Happy Holidays

The stockings were filled by the chimney with care...Okay, I will stop there as my penchant for poetry and reciting verses is not all that it should be. The point is that the schools are about to take a break and the holidays are at hand. I will also take a break from blogging so that I can also enjoy this time of year with family and friends.

Speaking on behalf of myself along with our Board of Directors, let me wish you a season filled with much happiness. I know that the time spent with family, loved ones, and friends is meaningful. May you enjoy the peace, tanquility, and joy of the season.

Schools Count Corp will have its seventh anniversary in 2014. You should know that you have made the lives of many students and citizens richer than you might ever imagine. In hundreds and thousands of ways, you have brought young people the real hope and real promise that their lives will be better in the years to come. I found all that you do for these students most inspiring.

Happy Holidays,
Dick

Closing Neighborhood Schools Makes Room for Charters

After closing 51 CPS neighborhood schools this past spring the Board of Education and brass are now looking to open 31 new charters over the next two years. Let's see, schools are underused so they are closed. Now word, amazingly comes that 31 charters are on the horizon.

Imagine being the students, parents and communities that saw your school closed (by the way, not necessarily because it was underperforming) only to pick up the paper and see that a slew of charters are about to open its doors. No matter where you stand on charters, put yourself - if possible - in their place. Wouldn't you be scratching your head. Wouldn't you wonder if you and your children mattered? Of course you would.

By the way, CPS acknowledges that six areas in the city have schools that are overcrowded. These neighborhoods include Ashburn, Belmont, Cragin, Chicago Lawn and McKinley Park. It will be interesting to follow the unfolding of the charter growth to see if any of these six areas of overcrowding are part of the charterizing movement.

See tuned.

Dick

ADM Comes to Washington, IL

A photo of Harry LaHood Park in Washington, IL. that I was able to take last Friday as I surveyed the damage to the area. Archer Daniels Midland, a prominent company in central Illinois has pledged to help rebuild this park for the children who often play here.

As you can see the playground equipment is in place but we will have to examine the system to see if it is safe. Part of the roof of the pavilion is missing as are all of the picnic tables. Sadly, the grounds are littered with cars damaged from the Nov. 17th tornado. This park is a water park and, like the playground, we will have to assess whether or not the system is in good working order. Lots of homes surrounding the park have suffered extensive damage or are totally destroyed.

ADM has been one of our most generous donors in years past. They have assisted Schools Count with volunteers, funds for CPS school resources in addition to providing a great deal of monetary aid to the East Coast when Hurricane Sandy ripped apart large parts of NYC and New Jersey. Aiding Washington is but one of their many initiatives to help us serve those in need.

Kudos to ADM!

Dick

Adding Warm to Arctic Cold

Brutal cold, that's for sure!! While waiting in the Gregory Elementary Faculty Cafe yesterday for the Hinsdale Central students to bring winter coats and clothing to the children at Gregory I could help but notice the number of children who came into the cafe looking for gloves, mittens, and/or hats. The lost and found was pretty much picked over so they went about heading home without.

Thank goodness the Hinsdale Central High School Students Assisting Students (SAS) and the Invitation to Teach class brought needed winter wear as the school day was ending. These groups through various fundraising were able to amass over 70 winter coats, dozens of pairs of gloves/mittens and a huge collection of winter hats. Talk about making an impact and doing it in a timely fashion.

To underscore just how thankful the Gregory staff was at the sight of seeing the arrival of the winter wear, many of them took a moment to break away from a faculty meeting to thank those students who collected/bought the gear in addition to bringing it to Gregory. There were some mighty big smiles!!!

Just another way in which the Hinsdale Central community and school shows that it cares!

Many thanks,
Dick

Making a Difference

Yes, one person can do much!! Okay, they can't move mountains but in the case of Cynthia McGann, a stalwart who has brought much aid and comfort to Haitians over the years, she has done much to assist our charity in collecting winter coats and other warm clothing which will benefit area school children.

Cynthia, over the past six weeks has collected nearly 100 winter coats, jackets and hoodies that are in terrific condition and ready to wear! Cynthia conducted her drive with various area hockey clubs; the Chicago Hawks and the DuPage Stars. Many of the families stepped forward to assist Cynthia. To these families I want to express my appreciation for helping Cynthia in this effort.

No matter the cause, helping to rebuild IMN in Haiti, providing sanitation facilities for the school, collecting school supplies or gathering coats, Cynthia is always there to support our charity. Just as important, she is a rallying voice inspiring all of us to do our part for those with real needs.

Thank you Cynthia, the hockey players and the families of the various clubs and area schools. You have, and are, making a real contribution to others.

Dick

What Do You Expect?

Yesterday's Chicago Tribune lead story blarred out with "As enrollment sank, CPS kept spending." The amounts were staggering; $100 million spend to update buildings that are now closed, $1.5 billion spent on schools that today are less than 60% full and 78 schools are still overcrowded.

These aren't small amounts of money nor are many of the issues resolved.

One has to wonder about a number of issues. For example, why didn't the BOE and the brass pay more attention to the demographic studies that predicted much of this? One has to scratch their heads in amazement over the fact that the BOE is still hand picked likely resulting in a group that may not be in touch with changing events in the neighborhood. The point is...is there someone on the ground who has a firm grasp on the changing demographics?

There are plenty of other questions, though far too late, that need to be asked and addressed. Of course, the one real sore spot or 'third rail,' if you like, is what is to be done to stem the tide of people leaving the city? What can be done to provide decent jobs at a living wage? In the final analysis, if the employment issue isn't addressed then the flight will continue.

Dick

Washington Update

Yesterday the Washington, IL government officials gave an update on some of the sad effects of the tornado that hit the town on Sunday, November 17th. The data is very disheartening.

The Mayor said that there will about a 50% reduction in property value in the town. Obviously, the revenue from property taxes will be greatly diminished. It just makes it that much more difficult to rebuild given that condition.

It has also been reported that 80% of the destruction still remains on the ground and yet to be cleaned up. People have been working like crazy, including at night, to remove the debris. This gives you an idea of the extent of the hardships in the process of starting to rebuild.

Spirits remain high though I know some people are getting fatigued. As one policeman told me..."I'm tired." He certainly wasn't complaining...just stating the truth. In some respects, the town will most need our help commencing right after the holidays.

Dick

Gould is Gold

Yep, Robbie Gould's 47 yard field goal attempt, which failed, would have won the game in Minnesota this past weekend. No doubt that hurts a player who is almost automatic. Add to this, the fact that he and his wife welcomed their first child over the weekend. He's got plenty on his plate with a new addition to the family. And yesterday, a day with no practice at Halas Hall, would have been the perfect time to chill out.

Well, that's just what he did in tornado ravaged Washington, IL!!

As Skip Begley and I delivered school supplies and food gift cards to Washington High we noticed a number of Bears in the Panther lunchroom. What was inspiring to me was seeing Robbie put aside all that is going on in his life to chat with students at the lunch table. It was clear that Robbie wasn't looking for the camera or reporters; rather, just spending time with youngsters who have really had their lives turned on their heads.

Talk about a guy who has his head screwed on right!!! Yes, missing a field goal is big but putting that aside and endeavoring to help others; well, there are no amount of words to describe what that means to people trying to get their lives in order, to rebuild, and to move on.

Like I said, Gould is Gold!

Dick

Back to Washington!

