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AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
I
don't want to make any overly broad generalizations but there are at
least some folks in Chicago who see arrogance and elitism from the
members of sororities like AKA who work in the Chicago Public Schools
-- many of whom are in positions of power and authority.
These comments have come out in light of the recent accusations made against one CPS official, Karen Saffold, alleging that she demanded payment from a vendor (see comments here).
How many of the top CPS bureaucrats come from one of these sororities and fraternities? Do they really act as exclusively and imperiously as some commenters say they do? I have lots of questions and not many answers. What do you know?
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Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 10:04 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Yes. Corruption is being revealed. They are way, way too powerful, and they need to be fair in their hiring practices. If you are not an AKA, you will not get into CPS or become anything important. These DELETED are all over, and they are doing their group meetings on CPS property. I hope Ron gets to know about this black sororiorty that discriminates against their own people.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 10:27 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
no profanity, personal attacks, etc. -- focus on fristhand experiences and behavior that directly affects CPS.
violaters will have their comments removed and risk being banned from the site.
-- alexander
violaters will have their comments removed and risk being banned from the site.
-- alexander
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 10:45 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
My daughter's godmother is AKA. Many of the AA teachers I've taught with are AKA. Their solidarity and support of eachother worked well in the school we worked at. I never felt excluded. It was difficult work and I was glad to know such solid people who could clue me in on how to do my job well. In my experience they are very service oriented women. Also, I am happy "Grandma ___" has strong friendships to keep her now in her widowhood and retirement. I've worked with other AA sorority sisters and they're okay too!
In a time when the Union isn't very helpful and so many AA teachers are losing their jobs, I for one am rooting for the pockets of strength that do exist.
In a time when the Union isn't very helpful and so many AA teachers are losing their jobs, I for one am rooting for the pockets of strength that do exist.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 11:41 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Alexander,
Most of the top CPS bureaucrats are white, or non-African-American, and therefore wouldn't be in an African-American sorority or fraternity such as AKA, Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha Phi Alpha, Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Phi Beta, Omega Psi Phi, Kappa Alpha Psi, etc.
However, why don't you dig deeper into the Broad Scholar, Ren 10, Teach for America, Chicago Teaching Fellows, and that most prestigious and honorable fraternity of all-- Chicago City Hall Clouts-- and just maybe you'll be on to something, instead of making this racial...
Most of the top CPS bureaucrats are white, or non-African-American, and therefore wouldn't be in an African-American sorority or fraternity such as AKA, Delta Sigma Theta, Alpha Phi Alpha, Sigma Gamma Rho, Zeta Phi Beta, Omega Psi Phi, Kappa Alpha Psi, etc.
However, why don't you dig deeper into the Broad Scholar, Ren 10, Teach for America, Chicago Teaching Fellows, and that most prestigious and honorable fraternity of all-- Chicago City Hall Clouts-- and just maybe you'll be on to something, instead of making this racial...
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 11:42 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Unfortunately, many of the members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority have been using their clout to promote their members within the Chicago Public Schools. Their clout list extends all the way to BEW. I've seen AIO's be promoted over more qualified candidates merely because of their sorority affiliation. I was told by principals and other colleagues, if you pledge AKA you would be a "shoe in" for any high ranking position within CPS. When I apply for jobs, I choose not to identify any Greek affiliation for fear that I will not be judged solely on the basis of my qualifications. I strongly believe that there are some AKAs that don’t do this, however they are in the minority. Once you are blacklisted by their members, you can rest assured that your chances of being promoted will be ruined. As a member of a Black Greek organization, it pains me to see that we are still exhibiting that Jim Crow mentality by discriminating against ourselves. Yes AKA is the oldest black sorority in America, but some how many of its members are still using some of those discriminatory policies in the name of "sisterhood" that should have died 100 years ago. It's time to make a change.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 11:52 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
In area 16, its goes back to Joyce Bristow -AIO, then the MSD was Margo Baines, the reading coach, Dawn Prather-Hawk, now principal of McKay School. They were all AKA's. The rest of the staff, Jeannine Jones, now principal of Heroes School, Kristal Reden-Thomas, now principal of Shore Shore High School School of Entreprenuership, Gale Baker, a Delta - Now principal of R. Brown Academy.
During Bristow's tenure a couple of women- both AKA's were appointed to Principalships through Bristow's influence. Noted are:
Michelle Miller - Marcus Garvey
Angela Tucker - Esmond
Also noting that all of her former staff, the women are now principals in CPS Schools and were not on the Principal's Eligibility list in 2006. They were miraculously placed on their prior to her retirement. She got all of them high paying jobs.
Fair is fair but the AKAs are running it.
Remember Audrey Cooper-Stanton- AKA, former area officer who was appointed to Chief Literacy Officer was replaced by Delena Little, former principal of Drake School, also an AKA
Its running all over. This needs to be checked out. AKA is running CPS.
During Bristow's tenure a couple of women- both AKA's were appointed to Principalships through Bristow's influence. Noted are:
Michelle Miller - Marcus Garvey
Angela Tucker - Esmond
Also noting that all of her former staff, the women are now principals in CPS Schools and were not on the Principal's Eligibility list in 2006. They were miraculously placed on their prior to her retirement. She got all of them high paying jobs.
Fair is fair but the AKAs are running it.
Remember Audrey Cooper-Stanton- AKA, former area officer who was appointed to Chief Literacy Officer was replaced by Delena Little, former principal of Drake School, also an AKA
Its running all over. This needs to be checked out. AKA is running CPS.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 1:26 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Absolutely! I have personal experience with an AKA girl who got to be an AP. When the principal retired and the LSC ignorantly made her Principal, the first thing she did was paint the office pink and green! She illegally padded the LSC with her friends so she would get a contract. She illegally diplaced teachers and notheing was done because she has AKA clout. She is still the principal of that school. This group is a cancer in the schools. It's about time someone exposed them.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 1:32 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Jeez.... I see the "crabs at the bottom of the barrel syndrome" is still in effect....
