I've heard School board veteran Gregg Meyers was a civil rights attorney, back in the day. I guess he had a change of ways. While, Mr. Meyers has no problem stuffing Fraser children into the Archer building in August, he can't stomach the idea of saving nearly $3 million by eliminating transportation to Charleston County magnet schools.
I also heard Mr. Meyers used to have a bus stop in front of his house on Sullivan's Island when his child went to Buist Academy. Surely, this bus stop was not necessary. I guess he feels his Mt. Pleasant constituents deserve the same luxuries he awarded himself. Too bad he doesn't think the Fraser children deserve to wait until August 2010 until they have to move from their neighborhood school.
There should be no bus transporting a child from his excellent rated neighborhood school to Buist Academy, plain and simple. A Mt. Pleasant parent wrote a letter to the editor the other day pleading for magnet school transportation to continue (especially to Buist Academy) for the children from McClellanville. That seems like a pretty reasonable request if that child would not be granted a similar education at his neighborhood school. Yet according to my sources, that kid doesn't exist. Who are the children from McClellanville to whom he makes reference? There are a couple of kids from Awendaw. And there are half a dozen kids from Adams Run, Ravenel, and Hollywood who attend Buist Academy. Maybe he got his McClellanville kid confused with those kids. Or maybe he's just another Mt. Pleasant parent who likes that bus transportation for his own kid who, according to MapQuest, barely lives five miles from the school.
In this budget crisis, if magnet school transportation is provided at all it should be set up the same way transportation is mandated under No Child Left Behind federal legislation, plain and simple. Otherwise, Mr. Meyers, we're going to continue to question your motives.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Saturday, February 14, 2009
CCSD is at it again. Will the District 20 board fight them...again?
While our community may continue to question the motives of a college student pursuing a seat on our constituent board, one thing is for sure. By his recent posting on this blog, it sounds like he has a mind of his own. Although I'm tired of the College of Charleston's pseudo partnerships with our schools, maybe Mr. Shalosky represents a different perspective. I say, "Welcome, Mr. Shalosky." You may be just the breath of fresh air our community needs, especially if you can think for yourself and quickly educate yourself on the history of our constituent district. Our District 20 board has been played by the big board as "never being happy" for years, simply because the District 20 board has refused to rubber stamp what the CCSD "experts" want.
I don't know all the facts, but evidently CCSD now wants a rush job on changing attendance lines in the districts where schools are scheduled to close next year. And guess what? CCSD officials have to do what they hate to do, turn to the constituent boards for approval. From what I understand, District 4 did what they do so well...they avoided their duties as elected officials. Yet according to Mr. Shalosky, it sounds like we can count on the District 20 board to do what we elected them to do.
Changing attendance lines should be taken slowly and seriously. This process should be put on hold until the community is properly informed and their voices are heard. What's the rush anyway? CCSD is rushing the closure of Fraser the same way they rushed our Courtney children to Rivers and then our Rivers' children to Rhett. And look at the mess Burke middle is still in. When does it end?
The District 20 board should create attendance lines for Buist Academy. They should also fight for Fraser children to remain at Fraser. To ask those children to move to Archer in August and then move to the new Sanders-Clyde in January is shameful. I assure you it would never be expected nor would it be tolerated in Mt. Pleasant. So why do we tolerate it downtown?
I urge District 20 residents to call your board members and let them know "we're still not happy." Our District 20 board needs your support.
In the meantime, I'll look forward to any information anyone has on where this process stands. And isn't it time to march?
I don't know all the facts, but evidently CCSD now wants a rush job on changing attendance lines in the districts where schools are scheduled to close next year. And guess what? CCSD officials have to do what they hate to do, turn to the constituent boards for approval. From what I understand, District 4 did what they do so well...they avoided their duties as elected officials. Yet according to Mr. Shalosky, it sounds like we can count on the District 20 board to do what we elected them to do.
Changing attendance lines should be taken slowly and seriously. This process should be put on hold until the community is properly informed and their voices are heard. What's the rush anyway? CCSD is rushing the closure of Fraser the same way they rushed our Courtney children to Rivers and then our Rivers' children to Rhett. And look at the mess Burke middle is still in. When does it end?
The District 20 board should create attendance lines for Buist Academy. They should also fight for Fraser children to remain at Fraser. To ask those children to move to Archer in August and then move to the new Sanders-Clyde in January is shameful. I assure you it would never be expected nor would it be tolerated in Mt. Pleasant. So why do we tolerate it downtown?
I urge District 20 residents to call your board members and let them know "we're still not happy." Our District 20 board needs your support.
In the meantime, I'll look forward to any information anyone has on where this process stands. And isn't it time to march?
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Public tax dollars for a private school? Now I've heard it all
Mayor Riley is a complex man with a clear agenda. Over the past thirty years we have watched our public schools sink into a dismal state with our mayor's hands right in the mess of it. By the city council's approval of "spending $4.75 million to buy land that essentially would be given to a new private school" known as Meeting Street Academy, one thing is very clear. Mayor Riley wants successful PRIVATE schools on the peninsula. To heck with any chance of successful PUBLIC schools. Segregation will continue as planned. Thank God for councilman Tim Mallard. I don't know the man, but at least he attempts to provide some form of democracy in this monarchy we live in by refusing to be a "yes-man" for the king.
Don't get me wrong. I'd love to see Meeting Street Academy succeed. It would be great for them to prove what we've known for several decades. CCSD doesn't know how to educate our kids anymore.
Yet to use public tax dollars to purchase land for a private school serving as few as 200 students as the mayor puts claims on Fraser's building for a Police Academy AND Burke High School can't even claim Stoney Field as their own is just plain sick.
Don't get me wrong. I'd love to see Meeting Street Academy succeed. It would be great for them to prove what we've known for several decades. CCSD doesn't know how to educate our kids anymore.
Yet to use public tax dollars to purchase land for a private school serving as few as 200 students as the mayor puts claims on Fraser's building for a Police Academy AND Burke High School can't even claim Stoney Field as their own is just plain sick.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Is it Charleston, SC or Rileyville, SC?
I had to laugh at the editorial in the Post and Courier Saturday morning. In my opinion, laughing is the healthiest way of dealing with the politics of this town. The editorial refers to Dr. McGinley's proposal of selling the Taj Mahal (a/k/a 75 Calhoun Street) in an effort to get us out of the financial mess we're in. I don't believe it and I give her a "C minus" on this one. If she was really sincere, that would have been her first proposed option. The editorial states "Mayor Joseph P. Riley, Jr. (gotta love the full name in there) wants CCSD to remain on Calhoun Street..." And we all know what the mayor wants the mayor gets, right?
I don't know if any one else got it, but I got the sneaky suspicion the author of that editorial was sticking it to the mayor when they then stated "Maybe moving the district headquarters from its traditional location in the county seat won't turn out to be an option, particularly given the city of Charleston's strong desire to keep the headquarters downtown." The CITY of Charleston? I thought it was just the MAYOR of Charleston who had openly expressed opposition to the idea.
Yet, as long as we remain silent, they are one in the same. I just wish the residents and councilmen of the CITY of Charleston would quit letting the Mayor speak on our behalf.