As Skip Begley and I get ready to head back to Washington, IL. a bit later this morning I wanted to take a moment to thank the various people and groups for helping to generate the aid being brought to the residents and students at the various schools. Your efforts have provided 150 warm coats, over $1400.00 in food gift cards, over 100 backpacks and enough school supplies for all those students, at all the Washington schools, who lost them in the tornado.


Sheralynn and Jeff Kellough
Kathy and Mike Gabric
Hinsdale Central H.S. parents and students
Hinsdale Central H.S. Students Assisting Students Club
Dawn Oler
Hinsdale Central H.S. Invitation to Teach class
Joni and Paul Holinger
Gary and Mary Waight
Bruce and Marilyn Feldman
Len and Carla Feinkind
Linda Hurt
Kathleen Rodriquez
Corky and Julie King
Kim Williams
Laura Milas
Lisa Hikes
Mary Ellen and Bill Mertz
Ann and Pat Scott
Myles and Patricia Laffey
Pat Edwards
Jim Westphal
Mary Lothrop
Deborah McGarvey
Jan Bujan
Ted Graham
Ed and Sue Bulak
Suzanne Strohschein
Kathy and Bob Shields
Keith and Kristie Giltner
Len and Claudia Serwat
Deborah Trujillo
Deborah Kowal and her class at Eisenhower Jr. High
Alan and Linda Burke
Gary and Bev Rautenberg Panko
Karen and Frank Krohn
Nancy and John Schuessler
Skip and Jan Begley

Thank you one and all!
Dick

Stay the Course

I am sure the day will come when Schools Count will no longer be working in Washington, IL. That was the case, some years ago, after Hurricane Katrina ripped apart many neighborhoods in New Orleans. Eventually, we left NOLA but not until we had served 43 schools over a period of six years.

Now is not the time to say 'we've helped Washington, it's time to move on.' As things settle down and as some aid slows to a trickle, it will be time to further assess and help the people of this small Midwest town. Providing aid for a week or two, although very helpful, is but a small part of what it will take for the people to try to cope with and recover from the devastation.

Besides, as time goes by, people will find that they have new needs as they start to rebuild their homes and lives. At that time we may well have to adjust what we do for the schools, students and citizens. If there is one lesson that we've learned, after all these years, sustaining aid is an imperative to helping folks get back on their feet.

To all of those who have supported our efforts to bring school supplies, winter coats and food gift cards to the residents of Washington...thank you so very much!!

Looking forward to going back tomorrow!

Dicki

Calling All Cards - For Washington, IL

I have no clue what it would be like to lose all of my possessions, live in a hotel, dine out for all of my meals and still try to have some normalcy in the family. This, and so much more, is what is facing thousands of residents of Washington, IL today and in the many days to come.

I will head back to Washington this Wednesday, December 4th with many food gift cards and school supplies. I think we have enough student supplies for the various grade schools. In terms of gift cards, if you would like to get one to a family then simply purchase it and put it in Dawn Oler's mailbox at Hinsdale Central High School. You can drop off the gift cards either today or tomorrow, Tuesday, Dec. 3rd. Please be sure to put your name and address on the envelope.

Any amount will certainly help! We are looking for McDonalds, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Hardees and Subway gift cards. To all of those of you who have participated, already, please accept my thanks. We already have over $1,200.00 in gift cards and are looking at collecting more!!

Many thanks!
Dick

Long Haul

Recovering from the utter destruction of the tornado which hit Washington will be a long process. It is critical that Schools Count Corp. and other like-minded organizations must stay in the town for the long haul. We won't necessarily be there every day but, we'll have to be willing to assist people over a period of months if not years.

We'll also have to respond to the needs of the citizens. Right now food and shelter are the imperatives. In a month it might be the same or people will have different needs. There are two words of caution which must guide us, flexibility and patience.

For now, I wish you a safe and enjoyable holiday. May the season be full of much happiness for you, your family and friends.

Happy Thanksgiving!!
Dick

A Disaster beyond Words

The areas that I saw yesterday are such that none of the houses can be repaired. With winter and the cold about to set in, it will be left to the residents, who want to stay in Washington, IL to hunker down with friends, stay out of town with family or live in hotels until building can commence in the spring.

Plenty of the Washington, IL. citizens are still in town. A large number of the high school students are back in class though the elementary schools won't be in session until Monday, December 2nd.

Dozens upon dozens of students and their families lost their homes and all of their possessions. A good number of teacher also saw many of their life dreams swept up in the storm. Even those who suffered no damage to their homes found that they were impacted by the crippling blow of the tornado.

We will go back to Washington next Wednesday, Dec. 4th. As the media attention fades, we will do our best to keep you abreast of what is happening.

Thanks for your interest and support!!
Dick

The Heartache and Thankfulness is in Abundance

What is one to make of this image from a photo I took today in Washington, IL? There are so many streets and sections of town that look like this; well, it is simply hard to imagine the tragedy and scope of loss that so many thousands of people are feeling right now.

Amid the rubble that I witnessed today, I came away with the realization that Washington is thankful for the fact that so many lives being spared from the wrath of the 170 miles per hour tornado. People are well aware that the loss of life could have been much, much worse. Conditions are great in some sections of Washington while other areas have been reduced to a literal shambles.

While delivering coats and other student supplies to Washington High, today, I found people to be buoyant and upbeat despite the losses. I found people helping neighbors and happy to lend a hand in spite of their own minor losses. We had plenty of volunteers helping us!! Imagine...helping us. It is a true joy to work with people who care so deeply about one another and the outreach afforded by our charity.

I have returned home both thankful for my many blessings but mindful that there is more to do on behalf of the good people of Washington in the days ahead. I assured the people we shall return!

Dick

Washington school supplies

As one might expect, with so many homes either destroyed or partly destroyed, a good number of students in the Washington, IL. school system lost many of their materials. Some lost their school supplies and books while others are without athletic or music resources.

Next Saturday, Nov. 30th Schools Count Corp. will provide pens, backpacks, binders and notebooks to Washington High School. As students start coming back to school after the Thanksgiving holiday they will surely need these supplies. Looking ahead, in a couple of weeks, we will head to Washington to provide them with some winter wear.

As the holidays approach, if you haven't already, please consider making a donation to Schools Count Corp. so that we can help as many people as possible.

Many thanks,
Dick

Washington, IL - 4 Days Later

There are some reports out of Washington, IL that now say up to 1,000 buildings have been damaged or destroyed in this hard hit town. Yes, rebuilding will take place but in the meantime the struggles will be many as the winter season is on the horizon.

With so many homes damaged it makes sense that the school age children, and their parents, lost much. Clothes, personals, books, music instruments, furniture. The list is endless. The point is this: the students are going back to school today and are likely to be without many items that they need in the classroom and on the field of play. We can certainly help in this regard.

As Thanksgiving approaches, I can think of no better way to demonstrate our personal thanks for peace, safety, a warm home and the good that we enjoy. Please consider making a donation to Schools Count Corp. in the coming days so that we can help our fellow citizens realize the same joys we are fortunate to realize.

Any donation helps. Simply write a check payable to Schools Count Corp and mail it to Dick Flesher, 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr., Mokena, IL. 60448. Note tornado in the memo section.

Thanks for your consideration,
Dick flesher

Latest on Washington, IL

Wouldn't it be wonderful if the Washington, IL high school football team went on to win the 5A Championship?!! They are playing in the semi-finals this weekend so I'll be sure to keep you up to date on their hopeful march to Champaign and the championship game.

