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Charges, Counter-Charges
Wanta hear how the CTU executive committee decided to bring charges against Dallas -- but not Stewart? I got my hands on the transcript of the meeting, which was held late last month and gives some fascinating insights into how confused and chaotic and -- some would say unfair -- the process has been (Part 1 PDF Part 2 PDF).
Reading through the document, you'll see that Dallas has to fight hard to make sure that members outside the executive committee aren't allowed to stay in the room, that only one of Dallas's two witnesses is present (Kugler), and that Stewart is given time to rebut the charges against her but Dallas is not given the same opportunity. It's also clear that Dallas' charges against Stewart are less well-documented and clear during the meeting.
Take a look and tell us what you think -- or if you were there, tell us what it was really like to be in the room.
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Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 12:59 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
How long does it take to download these PDF's?
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 1:20 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
recording of when we went into the meeting and they tried to remove us without removing other non-exec board members.
You should has seen the food laid out.
I was like the last super.
there were two other union member with me: Tim Kelly and Richard Navaro from Kennedy HS they can also testify to how they tried to force us out.
you want it Alexander?
You should has seen the food laid out.
I was like the last super.
there were two other union member with me: Tim Kelly and Richard Navaro from Kennedy HS they can also testify to how they tried to force us out.
you want it Alexander?
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 1:40 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
get her signature so she can go potty.(Stewart, pg. 27 )
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 2:34 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
It seems to me amazing that the body that sits as a grand jury also is the trail jury. One can see why the Judge issued the TRO. Even more amazing was the outside attorney who was present at the meeting, what did he make a 2 or 3 thousand for that performance.
At this point the AFT needs to step in and put the CTU into recievership. The union has not only gone broke, it has gone mad. So if the AFT does not want to see its first union destroyed it had better act fast.
At this point the AFT needs to step in and put the CTU into recievership. The union has not only gone broke, it has gone mad. So if the AFT does not want to see its first union destroyed it had better act fast.
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 3:06 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Is there a process for putting the CTU into receivership, or (at least) removing the current leadership? You'd think the AFT would be all over this. The CTU looks weak, self obsessed, and apparently corrupt. Maybe even criminal. That can't be good for other AFT affiliates. Time to act.
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 3:08 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
The Executive Board and Marilyn should not be hearing these charges. The only way to be fair is for the court to appoint an independent hearing officer (not connected with the AFT, IFT or the Union to hear charges and counter-charges and then make a decision. If the officer are really out for our best interest, let them all resign.
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 4:39 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Is that a picture of Ted Dallas at Guantanamo Bay?
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 6:16 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
I think Dallas' charges seem better documented.
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 6:29 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
the issue then becomes where did a retired teacher (GF) and a teacher in a school (PW) get all those documents? heck how did they pay for about one hundred copies of the charges to be copied and bound with lamination, tabs, and bates numbering?
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 8:11 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Everybody should take the time to read the transcript of the June 12th CTU kangaroo court.
I understand subjective loyalties but our Ex. Bd. appears to be an unprincipled, clueless and supercilious group of louts. “What are we voting on & I have to go potty”– where the only two questions/statement made by our elected and compensated Ex. Bd. They were not interested in the facts or interested in challenging the Queen; how embarrassing these people are to our profession.
And the charges and counter charges by Dallas and Stewart? They’re not even good quality criminals; they are out of control greedy pilfers. Most people understand the sickening sleaze of the UPC, it disgusting that the Ex. Bd. just sit, munches on their free sub sandwiches, collects their $60. & their parking stubs and go away with no apparent guilt that their complete indifference makes them as polluted as all the officers.
How does Gail Koffman have the authority to be directing this charade? I suppose none of the three officers wanted to be the out front person and the members of the Ex. Bd. aren’t leadership material so is that why a retiree has the powers threaten an officer with expulsion? It seems it would be more legitmate to get rid of her and let a current CTU member be the complainant.
I understand subjective loyalties but our Ex. Bd. appears to be an unprincipled, clueless and supercilious group of louts. “What are we voting on & I have to go potty”– where the only two questions/statement made by our elected and compensated Ex. Bd. They were not interested in the facts or interested in challenging the Queen; how embarrassing these people are to our profession.
And the charges and counter charges by Dallas and Stewart? They’re not even good quality criminals; they are out of control greedy pilfers. Most people understand the sickening sleaze of the UPC, it disgusting that the Ex. Bd. just sit, munches on their free sub sandwiches, collects their $60. & their parking stubs and go away with no apparent guilt that their complete indifference makes them as polluted as all the officers.
How does Gail Koffman have the authority to be directing this charade? I suppose none of the three officers wanted to be the out front person and the members of the Ex. Bd. aren’t leadership material so is that why a retiree has the powers threaten an officer with expulsion? It seems it would be more legitmate to get rid of her and let a current CTU member be the complainant.
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 8:32 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Too unbelievable, isn't it? This group just keeps doing one stupid thing after the next.
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 10:33 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
I know,I know ..as a non elected officer I have no right to make any motion to the Executive Board...
I and my Queen do not care..You should express more respect to elderly and mentally ill.....I am 100 years old now so what?
I and my Queen do not care..You should express more respect to elderly and mentally ill.....I am 100 years old now so what?
Mon Jun 16, 2008 at 11:29 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
know the exec board was paid for the two special meetings.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 5:33 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
"...How does Gail Koffman have the authority to be directing this charade?..." (Charade, yesterday evening).
If you read the self-serving sanctimonious narrative that Gail Koffman uses to preface her attempt to lynch Ted Dallas, it's really all there. For example, she didn't return to her "service" at CTU in order to increase her ultimate pension by about $20,000 per year for an additional three years' work for Marilyn Stewart.
No, she did it for the membership. To serve humanity and all that.
And, by the way, to refute the "lies" of two people -- Deborah Lynch and George Schmidt.
Rarely do we get as clear and straightforward a narrative of delusion as this one.
Motives? Pure as the driven snow.
Interests? Only what's best for Joe and Jane classroom teacher.
Left out?
Who gave Gail and Dr. Patti unlimited access to all those confidential financial records, including it seems just about every scrap of paper ever submitted by Ted Dallas for expense reimbursement?
Imagine the hue and cry from Gail Koffman, the union's lawyers, and dozens of others (all aligned with Marilyn Stewart or perhaps Arne Duncan) if Alexander on this blog or me on Substance had published dozens of expenses receipts from inside the Chicago Teachers Union's financial repositories?
Arne Duncan and his staff are forced to assume these things are public record because Arne is paid by the public. They can cover up a lot of the expenses of their privatized outposts (e.g., the charter schools), but ultimately most of this information is subject to FOIA when it involves CPS employees.
The Chicago Teachers Union, on the other hand, is a private entity. So CTU can (and just did) refuse to provide its executive board members, its delegates, and its 31,000 members with access to the information which Gail Koffman compiled in her attack on Ted Dallas.
What amazed me reading the transcript was how more than 30 members of the Executive Board were able to nod out, then vote Marilyn's way, without so much as a "WAIT A MINUTE! WHERE DID YOU GET ALL THIS STUFF, GAIL?"
I called Gail about this and got the brush off.
I also e-mailed the union's publicist (Rosemaria Genova) with the same questions.
It goes with the job.
I'm going to keep calling and e-mailing until there are some answers, as opposed to this self-serving sanctimonious prattle and the mindlessness of the E Board roll call voting. It would have been nice had the members of the Executive Board (who are, after all, elected to represent their "functional groups" -- not to follow Marilyn Stewart in lockstep) asked the same questions everyone else has now.
And it's also right that everyone else ask each of them the same questions. The least they can do for their $100 or $200 (plus parking) extra every month is explain to the people who are paying them -- and their "constituents" -- how they are doing their jobs.
For those who don't have the functional groups straight, it's on the second page of the union's annual calendar datebook.
Most of the phone numbers of these people are listed. For those who are pulling them off listing, the union should require all those who are elected to these executive posts (and that includes the "functional vice presidents") to provide the members with e-mails and phone numbers where they can be reached. After all, how is an elementary teacher going to discuss the problems of elementary teachers with the functionals if there is not way to contact them? Leave a message with Marilyn Stewart?
If you read the self-serving sanctimonious narrative that Gail Koffman uses to preface her attempt to lynch Ted Dallas, it's really all there. For example, she didn't return to her "service" at CTU in order to increase her ultimate pension by about $20,000 per year for an additional three years' work for Marilyn Stewart.
No, she did it for the membership. To serve humanity and all that.