I don't know if any one else got it, but I got the sneaky suspicion the author of that editorial was sticking it to the mayor when they then stated "Maybe moving the district headquarters from its traditional location in the county seat won't turn out to be an option, particularly given the city of Charleston's strong desire to keep the headquarters downtown." The CITY of Charleston? I thought it was just the MAYOR of Charleston who had openly expressed opposition to the idea.
Yet, as long as we remain silent, they are one in the same. I just wish the residents and councilmen of the CITY of Charleston would quit letting the Mayor speak on our behalf.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Outreach? I think not.
I couldn't help but notice the irony of The Chronicle's front page last week. The top three featured articles are authored by Barney Blakeney, Arthur Lawrence, and Brenda Nelson. We are all very familiar with Mr. Blakeney and Mr. Lawrence. Yet who is Dr. Nelson, or should I say REVEREND Nelson? She says, she has "had the opportunity to really listen to the heartfelt concerns of many..." Well, duh, woman. We can't dispute that. Don't you get paid close to $100,000 a year to show up to CCSD's dog and pony shows? I'm sure you are listening, but are you really HEARING us? I doubt it. In your article, you actually insult our intelligence when you feel it necessary to 1) identify yourself as a "Minister" and 2) quote a passage from the Bible. Your audacity to quote Hosea 4:6 really turns my stomach. As you quote, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou has rejected knowledge."
HUH?
I'm a true believer in separation of church and state, but I decided to thumb through the Old Testament and read a little. The passage Ms. Nelson quotes from continues "Because you have ignored the law of God, I also will ignore your children." Now THAT makes sense to me. We could place quite a few political cronies in place of God in that sentence and it makes even more sense to me.
Cut to the chase. Ms. Nelson is part of the problem. Her "testimony" in The Chronicle makes it clear she does NOT understand. She is black, yet she is out of touch with the black community. She knows CCSD is not teaching our children the basic skills necessary to function in society, yet she says nothing, reaping the rewards of her paycheck and kissing a little "you know what" to make sure it keeps coming.
I believe it was Ms. Memminger, a Fraser parent, who inquired about Brenda Nelson at the Burke Community meeting. She asked: Who IS she? And WHAT does she do? Close out her salary and others like her before you close our schools. Clearly if an active parent like Ms. Memminger doesn't know who CCSD's Community Outreach Coordinator is or what she does there hasn't been a heck of a lot of reaching going on.
Mr. Lawrence's article suggested merging our two downtown magnet schools to create true integration. I heard he got a phone call from Ms. Nelson reaching out to him the next day on what a bad idea that would be. Mr. Blakeney's article quotes Rev. Lewis and retired educator David Mack Jr. and the obvious fact all of the schools proposed to be closed are predominately African-American and the lack of quality funding and education taking place in these same schools year after year.
Which brings me back to Ms. Nelson. These communities were blind-sided by CCSD. That's not reaching out. That's p--sing people off. Many of the schools, such as our own Charleston Progressive won't exist under any of CCSD's options. Can you imagine if CCSD did that to a predominately white school? One day a school is advertising for 2009-2010 applicants, the next day they have no building.
I believe our community really wants integration. Yet CCSD is going about it the WRONG way. Communicate with the parents at CPA, Buist, and Community Montessori PRIOR to your proposal. Give them a chance to propose options. Instead, CCSD has pitted school against school, which unfortunately is creating more racial tension. How can you close a predominately black school with no prior warning and give its building to a predominately white school without creating racial tension? I pray at tonight's school board meeting the parents of these schools will unite and realize who the real devil is in this sick process.
HUH?
I'm a true believer in separation of church and state, but I decided to thumb through the Old Testament and read a little. The passage Ms. Nelson quotes from continues "Because you have ignored the law of God, I also will ignore your children." Now THAT makes sense to me. We could place quite a few political cronies in place of God in that sentence and it makes even more sense to me.
Cut to the chase. Ms. Nelson is part of the problem. Her "testimony" in The Chronicle makes it clear she does NOT understand. She is black, yet she is out of touch with the black community. She knows CCSD is not teaching our children the basic skills necessary to function in society, yet she says nothing, reaping the rewards of her paycheck and kissing a little "you know what" to make sure it keeps coming.
I believe it was Ms. Memminger, a Fraser parent, who inquired about Brenda Nelson at the Burke Community meeting. She asked: Who IS she? And WHAT does she do? Close out her salary and others like her before you close our schools. Clearly if an active parent like Ms. Memminger doesn't know who CCSD's Community Outreach Coordinator is or what she does there hasn't been a heck of a lot of reaching going on.
Mr. Lawrence's article suggested merging our two downtown magnet schools to create true integration. I heard he got a phone call from Ms. Nelson reaching out to him the next day on what a bad idea that would be. Mr. Blakeney's article quotes Rev. Lewis and retired educator David Mack Jr. and the obvious fact all of the schools proposed to be closed are predominately African-American and the lack of quality funding and education taking place in these same schools year after year.
Which brings me back to Ms. Nelson. These communities were blind-sided by CCSD. That's not reaching out. That's p--sing people off. Many of the schools, such as our own Charleston Progressive won't exist under any of CCSD's options. Can you imagine if CCSD did that to a predominately white school? One day a school is advertising for 2009-2010 applicants, the next day they have no building.
I believe our community really wants integration. Yet CCSD is going about it the WRONG way. Communicate with the parents at CPA, Buist, and Community Montessori PRIOR to your proposal. Give them a chance to propose options. Instead, CCSD has pitted school against school, which unfortunately is creating more racial tension. How can you close a predominately black school with no prior warning and give its building to a predominately white school without creating racial tension? I pray at tonight's school board meeting the parents of these schools will unite and realize who the real devil is in this sick process.
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Condescension and Hypocrisy
Honestly, I'm not sure what aggravates me more...condescension or hypocrisy. Linard McCloud, the renowned band director for the incredible Burke High School band, served as the moderator for Dr. McGinley's District 20 Community meeting at Burke High School. This was the same man who served under Dr. Goodloe as a "moderator" for the A Plus Program at the Rhett campus as Rivers' students were abruptly moved to Burke without even hot water in the cafeteria at the start of the school year. It was a joke, yet McCloud stood by the administration in full support of the fiasco. We threw McCloud's comrade (and former Burke English teacher) Andrew HaLevi under the bus, yet McCloud remains a shining star.
So, who is Linard McCloud? McCloud is our neighbor. As McCloud told us to support Dr. Goodloe moving the Rivers' students to the Rhett campus, his own child remained in Mt. Pleasant schools. Don't get me wrong. I'm in favor of choosing the best educational path for your child, but don't pretend these options are good enough for our children and grandchildren when they're not good enough for your own.
McCloud moderating that meeting stinks as much as Thuane Fielding's attempt at telling us it was all about the children knowing her child is at Buist Academy. Cut the crap and give us some credit. I even heard another District 20 board member Ivy Ascue has her child at James Island Charter High School, yet she and Ms. Fielding think we should send our children to these low-performing schools. We see right through you. People like you keep our community separated and it's time to call you out on it. By the way, Ms. Fielding, I'd love to know YOUR opinion on closing Charleston Progressive so we can EXPAND a school for cheaters.
So, who is Linard McCloud? McCloud is our neighbor. As McCloud told us to support Dr. Goodloe moving the Rivers' students to the Rhett campus, his own child remained in Mt. Pleasant schools. Don't get me wrong. I'm in favor of choosing the best educational path for your child, but don't pretend these options are good enough for our children and grandchildren when they're not good enough for your own.