In just two days, Schools Count Corp has raised over $1300!!! Our goal is to collect $10,000. You can be a part of helping the citizens of Washington, IL to enjoy Thanksgiving next week by donating to the cause. Simply send a check to Dick Flesher, 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr., Mokena, IL. 60448. Indicate 'tornado' in the memo section. If it's easier go online at www.schoolscountcorp.org to make a charitable contribution.

We are working with the school nurse at Washington H.S. to find a way to get what is really needed to those most in need. I will keep you posted!!

I have now heard reports of up to 600 buildings damaged or destroyed as a result of the tornado.

Many thanks,
Dick

More on Washington, IL

I am in contact with a couple of churches in Washington, IL. with respect to their needs in light of the horrible devastation wrought by the Sunday tornado. Though we all want to help these folks, I have to tell you that the churches have not been able to sort out their very real needs. Many kind hearted people have sent water, blankets and clothing. Right now, they don't need any more of these items.

Please be so kind as to be patient with these people. They have suffered much and we need to give them the time and space to determine their way forward. To inundate them with supplies and resources that they might not be able to dispense or store just isn't the way to help them.

I can assure those of you who donated, we will bring these people the aid they ask for in due time. Until then please keep them in your thoughts and stay in touch with me going as the days unfold.

In the meantime, feel free to send a donation to Dick Flesher, 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr., Mokena, IL. 60448. Make your check payable to Schools Count Corp. Kindly note the word 'tornado' in the memo part of the check. You can certainly donate online by going to www.schoolscountcorp.org.

To date, the estimate is that 400 buildings have been damaged or destroyed. This creates all sorts of attendant problems for these families.

Many thanks,
Dick

Washington, IL in Need of Help

Images such as this one give a sense of much of the devastation that has hit Washington, IL. As of this morning, fortunately, despite the destruction, few deaths have hit the town of 17,000. But as the photo makes clear, the loss is staggering.

At this point, I am waiting for Bayview Baptist Church in Washington to get back to me with their needs. We will certainly get them what we can whether it is clothing, personal supplies, food, blankets and the like. With the cold settling back in, sadly, housing will be a necessity.

Please follow our blog and facebook to see how you can assist us. For the time being you can certainly make a charitable donation by mailing a check to Dick Flesher, 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr., Mokena, IL. Kindly make the check out to Schools Count Corp and write 'tornado' in the memo section. You can also go to our charity's website to make a donation. Simply go to: www.schoolscountcorp.org and make your contribution. Finally, at some point (likely this week) we will probably head to Washington. I'll keep you abreast of the details.

Thank you,
Dick

It's A Shame

Teachers being told to give the PSAE, ISAT and now Common Core State Standards. Staff and school administrators told they can only measure up if a child's test scores improve. Schools being shuttered while some are overcrowded. Boards of Education micromanaging what is best left to the classroom professionals.

People being told that unions are evil and are one of the major reasons why we are allegedly failing our students.
Too many in govt. ready to jump on the bandwagon of vouchers, charters and selective enrollment schools. The move is underfoot to privatize a treasured and valuable endeavor - public education.

Worse yet too many teachers and students are without the very real resources they need on a daily basis to follow all of the above marching orders. How does that make any sense? You are told, too often, to do the impossible or what isn't practical yet one has to accomplish these feats without the proper support.

What a shame!!

Dick

Well, What Do You Know!

I quite often disagree with Dennis Byrne on various policy matters and issues. However, Mr. Byrne of the Chicago Tribune shared a couple of realistic ideas concerning education that I not only agree with but, more importantly, they hold the promise of helping student learning.

Two days ago the editorial writer suggested that we ought to do away with standardized testing. His reasons, which I agree with, are clear. Eliminating standardized testing will allow teachers more time to teach and will save money. The key component, I believe, is that it will free teachers to teach and children can learn.

Of course, the skeptics and so called reformers will cry about such a move. They'll contend that there is no way to hold teachers accountable and that we can't track student learning. They'll go on to say that if we can't track learning through testing then how on earth can we determine who should receive funding and how will we ever be able to rate teachers!!

On my, the earth is falling!!! I have news for these critics. Long before standardized testing made its appearance, teachers were held accountable for their actions and those same teachers always found a way to get the most out of their students and were able to help them move on in life; to college, to a place in the world of work, or some other endeavor.

Thank you Dennis for speaking the truth, for arguing for a common sense idea, one sure to help the students.

Dick

Part II - The Street

As if the growing poverty among public school students wasn't dishearterning enough, The Street has reported that homelessness among public school students is on increase. From academic year 2010-11 to that of 2011-12 the number of homeless children rose a staggering 10%.

It has left me pondering many things. First, does the typical citizen really have an awareness of these conditions and are they prepared to do anything about it? I'm also left gasping, gasping for these kids and their families...struggling to get through each day. Really, they are homeless and/or poor and we expect them to perform on standardized tests?! Give me a break.

Oh, by the way, obviously if students are struggling because of the ailments brought about due to poverty or being homeless, the pundits, corporate reformers and critics will wail and complain about teachers and schools not getting the job done. Again, give me a break!

Also, I am growing less confident that the powers that be, from government to so called reformers to society at large will step up and address the root causes of poverty, blight, unemployment and neglect.

Dick

At a Real Disadvantage

Okay, so the Street publication isn't on the radar for most Americans. However, that doesn't mean that its reporting is without merit and importance. Just last week the newspaper/newsletter carried an important piece of research put out by the Southern Education Foundation.

The report, sadly, reported the growing epidemic of poverty among public school students in America. Tragically, 48% of all American public school students (there are 50 million of them) are considered low income. The poverty levels for the hardest hit states, 17 of them were in the south (13 states) and in the West (4 states). As one might expect, cities were high on the poverty chart. 60% of all public school students in 2011 were considered low income.

Having written at length in this blog about both the implications of poverty on learning and teaching, this report is disheartening. Forget the computers, white boards and IPads for a moment. These students often don't have access to basic school supplies, proper clothing, nutritious food and a whole host of other daily essentials.

Unless and until there are real efforts to stem the tide of poverty the pressures on students, teachers, the community and the educational system, then we will have reached a bursting point.

Dick

Some Juicy FACTS!

Yes, it's true. Paul Vallas is on the ticket, running as Lt. Governor, with Pat Quinn. This is indeed the same Paul Vallas who once ran CPS and then sent to New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina to run the Recovery School District. I have run into plenty of people in NOLA who dealt with Mr. Vallas and many of them resented the heavy hand he imposed on the district. Yes, he also went on to serve in other school districts in the U.S. as well as being an education advisor in Haiti and Chile.

Want more? Do you know what Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, Bill Gates, Rupert Murdock, Michael Bloomberg, Tom Harkin Chair of Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pension Committee) and Cory Booker have in common? Yes, they have a heavy influence on schools and the reform movement. All of these people also happen to have never taught before!! And they are telling the education community how to run itself? UGH!!!

Like I said, some juicy facts. They also don't sit very well in my stomach.

Dick

Democracy in Education Needs Unions

Over the past couple of days I have raised concerns over the fact that the democratic process is slowly (or rapidly) being eroded within the enterprise of education. On this point I believe there should be no disagreement. I've pointed out the heavy requirements made through standardized testing, schools boards being appointed rather than being elected, school board handing down edicts with too little teacher input and more.