And, by the way, to refute the "lies" of two people -- Deborah Lynch and George Schmidt.
Rarely do we get as clear and straightforward a narrative of delusion as this one.
Motives? Pure as the driven snow.
Interests? Only what's best for Joe and Jane classroom teacher.
Left out?
Who gave Gail and Dr. Patti unlimited access to all those confidential financial records, including it seems just about every scrap of paper ever submitted by Ted Dallas for expense reimbursement?
Imagine the hue and cry from Gail Koffman, the union's lawyers, and dozens of others (all aligned with Marilyn Stewart or perhaps Arne Duncan) if Alexander on this blog or me on Substance had published dozens of expenses receipts from inside the Chicago Teachers Union's financial repositories?
Arne Duncan and his staff are forced to assume these things are public record because Arne is paid by the public. They can cover up a lot of the expenses of their privatized outposts (e.g., the charter schools), but ultimately most of this information is subject to FOIA when it involves CPS employees.
The Chicago Teachers Union, on the other hand, is a private entity. So CTU can (and just did) refuse to provide its executive board members, its delegates, and its 31,000 members with access to the information which Gail Koffman compiled in her attack on Ted Dallas.
What amazed me reading the transcript was how more than 30 members of the Executive Board were able to nod out, then vote Marilyn's way, without so much as a "WAIT A MINUTE! WHERE DID YOU GET ALL THIS STUFF, GAIL?"
I called Gail about this and got the brush off.
I also e-mailed the union's publicist (Rosemaria Genova) with the same questions.
It goes with the job.
I'm going to keep calling and e-mailing until there are some answers, as opposed to this self-serving sanctimonious prattle and the mindlessness of the E Board roll call voting. It would have been nice had the members of the Executive Board (who are, after all, elected to represent their "functional groups" -- not to follow Marilyn Stewart in lockstep) asked the same questions everyone else has now.
And it's also right that everyone else ask each of them the same questions. The least they can do for their $100 or $200 (plus parking) extra every month is explain to the people who are paying them -- and their "constituents" -- how they are doing their jobs.
For those who don't have the functional groups straight, it's on the second page of the union's annual calendar datebook.
Most of the phone numbers of these people are listed. For those who are pulling them off listing, the union should require all those who are elected to these executive posts (and that includes the "functional vice presidents") to provide the members with e-mails and phone numbers where they can be reached. After all, how is an elementary teacher going to discuss the problems of elementary teachers with the functionals if there is not way to contact them? Leave a message with Marilyn Stewart?
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 6:42 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Good morning.The Coalition posted on the website www.coalitionsdu.org the grievance form and instruction how to write a grievance(on the blog part).
Interesting.We can do that without our lazy Field reps.
Interesting.We can do that without our lazy Field reps.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 10:10 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
They have always been posted on the CTU website:
http://www.ctunet.com/ctu_forms/
http://www.ctunet.com/ctu_forms/
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 11:54 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
First, thanks for posting the transcript. It was a very informative read.
I think one of the reasons the judge may have issued the TRO was due to Marilyn's jumping back and forth as chairman of the proceedings. Since she had such a vested interest, it was appropriate to get the hack lawyer to chair the meeting. But she should have kept her fat yap shut until he relinquished control to her at the end of the meeting.
The reason the accusers had to come from outside the Executive Board is that the by-laws doesn't permit the accusers to vote. I suppose Marilyn wants to make sure she gets her 3/4 majority to expel.
Sadly, it looks as if she will should the trial ever be held. If the same group shows up, she only needs 32, and she had 38 at this meeting. It's a shame that the UPC has a 100% lock on the Executive Board. (And why is it Mary McGuire can't tell the difference between 25 and 42 people present? Not the sharpest knife in the draw, that Mary.)
I'm of two minds concerning Gail Koffman. If--as a delegate trying to get help for one of my teachers--I need to talk with someone both knowledgeable and competent, then Gail is the person I go to. On the other hand, at House of Delegates meetings I've often felt the urge to shove my booted foot down her mouth after she calls for ending debate or adjournment. Still, I've no doubt that the accusations she's made against Ted are basically true.
As for Miss Patty Walsh (did you know she's a doctor?), who the heck is she? And what mail-order worthless school gave her a doctorate? Chalk up doctoral degrees as something that aren't what they used to be.
Okay, she pulled the transcript from a fall meeting and read back Ted's comments concerning the contract. Either he was lying then, or he's lying now. As someone who has read the contract (distributed seven months after it was ratified), I'm willing to be that he was lying then. Frankly, I give him props for speaking the truth once he saw how his friends and former colleagues at Wells were being hurt by it.
As others have pointed out, how did Miss Patty come to be in the possession of these many receipts? And how can Ted be judged by them, unless the receipts of Marilyn, Mary, and Mark are available for comparison? Sorry, Miss Patty. I am unpersuaded.
Sadly, fewer than one percent of the membership will read this transcript. And that's how Marilyn the Tyrant is able to do what she does.
I think one of the reasons the judge may have issued the TRO was due to Marilyn's jumping back and forth as chairman of the proceedings. Since she had such a vested interest, it was appropriate to get the hack lawyer to chair the meeting. But she should have kept her fat yap shut until he relinquished control to her at the end of the meeting.
The reason the accusers had to come from outside the Executive Board is that the by-laws doesn't permit the accusers to vote. I suppose Marilyn wants to make sure she gets her 3/4 majority to expel.
Sadly, it looks as if she will should the trial ever be held. If the same group shows up, she only needs 32, and she had 38 at this meeting. It's a shame that the UPC has a 100% lock on the Executive Board. (And why is it Mary McGuire can't tell the difference between 25 and 42 people present? Not the sharpest knife in the draw, that Mary.)
I'm of two minds concerning Gail Koffman. If--as a delegate trying to get help for one of my teachers--I need to talk with someone both knowledgeable and competent, then Gail is the person I go to. On the other hand, at House of Delegates meetings I've often felt the urge to shove my booted foot down her mouth after she calls for ending debate or adjournment. Still, I've no doubt that the accusations she's made against Ted are basically true.
As for Miss Patty Walsh (did you know she's a doctor?), who the heck is she? And what mail-order worthless school gave her a doctorate? Chalk up doctoral degrees as something that aren't what they used to be.
Okay, she pulled the transcript from a fall meeting and read back Ted's comments concerning the contract. Either he was lying then, or he's lying now. As someone who has read the contract (distributed seven months after it was ratified), I'm willing to be that he was lying then. Frankly, I give him props for speaking the truth once he saw how his friends and former colleagues at Wells were being hurt by it.
As others have pointed out, how did Miss Patty come to be in the possession of these many receipts? And how can Ted be judged by them, unless the receipts of Marilyn, Mary, and Mark are available for comparison? Sorry, Miss Patty. I am unpersuaded.
Sadly, fewer than one percent of the membership will read this transcript. And that's how Marilyn the Tyrant is able to do what she does.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 1:25 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Wow...Interesting that the documents supporting the charges against Marilyn are attached, but not the documents supporting the charges against Ted.
As a charter school employed, non-union member, this is better than the afternoon soap operas. Keep it up, for my entertainment if nothing else.
I love how Ted Dallas keeps telling the attorney that he can't remember his name. Priceless...That and the "potty" comment. They sound like they'd be better at managing an elementary school classroom than a union, or maybe I should say going back to elementary school as students. While these are quite serious charges, they're being handled by all parties with the maturity of a 12 year old.
And what's up Kugler? Have you never spoken into a microphone before? Gotta give Marilyn props for training her pit bulls, I mean witnesses, against Ted Dallas. Kugler would have benefited from a little practice in front of the mirror, I think.
Although to me, it sounds like they both need to go. Good luck union members and godspeed.
As a charter school employed, non-union member, this is better than the afternoon soap operas. Keep it up, for my entertainment if nothing else.
I love how Ted Dallas keeps telling the attorney that he can't remember his name. Priceless...That and the "potty" comment. They sound like they'd be better at managing an elementary school classroom than a union, or maybe I should say going back to elementary school as students. While these are quite serious charges, they're being handled by all parties with the maturity of a 12 year old.
And what's up Kugler? Have you never spoken into a microphone before? Gotta give Marilyn props for training her pit bulls, I mean witnesses, against Ted Dallas. Kugler would have benefited from a little practice in front of the mirror, I think.