McCloud moderating that meeting stinks as much as Thuane Fielding's attempt at telling us it was all about the children knowing her child is at Buist Academy. Cut the crap and give us some credit. I even heard another District 20 board member Ivy Ascue has her child at James Island Charter High School, yet she and Ms. Fielding think we should send our children to these low-performing schools. We see right through you. People like you keep our community separated and it's time to call you out on it. By the way, Ms. Fielding, I'd love to know YOUR opinion on closing Charleston Progressive so we can EXPAND a school for cheaters.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
What should the Fourth Option be?
CCSD tried to present their three options to the District 20 Community tonight. They goofed right from the start when they attempted to give Wilmot Fraser a police escort out. That sums it up. CCSD is so disconnected with our community, they haven't a clue as to who he is. Mr. Fraser simply put a motion on the floor and they refused to change the agenda.
We've seen your options, CCSD. There are NO options for Fraser Elementary, Charleston Progressive, or the Charter School for Math and Science. We knew that and we didn't need you wasting our time. Tonight was our turn for you to LISTEN to us. The community hung in there and waited for their voices to be heard. The consensus was the need for better options. Yet, what should they be?
We've seen your options, CCSD. There are NO options for Fraser Elementary, Charleston Progressive, or the Charter School for Math and Science. We knew that and we didn't need you wasting our time. Tonight was our turn for you to LISTEN to us. The community hung in there and waited for their voices to be heard. The consensus was the need for better options. Yet, what should they be?
Monday, December 15, 2008
Bill the Bulldozer
Okay, I finally took the time to listen to last week's school board meeting on the Comedy (oops, I mean Educational) Channel last night.
My new name for Bill Lewis is Bill the Bulldozer. As he presented the proposal for our schools to the board, he admits we were "all punch drunk in putting this together" on late Friday. Yeah, that's quite an understatement, Bill. He goes on to tell us basically it's okay, Toya, we're working with Mayor Riley. Then Bulldozer Bill begins his presentation district by district.
In response to the Johns Island proposal, Ray Toler says, "Frierson is a newer building. Why close it?" Bulldozer Bill replies, "Nobody lives out in Wadmalaw." I think those residents of Wadmalaw would have to challenge you on that one, Bill.
Mr. Toler asked for a quick count on the population and capacity of the elementary schools, probably wondering why Mt. Zion survives the ax, yet Frierson doesn't. Little yes man to Bill mumbles some numbers in an attempt to answer Mr. Toler's question. AND THEN, Dr. Mac speaks the real truth: "We're seeing progress at Mt. Zion. We're not seeing it at Frierson." In other words, Mt. Zion makes me look better. Let's close Frierson.
New board member, Chris Fraser states something about "reserve capacity." And then goes on to explain Johns Island has a lot of growing room and we don't want to get ahead of ourselves. What does Bill do? Well he might as well have blown Chris a few kisses as he states, "That's a very profound statement." I'm sure Bill was muttering under his breath, Mr. Real Estate mogul, who do you think you are challenging the almighty Bill?
It's also quite a trip to listen to Ms. Toya chime in on that Courtney campus downtown. You know? That's where the Charleston Progressive parents have desperately tried to ensure their magnet school stays afloat despite the district's refusal to fund it as a magnet school. Will that campus go to Buist or will it go to the Montessori school? The Montessori parents are interested in the Berry campus. Yet it's really all about what those Buist parents want. Gregg made that very clear. He stated, "I'd really like to have the (Buist) Principal's position" on this. You know, 'cause that Buist Principal saved me a few years ago more than once and I owe her BIG time.
When Bill gets to District 20, it's a WHOLE different story. We have multiple schools with kids at risk and our goal is getting our kids into SAFE SCHOOLS (who cares if we educate them, right?) as soon as possible. Because...the EARTHQUAKE IS COMING! Well, an earthquake did actually visit Summerville this morning, but ask our parents if they're really worried about the next BIG ONE and I assure you, they're not.
Bill's presentation continues. Let's sell James-Simons (cha-ching,cha-ching). Move those kids to Rivers ('cause we can't let that Charter school get that building) and then move the Charter School to that mold infested Archer Building. Bill goes on to say, Mayor Riley sent us a letter about starting a Police Academy at Fraser. Where do the Fraser kids go? We're never told, but we've known that Fraser Elementary would be closed for quite a while and merged with the Sanders-Clyde students in the new building. It just ticks me off they haven't openly stated it. They expect us to believe Mayor Riley came up with his Police Academy idea out of his "bleep" over the weekend. I can just see the Mayor's letter to CCSD now..."As much as I love eating lunch with the Fraser students and as much as my sister's organization loved teaching those students how to Step, we have realized it would serve our community better to create more qualified police officers to arrest these students than provide them with a proper education..."
At the end of the circus show, I couldn't help but root for Ruth! Ruth Jordan asked, "What percentage of Buist students live on the peninsula?" And guess what? Dr. Mac doesn't answer. Go figure. She even has the audacity to state it makes sense to transport those kids to ensure they're attending a decent school. Don't worry. Anyone who follows this blog knows I've been there and done that. I won't go there again.
Yet I highly recommend watching the school board meetings on Channel 60 in the evening. They can be quite interesting...
My new name for Bill Lewis is Bill the Bulldozer. As he presented the proposal for our schools to the board, he admits we were "all punch drunk in putting this together" on late Friday. Yeah, that's quite an understatement, Bill. He goes on to tell us basically it's okay, Toya, we're working with Mayor Riley. Then Bulldozer Bill begins his presentation district by district.
In response to the Johns Island proposal, Ray Toler says, "Frierson is a newer building. Why close it?" Bulldozer Bill replies, "Nobody lives out in Wadmalaw." I think those residents of Wadmalaw would have to challenge you on that one, Bill.
Mr. Toler asked for a quick count on the population and capacity of the elementary schools, probably wondering why Mt. Zion survives the ax, yet Frierson doesn't. Little yes man to Bill mumbles some numbers in an attempt to answer Mr. Toler's question. AND THEN, Dr. Mac speaks the real truth: "We're seeing progress at Mt. Zion. We're not seeing it at Frierson." In other words, Mt. Zion makes me look better. Let's close Frierson.
New board member, Chris Fraser states something about "reserve capacity." And then goes on to explain Johns Island has a lot of growing room and we don't want to get ahead of ourselves. What does Bill do? Well he might as well have blown Chris a few kisses as he states, "That's a very profound statement." I'm sure Bill was muttering under his breath, Mr. Real Estate mogul, who do you think you are challenging the almighty Bill?
It's also quite a trip to listen to Ms. Toya chime in on that Courtney campus downtown. You know? That's where the Charleston Progressive parents have desperately tried to ensure their magnet school stays afloat despite the district's refusal to fund it as a magnet school. Will that campus go to Buist or will it go to the Montessori school? The Montessori parents are interested in the Berry campus. Yet it's really all about what those Buist parents want. Gregg made that very clear. He stated, "I'd really like to have the (Buist) Principal's position" on this. You know, 'cause that Buist Principal saved me a few years ago more than once and I owe her BIG time.
When Bill gets to District 20, it's a WHOLE different story. We have multiple schools with kids at risk and our goal is getting our kids into SAFE SCHOOLS (who cares if we educate them, right?) as soon as possible. Because...the EARTHQUAKE IS COMING! Well, an earthquake did actually visit Summerville this morning, but ask our parents if they're really worried about the next BIG ONE and I assure you, they're not.