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 1:36 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
This has to be the dumbest blog that I have ever read! Are you kidding me? Why don't you focus on the real issues that are hurting CPS. If your article is to be taken seriously, how about the Latino connection, or maybe the white males in CPS who are only in position because they are white(Lach, all of Hubermans new hires) , or perhaps the minivan mom coalition, or the people with beards, maybe the tall people are taking over as well! If you lost your job, it is not because of AKAs, it is due to the new CEO cutting programs, closing schools, and hiring people from CTA. Last time I checked, he was not a an AKA!
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 1:39 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
for the record, we have discussed the white guy thing, and latinos at the board, in the past. we will again, i'm sure.
no one escapes from this blog unscathed :-)
-- alexander
no one escapes from this blog unscathed :-)
-- alexander
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 2:07 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Can we focus on children not being able to read at 18? What about a system where children graduated from 8th grade at 5th and 6th grade levels? How petty are we that, in a teacher shortage, we focus on an organization of college educated women who are qualified to do the job? Noone thinks its ironic that CPS jobs are going to greeks when they are trained leaders from undergraduate? Its not a coincidence that you go to college, get a degree and get a job...Really? How ridculous is this?
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 2:23 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Ann Ellen Jane Beth Little
I wish some one would explain the difference between human nature
and racism so I can understand . This blog hits home in many ways.
AKA has been around forever, there are other Black sororities in
Existence. Over the years I have worked with tons of Black Greek women.
The vast majority are just like everyone else, to single out one group
seems to be very petty.
In human nature we all live work and hold dear our friends. When
favor time comes around just who do you think we are going to Help?
Is it racist to help some one just because we are of the same race?
What about religion, or sex, or nationality. Sure, I know women picked out and
promoted because of their affiliation with AKA.I also knew other women
who were not treated fairly because of all that Greek stuff. But that is the exception,
not the rule.
I once went to the wedding of a fellow teacher and took a picture of six
teachers sitting on a couch. All of them were named Mary. But not one
had the same last name.
I wish some one would explain the difference between human nature
and racism so I can understand . This blog hits home in many ways.
AKA has been around forever, there are other Black sororities in
Existence. Over the years I have worked with tons of Black Greek women.
The vast majority are just like everyone else, to single out one group
seems to be very petty.
In human nature we all live work and hold dear our friends. When
favor time comes around just who do you think we are going to Help?
Is it racist to help some one just because we are of the same race?
What about religion, or sex, or nationality. Sure, I know women picked out and
promoted because of their affiliation with AKA.I also knew other women
who were not treated fairly because of all that Greek stuff. But that is the exception,
not the rule.
I once went to the wedding of a fellow teacher and took a picture of six
teachers sitting on a couch. All of them were named Mary. But not one
had the same last name.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 2:33 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
I can attest to the power of sororities firsthand. At my school a new principal hired sorority sisters for key positions (without interviewing or considering non-sisters). They then formed a coffee klatch and did zero work. A disgrace.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 2:55 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
I agree with educator 100%. Unfortunately, people are making hiring decisions based on the AKA clout list. This definitely has an impact on children. How can a school leader be allowed to underperform in school or area without any reprimand? What about the failing principal (AKA)who was promoted as the Launch director in charge of new principals? This practice is unethical and needs to be investigated.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 3:25 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Let us not divert the focus on WHY CPS is dysfunctional!!! Please!!!Daley and his business cronies are too blame. It is common knowledge that Daley hires "Yes" men and woman who do Daley's bidding. The whole charter school thing is a side show. If CPS was competent, there would be system and process of true school reform that would provide the flexibility and support for turning schools around. Daley wants to hire the cheapest labor out there. He cheats our children.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 3:39 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Oh I am so happy someone brought this up! I have first hand witnessed this and have been disgusted by the actions of these members. Walk into Nash school and the principal Dr.Dunbar is a member of AKA along with many of the teachers, the reading specialist, the asst. principal and so forth. I felt so out of place working there over the years and I am African American. Dr.Dunbar hired pple just because they were AKA. Her office all decked out in pink and green. Other schools are just as guilty. My friend works at West Park and says the princple there is also a member who gives special perks to other staff members who are AKAs. The principal of McKay is an AKA. Joyce Bristow now an AIO. Come on and wake up. In fact the person who I believe started the special education program in CPS Dr. Carol was an AKA. Why does this hurt CPS? Because these people hire and give priority to other AKA members vs hiring quality teachers. AKA comes first. I have never seen so many pink and green offices. You ask why children cant read, write, spell in 4th grade? AKA is 100% partially to blame. I would love for CPS to do a survey and see how many people are in AKA , what positions they hold and at what schools. The numbers will be shocking. Then compare scores to schools that were closed down close by and ask yourself why that school was closed down when the school with the AKA principal had lower scores. No one can tell me AKA does not play a role! AFter 15 yrs of teaching I have seen the best of it.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 4:26 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
'Joyce Bristow now an AIO.' --no longer, but she took care of here sista who is now accused of taking bribes--Saffold. *As well as many others.) Nothing wrong with a sorority, but girl have these ladies created a stranglehold. When vallas came in, he learned that that there were 2 AA sororities and made sure that Cozette was from one and Blondean was from the other to make peace. One of his own chiefs stated that there was something about black women that could persuade Vallas as to whatever they asked for. Pat Harvey (soror) got rid of an employee who wrote for Substance because he reported that she used poverty funds to buy new furniture with Margo Baines and 'charged' workers in her office $75 EACH for a bitrhday gift for her. ALL got there or get there due to clear soror connections. There are some school where they all work hard and use the connection as a deep friendship and sisterhood, buit there are others who use it as an easy job to just sit all day and not work. The problem with this is if the employee who is AKA is a ppor one, they are pretected instead of told to step out of you will be out.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 5:59 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Whenever white folks start out by saying, "I don't want to make any overly broad generalizations but..." you can usually guess what's coming. Alexander, are their any white frats or sororities you're worried about? Or is it just AKA?
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 6:29 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Be assured you that if there were any white sororities having the powerhold, even remotel,y that AKA does on CPS, it would be on the front page of the defender and suntimes.
Plus, the push from the CPS AKA sistership hurts black men too!
There is no white sorority rooted in CPS--sorry.
Plus, the push from the CPS AKA sistership hurts black men too!
There is no white sorority rooted in CPS--sorry.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 6:40 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
who paid for all that paint and who payed to have the rooms painted? (And were the painters union painters....)