Although to me, it sounds like they both need to go. Good luck union members and godspeed.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 8:39 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
There is no way that charges should have been brought against Ted in the first place because the people bringing the charges had no right to the information. Since Marilyn and her people released his information, they should release their records too so we can compare them and find out who is the bigger crook. My leanings are that it will turn out to be Marilyn, and that Gail should be brought up on charges too for misuse of Union money. A retired person should not be able to work full-time at the Union--that is called double dipping!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope someone independent party steps in soon to resolve this issue.
I hope someone independent party steps in soon to resolve this issue.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 8:39 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
There is no way that charges should have been brought against Ted in the first place because the people bringing the charges had no right to the information. Since Marilyn and her people released his information, they should release their records too so we can compare them and find out who is the bigger crook. My leanings are that it will turn out to be Marilyn, and that Gail should be brought up on charges too for misuse of Union money. A retired person should not be able to work full-time at the Union--that is called double dipping!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I hope someone independent party steps in soon to resolve this issue.
I hope someone independent party steps in soon to resolve this issue.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 8:41 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
As a charter school happy employee please do not be involved in the Union business.
You need to look at your face in the mirror before jumping on dedicated and honest people.
Go to your boss and kiss his hand asking for permission to post here.
Stewart and you have something in common.......are you ............
You need to look at your face in the mirror before jumping on dedicated and honest people.
Go to your boss and kiss his hand asking for permission to post here.
Stewart and you have something in common.......are you ............
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 9:48 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Re: Comments to Charlie...Wow.....really?!
Are you saying those not unionized can't comment or have opinions regarding CPS business? Are you saying that only the unionized are dedicated & honest? Hmmmm....you sound awfully narrow-minded. Hope you're not teaching my kids.
Are you saying those not unionized can't comment or have opinions regarding CPS business? Are you saying that only the unionized are dedicated & honest? Hmmmm....you sound awfully narrow-minded. Hope you're not teaching my kids.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 10:00 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
No I do not teach your kids.Having such kind of parent they need specialized services.
Non Unionized MYOB.
Non Unionized MYOB.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 10:07 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
I was unable to receive services from my field reps.So,I wrote my own grievances using forms provided by the COALITION at
www.coalitionsdu.org.
Thank you.The Queen does not allow her employees to provide services to CTU members.Now we can do that on our own.LEGALLY.
The Labor Relations people are far more professional than the Union crap.
www.coalitionsdu.org.
Thank you.The Queen does not allow her employees to provide services to CTU members.Now we can do that on our own.LEGALLY.
The Labor Relations people are far more professional than the Union crap.
Tue Jun 17, 2008 at 10:13 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Is it true that Kugler assaulted Gail by ...bate in front of her?
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 2:24 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Forget a trial. Hire a cpa to audit everyone and the books. Publish a report.
All this back and forth CPS just loves--keeps anyone from keeping tract of their new charter and contract schools.
Who's going to interview Arnie and write the article: Why I can't run a school system with inner city kids in it.
All this back and forth CPS just loves--keeps anyone from keeping tract of their new charter and contract schools.
Who's going to interview Arnie and write the article: Why I can't run a school system with inner city kids in it.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 5:00 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
"...I'm of two minds concerning Gail Koffman. If--as a delegate trying to get help for one of my teachers--I need to talk with someone both knowledgeable and competent, then Gail is the person I go to. On the other hand, at House of Delegates meetings I've often felt the urge to shove my booted foot down her mouth after she calls for ending debate or adjournment. Still, I've no doubt that the accusations she's made against Ted are basically true..." (Danny, yesterday).
Sorry to disappoint you, but this deserves a second look. Until the end of the Jackie Vaughn years (when Gail Koffman was still a field rep), the field staff was disciplined to be professional, and not just party hacks for the UPC. When I was leading the fight against the union busting "environmental studies" plan at Amundsen High School in 1992-1993 (basically, they were trying to break seniority by changing the theme of the school and forcing every teacher to reapply for his or her job as prove he was ready to teach, say, "Environmental Music" or "Environmental AP English"), Gene Borucki, one of the most loyal UPC field reps, was also steadfast with us in our union battles. Finally, we hosted a standing room only union meeting in my old classroom (the "Macintosh Computer Classroom" above the gym on the south side of the building; the air conditioners our parents donated were still in those windows last time I looked) where Jackie Vaughn spoke forcefully about how we were all in this together. Given the fact that I had run against her (and gotten 40 percent of the vote) in 1988, this was important to note. We were, then, one union. And the field reps were not simply partisan party hacks.
Flash forward to now, with some views about how Gail Koffman was part of the transition to hackdom.
Nobody today believes that the field reps are doing anything other than slavishly follow the Marilyn Stewart party line (including attacking Ted Dallas). There is neither professionalism nor independence there. And a good bit of that tragedy has come because of the leadership of Gail Koffman. She is one of the few people in CTU who has filed more grievances that I have, and who knows the contract as well as anyone. For her to have overseen that degeneration of the field reps is in itself a disgrace, and can't be erased from history with fairy tales or silly adulations.
But recently more is visible.
During the past three months, Gail Koffman used every rhetorical trick in her book to block any honest "transparency" on the CTU budget. Assuming that she knows that every other major entity in the American Federation of Teachers is fully transparent (via the LM2 reporting procedure), this is more than dishonest, it is a scandal.
But then in late May she added an explosion of unprecedented hypocrisy to the usual sanctimonious smarm.
While she was getting intimate access to very minuscule financial document she needed to develop that attack on Ted Dallas, she was simultaneously helping the floor fight against the sharing of the same information -- and more, in context -- with the delegates and membership. She is still refusing to tell anyone how she was able to get restaurant receipts and internal e-mail documents so that she could "indict" Ted Dallas...
But has anyone wondered how she could pull the "Walk and Chew Gum at the Same Time" stunt of microscopically going over every alleged misspending by the Vice President while at the same time arguing -- sometimes nastily and always forcefully -- that it was nobody else's business how all that money was wasted.
Sorry.
The corruption you're looking at includes the enablers, and in the context of the history Gail Koffman is one of the foremost among those. The tragedy of the CTU (which is most dramatic this month for the teachers and other union staff at Copernicus, Fulton, Harper, Howe, Morton and Orr) is not some soap opera playing out at the Merchandise Mart, but in the real lives of union teachers and others across Chicago.
And the betrayal of everything we built was not done anonymously or in the passive voice. It was built on the dishonesty of people with the power to make decisions (like Marilyn Stewart and her shrinking cadre of loyalists) and to influence major decisions (like Gail Koffman).
Sorry, friends.
This struggle can't be moved forward without some honest history, and some accountability. Naming names is part of that, and abstractions -- either from individuals or from the broader history of the CTU -- won't face reality and build the basis for real change.
Sorry to disappoint you, but this deserves a second look. Until the end of the Jackie Vaughn years (when Gail Koffman was still a field rep), the field staff was disciplined to be professional, and not just party hacks for the UPC. When I was leading the fight against the union busting "environmental studies" plan at Amundsen High School in 1992-1993 (basically, they were trying to break seniority by changing the theme of the school and forcing every teacher to reapply for his or her job as prove he was ready to teach, say, "Environmental Music" or "Environmental AP English"), Gene Borucki, one of the most loyal UPC field reps, was also steadfast with us in our union battles. Finally, we hosted a standing room only union meeting in my old classroom (the "Macintosh Computer Classroom" above the gym on the south side of the building; the air conditioners our parents donated were still in those windows last time I looked) where Jackie Vaughn spoke forcefully about how we were all in this together. Given the fact that I had run against her (and gotten 40 percent of the vote) in 1988, this was important to note. We were, then, one union. And the field reps were not simply partisan party hacks.
Flash forward to now, with some views about how Gail Koffman was part of the transition to hackdom.
Nobody today believes that the field reps are doing anything other than slavishly follow the Marilyn Stewart party line (including attacking Ted Dallas). There is neither professionalism nor independence there. And a good bit of that tragedy has come because of the leadership of Gail Koffman. She is one of the few people in CTU who has filed more grievances that I have, and who knows the contract as well as anyone. For her to have overseen that degeneration of the field reps is in itself a disgrace, and can't be erased from history with fairy tales or silly adulations.
But recently more is visible.
During the past three months, Gail Koffman used every rhetorical trick in her book to block any honest "transparency" on the CTU budget. Assuming that she knows that every other major entity in the American Federation of Teachers is fully transparent (via the LM2 reporting procedure), this is more than dishonest, it is a scandal.
But then in late May she added an explosion of unprecedented hypocrisy to the usual sanctimonious smarm.
