Cool Weather is Coming

October is just around the corner and with it comes some cool temperatures.

Over the next five to six weeks Schools Count will collect new coats and those gently used ones which are clean.  We'll also collect gloves, mittens, and winter hats.  Our goal is to collect 1,000 coats.  Please be a part of this effort to enable children to get to and from school by staying warm.

Providing supplies to students for their use throughout the year is critical.  It's also important for the students to have warm clothing during the frigid winter months.   If students had to walk to school or wait for a bus without warm clothing that would just add to their difficulties.

Please check your closets, chat with friend and neighbors and seek out the support of your family in terms of helping us assist the children in the CPS system and Harvey, IL.

Thanks,
Dick

SAS - Join Now

There is a movement underfoot right now, at Hinsdale Central High School, to start a movement where the students from Central reach out to help other students.  I believe this is a profound and important venture for these young people.   To be of service to others is a noble cause.

SAS stands for Students Assisting Students and it aims to help school children in and around Chicago obtain the supplies and resources they need to be successful in the classroom.  The club has a variety of exciting activities planned for the 2012-13 school year.  They'll obtain classroom supplies, conduct a winter coat drive, help paint a school or two and collect student supplies from area school in the Spring of 2013. 

Right now there are just a couple of students spearheading this effort but they are serious about enlisting the support of others at HC in this cause.

By the way, this is not a money-making club or one that chats about doing something.  This is truly a service oriented organization.  In fact, the service starts this weekend, Homecoming at HC, and continues throughout the remainder of the school year. 

To be a part of this terrific club simply show up at the Hinsdale Central High School football field this Saturday, Sept. 29th at 8:30 am.  Ask for Jenny (or myself) and she will give you a sense of what you will do for the next two hours as we sell concessions at Homecoming.

SAS is bound to be a big hit and will do wonderful things for children in need.

Thanks,
Dick

What's Going On?

A Chicago Public School strike, one in Lake Forest and some others pending.  There are also a good number of schools negotiating but making little progress in talks.  Well, these strikes and other potential job actions are just the tip of the iceberg from my vantage point.

Last year Governor Walker, and the legislature, of Wisconsin imposed restrictions on public employees engaging in collective bargaining.  I also know of a good number of schools where the district wants to not only offer a 0% increase in wages, they want to restrict raises by eliminating lanes and steps.

Fortunately, yesterday a judge in Indiana ruled that the State Board of Education (I think this is the correct organization) could not use a particular form in the various school district in Indiana that would change the school day (lengthen it or add hours) and prevent the chance for an increase in salary.  Just think what the repercussions would have been had the judge not struck down the rule.

These are but a small sampling of the many assaults on public unions and associations. Why the villification of unions?  Are we to believe that it's all about funding?  That's part of it for sure.  Teachers need to negotiate with their bosses because, in large measure, too many people just don't understand the many issues that confront today's educator.

The assault on collective bargaining needs to stop!

Thanks,
Dick    

Big News?

The big news that hit the airwaves yesterday proclaimed that more students in America are taking the ACT test than the SAT.  Yeah, I guess.

It got me to thinking about what is important in the whole process of educating youth and what it really takes for a student to make it in the world.  I also thought about the whole local and state testing which students are subjected to a growing basis.  Finally, I thought about those people I know who have 'made it' and reflected on my own background.

I have long held the belief that what really enables a person to be successful are those elements of ones personality and fiber that have nothing to do with the ACT or SAT.

No, what is more important than ones test results is an individuals drive, grit, interest, motivation and determination.  Give me a person who excels in these qualities and I will assure you that such a person, irrespective of their test scores - high or low - will 'make it' in the world.

It's been a long time since I have heard the general public, many educators or the media extol the above virtues.  Yes, I'll say it, drive, grit, interest, motivation and determination are far more important than what a test score says.  I am sure there are plenty of you out there who can attest to this and your lives reflect this reality.

Education can best serve students by working to instill such qualities in today's learner.

Dick

Some Additional Thanks

A few words of praise and thanks are in order!

First, additional funds have come into Schools Count Corp. via the Hinsdale Central High School KICK endeavor.  The fantastic sum of $5,885.00 was raised through individual donations, corporate sponsorships, the soccer-tennis tourney and family contributions.  Thanks to one and all.