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 6:43 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
too bad that special ed consultant was not in AKA-a sistah would not have dissed another sistah over a man or a contract or would have asked for a bribe from another sistah.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 7:16 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
' for the record, we have discussed the white guy thing, and latinos at the board, in the past. we will again, i'm sure'...
What Latinos at the Board? We are 40+ percent of the student population, but the Board is only 13%; in Central Office, the number is even lower, with Hispanic clerks and secretaries rountinely identified by the CEO as 'administrators' in order to cover up how damning the numbers are...
I don't think it is AKA as an organization, it is the way it is used in Chicago education circles with adherents acting like gang kingpins wanting their rings kissed and trying to use membership to game the system.
For many years the self-hating prejudicial behaviors surrounded the 'paper bag' racism practiced in CPS leadership circles.
How sad that this is the highest the conversation has been able to be lifted.
And shame on you, Alexander, for yet again race-baiting in order to call attention to your site. Your mean-spirited comments about your rivals do not escape our notice and it is very clear that this blog means more to you for it's ability to attract sensationalist attention rather than an intelligent exchange of ideas. In a city so bereft of journalists with sufficient smarts or chops to untangle the Board's dissembling, why you would divert and corrupt the conversation in this way is beyond disappointing.
What Latinos at the Board? We are 40+ percent of the student population, but the Board is only 13%; in Central Office, the number is even lower, with Hispanic clerks and secretaries rountinely identified by the CEO as 'administrators' in order to cover up how damning the numbers are...
I don't think it is AKA as an organization, it is the way it is used in Chicago education circles with adherents acting like gang kingpins wanting their rings kissed and trying to use membership to game the system.
For many years the self-hating prejudicial behaviors surrounded the 'paper bag' racism practiced in CPS leadership circles.
How sad that this is the highest the conversation has been able to be lifted.
And shame on you, Alexander, for yet again race-baiting in order to call attention to your site. Your mean-spirited comments about your rivals do not escape our notice and it is very clear that this blog means more to you for it's ability to attract sensationalist attention rather than an intelligent exchange of ideas. In a city so bereft of journalists with sufficient smarts or chops to untangle the Board's dissembling, why you would divert and corrupt the conversation in this way is beyond disappointing.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 7:26 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
--UNO---UNO--UNO there is the clout and $ for the latinos! (UNO has already hurt those latinas in the neighborhood schools BTW)
And there are aios/caos who are latinos as well, head of OEAS, how many in as well as the Head of language/culture (for how many years now on both of these departments btw) latino principals and APs, There are latinos on the Board, in CPS law and the head of lsc is latino, budget=pedro and in the research depatment--so please, don't say latinos are not represented--Daley would not allow that.
And there are aios/caos who are latinos as well, head of OEAS, how many in as well as the Head of language/culture (for how many years now on both of these departments btw) latino principals and APs, There are latinos on the Board, in CPS law and the head of lsc is latino, budget=pedro and in the research depatment--so please, don't say latinos are not represented--Daley would not allow that.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 8:02 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
so in that there is a person who was white (Italian) but pretended to hispanic so he could get a principals job--and he got one. many white and AA teachers are loosing their jobs because they are NOT bilingual Spanish. So please, wake up.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 8:06 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
UNO is out for number UNO; that is Juan Rangel and nobody else. Dollars he steals benefit no one in the latino community, especially hispanic children. He is a vendor, not an employee,and his tactics and phony charters do nothing but suck up union jobs and further weaken CTU. NO ONE in the Hispanic community considers him the leader of anything.
Go back and do your counts on the positions you brought up. Just because the sight of two board members and a handful of hispanic APs rubs you the wrong way doesn't mean they are anywhere in the ballpark of appropriate representation. As for Daley, when the AA community protested the lack of AA representation, the numbers started to go up, and now they reflect the actual percentage and more. You are crazy if you think your crackpot view will keep me quiet about this inequity.
Rangel is a user just like those opportunists who happen to be members of local AKA and have decided to turn it into their private version of the exclusiive white country club.
Go back and do your counts on the positions you brought up. Just because the sight of two board members and a handful of hispanic APs rubs you the wrong way doesn't mean they are anywhere in the ballpark of appropriate representation. As for Daley, when the AA community protested the lack of AA representation, the numbers started to go up, and now they reflect the actual percentage and more. You are crazy if you think your crackpot view will keep me quiet about this inequity.
Rangel is a user just like those opportunists who happen to be members of local AKA and have decided to turn it into their private version of the exclusiive white country club.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 8:24 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
allows rangel and so too does Solis. So you are right about UNO, but why does this community allow him? Why send their children to his schools? Now, look at the new building on 47th. One day, it will be named after him. Sorry, it is not a handful of latinos at CPS--you did not really read my response, and have you not heard about the lawsuit regarding AA teachers? The bottom line really is at CPS: if you have friends, you are taken care of--it is called clout. And rangel has it--not the whites or AA fault that he is taking it away from the latino community--he would argue that he is supporting the latino community by getting a bigger slice of the pie. Just by the sheer numbers of UNO schools-like rabbits, he wields big power and the latino community allows it... and patronizes it.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 8:27 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Keller Gifter: another well connected principalship line--what sorority is at that school? they have assured that AA women are and have been the only principals for quite a long time.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 9:07 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
I WORKED FOR CPS IN MANY CAPACITIES SINCE 1984 .JUST TO SHOW YOU HOW THE aka CONNECTION CAN RUIN A TEACHERS LIFE. IN 2007 I SENT AN E-MAIL TO BEW ABOUT MATH AND SCIENCE LEAD TEACHERS WHO WERE PLACED IN LEAD TEACHER POSITIONS WITHOUT CERTIFICATION. iI SIMPLY ASKED THE AKA CEO IF TEACHERS WITH CERTIFICATION COULD RECEIVE PRIORITY OVER THOSE WITH NONE SINCE BEING IN THE POSITION NON ENDORSED WAS A VIOLATION OF NCLB. I THOUGHT I WAS DOING HER A FAVOR. HOWEVER SHE SENT THE ENTIRE EMAIL TO HER AKA SOROR AIO. AN INTERNAL INVESTIGATION WAS LAUNCHED .WHEN I RETURNED TO WORK I WAS PHYSICALLY ASSAULTED BY THE NEW PRINCIPAL aka ? . I WENT TI ANOTHER SCHOOL AND WAS BLACKBALLED THERE. I HAD TO MOVE TO SCHOOL 3 WHERE THE PRINCIPAL IS FRIENDLY WITH SORORS (IF NOT ONE). i NEED A LAWYER IS ANYONE OUT THERE THAT CAN TAKE THIS CASE?