While she was getting intimate access to very minuscule financial document she needed to develop that attack on Ted Dallas, she was simultaneously helping the floor fight against the sharing of the same information -- and more, in context -- with the delegates and membership. She is still refusing to tell anyone how she was able to get restaurant receipts and internal e-mail documents so that she could "indict" Ted Dallas...
But has anyone wondered how she could pull the "Walk and Chew Gum at the Same Time" stunt of microscopically going over every alleged misspending by the Vice President while at the same time arguing -- sometimes nastily and always forcefully -- that it was nobody else's business how all that money was wasted.
Sorry.
The corruption you're looking at includes the enablers, and in the context of the history Gail Koffman is one of the foremost among those. The tragedy of the CTU (which is most dramatic this month for the teachers and other union staff at Copernicus, Fulton, Harper, Howe, Morton and Orr) is not some soap opera playing out at the Merchandise Mart, but in the real lives of union teachers and others across Chicago.
And the betrayal of everything we built was not done anonymously or in the passive voice. It was built on the dishonesty of people with the power to make decisions (like Marilyn Stewart and her shrinking cadre of loyalists) and to influence major decisions (like Gail Koffman).
Sorry, friends.
This struggle can't be moved forward without some honest history, and some accountability. Naming names is part of that, and abstractions -- either from individuals or from the broader history of the CTU -- won't face reality and build the basis for real change.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 6:40 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Dear Chris, what is happening with the administrators, teachers and esp's on the Orr Campus?
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 6:56 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Good morning:
According to my understanding only small group of teachers will be rehired.From AASTA -about 6.
Evidently ,the new managing corporation does not like experienced,more expensive teachers and outspoken as well.They need to exercise total control.Administrators ,PSRP's and teachers are looking for jobs including out of state assignments.
I wish the best to the AUSL.Our students are emotionally separated from teachers they known.They are separated from they families because majority of them have no idea what the "family"means.
Have a good day.
According to my understanding only small group of teachers will be rehired.From AASTA -about 6.
Evidently ,the new managing corporation does not like experienced,more expensive teachers and outspoken as well.They need to exercise total control.Administrators ,PSRP's and teachers are looking for jobs including out of state assignments.
I wish the best to the AUSL.Our students are emotionally separated from teachers they known.They are separated from they families because majority of them have no idea what the "family"means.
Have a good day.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 7:20 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Chris thanks! How many teachers did AASTA have?
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 7:36 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Charter People
One recent Charter school member posted this” As a charter school employed, non-union member, this is better than the afternoon soap operas. Keep it up, for my entertainment if nothing else.”
Nothing else is exactually what you will have in your pension .
I hope you can play something ,except the accordian, so
When your pension as well as mine are gone, People can drop
Dimes in your open case at say Union Station.Ya this is real funny.
One recent Charter school member posted this” As a charter school employed, non-union member, this is better than the afternoon soap operas. Keep it up, for my entertainment if nothing else.”
Nothing else is exactually what you will have in your pension .
I hope you can play something ,except the accordian, so
When your pension as well as mine are gone, People can drop
Dimes in your open case at say Union Station.Ya this is real funny.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 8:06 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Hi 1.04,
Last time I checked your union and our pension fund were two completely independent entities. In fact the teacher's pension fund (1895) predates the official formation of any teacher's labor organization in Chicago (1897) by 2 years and predates the recognition of your current union by the Board of Education(1967) by 72 years.
Excuse me if the actions and troubles of your union don't exactly have me quaking in my boots over here or fretting about our pension.
I'm incredibly respectful of the amazing work unions have done for the rights and for the benefit of teachers around the country. And understand that even some of the things I really enjoy about my job as a charter school teacher wouldn't exist if it weren't for the incredible work and dedication of union's past. But the way the CTU appears to be currently operating is doing no favors to any teachers anywhere.
Last time I checked your union and our pension fund were two completely independent entities. In fact the teacher's pension fund (1895) predates the official formation of any teacher's labor organization in Chicago (1897) by 2 years and predates the recognition of your current union by the Board of Education(1967) by 72 years.
Excuse me if the actions and troubles of your union don't exactly have me quaking in my boots over here or fretting about our pension.
I'm incredibly respectful of the amazing work unions have done for the rights and for the benefit of teachers around the country. And understand that even some of the things I really enjoy about my job as a charter school teacher wouldn't exist if it weren't for the incredible work and dedication of union's past. But the way the CTU appears to be currently operating is doing no favors to any teachers anywhere.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 8:52 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Charlie appears to be trying to distract us from looking at what the Union leadership is doing and has been doing to undermine teachers and other staff and grab money for themselves. At the time of the transition from Debbie to Marilyn, Union meetings changed. Under Debbie and previous leaders, members could ask questions and challenge the Union leadership. People respected each other and for the most part, no matter how heated debates got, people remembered that we were in this together. For many years, I have supported an amendment that would say no one could be in a Union paid position for more than 8 years without returning to the classroom (I would actually favor 4 years but don't think we can move that fast.) They could rerun or be rehired after four years. This, I believe, would help them to remember where they came from and make them more sympathetic to teachers. The Union today is a dictatorship with voices of dissent silenced at the meetings. Teachers are not allowed to ask open questions and even when they can sneak them in, they are not given honest answers. I want the old union back for everyone's sake.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 9:00 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Pension benefits are currently guaranteed by the State of Illinois constitution. You should know that during the general election in November, Illinois voters will be asked if they want to hold a constitutional convention to rewrite the Illinois Constitution of 1970. If voters approve the measure and call for a constitutional convention, all of the current guarantees, will be up for negotiation! VOTE NO FOR A CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION!!!!!!!!!!
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 9:36 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
"While she was getting intimate access to very minuscule financial document she needed to develop that attack on Ted Dallas, she was simultaneously helping the floor fight against the sharing of the same information -- and more, in context -- with the delegates and membership. She is still refusing to tell anyone how she was able to get restaurant receipts and internal e-mail documents so that she could "indict" Ted Dallas..."
DING DING DING!!!! We have a winner ladies and gentlemen. This is EXACTLY my problem with the way the union is currently run. All the talk of transparency and frankness is simply cow dung. It is only transparent to those chosen few. Hell, we can't even know who voted for what...how can we have elections on important issues and have absolutely NO way of knowing who voted for what.
I knew something fishy was up way back when we were given a union contract that had the "highlights" of what was new and improved without any mention of the lowlights that simmered under the surface.
The whole tenor of many of the UPC members of our union has been almost insulting...I remember one of my 1st union meetings as a delegate five or six months ago when someone asked about PSRPs no longer having extended pay and rather than give a reasoned, logical explanation someone stood up and said that maybe people should learn to save their money.
Huh? What? Excuse me, that's not the point. Any union member should be outraged at the numerous, bizarre concessions we have been forced to make--from Rx benefits to extended pay to mandatory direct deposit...whether or not I agree with these things or not, the importance is that workers need a choice--and this contract has removed many, many options--
I'm going to stop now because I'm venting and getting sidetracked and it's summer and I've got to take my kids to see "Hulk" in the next hour, and I can feel my own skin turning green while I'm venting....
DING DING DING!!!! We have a winner ladies and gentlemen. This is EXACTLY my problem with the way the union is currently run. All the talk of transparency and frankness is simply cow dung. It is only transparent to those chosen few. Hell, we can't even know who voted for what...how can we have elections on important issues and have absolutely NO way of knowing who voted for what.
I knew something fishy was up way back when we were given a union contract that had the "highlights" of what was new and improved without any mention of the lowlights that simmered under the surface.
The whole tenor of many of the UPC members of our union has been almost insulting...I remember one of my 1st union meetings as a delegate five or six months ago when someone asked about PSRPs no longer having extended pay and rather than give a reasoned, logical explanation someone stood up and said that maybe people should learn to save their money.
Huh? What? Excuse me, that's not the point. Any union member should be outraged at the numerous, bizarre concessions we have been forced to make--from Rx benefits to extended pay to mandatory direct deposit...whether or not I agree with these things or not, the importance is that workers need a choice--and this contract has removed many, many options--
I'm going to stop now because I'm venting and getting sidetracked and it's summer and I've got to take my kids to see "Hulk" in the next hour, and I can feel my own skin turning green while I'm venting....
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 9:45 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Heads and tails
Yes the pension fund is older than some of the unions that united to form the CTU.
However in the real world of today CTU endorsed people sit as teacher reps on the pension board. I hope the Charter school crew are there when the battle begins over
all of this. It has already started and will I estimate reach a crescendo about next March.
I realize teachers who hide behind kids shirt tales by claiming to be pro kid yet avoid real hard service in rough under performing schools.