This is exactly why unions serve a useful purpose in education. They are one more useful tool in the process of arriving at developing a strong school where richness is embedded in the curriculum.

I am sure some people think that the NEA, AFT and local affiliations are a pain in the butt. When it gets right down to it, though, unions often provide the lead in arriving at thoughtful decision-making which profoundly impacts students. I am certain that reasonable class sizes, alternative teaching methods, the advanced use of technology and much more is due, in large part, because of teacher innovation.

Let's not kid ourselves...many of the improvements in learning and assisting children in a variety of ways relative to their maturation would not have taken place without the assistance of unions. They are a positive force in the democratization of education.

Dick

Don't Take Democracy out of Education

A school board that is appointed by a single person is a far cry from a democratic process. Mandating that a school not be allowed to unionize is simply wrong and it smacks in the face of free speech. The federal government deciding what subjects will be emphasized, scrutinized and tested in a school's curriculum while largely ignoring large swaths of learning and instruction flies in the face of democracy.

Yes, school boards and departments within a school building may argue, debate and move more slowly than an authoritative figure or body but the former groups are more akin to how the democratic process should play out. You see, disagreement, debate, compromise and consensus building are all critical to making democracy come alive and function in the institution of education.

A top-down, authoritarian model such as No Child Left Behind, Common Core State Standards and A Race to the Top dilute the democratic process so vital to the well being of education.

Think about this if you would. How on earth can we expect our students to learn and use the real merits of democracy if we don't model them? This isn't merely a rhetorical question. It deserves an answer.

Dick

Democracy in Peril in Schools

Ames Middle School in the Logan Square neighborhood isn't on the chopping for underenrollment. It's on the hit list because CPS has decided to put a military academy at the high school and middle school levels while closing Ames as it is currently constituted.

Yes, democracy is in peril at Ames. You see, the local school council (LSC) and other members of the community are opposed to making Ames a military academy.

Jose Jaramillo, of the LSC, summed it up best when he said, "We are tired of trying to fight a battle [with] people making decisions for our school when we are the ones [who] are vested and give all our time for the excellence of our community and our school."

The true stake holders; the community, children, LSC and parents are being told what will happen. Quite honestly, their voices aren't being heard, their wishes ignored, and their right to stand for something being taken away. The institution of education in this country is under assault on a number of fronts. The democratic process is truly in peril in our public schools.

The unelected CPS school board and decisions like the one involving Ames are but one of many such examples.

Dick

Real Pro's

The top professionals and those who provide the best service to a profession come from that profession. Surgeons don't get advice on surgery from janitors. Firefighters don't get advice from pipefighters. The best people to advise teachers are those who come from the profession.

It is time that state legislators, who likely never taught students in a school setting, stop advising educators on how to operate the profession and teach our nation's children. It is time that the typical layperson, though having attended schools, stop advising principals and teachers about how to run a classroom. It is way past time for media pundits to stop telling educators how to handle education.

What these groups can do is reinforce and support what educators do with our nation's students. As citizens of this country we ought to stand up and support our teachers and staff personnel just as we would, rightly, support our military in the line of duty.

Dick

Class Size DOES Matter

It is quite true that many years ago a good number of us attended classes with 33, 35 or more students. It seemed to work. If we examine those 'good ole days' we'd find that some elements of the classes we attended then aren't the same as today...by a long shot.

Years ago, classes were largely homogeneous in nature. Segregation existed, the number of non-English speaking students was minimal as compared to today, and the number of disabled/autistic/learning behavior children was small when thinking of these students in our classrooms in 2013. By the way, years ago, the dropout rate was higher than it is today.

Given the above conditions, the pressure on students and teachers to perform relative to standardized testing, the push for nearly everyone to attend college, legal requirements and MORE, is it any wonder that teachers, parents, and others in the field of education are pushing for smaller class sizes.

The research on smaller class sizes is extensive and conclusive. Smaller class sizes DO make a different in both cognitive and non-cognitive skill development. If the so called 'reformers' thought about it, they would actually see improvements in test scores and other performance skills among students by reducing class sizes. They would really get 'more bang for the buck.'

Dick

State Report Card on Schools

Today's Chicago Sun Times headline proclaimed Payton as No. 1. No doubt, the students are doing well at Payton and that is great news. Certainly the students, staff and parents are accomplishing much.

What I found most interesting in the article is the evidence - test scores - which indicate that there are some high performing selective schools but many, many more selective schools which aren't performing well. My intent is to not 'rub it in'; rather, to make the point that selective schools and charters do have the same issues to contend with when it comes to educating students.

26% of the state's top performing elementary schools are selectives ones located in Chicago. But, it is also worth noting that 76% of the worst performing schools in the state come from the selective schools in the city. The same holds true for high schools. 12% of the top 50 schools in Illinois come from selective high schools in the city while a whopping 84% of the bottom 50 schools in the state are selective.

The critics and 'reformers' must come to grips with the concerns, issues and problems associated with the educational and social environment of students in the inner cities of America. Changing the organization structure of schools will simply not take care of these. Selective schools, by nature, don't automatically take care of these problems.

Dick

Keep Kids Warm!!

Keeping school children warm this winter is just another one of the ways that Schools Count Corp. assists children in need in the south suburbs as well as in the city of Chicago Public Schools. The more donation we get, the more children will be warm as the head to and from school each day.

We are looking for new coats, boots, mittens, gloves and hats. We are also collecting gently used and clean coats that you may wish to provide to us. Why not ask your neighbors, family or colleagues at work to help? Many people want to aid others at this holiday season and this is a way that they can do something meaningful!

Just email me at rich219@comcast.net and we can make arrangements for you to drop off at locations in Clarendon Hills or Hinsdale. Also, if those locations don't work for you, we can find a mutually acceptable time for pickup.

Many thanks,
Dick

Part of the Story

A sad but important element of this whole 'reform' movement is based on the allegation that education is messed up - low standardized test scores - because of poor teaching, teacher unions and anything that has to do with the teacher. Want proof of this? All you have to do is take a look at the fact that many districts and states are pushing to have teachers largely evaluated based on how students score on standardized tests.

As I have indicated in past blogs, that scores aren't low and in most cases American standardized test scores have risen in recent years.

Why on earth would anyone who knows anything about educating young people and the complexities of life think that basing a teacher's rating on test scores of children even remotely comes close to assessing the worth of their teaching? It defies common sense. It also defies everything we know about the multiple causes of learning and the many factors that may inhibit learning.

Yes, part of why I blog is to help slow down these cries for so called 'accountability.' To those who don't understand educating young people please hear this message. Not everything in life - including learning and growth - is quantifiable. It never has been.

Dick

More Ravitch

There are those 'reformers' out there who lament the quality of education in America. They also, far too many of them, allege that the teachers are failing the students and that is why student test scores are so poor. If you'll remember, I've addressed the myth of test scores already. However, I digress.

These same critics go on to say that giving merit pay to teachers will make them work harder thus raising student test scores. Merit pay has been tried before and it doesn't work. It was tried in the U. S. as early as 1918 and few of the plans survived. Merit pay has been pushed in the last few years and the results are not good. The National Center on Performance Incentives at Vanderbilt University has carried out the most definitive study of merit pay.

The university offered a $15,000 bonus to teachers of students who had higher math test scores. The study lasted for three years with a control group and the experimental group (who received the bonus). In 2010 the results of the study were released: there were no significant difference in the test scores of the student taught by the two groups.