I want to give a shout out to Maria O'Donnell as she purchased four dozen sorely needed uniforms for the students at Bryant Elementary School in Harvey.  Your kindness is greatly appreciated.

Finally, to Sheralynn and Jeff Kellough, you really came through in a big way!  These music lovers and great supporters of Schools Count made funds available to purchase a number of clarinets, flutes, saxophones, trumpets and trombones.  King Elementary School, in the CPS system, now has plenty of instruments for their music class and band program.

No matter the needs, these generous people, like you, are always there to jump in when the need arises.  Thank you for your ongoing support!

Dick

Heading to Hammond

We often deliver various types of supplies to a number of the schools in the North Lawndale neighborhood.  We typically take California Ave. north to get to the schools and always pass Hammond Elementary on the way.  Well, today we won't pass Hammond; rather, we'll stop in.

I have a good number of notebooks, pens, binders, pencils, art supplies, loose leaf paper and folders remaining from our delivery last month and the Asst. Principal at Hammond mentioned their need for these types of resources. 

I don't know that much about Hammond but I'm looking forward to making the trek to the city to help the kids and learn a bit more about the school and neighborhood.  Hammond is the 34th CPS school that we have worked with this fall.  Glad we can help another school in the southern portion of the North Lawndale region.

The fact that I am going to Hammond towards the end of September simply underscores the fact that the needs of the children and school are ongoing throughout the year.  Providing supplies once a year is helpful but it doesn't fully address their continuing needs.

Glad we can help a bit!
Dick

Everyone Makes a Difference

The idea of helping others is not new nor is it a novel idea to volunteer to benefit a cause.  Sometimes people feel that they are a bit short of time or funds.   They might also assume that what they contribute 'is but a small amount or very little.'  To that I say, not true!!

Whatever one can donate, be it funds or a bit of time and effort in terms of assisting our charity it makes a huge difference in the lives of the students we serve.  Each time a person contributes $5, a student receives all the classroom supplies needed for one entire school year!  Think of it, a $100 donation essentially takes care of an entire class!  Quite amazing.

What if you volunteered for 10 hours throughout the entire year.  In one sense it is a small amount of time but that 10 hours is significant if looked at another way.  5 hours could be spent loading supplies in August and 5 hours could be used to paint a school on a Saturday.  Imagine 30, 40 or 50 participating. 

Look at it another way, let's say you can help for just 5 hours.  That time could be spent by collecting coats for 2 hours and helping to deliver supplies for the other 3 hours.  Again, this is a major contribution.

Whatever you can do to assist Schools Count is valuable and your help is greatly needed and appreciated.  You should never feel like your volunteer efforts are 'too little.'  Doing nothing is 'too little.'  I am always grateful for people stepping forward to help.  I look forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,
Dick

KICK - Bits and Pieces

An update on our proceeds from the KICK fundraiser.  With some additional donations we have now raised $5,455.00!!  What an incredible event.

Hats off to Alex Howson, the owner of Championship Experiences.  His hair salon (SportsClips Haircuts) in Willowbrook (corner of Plainfield Rd. and Route 83) has been a major supporter of KICK for the past two years.  Not only did Mr. Howson make a significant monetary contribution to KICK and, in turn, Schools Count, the salon has also provided us with coupons for a big reduction in the price of haircuts and styling.  Thank you!

Our three senior leaders of KICK, Philip Gutman, Mike Krohn and Connor Oleferchik not only did a terrific job of soliciting corporate funding for KICK they have also been major contributors to the early success of the varsity team.  HC currently has an impressive record of 7-3-2 against some stiff competition.  They have a great season in the works.

To all the Mom's, Dad's and families who helped put on the Sunday event...thank you so very much.  Your support is noteworthy and critical in terms of supporting HC and Schools Count Corp.

Thanks!
Dick

KICK Makes it Happen

Fun, food and great weather was in abundance as the Hinsdale Central H. S. Boys soccer team held its Fifth Annual KICK Fundraiser at the HC tennis courts.  The soccer tennis tournament is the culmination of months of work on the part of the three varsity soccer players and their parents.