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 9:21 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
you took a risk writing this on here since BEW is still alive at central office. You could go to the CTU--but so what. Yes, get a lawyer NOW--becasue now she and the aka WILL retaliate against you since BEW can figure out who you are.
Can anyone recommend a GREAT lawyer who knows CPS well and can fight for this teacher?
Can anyone recommend a GREAT lawyer who knows CPS well and can fight for this teacher?
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 9:43 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
I can't believe adults are still wrapped up in what sorority they pledged in college. Among whites, that behavior would be considered very juvenile. If the repercussions weren't so devastating for those involved, this would be hliarious.
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 10:24 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
I think this is a disgrace to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. We do not run CPS. People need to get there facts straight. I hope that the Sorors you named sue the person who started this terrible rumor. They have nothing to do with this. Ms. Saffold is a very intelligent woman and would never do what she has been accused of. Lets talk about the real issue Ron Huberman and all the people he has fired .
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 10:59 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
lISTEN YOU'D BETTER GET ONE NOW.
I HAVE THE DOCUMENTS TO PROVE MY CASE. THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT! I AM TIRED OF BULLIES LIKE YOU AND YOUR SOROR SISTERS. THIS IS PRECISELY THE MENTALITY THAT NEEDS TO BE PURGED. I KNOW YOU DON'T KNOW THIS BUT THIS IS AMERICA AND WE DO HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH. AS YOU NOTICED I WASN'T AFRAID TO TELL THE TRUTH! I GUESS I'M SUPPOSED TO BE SO SO SCARED. WHAT WILL YOU AKA DO NOW SHAKE ME DOWN!!!
I HAVE THE DOCUMENTS TO PROVE MY CASE. THE TRUTH IS THE LIGHT! I AM TIRED OF BULLIES LIKE YOU AND YOUR SOROR SISTERS. THIS IS PRECISELY THE MENTALITY THAT NEEDS TO BE PURGED. I KNOW YOU DON'T KNOW THIS BUT THIS IS AMERICA AND WE DO HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH. AS YOU NOTICED I WASN'T AFRAID TO TELL THE TRUTH! I GUESS I'M SUPPOSED TO BE SO SO SCARED. WHAT WILL YOU AKA DO NOW SHAKE ME DOWN!!!
Tue Jul 28, 2009 at 11:27 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
OH, I FORGOT TO MENTION THIS, YOU BETTER GET ONE!
IS THIS AN AKA THREAT? SOUNDS FAMILIAR. DIDN'T PHYLIS PORTER SAY THAT WHEN SHE DIDN'T PAY TO PLAY HER CONTRACTS WERE CANCELED.I'M JUST WONDERING IF THIS INTIMIDATION IS PART OF THE HAZING PROCESS!
IS THIS AN AKA THREAT? SOUNDS FAMILIAR. DIDN'T PHYLIS PORTER SAY THAT WHEN SHE DIDN'T PAY TO PLAY HER CONTRACTS WERE CANCELED.I'M JUST WONDERING IF THIS INTIMIDATION IS PART OF THE HAZING PROCESS!
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 12:26 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
This is disgraceful but so true. Unfortunately over the years the AKA sorority has done a lot of good, We all know that. However,The conduct of the members of this sorority is extremely questionable. The AKA's have made many enemies because of the discriminating practices in regards to other African American women who are not sorority affiliated. This is so sad because many of theses non-sorority women are the first in their families to attend college. Generally African American women in the AKA sororities have parents who are more affluent. I have seen many single parent working mothers fall prey to this AKA madness. This has hurt the community in ways that I cannot tell you. My own brother attended Bradley University on a full academic scholarship! He did not graduate because he tried to pledge Alpha Kappa? He was hazed so violently he had a breakdown and has never been the same. This was my mothers only son. My mother died of a broken heart! I remember my brother telling me how they would ask him Q, What does your father do for a living? They thought it was funny that his dad was a laborer when their fathers were doctors and lawyers. When hazing him they subjected him to humiliating experiences that broke his spirit. My beautiful brother has never been able to work. Can we all grow up and act like professionals? Maybe this will be the start of a new direction in the community. Maybe the AKA's will see themselves as we all see them!
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 12:32 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
spike lee's great movie--worth a watch for all you akas--hope you get where he is coming from wake up!
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 3:33 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Back when we were first beginning to publish Substance, one of the groups of Chicago teachers that had measurable clout consisted of Roman Catholics (I think they were all men, by the way). I've actually forgotten the name, but in the days prior to the 1988 school reforms, these people's clout included Guy D. Brunetti (Deputy Supt. for Employee Relations) and Ray Principe (Director of Personnel). In those days, the AKAs existed, but were wannabes.
There were dozens of others, different groups that had extreme influence over key CPS hiring decisions. All of them could have been debated.
This summer, though, the debate should be about the newest fraternity, the CTAs.
After the recent orgy of administrative hirings by Ron Huberman, it's clear that the best clout is to have an MBA (from just about anywhere) and/or a "CTA" (i.e., you once worked at the Chicago Transit Authority).
As CORE has documented, during the Duncan years, CPS eliminated the jobs of about 2,000 African American teachers. This was done by declaring schools (virtually all in the ghetto) as "underperforming," then closing them and reconstituting them (aka, "turnarounding") with a new staff. That went on at its heaviest between 2003 and 2009 (the latest Hit List, and the five 2009 "turnarounds" which are in effect right now).
So my question is: If AKA had so much power at CPS, why were Arne Duncan and Ron Huberman able to get away with reconstituting more than 50 schools (in one form or another), in most cases privatizing them (into charters which cherry pick their students). "Turnaround" is only one piece of that huge attack on teachers, especially African American teachers.