Will not be of much use when the struggle begins. It will be us Unionized members who
Lead the fight and our Charter school Fellows will follow the line and admit every penny
Saved on a teachers pension can be used to help children. By the way Roland Harper and his crooked landscaper buddy pleaded guilty . But then they only scammed 1.5 million from the children. A mere pittance of things to come when politicians ger their hands on the pension fund.
Yes the pension fund is older than some of the unions that united to form the CTU.
However in the real world of today CTU endorsed people sit as teacher reps on the pension board. I hope the Charter school crew are there when the battle begins over
all of this. It has already started and will I estimate reach a crescendo about next March.
I realize teachers who hide behind kids shirt tales by claiming to be pro kid yet avoid real hard service in rough under performing schools.
Will not be of much use when the struggle begins. It will be us Unionized members who
Lead the fight and our Charter school Fellows will follow the line and admit every penny
Saved on a teachers pension can be used to help children. By the way Roland Harper and his crooked landscaper buddy pleaded guilty . But then they only scammed 1.5 million from the children. A mere pittance of things to come when politicians ger their hands on the pension fund.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 10:17 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
For years Gail Koffman was known to be the encyclopedia of Union information and facts. When Gail spoke, the membership listened but no more.
Until all (that’s a lot to ask – maybe just most) of the financial facts about what in the heck has happened to all the CTU funds, Ms. Koffman should stay out of the malicious infighting among the over feed, the unprincipled and the self serving oafs we elected to represent us, unless she is now one of them. (G.K. - reputations linger long after expense accounts laspe)
Until all (that’s a lot to ask – maybe just most) of the financial facts about what in the heck has happened to all the CTU funds, Ms. Koffman should stay out of the malicious infighting among the over feed, the unprincipled and the self serving oafs we elected to represent us, unless she is now one of them. (G.K. - reputations linger long after expense accounts laspe)
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 11:46 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Want me to mind my own business? Then get your people to stop airing it in public places and leaking private documents to public blog hosts.
You have a lot more to worry about than my wisecracks, frankly, but you've certainly opened yourself up to them. This blog isn't a private meeting of CTU factions, contrary to some peoples' beliefs.
You have a lot more to worry about than my wisecracks, frankly, but you've certainly opened yourself up to them. This blog isn't a private meeting of CTU factions, contrary to some peoples' beliefs.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 2:13 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
You better concentrate on your charter school.There is a lot to do.Find out how much charters spend on their salaries Cost of operations and per pupil expenses..compare to the CPS ..and use your brain wisely .And again leave Union business to Union members.
Union is not a CPS operation.(So far)
Union is not a CPS operation.(So far)
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 4:05 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Let's squash this beef now.
Let's leave Charlie alone and use his input as an asset.
His post on how "entertaining" he finds the CTU infighting shows us how the charter school teachers view unionizing efforts at their schools. I can imagine many are like Charlie in seeing little value in forming a collective bargaining unit when they look at the Margaritagate depicted on the front page of the Sun-Times and by reading these blog comments.
As non-union teachers become a larger composition of the total teacher pool each year, the CTU loses power as a push-back mechanism to the board and its policies of privatization. The problem will feed itself until there are none of us left. (Think "first they came for the charter school teachers, and I did nothing...because I was a member of the union").
When will the beefing end? When our general assembly approves a voucher bill, ala Louisiana?
http://www.nola.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/news-39/1213223943154100.xml&storylist=louisiana
Charlie's voice is important as a part of the larger teacher collective, union and not-yet-unionized. Even beyond the politics that infest the union, we are a guild of professionals and we should welcome a diversity of voices into the dialogue. Maybe outsiders can see things we cannot see.
It's using the market-based model of focus groups against the market-based system. They've used our organizing models against us for years, let's show them that we've learned and grew.
There is no room for bashing and name-calling, and exclusion when it comes to democracy, even (perhaps especially) in workplace democracy.
Let's leave Charlie alone and use his input as an asset.
His post on how "entertaining" he finds the CTU infighting shows us how the charter school teachers view unionizing efforts at their schools. I can imagine many are like Charlie in seeing little value in forming a collective bargaining unit when they look at the Margaritagate depicted on the front page of the Sun-Times and by reading these blog comments.
As non-union teachers become a larger composition of the total teacher pool each year, the CTU loses power as a push-back mechanism to the board and its policies of privatization. The problem will feed itself until there are none of us left. (Think "first they came for the charter school teachers, and I did nothing...because I was a member of the union").
When will the beefing end? When our general assembly approves a voucher bill, ala Louisiana?
http://www.nola.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/news-39/1213223943154100.xml&storylist=louisiana
Charlie's voice is important as a part of the larger teacher collective, union and not-yet-unionized. Even beyond the politics that infest the union, we are a guild of professionals and we should welcome a diversity of voices into the dialogue. Maybe outsiders can see things we cannot see.
It's using the market-based model of focus groups against the market-based system. They've used our organizing models against us for years, let's show them that we've learned and grew.
There is no room for bashing and name-calling, and exclusion when it comes to democracy, even (perhaps especially) in workplace democracy.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 4:38 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
"Even beyond the politics that infest the union, we are a guild of professionals..."
I, and most of the other CPS teachers with whom I've discussed this don't see the union this way. It is a debasing activity. The union provides many opportunities and temptations to be unprofessional, and it is hard to agree that on balance it promotes professionalism. On the contrary, the union leadership seems like an elite of greedy, lazy thugs who subsist by leaching off the membership. Without the union, it is hard to say what would happen. The distant ILO past of legend is probably not a good reference point for justifying the union. It did some work once, but I don't personally see a role for it today. I feel like every dues deduction from my paycheck is theft. It supports something I detest. In fact, the union leadership, much like CPS administrators, is that very thing against which my whole professional life has been pitted. Things have gone very, very far astray in this situation and I question the wisdom or the justice of trying to justify the union's continued existence. Unfortunately, there is nothing that can be done to get rid of the union short of privatizing the system. Although I teach in a regular public school and I would probably quit teaching before going over to the charter side under present conditions, I see the political logic of privatizing no matter how bad a blow it delivers to public education in the short run. Continued privatization undermines the twin monsters of CPS--the union and the central administration. Destroying schools willi-nilli as it goes, it nonetheless paves the way for that glorious day when such scum as lord it over us and our students will have to get a real job.
I, and most of the other CPS teachers with whom I've discussed this don't see the union this way. It is a debasing activity. The union provides many opportunities and temptations to be unprofessional, and it is hard to agree that on balance it promotes professionalism. On the contrary, the union leadership seems like an elite of greedy, lazy thugs who subsist by leaching off the membership. Without the union, it is hard to say what would happen. The distant ILO past of legend is probably not a good reference point for justifying the union. It did some work once, but I don't personally see a role for it today. I feel like every dues deduction from my paycheck is theft. It supports something I detest. In fact, the union leadership, much like CPS administrators, is that very thing against which my whole professional life has been pitted. Things have gone very, very far astray in this situation and I question the wisdom or the justice of trying to justify the union's continued existence. Unfortunately, there is nothing that can be done to get rid of the union short of privatizing the system. Although I teach in a regular public school and I would probably quit teaching before going over to the charter side under present conditions, I see the political logic of privatizing no matter how bad a blow it delivers to public education in the short run. Continued privatization undermines the twin monsters of CPS--the union and the central administration. Destroying schools willi-nilli as it goes, it nonetheless paves the way for that glorious day when such scum as lord it over us and our students will have to get a real job.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 4:54 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
"I see the political logic of privatizing no matter how bad a blow it delivers to public education in the short run."
Actually, the blow that will be dealt will be in the long-run, the benefits are short-run.
In the short run, privatization externalizes many of the costs that normally would be the liability of the taxpayers via the board of education. This shows an immediate payoff and will curry favor with many as they will see a cut in taxes and smaller bureaucracy.
In the long run, we will disparities in services offered to the students, which could lead to disparities in post-graduation opportunities. Market-based theories are predicated on the fact that some entities must fail. When schools compete for a certain caliber of student, this re-segregates the system and this will lead to schools of even lower quality competing with schools that are "higher quality."
If you need a case study to read to see my point, look up North Carolina's attempt at a choice based system in its Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District. They saw an increase in the achievement gap and abandoned the program entirely.
Actually, the blow that will be dealt will be in the long-run, the benefits are short-run.
In the short run, privatization externalizes many of the costs that normally would be the liability of the taxpayers via the board of education. This shows an immediate payoff and will curry favor with many as they will see a cut in taxes and smaller bureaucracy.