Here's the deal...education is an enterprise that has many more goals than merely raising test scores. There are multiple and critical goals in the education process. Many of these goals aren't easily measured and they are not conducive to being rewarded in terms of dollars. Put another way, teaching and learning is not piece rate work and it never will be.

Quite simply, merit pay doesn't work in education. For that matter, if the critics of education were to examine merit pay in other occupations, they would find that it doesn't work in most of them.

Dick

Real Reformers

The real school reformers don't push vouchers and close schools. They don't put schools in tough neighborhoods in more peril by opening charter schools right across the street.

The real education reformers are, and have always been, the educators of America. They look for ways to best deliver curriculum and they aspire to motivate children. They find ways to help students solve problems. They know that there aren't any cookie-cutter recipes to educate and improve learning.

If the so-called 'reformers' really wanted to help education they would first of all allow educators to do their work rather than interferring. Next, since they have political sway and funds they would pitch in and do something about poverty; create jobs where there is unemployment. You want to build something...forget building a charter and build a factory!

By the way, a real reformer wouldn't be castigating unions and teachers. Doing such doesn't build loyalty and a decent working relationship. A true reformer would understand that the value of education and teachers isn't found in the result(s) of standardized testing.

Ask educators and residents about the way to reform and what I mentioned in the previous two paragraphs is what they most desire. Go ahead and ask them.

Dick

It Doesn't Have to be this Way

I get a kick out of the critics out their who have their own version of what is taking place in education these days. It's as if all you have to do is create a charter, select school or issue vouchers and all is well. Here's the reality...it's tough work.

In the past couple of days I have chatted with friends and colleagues in addition to witnessing the news.

Let's start with the national news front. Within the past two weeks there have been two separate school shootings. How very tragic that the safety of schools is in jeopardy. In terms of chatting with friends, here is what is taking place.

Teachers are being told how to create curriculum by those outside the classroom. I had a teacher, staying late in the day yesterday, who became aware of a student(s) stealing the work of other students. That's a story never talked about. Another teacher was talking about how disruptive the students were at the Pep Assembly and the lack of help from others.

Check with a number of staff and see what it is like to adapt curriculum, tests, and projects to meet the needs of students who need additional services. Teachers break their backs to make accommodations that you would never believe. Heck, teachers are even told to kick out a student from their class just to make room for a student who needs accommodations. What a joke.

Still other teachers are, in fact, nurses simply because the school doesn't have a nurse on that day of the week. And what do you think it is like trying to assist students who are failing every subject or may, god forbid, talk about committing suicide.

The loudest critics don't have a clue about what it's like in today's schools.

DIck

Please Pitch In

I'm often asked, "how can I help?" At this time of the year, we are in need of many helping hands in terms of collecting warm winter wear. There are plenty of opportunities for you to assist us as we are once again, for the fourth consecutive year, providing warm winter outerwear for the students in the Chicagoland area.

We are looking for new coats, gloves, mittens, hats and scarves. If you have winter coats that are clean and 'gently' used we are also pleased to collect these. We are especially in need of these items for both boys and girls in grades K through 8.

You can drop off the items at a couple of locations or shoot me an email and we can make arrangements for me to pick up the items. Drop off points are as follows; front porch at 345 Harris in Clarendon Hills or 451 Colfax in Clarendon Hills. You can also take them to room 116A at Hinsdale Central High School (55th and Grant Sts.) in Hinsdale. If you prefer to have me pick up the coats, etc. just send me an email at rich219@comcast.net.

Keeping the kids warm as they go to and from school is an important part of our mission. Our goal is to help 750 students. Please consider helping us in this important endeavor.

Many thanks!
Dick

Another Sad Episode

It's been less than one year since the horror of Sandy Hook. Yesterday's school shooting in Nevada marked the thirteenth since that tragic day. There seemed to be little talk of the incident in public cirles and, for that matter, in the mainstream media.

I often go to schools and you can almost always see signs declaring the grounds to be either 'smoke free' or tobacco free.' That's all and good. With the mass gun deaths that seem to keep piling up it's time for the vast majority of Americans to speak up and demand action. It's fine to be 'smoke free,' 'tobacco free,' 'bully free' or 'drug free.' Don't get me wrong, it is important to address these issues.

So I'll say it. Other than polic officers or trained security personnel, guns, knives and other weapons have absolutely no place in any school setting, no matter the location of the school. Parents, educators, students, the general community, lobby groups and government officials of all political persuasions must come together and prohibit such weapons from entering our schools. The safety of our children and fellow citizens is at stake.

Enough already!
Dick

Not So Noble

You would think that the CPS brass and those tasked to look after the schools, within the administration, would be eager for some quiet in light of the spring school closings, uneven enrollment at the welcoming schools, and severe budget cuts. But, no, that just doesn't seem to be in the cards.

The latest episode which is creating an uproar is centered on the possible construction of a charter school (by the Noble Network) across the street from Prosser High School. People are up in arms and well they should.

You see, there are, count them, four high schools within a 1.5 mile radius of the proposed Noble Charter H. S. construction site. Not only are there plenty of schools but what also galls the residents is the fact that these four schools have had deep budget cuts which total a staggering $6.4 million. Yet, CPS seems to be just fine with diverting funds to a new charter. How sad.

Here's how it will play out as I see it. First, the new charter will open. Next, some students from the surrounding schools will attend the new charter and; finally, CPS can claim new enough students are attending one or more of the four schools and they will shut them down.

Work to help the Prosser students, families and staff? Not a chance. It's an opportunity for CPS to off-load some of its responsibilities.

Dick

More Trouble at UNO

It wasn't until I got to the last paragraph of today's Chicago Sun Times story (pg. 3) that I really felt the pain of CPS, the students, and what is happening to public education. Oh, I was none too pleased to hear that UNO, the large charter school operator in Chicago, is under investigation by the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding $37.5 million raised by selling state backed bonds. It was sad to see that their alleged mismanagement has resulted in having the State of IL. freeze $15 million in UNO funding.

This organization has come under scrutiny on a number of occasions and has had state school-construction grants frozen on a couple of occasions.

But the dismaying fact of this ongoing chaos is the fact that most of UNO's operating budget, as the Sun Times noted, "comes from the Chicago Public Schools, which gives UNO tens of millions of dollars a year." It's dismaying because these funds funneled to UNO could well be used in the neighborhood schools.

This is but one example of the 'corporate reform' movement gone bad, bad at the expense of all of us, particularly those children in CPS schools that could really use the assistance.

Dick

Aren't We All the Same?

This whole fiasco that has taken place with regard to many CPS 'welcoming' schools not being the school of choice for parents of students whose school(s) were closed last spring ought to teach the mayor and CPS brass a number of lessons. Whether the lesson(s) were learned or not will have to wait for another day.

One of the more subtle points of this whole episode ought to revolve around one critical issue. It should be understood that every CPS school should be a 'welcoming' place to learn. To simply label some schools as welcoming while providing them with needed resources while ignoring the needs of other schools not labeled as welcoming is simply wrong.

Every school should have been availed the ipads, a/c and building improvements that the so called 'welcoming' schools received. By the way, maybe it would be best, going forward, to forget the whole labeling thing. It almost always creates blowback.

Dick

Not Quite as Planned

The Tuesday edition of the Chicago Tribune said it quite succinctly relative to the spring school closings and the relocation of the students. The front page banner proclaimed, 'Kids shun schools picked by CPS.' People might say that's okay as long as they are going to school but there's more dismay and disappointment with the students not going to the welcoming schools.