Bill's presentation continues. Let's sell James-Simons (cha-ching,cha-ching). Move those kids to Rivers ('cause we can't let that Charter school get that building) and then move the Charter School to that mold infested Archer Building. Bill goes on to say, Mayor Riley sent us a letter about starting a Police Academy at Fraser. Where do the Fraser kids go? We're never told, but we've known that Fraser Elementary would be closed for quite a while and merged with the Sanders-Clyde students in the new building. It just ticks me off they haven't openly stated it. They expect us to believe Mayor Riley came up with his Police Academy idea out of his "bleep" over the weekend. I can just see the Mayor's letter to CCSD now..."As much as I love eating lunch with the Fraser students and as much as my sister's organization loved teaching those students how to Step, we have realized it would serve our community better to create more qualified police officers to arrest these students than provide them with a proper education..."
At the end of the circus show, I couldn't help but root for Ruth! Ruth Jordan asked, "What percentage of Buist students live on the peninsula?" And guess what? Dr. Mac doesn't answer. Go figure. She even has the audacity to state it makes sense to transport those kids to ensure they're attending a decent school. Don't worry. Anyone who follows this blog knows I've been there and done that. I won't go there again.
Yet I highly recommend watching the school board meetings on Channel 60 in the evening. They can be quite interesting...
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Way to Go, McClellanville!
What a joy it was to read the McClellanville parents spoke their minds at their community meeting last night. Oh, I wish I had been there. They were even able to get the microphone from Sue Robertson (how much is she getting paid, again?)Evidently Ms. Toya played the "you can trust us" game again, but they didn't fall for it. It'll be interesting to see how the rest of the community forums go. I hope everyone is taking notes from the McClellanville community.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich's arrest yesterday for allegedly "scheming to sell Barack Obama's Senate seat" was quite an eye-opener for me. Is there any chance we can get some federal investigators down here? An elected official who thinks he's above the law? The Governor is also charged with "illegally threatening to withhold state assistance...to the Chicago Tribune, in an attempt to strong-arm the newspaper into firing editorial writers who had criticized him."
Hmmm...thoughts of Mayors dance in my head, yet I can't figure out why. I think I just like Mayors so much that I often think of them when I'm reading the Post and Courier.
School closings? I'm not surprised. It sounds like the plan is finally being carried out. And we've got just the school board to get the dirty work done.
Hmmm...thoughts of Mayors dance in my head, yet I can't figure out why. I think I just like Mayors so much that I often think of them when I'm reading the Post and Courier.
School closings? I'm not surprised. It sounds like the plan is finally being carried out. And we've got just the school board to get the dirty work done.
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Whenever I post something regarding Buist, the bloggers start blogging. Few, if any words are uttered when I report the dismal state of Burke Middle school's percentile of students scoring Below Basic. It's sad. I guess I can safely assume, the lack of education taking place in most of our downtown schools is not a concern. The fight over Buist is the focus. Why stop now?
The District 20 resident serving on our county school board and now current Chairperson Ms. Toya Green made some comment about not being able to sleep if Drayton Hall's charter was approved. I busted out laughing when a friend told me that. That girl is a trip. Did anyone else hear that? Approving Drayton Hall's charter may result in cuts elsewhere...like magnet school transportation. Sounds like a great idea to me. This same Ms. Green evidently sleeps just fine as her daughter attends school at Buist Academy with District 20 cheats. She's nestled with "sugar plums dancing in (her) head" over those four foreign language teachers, too. Yeah, no unequal education there, Ms. Green. God forbid we spread the wealth to Drayton Hall. Connect the dots. It doesn't take a rocket scientist. Smooth boy Meyers has concocted quite a batch of magnet school moonshine, hasn't he?
The District 20 resident serving on our county school board and now current Chairperson Ms. Toya Green made some comment about not being able to sleep if Drayton Hall's charter was approved. I busted out laughing when a friend told me that. That girl is a trip. Did anyone else hear that? Approving Drayton Hall's charter may result in cuts elsewhere...like magnet school transportation. Sounds like a great idea to me. This same Ms. Green evidently sleeps just fine as her daughter attends school at Buist Academy with District 20 cheats. She's nestled with "sugar plums dancing in (her) head" over those four foreign language teachers, too. Yeah, no unequal education there, Ms. Green. God forbid we spread the wealth to Drayton Hall. Connect the dots. It doesn't take a rocket scientist. Smooth boy Meyers has concocted quite a batch of magnet school moonshine, hasn't he?
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Valid points, but....?
I had quite a few critics on my last post make some valid points. Unfortunately, I couldn't help but wonder, were they Buist parents who had trouble sleeping for a change? Sorry folks, but I've lived this life too long. So long, I don't even appreciate true criticism when it comes my way. I apologize to those true critics who have nothing to do with Buist. But a mother's past has little relevance to what a positive future she is trying to make for her children. How many of you have the nerve to have your life story blasted in the Post and Courier? I certainly don't.
No one owes Ms. Capers more of an apology than our Superintendent. Our superintendent made quite an ass of herself in Wednesday's paper. Yeah, I said it. Sorry, I'm not here to please. I'm here to vent and hopefully make a change in the right direction. She said, "My heart broke when I read...about a Charleston mother..." Sniffle, sniffle...Yeah, yeah...according to my sources, you knew ALL about this Charleston mother and her children's story BUT you didn't give a rat's ass until that story wound up in the front page of the Post and Courier. Then you have the tackiness to "invite" Candace Capers back "into our schools." Dr. Mac, she didn't leave "our schools." She just went East of the Cooper, where so many of our white parents went long ago. They were just lucky 'cause they could afford to MOVE there, unlike so many others. Yeah, we also know how you shuffle the black kids to James Island under NCLB. My sources tell me there is NO bus that transports downtown kids to Mt. Pleasant. Why is that?
I also say, "Blah, blah, blah", on your administrators and their lack of resumes, too. Four out of those six Principals you praised in your commentary are first timers, Dr. Mac. I'm not knocking them. I'm just saying you have some nerve praising them. There's no resume, yet somehow you made it sound like there was one. These are all changes you've made in the last few months, yet you act as if these people attributed to your projected improvement rating. And please don't put our CDA "on the West side" under your leadership. We're tired of has-beens like Mr. Benton and we're certainly tired of guinea pigs, Dr. McGinley. Give us some credit and admit these schools need some serious help. We'll pray you made the right decisions with your "superstar" administrators. But in the meantime, will you please give Ms. Capers a damn bus so she can get her kids to a better school? You know? Like you do those Buist kids.
No one owes Ms. Capers more of an apology than our Superintendent. Our superintendent made quite an ass of herself in Wednesday's paper. Yeah, I said it. Sorry, I'm not here to please. I'm here to vent and hopefully make a change in the right direction. She said, "My heart broke when I read...about a Charleston mother..." Sniffle, sniffle...Yeah, yeah...according to my sources, you knew ALL about this Charleston mother and her children's story BUT you didn't give a rat's ass until that story wound up in the front page of the Post and Courier. Then you have the tackiness to "invite" Candace Capers back "into our schools." Dr. Mac, she didn't leave "our schools." She just went East of the Cooper, where so many of our white parents went long ago. They were just lucky 'cause they could afford to MOVE there, unlike so many others. Yeah, we also know how you shuffle the black kids to James Island under NCLB. My sources tell me there is NO bus that transports downtown kids to Mt. Pleasant. Why is that?