In the long run, we will disparities in services offered to the students, which could lead to disparities in post-graduation opportunities. Market-based theories are predicated on the fact that some entities must fail. When schools compete for a certain caliber of student, this re-segregates the system and this will lead to schools of even lower quality competing with schools that are "higher quality."
If you need a case study to read to see my point, look up North Carolina's attempt at a choice based system in its Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District. They saw an increase in the achievement gap and abandoned the program entirely.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 5:18 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Re: In the long run, we will disparities in services offered to the students, which could lead to disparities in post-graduation opportunities...When schools compete for a certain caliber of student, this re-segregates the system and this will lead to schools of even lower quality competing with schools that are "higher quality."
Surely, you jest. This particular blow struck decades ago.
Are you not aware that exactly this type of system already exists in Chicago? Does anyone really believe that students at general schools receive the same support and services as students at Whitney Young, Jones, and Northside? The system you describe already exists, so I'm not quite sure what your point is.
There will be severe and greatly detrimental long-term blows dealt by privatization to public funded public education, but this particular one is old news.
Surely, you jest. This particular blow struck decades ago.
Are you not aware that exactly this type of system already exists in Chicago? Does anyone really believe that students at general schools receive the same support and services as students at Whitney Young, Jones, and Northside? The system you describe already exists, so I'm not quite sure what your point is.
There will be severe and greatly detrimental long-term blows dealt by privatization to public funded public education, but this particular one is old news.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 5:28 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Disparatities in post-graduation opportunities? We could scarcely do worse than we are now. 3% of black and latino boys in chicago public schools finish college by the time they are 25.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 5:33 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Rodentface- Take it easy!
This isn't a game of "I understand this better than you." We're on the same side here.
Yes, I know that the magnet system was a key component in widening the accessibility gap. Anyone who has taught at a neighborhood school understands this. My point is that mass privatization will exacerbate the problem. Once all publicly-funded, public schools are gone, we may actually look back and reminisce of the days when we only had to fear losing higher-achieving students to the magnets.
This isn't a game of "I understand this better than you." We're on the same side here.
Yes, I know that the magnet system was a key component in widening the accessibility gap. Anyone who has taught at a neighborhood school understands this. My point is that mass privatization will exacerbate the problem. Once all publicly-funded, public schools are gone, we may actually look back and reminisce of the days when we only had to fear losing higher-achieving students to the magnets.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 5:51 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Dear Colleagues (including non-members):
We are talking about two different issues :unionism and privatization of the public sector.
1.People often feel angry regarding lack of members services provided(not provided) by our leadership.The next step is to ventilate and the third is "the Union is corrupt and I do not need them".
Please take under consideration that we have a negotiated salary schedule and some amount of job security, yes ,we are not paid 25 000/a year like catholics schools pay.
In our best interest is to clean our field quietly and learn from our mistakes.We still one of the strongest Unions here.Just eliminate corruption and make field representation effective and efficient.
Proper membership services will bring people in not turn them off.
2.Privatization in the field of education will not work.Continuing such kind of educational model we will create bigger gaps between schools with middle class students and students living under poverty.
If we really want to provide appropriate and free education we should increase amount of social services available to students and their families and provide stability.
Of course there is another option:push out of the city students who are not performing (mostly minority) and problem will be solved.
I am afraid that we are currently exercising such option.Is it ethical?legal?are we braking laws regarding discrimination on the base of disability ,color or ethnic origin?
or we just know it well and have a feeling that we are above the law and will not be prosecuted?
Just stand together Brothers and Sisters and remember education is not a business it is a PUBLIC SERVICE.
We are talking about two different issues :unionism and privatization of the public sector.
1.People often feel angry regarding lack of members services provided(not provided) by our leadership.The next step is to ventilate and the third is "the Union is corrupt and I do not need them".
Please take under consideration that we have a negotiated salary schedule and some amount of job security, yes ,we are not paid 25 000/a year like catholics schools pay.
In our best interest is to clean our field quietly and learn from our mistakes.We still one of the strongest Unions here.Just eliminate corruption and make field representation effective and efficient.
Proper membership services will bring people in not turn them off.
2.Privatization in the field of education will not work.Continuing such kind of educational model we will create bigger gaps between schools with middle class students and students living under poverty.
If we really want to provide appropriate and free education we should increase amount of social services available to students and their families and provide stability.
Of course there is another option:push out of the city students who are not performing (mostly minority) and problem will be solved.
I am afraid that we are currently exercising such option.Is it ethical?legal?are we braking laws regarding discrimination on the base of disability ,color or ethnic origin?
or we just know it well and have a feeling that we are above the law and will not be prosecuted?
Just stand together Brothers and Sisters and remember education is not a business it is a PUBLIC SERVICE.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 5:57 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
I wasn't attempting to engage in a contest of knowledge, Biggie, so I apologize if I came off that way. I'm just not convinced of the necessary relationship between privatization and choice.
Yes, charters, contract schools, etc. pull out of the general population those students who, while perhaps not magnet caliber, have parents who take a more active enough role in their children's education by pursuing application, travel expenses and logistics, and other efforts necessary to leaving a general school. But don't families already have choices about where to send their children? I suppose as choices increase there will be greater competition for students, but that's not necessarily a result of privatization (magnet schools being the obvious example). Looking back and reminiscing about these "good old days" before truly massive privatization is a little depressing. Talk about a potent rallying cry for current teachers. I think we all need to do a better job of informing the masses.
I think the biggest long-term consequence of privatization will impact teachers (and the Union) first, then students, thorough the de-professionalization of teaching and education in general. With numerous projects like "transformation" and its accompanying mandated curricula, scripted instruction, and six figure "consultant" salaries, teaching is being pushed towards unskilled labor. Ultimately, I think that will be the ultimate death blow from privatization.
Yes, charters, contract schools, etc. pull out of the general population those students who, while perhaps not magnet caliber, have parents who take a more active enough role in their children's education by pursuing application, travel expenses and logistics, and other efforts necessary to leaving a general school. But don't families already have choices about where to send their children? I suppose as choices increase there will be greater competition for students, but that's not necessarily a result of privatization (magnet schools being the obvious example). Looking back and reminiscing about these "good old days" before truly massive privatization is a little depressing. Talk about a potent rallying cry for current teachers. I think we all need to do a better job of informing the masses.
I think the biggest long-term consequence of privatization will impact teachers (and the Union) first, then students, thorough the de-professionalization of teaching and education in general. With numerous projects like "transformation" and its accompanying mandated curricula, scripted instruction, and six figure "consultant" salaries, teaching is being pushed towards unskilled labor. Ultimately, I think that will be the ultimate death blow from privatization.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 6:19 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Rodentface-
I couldn't agree with you more. There are multiple injuries dealt to the community at large when a public good like education is privatized.
However, in the status quo, there are some measures made to integrate the magnets; under privatized, choice-based systems, this kind of regulation is not possible.
I couldn't agree with you more. There are multiple injuries dealt to the community at large when a public good like education is privatized.
However, in the status quo, there are some measures made to integrate the magnets; under privatized, choice-based systems, this kind of regulation is not possible.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 7:17 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
The biggest crock of garbage I have ever heard or read on this blog is Gail Kauffman being an encyclopedia of union information and facts. I'm a little busy right know, but I will elaborate later. Anyone who thinks Kauffman is the best union representative of all time needs a lobotomy.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 7:37 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Lighten up 7:17 - nobody said Gail Koffman was the best union rep. in history - just that she knew the contract inside and out.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 7:48 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
I love this stuff.Excellent stream everybody even
beef jerky.Charlie keep the faith
beef jerky.Charlie keep the faith
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 8:19 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
This previous posting seems to fit with the Koffmann postings tonite. Well, some things are worth repeating.
by: someone still around, but not forgotten
Thursday Morning News, Part 1
Gail Koffman is not so ethical herself.... How many times has she asked people for old receipts to pad HER expense account? I will testify in a court hearing that she used to ask me and other individuals for receipts.
Isn't is time that Koffman was audited as well? Watch out, Gail...you may see your name and your buddies on a court summons soon, too!
by: someone still around, but not forgotten
Thursday Morning News, Part 1
Gail Koffman is not so ethical herself.... How many times has she asked people for old receipts to pad HER expense account? I will testify in a court hearing that she used to ask me and other individuals for receipts.
Isn't is time that Koffman was audited as well? Watch out, Gail...you may see your name and your buddies on a court summons soon, too!