The welcoming schools had huge money spent on them; new ipads, air conditioning, building repairs and the funds put aside for 'safe passage.' On the other hand, schools not considered as welcoming, and not getting the above improvements, in some cases, received more students than the welcoming students.

A couple of examples, West Pullman was closed and the students were to attend Haley (we worked with both of these schools). A mere 34% of W. Pullman's students attended Haley while many more traveled further south to Metcalfe Elementary. Metcalfe took in the children but the strain on everyone was unexpected and burdeonsome.

There were bound to be glitches in the process but this is not one that the mayor and CPS brass could ever have expected on such a grand scale. I wonder if the non-welcoming schools will get the equipment, funding and attention - now that they have more students than expected - that they deserve.

Me...I'm not holding my breath.

Dick

The Turmoil Continues

I know full well that Schools Count Corp. will not solve all the issues that confront children, their families, and the educators working with these students. However, I am aware of the good that is being done for these deserving citizens.

What is maddening, perplexing, and disconcerting is the fact, yes, a fact, is that the general population is being led to believe that American education is in peril, on the decline. It's not in peril!! It's not in peril because of the dedicated teachers who daily demonstrate their concern for the overall well being of their students. The state of education is evolving but it isn't shortchanging anyone.

The danger or peril lies with some government officials and 'corporate reformers' who have imposed their will and dogma on students and educators. Their mantra goes like this; the system is broken therefore we must have a)more testing, b)more competition, c)more choice (vouchers), d)more privatization and e)more accountability.

These 'reformers' spew nonsense!! Kids continue to learn while teachers constantly challenge the kids and themselves. Educators, by the way, have always fulfilled their charge to be accountable. Fortunately, they feel beholden to their students, not to today's version of 'reformers.' Thank goodness.

Dick

Reading Rex

Rex Tillerson, Chairman and CEO of Exxon, has been hitting public education hard the past couple of days.   On Tuesday, Oct. 8th he had two full page ads in the New York Times calling for a push for more math and science in addition to staking out a claim to halt the decline in American education.

While some of the stats he quoted are correct, others were off base.   His quoting of the results of the NAEP were inaccurate.   Sadly, these ads will be read and too often believed.

His ads and his thinking made me ponder a number of concerns.   How is it that an astute individual in the energy industry has the answers for the field of education?   Stated another way, does he think a teacher or administrator should be telling Mr. Tillerson how to correct the ills of Exxon or the energy industry?   I think not.   Why is it that corporate America thinks it knows how to educate children?  

Part of the bottom line, and Mr. Tillerson said so, is that we have we have to make educational changes so that we are more competitive.   Sorry, Mr. Tillerson, the goal of education is not merely to make students more competitive.   Among an educator's goal is to help young people to grow and mature so that they become decent people and citizens who contribute to our society. 

Mr. Tillerson needs to ask educators about the way(s) in which teaching and learning can improve.

Dick

Calling All Young People

We are about to commence our 'Winter Wear' drive (Nov. 1-22) to bring warm clothing to the students in the CPS and Harvey, IL. schools. We are fortunate to have many people help in this regard; the Benet cheerleaders, Cynthia McGann rallying her son's hockey team members, various school groups and kind hearted citizens who support our cause.

And am reaching out to you to see if your son or daughter, or someone you might know, needs a service project. Perhaps they are in Key Club at school and need to engage in a service project. Why not suggest our 'Winter Wear' drive? Maybe a young man is looking to become an Eagle Scout. Again, collecting winter wear would be a terrific endeavor. Is your son or daughter a member of a church/synagogue/mosque/temple and would like to aid those in need.

The opportunities are endless for these young people and I can think of few other important ways that they can help as we approach the holiday season. Providing some warm clothing to a youngster in need would certainly put a smile on that person's face.

Thanks,
Dick

A Few Thoughts

As I continue to read Diane Ravitch's Reign of Error I can't help to think that one of the very reasons why we have this alleged 'mess' concerning education is that people simply don't have the facts. Yes, those messy facts that should guide our thoughts, actions, perhaps even alter our beliefs.

I am under no illusion that this will end soon. With almost every state going to the 'Common Core' testing (and likely falling scores) I get the sense that the howling will only get louder. Besides, many schools are going to tie teacher evaluations - some in large part - to the scores of students on standardized test results.

This insane drumbeat that our 'schools are failing' and that 'unions are ruining schools' has to stop. The desire to privatize public education has to cease. Do you really want a non-educator, in many instances, running such an important civic endeavor? Not me!! Put another way, do you want a non-physician running the medical profession? I think not!!!

Dick

What's to be Done?

While I have been commenting on the growth of reading and mathematics achievement over the past 20 years in addition to the good news about the decline in the student dropout rate, there are real concerns regarding various portions of America's student population.

Let's not sugar coat it, as Ravitch reports, "black and hispanic youths who attend high-poverty, racially isolated schools have serious problems."

To be quite blunt, poverty and segregation are in evidence in many parts of America (urban and rural alike). These conditions, and others, do affect their level of success in school and beyond. It raises the question...what can be done to mitigate the harmful effects of poverty and segregation?

Ravitch, in fact, does offer some guidance with respect to this critical question. She interjects in Reign of Error that "our efforts should focus on reducing the causes of their disengagement from school, part of which has to do with being unprepared for high school work and part of which results from the circumstances in which they live."

We would be wise to heed such advice.

Dick

More Mistruths Revealed

Another one of the 'corporate reformer's' myths that has been perpetuated as part of their effort to discredit today's schools deals with the dropout rate.   As the 'reformers' contend, more kids are dropping out thus revealing the failure of our public schools.

Again, this is not true.   Among whites in 1972 the dropout rate was 12%.   By 2009,  the dropout for the same group was down to 5%.   Among blacks the dropout rate in 1972 was 21%.   By 2009, the dropout rate for blacks had declined to 9%.   By the way, the same trend holds true for Hispanics.   As you can see, positive gains have been made to reduce the dropout rate.

When someone goes on about the failure of our public schools with regard to test scores and children dropping out, you can straighten them on these fronts.   The fact remains, kids are making learning gains and they are staying in school.

Don't allow the critics to bash the good that is taking place!

Dick

Will they Notice?

No doubt the mayor and CPS hierarchy see the news concerning the fact that, over the past four years, an additional 1,300 students are attending parochial elementary schools in the city of Chicago.   They might well see this information but whether it has any impact on their decision making going forward is another matter.

Even Superintendent Sister Mary Paul McCaughey said some of the city growth came from parents leaving or dodging CPS.   Her response to this premise was "certainly it's a factor."

I'm not raising an issue over children attending parochial schools.   That is certainly a parents rightful choice.   I am simply making the point that the constant chaos, in recent years, within the CPS system is likely costing them students.   Schools being closed, budgets being slashed, a strike and the constant drumbeat of things going wrong seems pervasive.  

Why wouldn't families opt to send their children to parochial schools?   The question remains, what will CPS do to address so many issues?

Dick

Not Again!!

As if nerves weren't already raw enough from the CPS school closures this past spring, the Chicago Sun-Times has reported that yet another factor could be used to close additional schools in the future.   Might be hard to believe but true.

The State of Illinois released new state guidelines, this past Tuesday, spelling out how a district can proceed to close a school(s) in case a building's conditions threaten the safety of students.l  Okay, we all know a building needs to be safe.   This has been the case, quite literally, forever.