Then we get to the past eight weeks. Ron Huberman has purged dozens of administrators who had experience in the schools -- from classroom through principal's office into central administration. It's almost as if he had a new Hit List, this one consisting of anyone left at the "top" who actually knew what a school actually worked like. And, as of today, Huberman has gotten away with replacing those people with a couple of million dollars worth of newly minted CPS Overlords who have (a) no educational experience, (b) no teacher or classroom teaching experience, and (c) an enormous arrogance that combines with enormous power over every classroom in Chicago.
The names of these people? Half were brought in from the outside: Kremsner, Case, Bond, Shields, etc., etc., etc. The other half were moved around inside (many of them like Huberman without any teaching experience): Runcie, etc.
And then, of course, the ubiquitous Greg Minniefield.
I'm going to continue following this thread, but can't imagine having anything more to say to it. It is almost as if this obsession with the AKAs and all those green and pink offices were a way of (once again) distracting attention from the fact that since Arne Duncan took power at CPS, the Daley administration has been purging black teachers at an unprecedented rate and filling patronage jobs all the way to the top with people who would be laughed out of the office if they tried to get jobs at any other school district in Illinois.
"What did you say your qualifications are?"
"I was an executive assistant chief of chiefs of staff at the Chicago Transit Authority..."
"And you want to be hired as a schools superintendent here in Wilmettkadeefield to tell our teachers and principals how to educate our affluent and usually white children?"
"Yes."
"You've got to be kidding!"
"Don't talk to me like that! I'm a Big Shot from Chicago!"
"You spelled it wrong... Officer, take this little sh_t out of here... Now!"
There were dozens of others, different groups that had extreme influence over key CPS hiring decisions. All of them could have been debated.
This summer, though, the debate should be about the newest fraternity, the CTAs.
After the recent orgy of administrative hirings by Ron Huberman, it's clear that the best clout is to have an MBA (from just about anywhere) and/or a "CTA" (i.e., you once worked at the Chicago Transit Authority).
As CORE has documented, during the Duncan years, CPS eliminated the jobs of about 2,000 African American teachers. This was done by declaring schools (virtually all in the ghetto) as "underperforming," then closing them and reconstituting them (aka, "turnarounding") with a new staff. That went on at its heaviest between 2003 and 2009 (the latest Hit List, and the five 2009 "turnarounds" which are in effect right now).
So my question is: If AKA had so much power at CPS, why were Arne Duncan and Ron Huberman able to get away with reconstituting more than 50 schools (in one form or another), in most cases privatizing them (into charters which cherry pick their students). "Turnaround" is only one piece of that huge attack on teachers, especially African American teachers.
Then we get to the past eight weeks. Ron Huberman has purged dozens of administrators who had experience in the schools -- from classroom through principal's office into central administration. It's almost as if he had a new Hit List, this one consisting of anyone left at the "top" who actually knew what a school actually worked like. And, as of today, Huberman has gotten away with replacing those people with a couple of million dollars worth of newly minted CPS Overlords who have (a) no educational experience, (b) no teacher or classroom teaching experience, and (c) an enormous arrogance that combines with enormous power over every classroom in Chicago.
The names of these people? Half were brought in from the outside: Kremsner, Case, Bond, Shields, etc., etc., etc. The other half were moved around inside (many of them like Huberman without any teaching experience): Runcie, etc.
And then, of course, the ubiquitous Greg Minniefield.
I'm going to continue following this thread, but can't imagine having anything more to say to it. It is almost as if this obsession with the AKAs and all those green and pink offices were a way of (once again) distracting attention from the fact that since Arne Duncan took power at CPS, the Daley administration has been purging black teachers at an unprecedented rate and filling patronage jobs all the way to the top with people who would be laughed out of the office if they tried to get jobs at any other school district in Illinois.
"What did you say your qualifications are?"
"I was an executive assistant chief of chiefs of staff at the Chicago Transit Authority..."
"And you want to be hired as a schools superintendent here in Wilmettkadeefield to tell our teachers and principals how to educate our affluent and usually white children?"
"Yes."
"You've got to be kidding!"
"Don't talk to me like that! I'm a Big Shot from Chicago!"
"You spelled it wrong... Officer, take this little sh_t out of here... Now!"
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 7:02 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Scoop
Alexander, way to go, you scooped the Sun Times on AKA.
By now many of us have read the Sun Times story in today’s paper.
Is this a coincidence? I think that some body down town is mad at AKA
Because of jealousy .
Alexander, way to go, you scooped the Sun Times on AKA.
By now many of us have read the Sun Times story in today’s paper.
Is this a coincidence? I think that some body down town is mad at AKA
Because of jealousy .
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 7:19 AM
re george schmidt and aka
George is right that there was a time when Catholics (especially Irish) ran CPS (up to/incl Joe Hannon). Their were two organizations--the Aquin Guild (still exists) and another for administrators only (forget the name). George is wrong to essentially let AKA off the hook with his twisted logic that, if they were in charge, why the closing of schools? Duh, BEW is AKA and she's been on board with closing schools all along. His argument is silly (RMD-type silly). Lastly, it strikes me as almost comical that George is now lamenting the loss of educators at central office. This is the same guy, who through his efforts to list those making $100k or more, and his writing of relentless articles about the incompetence of administrators over the years, has helped create the impression that anyone other than an educator can do the job better. He has also contributed to the turmoil in CTU, which, in effect, is the reason why schools are closed so easily and without resistance. Look in the mirror, Mr. Substance, if you want to see someone who has been very helpful to Scott, AD, and now, RH.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 7:50 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
'AKAs say president spent $900,000 on it, lavished $400,000 on herself.'
Why wouldn't bribes be taken and big $ jobs be given in CPS and city positions by and to AKA? Look at what they have to pay to be a stay a member! But they get that money back--now I understand why they feel that they do not have to work once they get in---OIC
Why wouldn't bribes be taken and big $ jobs be given in CPS and city positions by and to AKA? Look at what they have to pay to be a stay a member! But they get that money back--now I understand why they feel that they do not have to work once they get in---OIC
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 7:54 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Second jg's response to Schmidt who, while right on the AKA (non)issue, over the years, has been the loudest defender of educational status quo in Chicago.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 7:57 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
in all those years? --now if it was a white only sorority in 2009, that group would be jumped on. sad about those 2 students' deaths with aka hazing. shame these ladies allow this to go on.