I also say, "Blah, blah, blah", on your administrators and their lack of resumes, too. Four out of those six Principals you praised in your commentary are first timers, Dr. Mac. I'm not knocking them. I'm just saying you have some nerve praising them. There's no resume, yet somehow you made it sound like there was one. These are all changes you've made in the last few months, yet you act as if these people attributed to your projected improvement rating. And please don't put our CDA "on the West side" under your leadership. We're tired of has-beens like Mr. Benton and we're certainly tired of guinea pigs, Dr. McGinley. Give us some credit and admit these schools need some serious help. We'll pray you made the right decisions with your "superstar" administrators. But in the meantime, will you please give Ms. Capers a damn bus so she can get her kids to a better school? You know? Like you do those Buist kids.
Monday, November 17, 2008
There's a Hero Among Us
Candace Capers is the parent CCSD wants us to be...or not? She is an active parent. According to the Post and Courier, she's so active she chose to take her children out of our district's failing schools and get them East of the Cooper...where the real schools are. You know? The schools rating Excellent on their report cards, making AYP EVERY year (not just every other year or worse). Moultrie Middle is a middle school which actually offers foreign language, something her 6th grader would not be receiving if she kept her at Sanders-Clyde or worse, Burke Middle. Those Mt. Pleasant schools actually require their children to read AND paraphrase.
God bless her. She's a hero. Thank you, Ms. Capers, for speaking the truth too many of us are afraid to utter. And good luck to your children who are truly receiving an education we cannot provide them on the peninsula.
And shame on you CCSD for not providing them transportation!
God bless her. She's a hero. Thank you, Ms. Capers, for speaking the truth too many of us are afraid to utter. And good luck to your children who are truly receiving an education we cannot provide them on the peninsula.
And shame on you CCSD for not providing them transportation!
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
KJ is Mayor!
For those critics who claim I never have anything positive to say, this one is for you. Here's some good news! Kevin Johnson will be the first African-American mayor of Sacramento, California. Mr. Johnson has made a difference, refusing to accept mediocrity in our public schools. He believes in charter schools and as a result has started his own schools. He believes all children can learn no matter what their zip code.
These are happy times! Go KJ!
These are happy times! Go KJ!
Friday, November 7, 2008
Thoughts on the new School Board candidates?
I'm not really sure what to think. Clearly, I believed Marvin Stewart was a much stronger voice for District 20 than Ms. Green. Why Ms. Green decided to run again is beyond me.
Losing David Engelman on our board is huge. He truly believed in holding CCSD accountable for the money they spend...which is clearly NOT going into the classroom.
Chris Collins? God help us all. He seems like a nice guy, but I'm not sure he knows up from down. He's a perfect "Mayor Riley pick", if you ask me.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Losing David Engelman on our board is huge. He truly believed in holding CCSD accountable for the money they spend...which is clearly NOT going into the classroom.
Chris Collins? God help us all. He seems like a nice guy, but I'm not sure he knows up from down. He's a perfect "Mayor Riley pick", if you ask me.
I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Sanders Clyde hits the New York Times
I have to admit, I don't read the New York Times. But as word spread that Sanders-Clyde was on the front page of yesterday's paper, I had to pick up a copy. Personally, I think the writer's depiction of our "city of race and class divisions as old as the time-mellowed neighborhoods in this Old South shrine" was right on target.
What shocked me was our very own Dr. Rose so blatantly admitting something was amiss with the test scores at Sanders-Clyde. When did she realize this? Did she notify Dr. Goodloe from the beginning? When Dr. Goodloe stated she wanted Mishawna to duplicate her "success" at Fraser, did she mean what I now think she meant?
CCSD knew something was going on. So did the State Department. It's not rocket science. Whether Dr. Rose was upfront from the beginning...we may never know. Yet she certainly "saved face" with the New York Times, didn't she?
At least there's a few school board members and parents who don't mind speaking the truth, no matter how hard CCSD tries to hide it.
What shocked me was our very own Dr. Rose so blatantly admitting something was amiss with the test scores at Sanders-Clyde. When did she realize this? Did she notify Dr. Goodloe from the beginning? When Dr. Goodloe stated she wanted Mishawna to duplicate her "success" at Fraser, did she mean what I now think she meant?
CCSD knew something was going on. So did the State Department. It's not rocket science. Whether Dr. Rose was upfront from the beginning...we may never know. Yet she certainly "saved face" with the New York Times, didn't she?
At least there's a few school board members and parents who don't mind speaking the truth, no matter how hard CCSD tries to hide it.
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Low expectations continue
When I read the morning paper, I just shook my head. Last night, our school board voted to give our Superintendent an "$8,000 performance bonus and $300 monthly travel allowance increase"...if the district scores "an absolute rating of average," which of course we won't know until AFTER the November 4 election.
Not only do we applaud average, we give bonuses for average. That pretty much sums it all up for me.
Not only do we applaud average, we give bonuses for average. That pretty much sums it all up for me.
who to vote for who is underdog voting for????????
I want to take a moment and talk to you about the upcoming election. Of course in this heated school board election you all have your chosen favorites. I wanted to let you all know why I am voting this way so that you can choose your own.
I am only talking about the Charleston County school Board because this is the main subject on this blog. I will not get into the national races or any other this isn't about that.
Charleston County School Board (2 seats to fill North Charleston)
Elizabeth Kandrac -she knows what the system is like and still wants to help fix it. Less of a Learning curve here.
Mattese Lecque-her former position at the Department of Justice and service to her country impresses me-lets hope she is tough enough for this group
West Ashley Seats (2 seats to fill)
David Engleman-He has nothing to gain and usually votes sensibly. Honest much more than not.
District 20
Marvin Stewart-He has been fighting for a longtime and still has it in him. I admire that. Also he cares about district 20 makes reasonable conclusions. Toya doesn't she only cares about her situation.
GO MARVIN STEWART
Too bad no one is running for district twenty if anyone hears of some write-in's let me know. If not write in Joe Riley--he claims that he cares...lets see if he does.
I am only talking about the Charleston County school Board because this is the main subject on this blog. I will not get into the national races or any other this isn't about that.
Charleston County School Board (2 seats to fill North Charleston)
Elizabeth Kandrac -she knows what the system is like and still wants to help fix it. Less of a Learning curve here.
Mattese Lecque-her former position at the Department of Justice and service to her country impresses me-lets hope she is tough enough for this group
West Ashley Seats (2 seats to fill)
David Engleman-He has nothing to gain and usually votes sensibly. Honest much more than not.
District 20
Marvin Stewart-He has been fighting for a longtime and still has it in him. I admire that. Also he cares about district 20 makes reasonable conclusions. Toya doesn't she only cares about her situation.
GO MARVIN STEWART
Too bad no one is running for district twenty if anyone hears of some write-in's let me know. If not write in Joe Riley--he claims that he cares...lets see if he does.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Chirs Fraser...does he know Wilmot Fraser?