This year varsity players Philip Gutman, Michael Krohn, and Connor Oleferchik organized the event.  It takes time and dedication to pull off the entire event.  By the way, make it work they did!!  We had nearly 70 players for the tourney and the boys raised the staggering sum of $5,285.00 through all the fundraising efforts leading up to yesterday's tourney.

I want to give a special thanks to the Mom's...Mrs. Gutman, Mrs. Krohn, and Mrs. Oleferchik.  She certainly supported the boys and put much work into coordinating the KICK initiative.  I am most appreciative of your assistance.

Relative to support, words cannot express my sincere thanks for the financial support provided to KICK and, in turn, our charity Schools Count. 

Our Business Donor's include; Clarendon Hills Bank, Kramers Food, Fox's Orland Park Restaurant, McDonald's, Silbrico, Championship Experiences, Mavco Insurance Agency, Pain Specialists of Greater Chicago, and the Country House.

Family Donations came from the Garnett's, Krohn's, Walker's, Gutman's, Oleferchik's, Meyer's,. Loebig's, Scott's, Schmidt's, McGowen's, Jeannin's, and Ender's.

Gift Card Donations were made by; Campus Colors, Country House, Great America Fright Fest, Willowbrook Lanes, Buffalo Wild Wings, Soccer 2000, Meatheads, Great American Bagel, Pinstripes and Domino's Pizza.

Thank you one and all!
Dick

Big Day!

Alright, sunny and pleasant for tomorrow Sunday, September 16th!!

Why the big deal about tomorrow's weather you ask?  Well, it just so happens to be the culminating event of the Hinsdale Central High School Boys Soccer KICK initiative.  We love this kind of weather as the boys play a soccer-tennis tournament at the high school tennis courts.

There are plenty of refreshments, music and a great tournament featuring all the boys in the HC soccer program.  By having this fantastic weather, the boys will be able to have the best conditions for playing these exciting games.

I will be sure to pass along the details of the tourney and the final results of the fundraising associated with the KICK program (Kick it in for Chicago Kids).  All of the money raised goes directly to Schools Count Corp so we can help the students in the CPS system.

Looking forward to it!!
Dick

A Personal Note

Twenty four years ago my Father passed away.  I told him and my Mother at the time that he had much to do with what I consider to be a wonderful upbringing.  To the extent that I might have worked hard and had a bit of success in teaching, I attributed to my Dad's influence.

But, like any other individual, I was positively influenced by both parents.  As my Mother has had some serious illness issues, over the past few months, I have given some thought to what she has meant to me.  The part of me that wants to reach out to others to be of some service can directly be attributed to Mom.

She taught me something about being kind, gentle and caring.  That is the way she raised me, the way she took care of me as I grew up in tiny Owasco, NY.  Without her knowing, those values were instilled in me in my formative years.

I believe the reason I cared about students in my teaching career and feel so strongly about Schools Count, and the people we work with, is because of my Mom.  To be of service to those who are hurting, who have suffered and are looking for a thread of hope, I say to my Mother, thank you for be a guiding light.

The other day I blogged about the fact that I have blogged 500 times about the work of Schools Count.  I also said I was looking forward to the next 500 days of blogging.  These next 500 are dedicated to you Mom.  Thanks for teaching me the value of reaching out to and caring for others.

Dick

Some background

Whether one agrees with the Chicago Public School strike or not, there is one certainty.   The existence of many of the conditions, bemoaned by the union, which adversely learning and teaching are present in a number of the schools in the poorest areas of the city.  I know, I've seen it.

There are too many children in far too many classes.  Too many disruptive students make the learning environment challenging to say the least.  Schools see ups and downs in those attending school because of the shifting of students between portions of the city.  The poverty and crime in regions of the city affect the children and those problems don't end when the students show up at the door in the morning.  So when people within the schools say that more psychologist and social workers are needed they aren't exaggerating.

And here is where Schools Count Corp comes in...huge numbers of students aren't properly resourced with day-to-day supplies.  Talk about a problem!

Beyond the above, there is much too much shifting of teaching and administration personnel at the various schools.  This is instability is both mind boggling and troubling!!   So how do the above problems get solved by an ever changing of the guard?  The anwer is...not very well in too many cases.

These challenges are real and have to be dealt with, simple as that.  It is up to both the CPS system and the teacher's union to address these concerns.