I can now smell how deep the do-do is in CPS and now the city itself. OIC
I can now smell how deep the do-do is in CPS and now the city itself. OIC
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 8:27 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
George's comments are correct. The real problem is the firing that Huberman, and Duncan have done. This has been devastating to The African American community. Let's not loose sight of the real issue. However George, no one ever said that the AKA's are all powerful. Of course they haven't made it to the big time. The problem is the black on black discrimination. It's shameful! These women only attack other African American females. Usually women who don't make the big salaries. As the young lady said," they will get you "and many have been gotten by the AKA power. I can send you a list. They will tell you the horror stories. For a race of people who have suffered sooooo much. This is the last frontier. We must do everything we can to rid ourselves of this ridiculous practice. We nee Unity in our community so we can all survive. A house divided will not stand.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 8:45 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
the BEW is there too--to just say it is RH or AD...BEW could have gone to the mayor and shared with him--there was a time when she WAS the big time--now it is only for the $--she can retire last last year with full pensiona and money back! She has profited well and could have taken the sistahs to let's say a Sherman or Harvard herself and gotten AKA teachers to turn it around, but instead--off with their heads.
AND note, AKA brings their clout and wrath on white and latino employees too.
AND note, AKA brings their clout and wrath on white and latino employees too.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 8:55 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
such a sin--didn't an older AA man just fall down an elevator shaft and die==AKA just shafted all the poor and high majority AA in city housing. And she had a $45000 wax figure made of her. AKA has a few more ks in their name and it is finally to light. Just that they do it in the name of sistahood, just you cannot be a sistah from the hood.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 11:06 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Are you kidding me? - Let's think logically people. First of all, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority is an organization for College Educated Women. The majority of the CPS employees being cited in this Blog attended college at a time when there were very few career choices for women of color. One of the 2 or 3 fields available was education. . . within that college population, many Black women still experienced racial discrimination and sought refuge and support through the sisterhood offered by sorority membership. Chicago is the home to Beta Chapter, the second chapter of the organization - many of it's founding members being educators . . . . If you further extrapolate this line of progression, you'd realize that these women influenced not only their daughters, but many of their female students as well . . . so why wouldn't you expect to see them emulated. . . why wouldn't their students major in education, join a Black Greek Letter Organization, and pursue employment with CPS?
Consider that it is not a matter of preferential treatment or discrimination, but one of a legacy of excellence. . . . One of a destiny fufilled. . . .
Yes, many CPS employees are undoubtedly members of various sororities and fraternities, but why are the actions of individuals being unfairly linked to their Pan-Hellenic affiliations?
Let's not be our own worst enemy . . . .
Consider that it is not a matter of preferential treatment or discrimination, but one of a legacy of excellence. . . . One of a destiny fufilled. . . .
Yes, many CPS employees are undoubtedly members of various sororities and fraternities, but why are the actions of individuals being unfairly linked to their Pan-Hellenic affiliations?
Let's not be our own worst enemy . . . .
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 11:17 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
This blog has just crossed over from the sublime to the ridiculous. There are real issues to be discussed and this is not one of them.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 1:03 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
This is terrible and embarrising! The AKA's should be ashamed of themselves. How dare they try to misuse and abuse their power! All of this foolisness and the students are still struggling to read and write. I have been hearing about the patronage from the AKA's for years. Ms. Bristow and Ms. Saffold....remember what you put out, you are sure to get BACK!!!!! Just think about all the families the two of you have distroyed, and I'm sure both of you are saying to yourselves...Why is this happenning to ME????? It's called "What Goes Around Come Around!"
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 2:23 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Wow. These are some interesting comments. I am an educator though not in the City. I grew up there though and my mom was a CPS teacher for 20 years. There are several interesting aspects going on. First of all, I have been a member of Delta Sigma Theta for 20 years. I could see these same issues arising because some people are making asinine comments so to all of the law-abiding, service-providing, wonderful AKA educators out there--sorry you have to endure this. Secondly, a comment was made about the sorority stuff being perceived as juvenile by whites. The historical comment laid it out for you. Black fraternities and sororities were founded on very different principles than white ones (my mother is white and in a white sorority from Northwestern U). Ours were founded mostly out of necessity as well as service, academics, and fellowship. Our members continue to be actively involved throughout their lifetime in their communities and internationally. Thirdly, nepotism is alive and well. It's also human nature to a degree. If it has gotten out of hand, that is a shame. Like others have said, CPS has ALOT they need to clean up but we really should be careful about pointing fingers and naming names. It can get dangerous. I also think the comment was correct about AKAs influencing younger generations as educators. Many older Deltas are educators as well. I just hope it wasn't done at the expense of the children. At the same time, I am not discounting people's personal experiences nor should you. If they were blackballed in a school, bullied, forced away--it probably happened but I hope the blame is placed on that one individual instead of an entire sorority. And I thought MY school district was having problems!!
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 4:28 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
is it true that saffold had herself included in the mural of famous AA people on the mural at her old school?
someone please take a picture.
someone please take a picture.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 4:31 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
This has gone far enough, the name calling and putting people's names on this blog that have done nothing wrong is outrageous. We are missing the point , we should be concerned about our jobs and our pay and what Ron Huberman is doing to the Chicago Public Schools. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. has nothing to do with the school system, and every AKA does not have a cushion job, some of us are classroom teachers. So how can you say we are running the board. The person we need to be angry with is Mayor Daley. He is the one who is putting all of these nonqualified people in CPS. No one has said anything about the new AIO's who only need a bachelors degree to hold this position. So people think about what you are saying and leave my sister's alone we have done nothing. We are only trying to make a living just like everyone else, and to the person who started this and you know who you are, YOU NEED TO GROW UP AND BE A REAL BLACK WOMAN AND STOP TAKING YOUR FRUSTRATIONS OUT ON Alpha Kappa Alpha women.
