the rest of us to complain? They are worst than the war lords in African hording the charity that is intended to get relief for the masses.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 11:10 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I am one of those that feel empowered when I blog and vent about the oppressive evils of the system. I find 'Healing" in reading how others have survived, better that, than to fall into a psychological term called "learned helpless" which occurs when you can find no way out of a bad, corrupted, mischievous, administrative team and union delegates. People buy into the craziness, if you speak out, people snubb or do'nt want to seen as an advocate. Again, I am sure that if there is an issue that demands, our identity we will step out of the shadows and be known, besides how do we know that people are, who they say they are? What's in a name, you may be Arene Duncan daring people to expose themselves? Why is a name so important?
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 11:15 AM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Shirley, I think your questions are great. I am not saying resistance is futile. Again, my point is that protests seem to come too late AND by that point have so much emotion involved that it works against productive outcomes. I still believe that proactive collaboration with CPS, parents and community groups can work.
It seems that everyone in the process has done what they believe is correct. Bottom line, everyone is trying to do what is best for the kids. That said, all parties need to come to the table and work things through. Every school situation is unique. But if it is not working, then something has to be done AND sometimes it is drastic change. Status quo won't do. From what I have read, the new Board President has a strength in working with local Alderman and community groups. We will see how this pans out, but this can be an opportunity to change the way things have worked in the past. Maybe I am drinking too much of the "Obama change is possible cool-aid", but I am optimistic that positive change can happen if we all focus and work together.
It seems that everyone in the process has done what they believe is correct. Bottom line, everyone is trying to do what is best for the kids. That said, all parties need to come to the table and work things through. Every school situation is unique. But if it is not working, then something has to be done AND sometimes it is drastic change. Status quo won't do. From what I have read, the new Board President has a strength in working with local Alderman and community groups. We will see how this pans out, but this can be an opportunity to change the way things have worked in the past. Maybe I am drinking too much of the "Obama change is possible cool-aid", but I am optimistic that positive change can happen if we all focus and work together.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 12:07 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Yes, it can possibly work if CPS wants to ACTUALLY collaborate, AND LISTEN. THAT IS the bottom line. We'll see what Scott does, but if memory serves, it won't be much...
Good talking with you.
Good talking with you.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 12:11 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
YES, let's hope for the best and try and help that happen. If ALL parties involved make a REAL effort, then the kids may be better off.
Good talking with you too. Have a great day.
Good talking with you too. Have a great day.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 1:42 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Due irreconcilable leadership issues and family obligations I resigned from CSDU as of Monday 23, 2009. Any statements, PR or other material attributed to me after 02/23/09 are not from me. I will continue my work for the members just not as a member of CSDU or any group for that matter.
If you have any issues that I might be able to help you with do not hesitate to email. I believe that we need to take the union and teaching in Chicago in a new direction; change is not a word for politics it is an action each individual must take responsibility for.
John Kugler
kuglerjohn@comcast.net
If you have any issues that I might be able to help you with do not hesitate to email. I believe that we need to take the union and teaching in Chicago in a new direction; change is not a word for politics it is an action each individual must take responsibility for.
John Kugler
kuglerjohn@comcast.net
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 2:56 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Re: The day you stop hiding behind your anonymous tags...
George, what is it with anonymous postings that drives you crazy? The poster is obviously not a troll. Why not just discuss the issue?
Regarding anonymity: I can only speak for myself. I chose to post anonymously for two reasons:
1) I am looking for employment and I don't want any potential employers to even consider my opinions about CPS.
2) I am trying to improve my local CPS school by being a very involved parent and I believe that I have a better chance of doing that if I don't reveal my unfiltered opinions to the school officials, teachers, and other parents. Sometimes there is power in subtlety.
In anonymous comments were not permitted, there would be fewer trolls, no doubt. But there would also be fewer honest comments.
- ChiCity Parent.
George, what is it with anonymous postings that drives you crazy? The poster is obviously not a troll. Why not just discuss the issue?
Regarding anonymity: I can only speak for myself. I chose to post anonymously for two reasons:
1) I am looking for employment and I don't want any potential employers to even consider my opinions about CPS.
2) I am trying to improve my local CPS school by being a very involved parent and I believe that I have a better chance of doing that if I don't reveal my unfiltered opinions to the school officials, teachers, and other parents. Sometimes there is power in subtlety.
In anonymous comments were not permitted, there would be fewer trolls, no doubt. But there would also be fewer honest comments.
- ChiCity Parent.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 3:16 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I agree. Sometimes it is easier to be honest when you are not afraid of the possible costs to you personally or as a parent to your child. I have seen administrators retaliate against the children of parents who have spoken out against certain practices in school buildings (especially in the area of Special Education). As a result, many parents are afraid to say anything. Blogging anonymously allows us to talk about things that are going on without fear of reprisals.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 3:25 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
It is the quality of the instruction and interaction with the students that determines the effectiveness of a teacher. Also, the layout of the classroom has an influence on the need of a teacher to sit or stand.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 3:25 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Dr. Kugler, does this resignation mean you will not take on the CTU for the racketeering in that letter where they trashed a delegate for not filing a class action grievance (that he/she could not have done)? Darn, you're one of the good guys.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 3:35 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
What do you mean,Jean?
Is he out of job or supporting Stewart now?
Is he out of job or supporting Stewart now?
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 3:57 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
I am still waiting for that letter.
No I am not supporting Stewart.
No I am not supporting Stewart.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 6:33 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
If they are going to turnaround neighborhood schools (AUSL teachers to replace the teachers), then it should be given the same circumstances. Over at Harper High, the teachers have to never set their feet into an Office Depot...what not, which in the prior year the teachers spent out of pocket (like more CPS schoolteachers do. They have so much materials.. So, it is not an equatable turnaround if they are giving these AUSL all the extras we never got. WE MUST DEMAND EQUAL TREATMENT!!!!!!
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 6:39 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Do not be so desperate,John.
In the worst case we will see you at the statewide job fair on Sat,March 07 at St.Xavier.
Be optimistic.Chicago Public Schools will ask many people to return shortly.
By the way she is going after own union members and pushing officials to fire them.
Scare and amazing at the same time.
In the worst case we will see you at the statewide job fair on Sat,March 07 at St.Xavier.
Be optimistic.Chicago Public Schools will ask many people to return shortly.
By the way she is going after own union members and pushing officials to fire them.
Scare and amazing at the same time.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 8:13 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
An anonymous commenter wrote: How can a female a.p. bully teachers about dress code when she is showing her entire breast (extremely low cleavage) If we get bail out money for the schools who is going to insure transparency, at the school level?
I'd guess that--at your school--the female AP is the ideal person to insure transparency.
I'd guess that--at your school--the female AP is the ideal person to insure transparency.
Mon Mar 2, 2009 at 8:26 PM
Thursday Morning News - Different Takes On Board Mtg.
Would you like to touch it ,Danny?Bad boy.