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 8:47 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
I don't think anyone holding an elected office at the Union is honest--it's all a question of degree. That's why I think an outside group should be brought in to audit everyone from Marilyn down to the secretaries. Many people got high paid jobs at the Union because they are "yes men/women" to her and don't dare to disagree. Everyone is complaining that the field reps are not listening to Union members so put them back in the schools and bring in people who will listen. As I've said before since the Union (Marilyn esp) sees nothing wrong with firing everyone in a school and starting over, they should have no problem if we do the samething at the Union. Also, there should be no huge severance packages or pensions for anyone guilty of fraud.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 9:04 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Do not jump on elderly.I am not afraid .....they will not prosecute mentally ill.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 9:47 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Even the most uninvolved delegate must have woken up after the last house meeting. I agree with "anonymous" that the CTU must be audited by an outside third party. If the Stewart cronies were wanted to get rid of Dallas, then they should have chosen a different avenue. By revealing his receipts, they just opened up a can of worms. After all, what's good for the goose...
By not having transparency with the spending/budget, it only confirms the massive abuse of our money.
By not having transparency with the spending/budget, it only confirms the massive abuse of our money.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 10:14 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
How can this women file charges against the elected vice-president for an allegation of receipt fraud knowing there are people from the unions past out there who know she committed fraud with the membership's dues money.
If your out there Gail, you got a lot of nerve! Looking at the counter charges against you and Patti Walsh, I hope you are found guilty at the tune of one million.
Bet you wish you never got involved!
If your out there Gail, you got a lot of nerve! Looking at the counter charges against you and Patti Walsh, I hope you are found guilty at the tune of one million.
Bet you wish you never got involved!
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 10:40 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
How hard can it be to learn one small book. (The Contract) Kauffman's been doing the job for 10 freaking plus years. Anyone with half a brain doing the job for 10 months can know the contract inside out.
Wed Jun 18, 2008 at 10:57 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Are some of you seriously questioning people who have come to think of the union as a joke.
If you were a charter school teacher, would you vote "yes" to join CTU right now?
If you were a charter school teacher, would you vote "yes" to join CTU right now?
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 3:40 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
"...2.Privatization in the field of education will not work.Continuing such kind of educational model we will create bigger gaps between schools with middle class students and students living under poverty..." (Yesterday evening).
You're thinking in the wrong mold.
Privatization is about maximizing profit for the crony capitalists, and by that measure it's "working" just fine. For every Roland Harper and Monahan Landscaping that gets somebody angry enough to blow the whistle, there are a dozen where the I.G. is looking the other way. And beyond those nickle and dime privatizers (Monahan Landscaping is doing the job that was once done -- better -- by CPS custodial workers and engineers), there are the real cronies. These are the lawyers, bond brokers, and others whose pinstripe patronage comes out of CPS (and every other artery of "Chicago Inc.") and is perfectly "legal."
Privatization works. It is supposed to take public dollars and put those dollars into private pockets. What ever made you think that a city that puts Arne Duncan in charge of its public schools cares anything about any of the people in those public schools (from principals and teachers to parents and children)?
The joke is on the people who argue about improving public schools while the corporate stooges (again, Duncan) rip through another dozen or two schools to privatize, and another dozen or two services to privatize.
Privatization has worked just fine for every contractor and mayoral cousin or crony who's sucked up dollars from the classroom budgets since Mayor Daley took over.
Just check out the next major privatization scheme -- "High School Transformation" -- and count the dollars that are going out the public door into privatized hands. Next thing you know somebody will be telling me that Barbara Eason Watkins (who's running "Transformation" and so many others of these scams) is a concerned educator with the interests of children and teachers in her heart, rather than one of the most ruthless crooks ever to run things in Chicago's public schools (which has long been, as we know, a nest of ruthless crooks).
You're thinking in the wrong mold.
Privatization is about maximizing profit for the crony capitalists, and by that measure it's "working" just fine. For every Roland Harper and Monahan Landscaping that gets somebody angry enough to blow the whistle, there are a dozen where the I.G. is looking the other way. And beyond those nickle and dime privatizers (Monahan Landscaping is doing the job that was once done -- better -- by CPS custodial workers and engineers), there are the real cronies. These are the lawyers, bond brokers, and others whose pinstripe patronage comes out of CPS (and every other artery of "Chicago Inc.") and is perfectly "legal."
Privatization works. It is supposed to take public dollars and put those dollars into private pockets. What ever made you think that a city that puts Arne Duncan in charge of its public schools cares anything about any of the people in those public schools (from principals and teachers to parents and children)?
The joke is on the people who argue about improving public schools while the corporate stooges (again, Duncan) rip through another dozen or two schools to privatize, and another dozen or two services to privatize.
Privatization has worked just fine for every contractor and mayoral cousin or crony who's sucked up dollars from the classroom budgets since Mayor Daley took over.
Just check out the next major privatization scheme -- "High School Transformation" -- and count the dollars that are going out the public door into privatized hands. Next thing you know somebody will be telling me that Barbara Eason Watkins (who's running "Transformation" and so many others of these scams) is a concerned educator with the interests of children and teachers in her heart, rather than one of the most ruthless crooks ever to run things in Chicago's public schools (which has long been, as we know, a nest of ruthless crooks).
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 6:20 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Do you know what exactly happened in court on June 17?
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 7:55 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
My only problem with the leadership being fined one million dollars each is that I'd want to make sure they pay and not the union via our dues!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I just want them out of office along with everyone else they brought in whether elected or not. If the contracts with people were made to support the fraud, then those contracts should be null and void. It would be great if the court would throw out the contract too and the new administration gets to negotiate a new contract that is in the interest of the membership.
I'd like to know what happened in court too.
I'd like to know what happened in court too.
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 8:11 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
How can we, as Union members, get the court to appoint an independent party to audit all of the books and each individual who works at the Union? I don't want anyone connected with the AFT or IFT since Marilyn is part of those organizations too. The auditor should be totally independent and accountable only to the court.
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 5:10 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Can a petition be circulated to the members to condemn Stewart?There are three schools near mine and I'm sure I can get everybody's signature in those schools. These people are ALL so repulsive! Is it really true that Stewart didn't even get the majority of votes in her own school? If this is really true, it speaks volumes!!
I'm disgusted by CTU leaders' behaviors. People who supported these officers were brainwashed by the "loud" but wrong members who repeated the mantra that Lynch was responsible for the past contract ills. Teachers are gullible, what can I say. I was a little miffed about the fifteen extra minutes per day in the Lynch contract.
I loved the sick day bonus for longevity though. The instructional hourly rate "give away" in this Stewart contract is a catastrophe! And the rate doesn't even go up until 09-10 when it goes up three dollars!
People voted for Stewart because they didn't want to vote for Lynch, not because Stewart was all that great. People were saying that the raise in the last contract was eaten up by the insurance increases, right? What do they think about the raises in this contract given the cost of gas? Talk about wage erosion!!! Just wait until we can't afford to drive to work. Veteran teachers, you could've worked afterschool to earn a little extra gas money in the old days. But what veteran teacher is going to stay around until 5:30-6:00pm (unless she/he HAS to!) for a PAY CUT!!
I'm disgusted by CTU leaders' behaviors. People who supported these officers were brainwashed by the "loud" but wrong members who repeated the mantra that Lynch was responsible for the past contract ills. Teachers are gullible, what can I say. I was a little miffed about the fifteen extra minutes per day in the Lynch contract.
I loved the sick day bonus for longevity though. The instructional hourly rate "give away" in this Stewart contract is a catastrophe! And the rate doesn't even go up until 09-10 when it goes up three dollars!
People voted for Stewart because they didn't want to vote for Lynch, not because Stewart was all that great. People were saying that the raise in the last contract was eaten up by the insurance increases, right? What do they think about the raises in this contract given the cost of gas? Talk about wage erosion!!! Just wait until we can't afford to drive to work. Veteran teachers, you could've worked afterschool to earn a little extra gas money in the old days. But what veteran teacher is going to stay around until 5:30-6:00pm (unless she/he HAS to!) for a PAY CUT!!
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 9:43 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
As I recall, what killed Debbie Lynch and what continually frustrates any attempt to push for a better contract is the dominance of elementary teachers in the CTU. It doesn't matter how many formerly deceived high school teachers come around to the mistake they made voting against Lynch. I would bet that there is not a single elementary teacher on this blog. As a high school teacher, not only do I feel like my dues are stolen by thugs, but I feel like my union membership is a chain tying me to the anchor of the low expectations of the overwhelming majority of elementary school teachers. Sure, getting rid of thieving union leaders would be nice; but it is not going to get us a better contract. The game is over. Check mate.