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 10:32 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
President of black sorority Alpha Kappa Alpha sued by members over funds, including $900,000 wax statue
http://www.suntimes.com/business/1690163,CST-NWS-aka29.article
July 29, 2009
BY CHERYL V. JACKSON Staff Reporter/cjackson@suntimes.com
Members of a prominent Chicago-based sorority are suing to oust their national president -- former Chicago Housing Authority comptroller Barbara McKinzie -- saying she misappropriated funds and commissioned a $900,000 wax figure of herself.
She also is accused of taking nearly $400,000 for personal expenses and arranging for a $4,000 monthly stipend to be paid to herself after she leaves office.
Among the allegations:
• AKA directors violated the group's rules when they approved a four-year "pension stipend" for a total of nearly $192,000. They also purchased a $1 million life insurance policy for McKinzie.
• McKinzie used the group's American Express card to buy designer clothing, lingerie and jewelry, then redeemed points racked up on the card to get a 46-inch HDTV, gym equipment and other items for personal use.
• The president started a campaign to raise $100 million for an endowment fund to be run by her management firm -- BMC Associates.
continued
http://www.suntimes.com/business/1690163,CST-NWS-aka29.article
http://www.suntimes.com/business/1690163,CST-NWS-aka29.article
July 29, 2009
BY CHERYL V. JACKSON Staff Reporter/cjackson@suntimes.com
Members of a prominent Chicago-based sorority are suing to oust their national president -- former Chicago Housing Authority comptroller Barbara McKinzie -- saying she misappropriated funds and commissioned a $900,000 wax figure of herself.
She also is accused of taking nearly $400,000 for personal expenses and arranging for a $4,000 monthly stipend to be paid to herself after she leaves office.
Among the allegations:
• AKA directors violated the group's rules when they approved a four-year "pension stipend" for a total of nearly $192,000. They also purchased a $1 million life insurance policy for McKinzie.
• McKinzie used the group's American Express card to buy designer clothing, lingerie and jewelry, then redeemed points racked up on the card to get a 46-inch HDTV, gym equipment and other items for personal use.
• The president started a campaign to raise $100 million for an endowment fund to be run by her management firm -- BMC Associates.
continued
http://www.suntimes.com/business/1690163,CST-NWS-aka29.article
Wed Jul 29, 2009 at 11:06 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
is it true that saffold had herself included in the mural of famous AA people on the mural at her old school?
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 2:00 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
the latino community does not 'allow' UNO anything. CPS has kept children in Hispanic neighborhoods in disgracefully overcrowded schools for decades now. The southwest side was promised four high schools by Duncan, who had a photo-op ground-breaking ceremony, then shelved the project. The issue was only kept alive because neighborhood mothers held fasts and vigils to protest the lack of high school opportunities for their children. The 'four' schools were finally built. They are all in the same building.
The elementary situation is more dire. Little to no preschool is available because the prinicpals cannot spare the space. Many schools gave up their auditoriums, libraries, clinical spaces, etc. long ago to address the overcrowding. When I was a child, we had only a handful of books of our own, and no neighborhood library. What do you think becomes of children who can't even access literature in school? The board has STOLEN money for years for preschool from thestate; they go to the principal and offer them 50K for a teacher salary and nothing else. Cottone and Bowman have studiously ignored the fact that there is no physical space left for classrooms, shrug and then keep the money. They tell Duncan that Hispanic parents 'don't seem to want to send their children to pre-school'. The only classrooms they open are miles away, in remote storefronts away from siblings, or held on a 'third shift'..
When you squeeze and squeeze, and grind down the facilities in this way, then pay an unscrupulous person Rangel millions to build or renovate what looks like Disney World in comparison, what do you think parents are going to do? Rangel names his building for local heroes, hoping to aquire their cachet for himself, but produces a school environment that doesn't even aspire to mediocre. His schools practice rote robot memorization, and few of the teachers know how to transition English Language learners.
The elementary situation is more dire. Little to no preschool is available because the prinicpals cannot spare the space. Many schools gave up their auditoriums, libraries, clinical spaces, etc. long ago to address the overcrowding. When I was a child, we had only a handful of books of our own, and no neighborhood library. What do you think becomes of children who can't even access literature in school? The board has STOLEN money for years for preschool from thestate; they go to the principal and offer them 50K for a teacher salary and nothing else. Cottone and Bowman have studiously ignored the fact that there is no physical space left for classrooms, shrug and then keep the money. They tell Duncan that Hispanic parents 'don't seem to want to send their children to pre-school'. The only classrooms they open are miles away, in remote storefronts away from siblings, or held on a 'third shift'..
When you squeeze and squeeze, and grind down the facilities in this way, then pay an unscrupulous person Rangel millions to build or renovate what looks like Disney World in comparison, what do you think parents are going to do? Rangel names his building for local heroes, hoping to aquire their cachet for himself, but produces a school environment that doesn't even aspire to mediocre. His schools practice rote robot memorization, and few of the teachers know how to transition English Language learners.
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 2:58 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
I'm glad the huffing and puffing about AKA is slowing down and that someone has noticed the elephant in the pup ten on Chicago's vast south side -- UNO, not AKA.
How about a thread dealing with UNO's privatization scams, starting with the way in which Duncan, over a four-year period of time, sabotaged the overcrowded schools across the "Southwest Side" and then helped push everyone into the UNO charter schools while helping UNO proclaim that those charter schools were being built to "relieve overcrowding"?
Ending with Governor Quinn providing UNO with almost $100 million in capital development money to build privatized non-union charter schools at a time when the entire area was desperately in need of real public schools, not sham schools under the UNO trademark! This AKA flap was interesting at first, but wound up almost like what used to be called a cat fight. It's certainly an interesting distraction from the rest of the world.
How about a thread dealing with UNO's privatization scams, starting with the way in which Duncan, over a four-year period of time, sabotaged the overcrowded schools across the "Southwest Side" and then helped push everyone into the UNO charter schools while helping UNO proclaim that those charter schools were being built to "relieve overcrowding"?
Ending with Governor Quinn providing UNO with almost $100 million in capital development money to build privatized non-union charter schools at a time when the entire area was desperately in need of real public schools, not sham schools under the UNO trademark! This AKA flap was interesting at first, but wound up almost like what used to be called a cat fight. It's certainly an interesting distraction from the rest of the world.