I always crack up when Buist supporters come out in force on this blog. I can tell you about our kids' illiteracy rate and you could care less. I could tell you our kids are NOT being taught music, art, or foreign language and you say our community isn't doing enough. We'll agree to disagree on that foolishness. There's no convincing you everyone deserves the same educational opportunities...no matter where there live or who their parents are. So, I'm changing the subject on the Plessy v. Ferguson supporters.
When I saw Charleston County school board candidate Chris Fraser's sign in front of the "Cigar Factory" condos, I couldn't help but wonder...does Chris Fraser know the Wilmot Fraser we know? They spell their names the same. Are they related?
Wilmot Fraser is the former Principal of East Bay Elementary (k/k/a Sanders-Clyde). While he is now in a better life, his son also named Wilmot Fraser has been a strong voice for our schools.
Yet the irony of a white man named Fraser with his sign next to our Fraser Elementary, named after Wilmot Fraser...a school many of us are convinced is "up next" in CCSD's real estate auction is just too much to ignore.
When current school board member Brian Moody announced he would not be running for reelection, yet endorsed Chris Fraser "the real estate developer", we heard Chris Fraser say,“I am very excited for this opportunity to run for a seat on the school board. There is no issue more important to our community and economy today, than improving the number and quality of graduates who enter the workforce. I have seen first hand the students in these schools and believe we need to create the best environment for these kids to grow and learn.” So is he saying he's actually visited our downtown schools? I doubt it.
My next question to Mr. Fraser would be: Why is your sign next to the Cigar Factory? Will Fraser Elementary be Fraser Elementary Condos (Part Deux Cigar Factory) in a few years?
We all know the talk is to merge Sanders-Clyde and Fraser...Maria initiated that when she made Mishawna Principal of both schools. No rocket science there...
The news also reported that "Fraser is principal broker-in-charge of Grubb & Ellis | BarkleyFraser a commercial real estate firm. For the past two years he has served as chairman of The Education Foundation, an initiative of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce that builds partnerships between the business community and the schools..." Nothing more needs to be said there for me...Then we hear, "During his term, Fraser helped convene local leaders in business and education, and helped strengthen the relationships between the two to determine workforce needs and requirements."
Hmm...in other words, sounds to me like, we need to make sure Mayor Joe has his bed-makers and fry-cooks.
I want to know if Chris Fraser has kids in our schools (not magnet schools like Green and Meyers) and if so, where?? C'mon Chris Fraser, prove to us you're in this for the RIGHT reasons.
When I saw Charleston County school board candidate Chris Fraser's sign in front of the "Cigar Factory" condos, I couldn't help but wonder...does Chris Fraser know the Wilmot Fraser we know? They spell their names the same. Are they related?
Wilmot Fraser is the former Principal of East Bay Elementary (k/k/a Sanders-Clyde). While he is now in a better life, his son also named Wilmot Fraser has been a strong voice for our schools.
Yet the irony of a white man named Fraser with his sign next to our Fraser Elementary, named after Wilmot Fraser...a school many of us are convinced is "up next" in CCSD's real estate auction is just too much to ignore.
When current school board member Brian Moody announced he would not be running for reelection, yet endorsed Chris Fraser "the real estate developer", we heard Chris Fraser say,“I am very excited for this opportunity to run for a seat on the school board. There is no issue more important to our community and economy today, than improving the number and quality of graduates who enter the workforce. I have seen first hand the students in these schools and believe we need to create the best environment for these kids to grow and learn.” So is he saying he's actually visited our downtown schools? I doubt it.
My next question to Mr. Fraser would be: Why is your sign next to the Cigar Factory? Will Fraser Elementary be Fraser Elementary Condos (Part Deux Cigar Factory) in a few years?
We all know the talk is to merge Sanders-Clyde and Fraser...Maria initiated that when she made Mishawna Principal of both schools. No rocket science there...
The news also reported that "Fraser is principal broker-in-charge of Grubb & Ellis | BarkleyFraser a commercial real estate firm. For the past two years he has served as chairman of The Education Foundation, an initiative of the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce that builds partnerships between the business community and the schools..." Nothing more needs to be said there for me...Then we hear, "During his term, Fraser helped convene local leaders in business and education, and helped strengthen the relationships between the two to determine workforce needs and requirements."
Hmm...in other words, sounds to me like, we need to make sure Mayor Joe has his bed-makers and fry-cooks.
I want to know if Chris Fraser has kids in our schools (not magnet schools like Green and Meyers) and if so, where?? C'mon Chris Fraser, prove to us you're in this for the RIGHT reasons.
Monday, October 20, 2008
Sniff, sniff...I smell a rat!
School board member Gregg Meyers was able to pull off some free advertisement for his girl Toya today in his letter to the editor in the Post and Courier. Mr. Meyers makes reference to the "charter school Kool-Aid", yet if you want my honest opinion, Mr. Meyers and his girl are drinking way too much "magnet school Kool-Aid." You know, the "separate and unequal education" we folks down south REALLY appreciate.
Mr. Meyers says, "if you've had the Kool-Aid, you don't want any questions asked of charter schools." The same could be said about your magnet school Buist Academy, Mr. Meyers. Buist Academy: that crazy school downtown where it just so happens Ms. Green's child entered with flying colors as well as your own. How many kids did you have go through that school, Mr. Meyers? 6? 12? You're as lucky as Darius Rucker on that county-wide list, huh?
Students enter as District 20 residents, don't live in District 20, and yet they get to stay at Buist as District 20 residents "'cause they didn't know they couldn't move." Mr. Meyers led that crowd and I can smell him from here.
Mr. Meyers says, "if you've had the Kool-Aid, you don't want any questions asked of charter schools." The same could be said about your magnet school Buist Academy, Mr. Meyers. Buist Academy: that crazy school downtown where it just so happens Ms. Green's child entered with flying colors as well as your own. How many kids did you have go through that school, Mr. Meyers? 6? 12? You're as lucky as Darius Rucker on that county-wide list, huh?
Students enter as District 20 residents, don't live in District 20, and yet they get to stay at Buist as District 20 residents "'cause they didn't know they couldn't move." Mr. Meyers led that crowd and I can smell him from here.
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Big Bad NCLB
Shame on that federal law mandating that our students need to be proficient. What's wrong with Basic? Basic means are students are "minimally prepared." According to the Post and Courier, SC State Superintendent Jim Rex "criticized the federal law..." Rex blames the federal law for making our schools look bad. Well thank God somebody thinks basic isn't good enough for our kids.
Our state report cards define Below Basic as: "did not meet standards, must have academic assistance plan, the local board policy determines progress to the next grade level." Yet, according to our own Burke Middle 2007 report card, 62.4% scored below basic in English, 62.9% in Math, 77.8" in Science, and 76% in Social Studies. NOW HOW DID THEY PASS TO THE NEXT GRADE LEVEL??
According to the state report cards "Proficient" is defined as "well prepared to work at the next grade level; met expectations."
The top score is labeled as "Advanced", meaning "very high score; well prepared to work at the next grade level; exceeded expectations."
Forget that. We're not asking our kids to be advanced. That crazy federal law is actually asking for schools to increase the percentage of kids "well prepared to work at the next grade level." Now from what I understand from the Post and Courier article in today's paper, elementary and middle schools must have 58.8 percent of its students score proficient in order to make AYP as opposed to 38.2 percent last year.
Wow, we're actually expecting more than half of our students to be "well prepared to work at the next grade level" as opposed to barely one-third. Sounds like those high expectations of the federal government are getting the best of the low expectations of the local school system.