Dick

Sad Scenario

Sadly, the strike in Chicago Public Schools seems to be one of bitterness.  Unfortunately, the very existence of the union is becoming a large issue.  That shouldn't be the case as unions, just like management, have an important role in any work place.

What ought to be at stake are the children and issues that affect their learning and the ability of teachers to deliver.  This seems, with each passing day, to get lost in the shuffle. 

Cool heads need to prevail on both sides.  Both sides ought to step back and take a moment to catch their breath.  To an extent, both sides need to retreat to the starting point of what can best be done to help students excel and how teachers can best meet those needs.  I am sure both sides could agree that this is the point at which reasonable negotiations can move forward.

In a sense it doesn't matter, as the saying goes, 'who is at fault.'  Beyond that, a way has to be found, going forward, on focusing on student learning.  That just doesn't seem to be the case at the moment.

Dick

Another Perspective

Yes, the Chicago Teachers are on strike and the kids, sadly, aren't in the classroom. 

There are plenty of innuendos flying around about both sides of the equation.  Critics of the union simply say there is no reason to strike, teachers already make too much, they should take what is offered and the mere fact that the union exists is what is wrong with public education.

The union participants say they want to see class sizes reduced, they want some say in how teacher evaluations are designed and implemented, and they are concerned about what happens to teachers who are laid off in the face of school closings.  Of course there are issues with benefits and pensions.

Allow me to weigh as I have gone into the schools on multiple occasions and know conditions in a number or neighborhoods. 

I can tell you this...too many classrooms are crowded and there are plenty of rooms where the only air to breathe is the hot air left from the previous day.   The fact that teacher evaluations are tied to student test performance is not a small issue and anyone who has seriously studied it realizes that only a portion of test performance is related to teacher instruction.

Even more important are the issues a good number of children bring to school which are very real.  We shouldn't kid ourselves, handling these the concerns that show up when a child enters the room are serious.  I know a family where three family members have been killed and there are six siblings attending school.  Rest assured, the teachers are faced with real challenges in working with these six children.  There are plenty of these types of concerns throughout the city.

I can attest to the fact that the challenges by the Chicago Teachers aren't dreamed up...they're real and need to be addressed in order to move forward.

Dick

500th Post!!

Today marks a small milestone in the life of our charity.  Our 500th post likely means a bit more to me than to most people and that's okay.

Some years ago I thought it necessary to create a federal non-profit to best meet the needs of people who suffered as a result of natural or man-made disasters.  At first ours was an endeavor to bring relief and aid to the people of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Since that fateful day in August of 2005 we have been helping school children in many parts of America and beyond.  Altogether we have assisted 43 schools in New Orleans for six years, brought aid to 13 Galveston, TX schools, and helped the Grant Woods School in Iowa four years ago following some devastating floods.  Last year we provided a good deal of support to the Joplin, Missouri school system following the horrific May 2011 tornadoes.  Of course, we pitched in to help rebuild IMN in Darbonne, Haiti after the earthquake of January 2010.  Over the last two years much of our attention has focused on helping students in and around Chicago, the result being that we've been able to supply children with daily supplies, warm winter coats, sports equipment and more.

Along the way I have been touched by both the goodness and generosity of our donors and the commitment made by so very many volunteers.  All have been steadfast in their desire to support our work.  At the same time, I have been moved by the graciousness and humility demonstrated by the recipients of our donations to various causes.

It moves me to say that I am looking forward to continuing the important work of Schools Count Corp and posting 500 more stories of the initiatives undertaken by our charity. 

Thank you for giving me so much satisfaction!

Dick

Students Assisting Students

That's the way it has always been with many of the students at Hinsdale Central, students assisting people with needs greater than their own.  Now a small group of students (at least small right now) wants to step up and help kids who have it rough.

SAS is a club in its formative stages.  This is a group of students interested in supporting Schools Count Corp by raising funds in addition to participating in endeavors that provide coats and other tangible materials to students in the Chicagoland area.

One of the great things about this club is the fact that the participants will garner the needed supplies and personally deliver them to CPS and Harvey, IL students.  This is not a group of students having one meeting after another.  No, this is a club of action that will be able to see the fruits of their labor.