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 6:40 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
for those of you who are wondering if a mural of Dr. Karen Saffold is really painted on the walls of her old school, Vanderpoel, let me tell you, YES IT IS! i saw it myself there not that long ago!
There is this HUGE mural with other internationally famous black people on it. There, at eye level, so everyone can see her, is a hand painted image of Dr. Saffold, just as large as the other celebrities who are known around the WORLD! It's like Dr. Karen Saffold invented something or cured cancer. NOT!
The picture is in color and shows a bust of her and is life-sized!
(talk about ego!)
As I recall, the mural was painted by, (i think) local artist Melvin King, of Chicago. he has a lot of work in other chicago public schools. they are usually his framed prints, which can cost between $70 - $300. But mural work costs thousands. But King's work is good and is known around the country. he has been around, as an artist, for at least 25 years.
i bet a mural this size that seems to have been painted directly on the wall cost Vanderpoel/CPS at least $10,000 or more, especially if painted by an artist of Melvin King's noteriety.
Ms. Saffold wants to be worshiped by everyone. But I think that mural painted directly on the wall and probably purchased with Chicago Public School vendor funds (since she doesn't like to come out of her own pocket for anything) went too far. I just shook my head when I saw it.
But someone better get over there and take a picture of it quickly, because i have a feeling that it will be disapearing soon or covered up.
(Dr. Saffold, what goes around is eventually coming around. I'm just glad that i didn't have to wait to long to see it!)
and Ms. Porter, YOU GO GIRL! good luck with your law suit. you deserve it.
There is this HUGE mural with other internationally famous black people on it. There, at eye level, so everyone can see her, is a hand painted image of Dr. Saffold, just as large as the other celebrities who are known around the WORLD! It's like Dr. Karen Saffold invented something or cured cancer. NOT!
The picture is in color and shows a bust of her and is life-sized!
(talk about ego!)
As I recall, the mural was painted by, (i think) local artist Melvin King, of Chicago. he has a lot of work in other chicago public schools. they are usually his framed prints, which can cost between $70 - $300. But mural work costs thousands. But King's work is good and is known around the country. he has been around, as an artist, for at least 25 years.
i bet a mural this size that seems to have been painted directly on the wall cost Vanderpoel/CPS at least $10,000 or more, especially if painted by an artist of Melvin King's noteriety.
Ms. Saffold wants to be worshiped by everyone. But I think that mural painted directly on the wall and probably purchased with Chicago Public School vendor funds (since she doesn't like to come out of her own pocket for anything) went too far. I just shook my head when I saw it.
But someone better get over there and take a picture of it quickly, because i have a feeling that it will be disapearing soon or covered up.
(Dr. Saffold, what goes around is eventually coming around. I'm just glad that i didn't have to wait to long to see it!)
and Ms. Porter, YOU GO GIRL! good luck with your law suit. you deserve it.
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 6:44 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
To Dear Bernard:
Don't tell me there is no white fraternity embedded at CPS. The entire Daley, Huberman, Civic Committee cabal is a white fraternity.
Don't tell me there is no white fraternity embedded at CPS. The entire Daley, Huberman, Civic Committee cabal is a white fraternity.
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 7:08 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Well, I'm gonna leave this thread now that George has declared it irrelevant. Isn't it funny, though, how silent he is about something like the AKA bull-crap that's been going on for years? His investigative journalism skills hit a brick wall when they may uncover abuse by an african-american group? He's no different than Peter Cunningham and the other spin artists. George just comes from a different (and dark) place.
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 7:10 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
but the whites can be changed or terminated at will, and some even go to jail. The AKA sistahs never let a sistah go, no matter how corrupt or incompetant she is--there are time that BEW carries more power than the mayor. It weill be interesting to see how Ronnie handels all this.
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 9:38 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
This is a disgrace to the black race...STOP IT! We are our own WORST ENEMY!!
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 10:37 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
To TT, Anyone who personally knows these ruthless women personally will attest to how they have used their power over the past years with total disregard for AA teachers and children alike. This is the true disgrace to the Black Race. Silently sitting by , afraid that the true skeletons will come out is not the way. We can no longer pretend or go along to get along. I can tell you of an instance when I was personally admonished for taking a position in the projects. I let an affluent AA school to go where I felt I was needed. I was told that I was a fool to leave that school to go work with those "rug rats"!. If there's any disgrace, in our race it is that mentality. When I was growing up affluent AA's like DR. King and many others worked with the poor masses. He united all facets of the AA community, the US and the world by doing this. Now the tables have turned. These women who are only in a position of power because of the made by others,have decided to create division, look down on others, keep students, parents and teachers who cared about them down. This is the real disgrace. When mayor Daley announced Renaissance 2010, It was AKA, BEW who went along with the plan to fire over 2,000 AA teachers and replace them with Chicago Teaching Fellows! When we ran from school to school trying to escape 2010. It was AKA AIO's that kept their foot down on every teacher for their own personal good! Even though they knew many would fall by the wayside, they never let us have a moments peace on our jobs. They were inhumane and self centered! Look AKA 's it's time to look at the woman in the mirror, AND MAKE A CHANGE!!!! Thanks MR. Russo for a chance to speak truth!
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 10:44 AM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Check out mainpage of AOL -- Sorority Head Sued Over Pricey Statue.
Thu Jul 30, 2009 at 12:16 PM
AKAs Too Powerful In CPS?
Wow. That's a choice bit of sexism.
Discussions of the history, role and impact of power & clout and efforts for equality & fairness, etc., can be found regarding every "group" of humans involved in CPS/Chicago/education - UNO, 10th Ward, Ren 10 crowd, Obama admin, the reverends, AKA, Irish Catholic power elite, the SE parents, et al.
Such discussions are important and might include discussions of individuals, but tend to always point to greater factors at play in the CPS culture.
Discussions of the history, role and impact of power & clout and efforts for equality & fairness, etc., can be found regarding every "group" of humans involved in CPS/Chicago/education - UNO, 10th Ward, Ren 10 crowd, Obama admin, the reverends, AKA, Irish Catholic power elite, the SE parents, et al.
Such discussions are important and might include discussions of individuals, but tend to always point to greater factors at play in the CPS culture.