I say, "Thank God for No Child Left Behind." Get off your behinds, CCSD, and get with the program. Our children deserve more.
Our state report cards define Below Basic as: "did not meet standards, must have academic assistance plan, the local board policy determines progress to the next grade level." Yet, according to our own Burke Middle 2007 report card, 62.4% scored below basic in English, 62.9% in Math, 77.8" in Science, and 76% in Social Studies. NOW HOW DID THEY PASS TO THE NEXT GRADE LEVEL??
According to the state report cards "Proficient" is defined as "well prepared to work at the next grade level; met expectations."
The top score is labeled as "Advanced", meaning "very high score; well prepared to work at the next grade level; exceeded expectations."
Forget that. We're not asking our kids to be advanced. That crazy federal law is actually asking for schools to increase the percentage of kids "well prepared to work at the next grade level." Now from what I understand from the Post and Courier article in today's paper, elementary and middle schools must have 58.8 percent of its students score proficient in order to make AYP as opposed to 38.2 percent last year.
Wow, we're actually expecting more than half of our students to be "well prepared to work at the next grade level" as opposed to barely one-third. Sounds like those high expectations of the federal government are getting the best of the low expectations of the local school system.
I say, "Thank God for No Child Left Behind." Get off your behinds, CCSD, and get with the program. Our children deserve more.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Say What?
CCSD's latest attempt to improve our schools includes all Title 1 middle schools starting school 2 hours later than usual two Wednesdays a month for professional development.
Yep, you heard it right. The children who need the most instruction are actually receiving less instruction. Word is Burke middle school students didn't know what to do with themselves. Parents had to go to work. Children disturbed neighbors opening car doors, invading one house over another. Well, duh, they're in middle school and they're unsupervised...waiting for the school doors to open.
Let me guess. The "educational scholar" who came up with this brilliant idea doesn't have kids, right?
According to a reliable source, when the District 20 board questioned Dr. McGinley about the foolishness of such an idea, she appeared "clueless" and said she'd check into it.
Why can't we have a Superintendent that has a PhD. in common sense?
Yep, you heard it right. The children who need the most instruction are actually receiving less instruction. Word is Burke middle school students didn't know what to do with themselves. Parents had to go to work. Children disturbed neighbors opening car doors, invading one house over another. Well, duh, they're in middle school and they're unsupervised...waiting for the school doors to open.
Let me guess. The "educational scholar" who came up with this brilliant idea doesn't have kids, right?
According to a reliable source, when the District 20 board questioned Dr. McGinley about the foolishness of such an idea, she appeared "clueless" and said she'd check into it.
Why can't we have a Superintendent that has a PhD. in common sense?
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Ms. Green vs. Mr. Stewart
So the District 20 seat on the County board is down to two candidates, incumbent Ms. Toya Hampton-Green and Constituent board member Mr. Marvin Stewart. For me, its no contest. Ms. Green represents the status quo. She doesn't care that our District 20 kids aren't even receiving a minimally adequate education. Mr. Stewart calls it like he sees it. He's a breath of fresh air from the politics of this town. I had to laugh when Ms. Green said "she's a team player and Stewart is a naysayer..." CCSD isn't educating our kids, Ms. Green. CCSD isn't providing any choices or effective solutions. So whose team are you on?
Keep talking Mr. Stewart, we're listening.
Keep talking Mr. Stewart, we're listening.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Sanders-Clyde's Sucess: Real or Faux?
So Charleston residents have learned the success of Sanders-Clyde may not be as it appeared. We won't know anymore until the SLED investigation is complete. However, we've heard the rumors and they're not good. I can't help but wonder what Dr. Goodloe was really thinking when she told us she wanted Mishawna Moore to duplicate her success at Fraser Elementary, making her Principal of both schools.
I'm also wondering about Dr. Rose's role in all of this is. Isn't she the Director of Assessment and Accountability? Is she checking MAP scores and noticing any red flags? Or is she too busy rigging the Buist lottery? Can we trust CCSD on anything?
Whether there's been cheating going on at Sanders-Clyde or not, we're clearly cheating our kids. We don't need to wait on the SLED investigation to determine that.
I'm also wondering about Dr. Rose's role in all of this is. Isn't she the Director of Assessment and Accountability? Is she checking MAP scores and noticing any red flags? Or is she too busy rigging the Buist lottery? Can we trust CCSD on anything?
Whether there's been cheating going on at Sanders-Clyde or not, we're clearly cheating our kids. We don't need to wait on the SLED investigation to determine that.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Go, Chicago!
Should we pack our bags and head to Chicago? According to an article in today's Post and Courier, over "1,000 Chicago public school students skipped the first day of classes Tuesday to protest unequal education funding..." Evidently in Chicago, they blatantly underfund their inner-city schools. So will someone here, please explain to me how it works in Charleston? According to the Post and Courier a few weeks ago, funding isn't the issue, yet we clearly don't have equal education.
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Buist bloggers
Well the Buist bloggers are out in full force on my favorite critic's blog. Gotta laugh at those crazy people. They actually think their kids are smarter than ours. Smarter kids deserve a better education. I missed that Supreme Court ruling. They even think it's okay that they use Mommy and Daddy's address to get that better education. Mr. Demetre? You got some nerve showing up and mouthing off at the board Monday night, don't you? What about that Wally guy? Mark blahdenburg, too.
What a trip. The biggest trip was our girl Toya telling us if the board wants to go after "parents who haven't told the truth" then we need a committee. SHEEEET, girl. Where have you been? Better yet, how dumb do you think we are?
Thanks for the laughs, Buist babies, keep 'em coming. We welcome your crazy comments here.
What a trip. The biggest trip was our girl Toya telling us if the board wants to go after "parents who haven't told the truth" then we need a committee. SHEEEET, girl. Where have you been? Better yet, how dumb do you think we are?
Thanks for the laughs, Buist babies, keep 'em coming. We welcome your crazy comments here.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
New school Year Drama
Well a new school year has started and a new year of school issues. Don’t we all just dream of the day that we can send our kids to school, know that they are going to get the best education they can without that drama? Lets recap the drama so far
Goodloe....I mean McGinley wants to consolidate schools. Didn’t we go through this before? Do they think that we have forgotten? I am sure that McGinley is going to give the public some study that says larger schools are more conducive to learning. Isn’t the current situation downtown a product of consolidation? Wouldn’t a better idea be to make these schools better so that they will be able to compete with private schools and other excellent rated schools so students came to them? After all the CCSD is only after themselves and not the students. It is all about the bottom $ line at 75 Calhoun. That and resumes.
Next on day one the CCSD sends out the truant officers to get kids into school. While I would think that this would be a good idea for those that are known kids that are usually not in class lets bring out what is really important. If the kids aren’t there in the first 10 days the CCSD will not get paid. That is the real issue. Everything is about the dollar sign, when is it about our kids education.
Last the Charleston Charter School for Math and Science opened and McGinley left in the middle of the ceremony. What example is she setting for students everywhere? Students should not get up in the middle of class...student rule 1 respect your educators!
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Passing the ball
Well, the ball has officially been passed. Dr. McGinley is leaving it up to the board on how to deal with Buist. She says the board "needs to give the administration direction on how to enforce the policy." Well, Doc, you didn't seem to have any problem enforcing the policy at St. Andrews Math and Science, so what's the problem?