Here's the rub.   Mayor Emanuel and CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett said there would be a five-year moratorium on closing schools.   CS spokeswoman Becky Carroll stated "our commitment to a 5-year moratorium on closing schools is clear."

This isn't so clear to the Chicago Teacher's Union.   The news of the published state guidelines hit the CTU brass like a ton of bricks.   To a person, they aren't so sure they can trust the mayor or the CPS administration when it comes to keeping their promise on not shuttering schools.

The original promise, at least to me, seemed to be a blanket statement declaring no more closures.   We shall see.   If more schools are closed; well, look out!

Dick

Look At This!

Over the past couple of days I have shared some NAEP data with you on American reading and math test scores over the past 20 years.   The data is irrefuatable.   American students continue to make progress in these subjects.

One of the other laments voiced by 'corporate reformers' is that Americans do poorly compared to other nations.   Let's take a look at the facts!!

In 2012, the results of the TIMSS (Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study), the major international assessments of math and science were published.   Various media portrayed U. S. students as doing poorly.   The media were wrong.   American students performed pretty darn well in math and science.   In 4th grade math, American students outperformed most of the 57 educational systems that participated.   American students tied with their peers in Finland, Denmark and the Netherlands.   Only three countries outperformed the Americans.   So much for getting trounced by the rest of the world.   In 8th grade math, only Singapore, Japan, Russia and South Korea outperformed the U. S. children.

It simply is not true that U. S. school children lag way behind the rest of the world.   It is time for the media to give an accurate portrayal of the quality of American education.

Dick

Get the Facts Right!

As I mentioned yesterday, there are plenty of voices out there condemning the failures of public education. One cry is that children aren't learning as much today as year's ago. I indicated just one day ago that reading scores have improved in the nation over the past twenty years. Today, I want to share some more NAEP scores on Math over the same period of time.

The proportion of 4th-grade students who were proficient or advanced increased from 1990 to 2011. In 1990 13% of students were "proficient or above" ; in 2011, it was 40%. During the same period, for 8th graders, in 1990 15% were "proficient or above"; in 2011, it was 35%.

These aren't number that I am 'spinning;' rather, the hard data from the NAEP. So the next time, someone complains to you about the failures of education, our nation's teachers and schools, let them know that the facts don't bear out their complaints.

Students are learning and teachers are teaching!!

Dick

Failure...Check this Out

When Davis Guggenheim's film Waiting for Superman hit the theaters it caused a real stir.   One problem with part of the film, the NAEP achievement levels were incorrectly stated.   Yes, they got it wrong.   The film claimed that 70% of 8th graders did not read at grade level.   Interesting enough, the NAEP does not even report grade levels!   Actually, NAEP reports that 76% of 8th graders are considered as "basic or above" in achievement levels.

Plenty of Americans have made the same assumptions as the film.   They think American schools are failing.   You will be surprised to learn that this assertion is false.   The only real authoritative measure, over time, is the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP).   Here are some of the results.

- In 1992 29% of the 4th graders, measured in reading, were rated as "proficient or advanced" while in 2011 34% were rated as "proficient or advanced."  (This is a good trend)

- The same exact percentages, in 1992 and 2011, were reported for 8th graders (Again, a good trend).

Tomorrow I'll report on math scores.
In the end, you can be the judge!

Dick

More Ravitch and Common Sense

One of the reasons I find the recent Ravitch publication, "Reign of Error" so thoughtful, insightful and on target is because it not only uncovers some of the many 'errors' in thinking on the part of the corporate reformers but it also divulges ways in which real improvements can be made in today's schools.

As Ravitch points out, noted author Russell Rumberger - who heads the Dropout Research Project - says that what discourages students is not a college preparatory curriculum but; rather, a curriculum that develops their vocational and academic interests.   What dropout students and those on their way to such a path need is an education that promotes motivation, perseverance and self esteem according to Rumberger.

Come to think of it, any student, college bound or not, needs are the above qualities.   This is nothing new, just plain common sense. 

Teachers, staff and, certainly, students who are 'dropping out' could well use an alteration in the curriculum being offered to them.   Making students take A.P. courses, standardized testing, Honors courses, and hounding kids about attending college are not a prescription for preventing kids from dropping out.   More importantly these aren't a prescription for aiding students in the best possible tradition of public education.

Dick

Rather Perplexing

The latest critic of American education is a man who I admired for many of his progressive and thoughtful ideas on a whole host of issues.   His name is Thom Hartmann.   He hasn't criticized teachers or the idea of public education but he sure is lamenting its condition.

I would submit to you, as I did in part yesterday, that nothing today is as it was in the 'good old days.'   A parent was often home when a child came to and from school, there were no inclusion children labeled as such, Special Education did not exist in the curriculum, many students did not opt to attend college, and the population was rather homogeneous for the most part.

I am not criticizing the changes at all.   In fact, in the long run, they will lead to improvements in the field of education.  I am simply stating that the conditions under which we educate children today is vastly different than years ago.   It is also a fact that government mandates have much to do with teaching and learning.   In large part, the top educators of our day have too little power and sway when it comes to input on teaching and learning.

Thom has always been a champion of public education.   Perhaps he still is but when one of our own is left perplexed and bewildered about the state of American education then we had better get to work.

Dick

More Ravitch

Diane makes a profound point in her book, "Reign of Error," about what corporate America - in terms of education - dislikes about our contemporary schools.   They don't like unions, they say we are failing, our kids are behind those of other countries and more.   So they have a whole shopping list of what is wrong with schools.

Ms. Ravitch also notes that there are other concerns that corporate America neglects to comment on.   Those so called reformers rarely protest budget cuts to education nor do they weigh in on the growing influence of poverty on children and families living in such dire straits.   They do not complain about increased class sizes faced by the students and teachers nor do they complain about the budget slashing that cuts art, shop, physical education, music, FACS programs.

These reformers close their eyes to for-profit charters that siphon funds from the classroom and they don't voice any concern about the idea of testing pre-kindergarten or kindergarten children.   I have rarely heard complaints coming from 'reformers' concerning the fact that Education Service students are often disproportionately excluded from a good number of charters compared to the regular neighborhood public school.

So take it with a grain of salt.   The next time you hear 'reformers' talk about what they dislike about American schools, check to see if they also dislike some of the above.

Thanks,
Dick

Ravitch on Reform

Diane Ravitch has it right when she comments on the belief system of far too many of the so called reformers!!   As Ms. Ravitch points out in "Reign of Error," many of these believers say that today's public schools are failing our children.

What the author points out is a historical perspective (truth) that escapes much of the public. 

It has been an age old argument that our schools are failing.   It is a belief steeped in myth.  By the way, all of those who long for 'the good ole days,' need some schooling.  In the past most of the children didn't even go to college and a fair number of students 'back then' didn't even attend school and a good number of them didn't even go on to graduate from high school.

In the past, children who are today labeled as disabled or Special Education more often than not didn't attend school, certainly if they did, it was rare that they graduated.   40, 500 or 60 years ago there were far fewer immigrants coming to the U.S.   Not so today!!!

Before you drink the 'reformers' koolade that says todays schools 'aren't what they used to be,' some real fact checking needs to occur.

Dick

Well Done HC Varsity Boys Soccer!!