After an initial meeting yesterday, the four students assembled, keyed in on ways to get other HC students to join the club.   They've also committed to their first fundraiser, working concessions at Homecoming on Sat., Sept. 29th.

Aside from collecting warm coats, the students are also interested in helping to paint Lowell Longfellow School in Harvey, IL.  Along the way, the club will deliver some needed classroom supplies to various schools in addition to participating in a number of events already on the Schools Count Corp calendar for 2012-2013.  Some of the club's members are even talking about getting their former elementary or junior high involved in our 'Go Green' program.

Hats off to the students of SAS!  I am thrilled that you want to reach out, with such genuine sincerity, to help kids trying to make the best of themselves.  I am really looking forward to working with you.

Dick

What it Means

There are plenty of reasons for us to support the education of those who are without supplies and resources, to help those who don't have the 'bootstraps' by which to pick themselves up.  The obvious benefit is to help those young people have more productive lives.  That's the key.

But think about the other benefits to having a child better educated.  Along the way, they will be better able to support their families.  A good number of these students will someday not only be more productive but, depending on where they live, they'll add immeasureably to the area in which they live.

I'm not suggesting everyone get a college degree.  What needs to take place is a situation in which a young person, as he/she goes through life, has the tools to follow their job, career and dream.  Maybe a child will go to 4-year college, trade school, junior college or some specialty training such as learning how to drive a semi or attend a hair style school.

In a sense the more we can help children with their education then we'll all be better off.  Yes, by getting a decent education a young person will undoubtedly lift up all of us.  To get to that goal, it makes sense for us to help them get to that point.

Dick

Wow, What a Day!

Yesterday, in many respects, was like any other day around the house.  I wrote a blog, wrote a couple of notes of thanks, played with Daisy (our puppy), did some laundry, got in my arm exercises and headed down to the end of the driveway to pick up the mail.

To my amazement - complete - a $2,500.00 check was in the mail.  It's a check from a friend and former teaching colleague.  I'd sure like to mention the name of the family but if I mention them, well, you know, then they might not like to be identified in our blog or on facebook.  Besides, if I give these people the credit for their generosity then I'd really need to mention the hundreds of donors and volunteers who have stepped forward these past seven years.

I can tell you this, the family was aware of our desire to build a band program at King Elementary School in Chicago.  Talk about pitching in!!  This funds are enough to put 20 instruments into the hands of the students.   I have already ordered the trombones, flutes, trumpets, clarients and saxophones for the children and band director.

Mr. Millman is the Assistant Principal and band director and he will be amazed, I'm sure, at how quickly we will be able to get the instruments to his students.  One thing is for certain, he and the rest of the kids will be told who donated the funds to help establish their band program.

So, to this anonymous donor (at least online), know that you are making a difference in the lives of the children who will fiill the hallways of King with the sound of music.  You have given opportunities to those who want a chance to better themselves.  For that, I am truly appreciative.

Dick

A Vote for Teachers

One of the many reasons I have always enjoyed teaching and support public education is due to the ability of teachers to adapt.  Adaptation in today's world is essential and it isn't always based on technology.

Over the years, the necessity of teachers to adapt to Education Services initiatives has called upon these professionals to adjust their curriculum.  Changes in societal lifestyles, the speed of the information age, diet/nutirition choices, the demand of the 'testing' era, and the world of work have called upon teachers to adapt.

The demands made by parents, changes in law, and education reform have also placed a huge burden on teachers in terms of making changes in their classroom practices.

When I visit schools, and watch classroom student-teacher interaction, and chat with colleagues who are still in the profession I witness people who DO make the necessary changes.  In fact, most exhibit this flexibility with attendant issues.  Quite candidly, I often find teachers to be the first in line to make the necessary adaptations so that students progress. 

Dick

Coming full circle at Chalmers

This is pretty exciting!!

First, we provided band instruments to Chalmers Elementary, this past spring, so they could start a band program.  Mission accomplished!!

Next, the band direction, Vernon Lloyd, had a two week summer workshop.  He had 45 children attend.  That's terrific  Again, mission accomplished!

And now...we are delivering some band uniforms to Chalmers tomorrow.  You know the refrain...mission accomplished!

Finally, Mr. Lloyd has confirmed that the students will perform at our Donor/Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on Thursday, March 21, 2013.

Well done!

Dick