Funny to watch ol' Mr. Meyers finally show his true colors publicly. Mr. Meyers, who told these parents they can move? Anyone with half a brain knows that would never stand up in a court of law and you know it.
Mr. Brandenburg? Well I can't help but wonder why his panties are all in a wad. UNLESS, he has something to hide. And what's the deal with this "district document from February 2007"? Parents have "relied on an understanding" they can fake an address to get into Buist, Mr. Brandenburg. That's what they've relied on. And who let them believe that? Well Miss Sallie Ballard, of course. Or was it Dr. Rose? If Dr. McGinley wanted to truly make things right, she should point those "ladies" to the door.
District 20 board chair Pam Kusmider "hopes the board does what is right for downtown residents." Don't hold your breath, lady. Aren't you the one filing lawsuits and civil rights' complaints? Since when do you "hope" the board will do the right thing? Give me a break.
Honestly, Mr. Douglas seems to be the only one who makes sense in the article. He says "students who entered (Buist)...because of their peninsula residence still should be living downtown or be asked to leave the school." Sounds pretty simple to me.
So why does Dr. McGinley need to pass the ball? Enforce it, girl. That is, unless you want to prove what so many of us believe to be right. "We" let people use whatever District 20 address they want and live wherever they want because CCSD wants to keep black District 20 residents out of Buist. You think we all live in the projects and as a result we must be rotten apples. Hey, District 20, where's THAT OCR complaint? Prove us wrong, Dr. McGinley. Do the right thing.
Funny to watch ol' Mr. Meyers finally show his true colors publicly. Mr. Meyers, who told these parents they can move? Anyone with half a brain knows that would never stand up in a court of law and you know it.
Mr. Brandenburg? Well I can't help but wonder why his panties are all in a wad. UNLESS, he has something to hide. And what's the deal with this "district document from February 2007"? Parents have "relied on an understanding" they can fake an address to get into Buist, Mr. Brandenburg. That's what they've relied on. And who let them believe that? Well Miss Sallie Ballard, of course. Or was it Dr. Rose? If Dr. McGinley wanted to truly make things right, she should point those "ladies" to the door.
District 20 board chair Pam Kusmider "hopes the board does what is right for downtown residents." Don't hold your breath, lady. Aren't you the one filing lawsuits and civil rights' complaints? Since when do you "hope" the board will do the right thing? Give me a break.
Honestly, Mr. Douglas seems to be the only one who makes sense in the article. He says "students who entered (Buist)...because of their peninsula residence still should be living downtown or be asked to leave the school." Sounds pretty simple to me.
So why does Dr. McGinley need to pass the ball? Enforce it, girl. That is, unless you want to prove what so many of us believe to be right. "We" let people use whatever District 20 address they want and live wherever they want because CCSD wants to keep black District 20 residents out of Buist. You think we all live in the projects and as a result we must be rotten apples. Hey, District 20, where's THAT OCR complaint? Prove us wrong, Dr. McGinley. Do the right thing.
Monday, July 28, 2008
The Charleston Joe's
Did anyone else read Sunday's paper and notice the irony in it? Okay, I may officially be a cynic...something I don't call myself with any pride attached to it. Chief Mullen has been receiving a bit of bad press and our Mayor Joe is not happy.
So to help him out, did our Rev. Darby actually speak of gentrification as if it was a good thing?
His quote regarding Chief Mullen's progress as "running well" is this: "Its not as bad as it was. We don't have much parking and debris piling up,...This is the effect of progress of King Street. It's a changing place, a neighborhood in transition, going through gentrification." HUH??
His good friend Mayor Joe takes the time to write a whole commentary on how wonderful the Chief is. On the editorial page, Mayor Joe reminds us of how important it is to treat each citizen equally. Well, gee thanks, Mayor Joe. We sure appreciate your willingness to ensure our right to drink a "can of beer or cup of double malt" is just as illlegal as those in the French Quarter drinking a "glass of wine...or "the mythical mint julep on High Battery." It's just too damn bad you don't think those same double malt drinkers are worthy of a DECENT EDUCATION. Yeah, some of us can actually read, Mayor Joe.
So, I guess we should thank you for cracking down on those mint whatever drinkers. I appreciate you making sure we're being treated equally on that end.
So what happened? Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against the Chief. But I can't help but wonder. Did Rev. Darby and Mayor Joe sit down with their mints and malts to come together in support of Mullen?
So to help him out, did our Rev. Darby actually speak of gentrification as if it was a good thing?
His quote regarding Chief Mullen's progress as "running well" is this: "Its not as bad as it was. We don't have much parking and debris piling up,...This is the effect of progress of King Street. It's a changing place, a neighborhood in transition, going through gentrification." HUH??
His good friend Mayor Joe takes the time to write a whole commentary on how wonderful the Chief is. On the editorial page, Mayor Joe reminds us of how important it is to treat each citizen equally. Well, gee thanks, Mayor Joe. We sure appreciate your willingness to ensure our right to drink a "can of beer or cup of double malt" is just as illlegal as those in the French Quarter drinking a "glass of wine...or "the mythical mint julep on High Battery." It's just too damn bad you don't think those same double malt drinkers are worthy of a DECENT EDUCATION. Yeah, some of us can actually read, Mayor Joe.
So, I guess we should thank you for cracking down on those mint whatever drinkers. I appreciate you making sure we're being treated equally on that end.
So what happened? Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against the Chief. But I can't help but wonder. Did Rev. Darby and Mayor Joe sit down with their mints and malts to come together in support of Mullen?
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
She forgot?
Dr. McGinley seemed unaware that we have separate residency verification rules for Buist Academy until Diette Courrege brought it to her attention a few weeks ago. Now Dr. McGinley FORGOT to address these disparities with the board? Are you kiddin' me?
Let me give you a brief review. Buist is flooded with false addresses. The District 20 board turns the names in two years ago. The County board creates a new policy to send parents to jail if they use fake addresses. Nightline comes. Principals are overwhelmed with ridiculous paperwork. (That is, everyone except Principal Ballard at Buist...she's getting her hair done). The false address folks remain at Buist. No one goes to jail. No one is even fined. Why? Because the CCSD board creates stupid policies and then doesn't enforce them. We kick a few kids out of St. Andrews. All the while pretending we've addressed the problems at Buist.
Sorry, Dr. McGinley, I'm not buying it. We pay you too much to forget something like this. Maybe if we had a consequence (like denying your car allowance for a month), you wouldn't be so forgetful.
Those of us in District 20 won't forget. We're still waiting...
Let me give you a brief review. Buist is flooded with false addresses. The District 20 board turns the names in two years ago. The County board creates a new policy to send parents to jail if they use fake addresses. Nightline comes. Principals are overwhelmed with ridiculous paperwork. (That is, everyone except Principal Ballard at Buist...she's getting her hair done). The false address folks remain at Buist. No one goes to jail. No one is even fined. Why? Because the CCSD board creates stupid policies and then doesn't enforce them. We kick a few kids out of St. Andrews. All the while pretending we've addressed the problems at Buist.
Sorry, Dr. McGinley, I'm not buying it. We pay you too much to forget something like this. Maybe if we had a consequence (like denying your car allowance for a month), you wouldn't be so forgetful.
Those of us in District 20 won't forget. We're still waiting...
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