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 10:45 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Yes it will get us a better contract, because this group of thiefs will not negotiate the next one. Hopefully there will be a union left by then.
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 10:46 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Rick Perrotte, Sandy Schultz, Pam Massarsky, Gail Koffman, John Ostenburg, Mary McGuire, Colleen Dykas, Mark Ochoa, Nick Cannella, Larry Poltrock, and Marilyn Stewart.
Tonight's top ten question is: What do all these highly paid Chicago Teacher Union's employees all have in common?
10. They all try to convince Marilyn Stewart she is not a figurehead, and she actually knows what she is doing!
9. They call all union members that don't agree with them "The Crazies".
8. They all believe the best way to end a question and answer period is to abruptly call for an adjournment.
7. As of late, they all believe that Ted Dallas had nothing to do with the big money jobs they're all in.
6. All have taken turns hammering nails into Dallas's hands and feet.
5. Since the mother organization got rid of Debbie Lynch, all these hacks believe the AFT will come to their rescue at anytime.
4. They all want to collect big paychecks for two more years while providing the least amount of service to the membership.
3. They have all eaten for free at union sponsored, paid events.
2. All can retire tomorrow with enough money for themselves and their children (if they have any) till the day they die.
And the number one answer in tonight's top ten CTU crisis list, drum roll please.....
1.THEY ALL THINK THEY HAVE A CHANCE IN HELL WINNING THE NEXT OFFICERS ELECTION IN 2010.
Tonight's top ten question is: What do all these highly paid Chicago Teacher Union's employees all have in common?
10. They all try to convince Marilyn Stewart she is not a figurehead, and she actually knows what she is doing!
9. They call all union members that don't agree with them "The Crazies".
8. They all believe the best way to end a question and answer period is to abruptly call for an adjournment.
7. As of late, they all believe that Ted Dallas had nothing to do with the big money jobs they're all in.
6. All have taken turns hammering nails into Dallas's hands and feet.
5. Since the mother organization got rid of Debbie Lynch, all these hacks believe the AFT will come to their rescue at anytime.
4. They all want to collect big paychecks for two more years while providing the least amount of service to the membership.
3. They have all eaten for free at union sponsored, paid events.
2. All can retire tomorrow with enough money for themselves and their children (if they have any) till the day they die.
And the number one answer in tonight's top ten CTU crisis list, drum roll please.....
1.THEY ALL THINK THEY HAVE A CHANCE IN HELL WINNING THE NEXT OFFICERS ELECTION IN 2010.
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 11:14 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Stop voting for Daley would be a start.
Form a new coalition and join the Ohter Union. Keep representation of elementary schools and high schools separate--many of the burbs do. Works for them.
Where are the real union organizers?
Form a new coalition and join the Ohter Union. Keep representation of elementary schools and high schools separate--many of the burbs do. Works for them.
Where are the real union organizers?
Thu Jun 19, 2008 at 11:32 PM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Hey, on voting for Stewart-
BZZZZ...wrong answer. I am an elementary school teacher, and I'm on this blog, AND I don't support Stewart.
You really shouldn't sell your fellow union members short. Many elementary teachers, once they are properly informed, have a very keen understanding of what needs to be done.
BZZZZ...wrong answer. I am an elementary school teacher, and I'm on this blog, AND I don't support Stewart.
You really shouldn't sell your fellow union members short. Many elementary teachers, once they are properly informed, have a very keen understanding of what needs to be done.
Fri Jun 20, 2008 at 3:48 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Couple of things.
The "other union" (the National Education Association, NEA) doesn't want CTU members. Three years ago, former CTU negotiator Bob Peickert (now head of the Elmhurst Democrats, for those who keep track of such things) tried to team up with some CTU people to get NEA (through their state affiliate, the Illinois Education Association) to organize a "decertification" drive making NEA the bargaining unit for Chicago.
It was at every point more mouth than money, but finally in answer to specific questions, they stated that they would not pay for organizers or an office in Chicago. That means, "You do all the work and then we'll pick up the results..."
Finally, when CTU squawked loudly enough at the state level, they backed off and announced that they were not interested in "raiding" the Chicago Teachers Union.
There is no other union.
CTU is it.
Like it or not, everyone has to live with it. The question is how to.
The "other union" (the National Education Association, NEA) doesn't want CTU members. Three years ago, former CTU negotiator Bob Peickert (now head of the Elmhurst Democrats, for those who keep track of such things) tried to team up with some CTU people to get NEA (through their state affiliate, the Illinois Education Association) to organize a "decertification" drive making NEA the bargaining unit for Chicago.
It was at every point more mouth than money, but finally in answer to specific questions, they stated that they would not pay for organizers or an office in Chicago. That means, "You do all the work and then we'll pick up the results..."
Finally, when CTU squawked loudly enough at the state level, they backed off and announced that they were not interested in "raiding" the Chicago Teachers Union.
There is no other union.
CTU is it.
Like it or not, everyone has to live with it. The question is how to.
Fri Jun 20, 2008 at 6:50 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
I was disturbed by the comments made by Voting for Stewart and Teacher Peon. What we don't need right now is an attempt to further divide the Union by separating high school teachers from Elementary School teachers. There are many elementary teachers who already believe that high school teachers have it made with prep time everyday, paid coaching which adds quite abit of money to their salaries, etc. I looked at high school voting records and many high school teachers voted for Stewart so you can't blame the elementary schools. We need to work together to save the Union not bash each other.
Fri Jun 20, 2008 at 7:46 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
The way I see it. The union should be put in receivership.
With $8 million missing that is the only solution.
All documents of the union need to be investigated and all criminal activity needs to be prosecuted.
When the union calls cps to punish a union employee that violates federal law. There are at least three documented cases and many more that are still under raps. I believe once a federal investigation of the union starts we will see what really happened to our money.
There also needs to be a separate investigation of the attorney practices and billing.
There needs to be an investigation of the loans between the union and banks. the rank and file members do not know nay of the details of the loan nor did they ratify a legal budget under the constitution of the CTU.
Poltrock himself admitted in court that the budget was not formed under with the budget committee.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/20/business/20mortgage.html?ref=business
With $8 million missing that is the only solution.
All documents of the union need to be investigated and all criminal activity needs to be prosecuted.
When the union calls cps to punish a union employee that violates federal law. There are at least three documented cases and many more that are still under raps. I believe once a federal investigation of the union starts we will see what really happened to our money.
There also needs to be a separate investigation of the attorney practices and billing.
There needs to be an investigation of the loans between the union and banks. the rank and file members do not know nay of the details of the loan nor did they ratify a legal budget under the constitution of the CTU.
Poltrock himself admitted in court that the budget was not formed under with the budget committee.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/20/business/20mortgage.html?ref=business
Fri Jun 20, 2008 at 8:02 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
Agreed! Now, how do we do this without losing our union completely?
Fri Jun 20, 2008 at 10:41 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
In my view we have already lost the union.
1. No representation.
2. Continuous Job Loss
3. Financial Negligence
4. Collaboration with Management
5. Corruptive Practices
What is to be lost?
The big parties?
Buying gifts and trinkets from go promotions and non-union company connected to our publicists?
Hiring scabs to be lobbyists?
Lets get real>
There is no union.
I just talked to a friend of mine.
Everyone for Brownell school has been fired or not reassigned. EVERYONE
This is happening everyday all over the city.
WAKE UP!
All means necessary need to be employed to stop the corruption!
Anyone who threatens or coerces the uncovering of corruptive practices or attempts to retaliate, intimidate or punish those that work against corruption are violating federal labor law and will go to prison.
THAT IS A FACT!
1. No representation.
2. Continuous Job Loss
3. Financial Negligence
4. Collaboration with Management
5. Corruptive Practices
What is to be lost?
The big parties?
Buying gifts and trinkets from go promotions and non-union company connected to our publicists?
Hiring scabs to be lobbyists?
Lets get real>
There is no union.
I just talked to a friend of mine.
Everyone for Brownell school has been fired or not reassigned. EVERYONE
This is happening everyday all over the city.
WAKE UP!
All means necessary need to be employed to stop the corruption!
Anyone who threatens or coerces the uncovering of corruptive practices or attempts to retaliate, intimidate or punish those that work against corruption are violating federal labor law and will go to prison.
THAT IS A FACT!
Fri Jun 20, 2008 at 11:50 AM
Charges, Counter-Charges
summer is to relax but if we want a new union it takes work.
join in the fight to take back our union
csdu@live.com
join in the fight to take back our union
csdu@live.com