Take five senior Hinsdale Central varsity soccer players; Manos Proussaloglou, JD Garnett, Christian Meyer, TJ Schmidt and Max Krohn and give them a fundraiser and watch come through in a big way.  That's just what they did at yesterday's KICK event.

These five boys coordinated a soccer-tennis tourney for 69 players, sought out corporate monetary donations, garnered gift certificates and secured plenty of refreshments for the participants.   This effort was terrific in all regards.

The result, on a bright, sunny Sunday, was some great fun, fast action on the courts and a wonderful response in terms of raising funds.   Because of the efforts of the boys, the players, parents and local community the seniors noted above raised over $8,000.00!!   This is an all time record for KICK!

I want to thank the five boys who organized the event - along with their Mom's - and all the participants for making the day such a monumental success.   Your efforts will surely allow many CPS children to obtain the necessary daily supplies they might otherwise go without.

Great stuff!!
Coach Flesher

Today's School Reformers

It is clear that the current message of the vast majority of corporate school 'reformers' is based on a whole host of issues.  Most favor vouchers, support for-profit and not for-profit charters, back standardized testing, desire to see student test results mirrored in teacher evaluations and wish to see you unions limited or eliminated.   By the way, they want to make cuts to various programs and are not hesistant about slashing budgets.  These are but some ways reformers want to go about the business of public education.

This isn't reform, my friends, this is an attempt to lay the blame for alleged school failure (notice I said alleged) at the footsteps of the schools and America's public school teachers.  If you don't think it's a blame game just look at some of the stories or editorials in major media outlets.  By the way, just because a radio station, blog, tv network or cable station says education is broken doesn't mean it's so.  How many people who castigate education rally understand the ins and outs of teaching and learning in the 21st century?   Not that many.

A fair number of the so called 'reformers' do have a stake in the game.   Some of them stand to make money through testing, preparing testing assessments, establishing corporate organizations to run various non-traditional public schools or by selling various ancillary services and products connected to these, and other, initiatives.   Many have much to gain.

Take a closer look at these 'reformers.'   Are they truly interested in helping a young person grow, mature and be the beneficiary of a well rounded education?   Are their motives designed to allow young people to be exposed to new ideas?   Do they really have the best interests of everyone in mind?  You be the judge.

Dick

More for the Have's

For the fourth day, in the past week, Mayor Emanuel announced plans to provide more funding to a school in very good shape.   Walter Payton College Prep High School will receive $17 million in order to expand.  The school is bursting at the seams and had to turn away many applicants this year.   Building a new annex will increase enrollment.

That's good news for the Payton folks and another poke in the eye of schools and communities still lacking toilet paper, air conditioning, daily supplies and teachers.   I am aware of many schools that face such daily difficulties.   Of course you can imagine how people feel who saw their neighborhood schools shut down this past spring.

By the way, anyone who thinks that the spring closing were strictly about the space being underutilized are sadly mistaken.  The closings had just as much to do with money as how many students were attending the various shuttered schools.

As I said the other day, whether intended or not, the perception is that the 'have's' continue to be well taken care of while the 'have not's' are largely (or completely) ignored.   Put yourself in the place of a disadvantaged school and community - if possible - and it's hard not to see why people feel the way they do about what is taking place.

Dick

More Schools, More Labs - More Money?

I can admit I don't know the 'ins and outs' of where, and how,  Mayor Emanuel is coming up with the TIF and state capital funding to undertake all the work he has announced over the past several days.   Obviously, Emanuel has the funds at his disposal or he wouldn't have made these declarations.

Yesterday the mayor announced a $24 million tax increment financing for three schools.   On Monday the city chief said that an addition would be made to Wildwood Elementary and on Sunday he stated that a new school would be erected on 104th and Indianapolis.  Ambitious plans to be sure.

This is likely to be on the 'up and up' and positive for these schools.

Problem is...there is a perception issue.   Can you imagine what the kids, staff and parents of schools closed this spring think of this?   No doubt they are dismayed, angry and puzzled.  Why shouldn't they?   When they see these building plans and think of the fact that their neighborhood schools were shut down while being told of a money crunch, they can rightfully believe they were shortchanged in a big way.

Perception for these folks is reality!

Dick

Ravtich's "Reign of Error"

Granted, I just picked up Diane Ravitch's new book but I am fascinated by her ability to clearly enumerate the many subtle and not so subtle ways that public education is under assault, largely due to the private sector getting into the field.  True, I'm but 30 pages into the text but there are plenty of juicy details concerning the various 'errors' taking place.

In general, Ravtich sees the private sector and the so called 'reformers' moving in the wrong direction.   According to Ravitch too many assumptions about the quality of schools, the testing agenda, accountability and the possibilities that the private sector offers are simply wrong.  I could agree with her more.

Let me point out a couple of ways that the privatizing craze is in full force.   Testing is but one of the vehicles where the privatizing forces are at work.   First is was the 'No Child Left Behind' legislation of 2002.   In order to get schools to meet their unrealistic goals of 'progess' a whole plethora of for-profit publications, think tanks and tutors blossomed.   Lots of money to be made here.

Now, almost every state has signed on to the Common Core Standard testing initiative.   Ravitch points out that this is going to be quite an expense as the states and districts are going to find that the CCSS is going online.   Some say that the estimate of the cost will run as much as $13 billion.   I wonder who will pick up the tab?   You can be sure that for-profit establishments will want a piece of that pie.

I look forward to sharing more of this book with you in the coming weeks.

Lots of errors being made!
Dick

Building New Schools? Amazing!

Michael Sneed's Chicago Sun-Times column had quite a 'scoop' on Mayor Emanuel's plans to open, yes open, new selective-enrollment high schools.   According to a Sneed source, Emanuel will solve elementary school overcrowding in a manner much like the plan to deal with the high schools.

In terms of the elementary schools, new buildings may be constructed or ones currently open may be expanded but Emanuel does not plan to reopen any of the schools that were closed this past spring.

What comes to mind are a few troubling thoughts.  First, I thought there was a shortfall of funds.   How can CPS afford possible new buildings while a budget crunch exists?  I'm not sure TIF funds can cover 100% of the construction.

Also, I have the very real sense that some of the elementary schools (almost 50 of them) shuttered this spring could well be used for either of these projects.   Building anew gives the appearnace, should any of the closed schools be reopened, that the mayor and the CPS brass made mistakes by closing so many at one time.   Good gosh, we wouldn't want to be seen in that manner, now would we?

Dick

More on Core

A whopping 45 states are now commited to the Common Core State Standards testing.   The whole idea is to provide a consistent, clear understanding of what students are expected to learn without regard to where they live.   It is hope that parents, teachers and others associated with the field would then be able to help them get where they need to be.

I take issue with a number of the above theories or premises.   First, the idea of what a student is expected to learn is a real whopper in my view.   Teaching and learning goes way beyond the mere fact that Student A should learn content X and that's that.   Say a student knows that the Pearl Harbor attack took place on Dec. 7, 1941.   I want them to know so much more than this.   It would be worth students understanding our preparedness on that day, how people handled the attack, the impact on the island for years to come and so very much more.

I have no qualms with the idea that what is taught must be consistent and clear.   But this idea that 'what is expected to be learned' is real dicey.   Everyone can differ on what MUST be learned.   The beauty of the history of education is that what must be learned has been determined by experts...people in the business of understanding children and education, the people in the classrooms.

Teachers and students have different backgrounds, learning styles, and quite different skill sets and these should be at the 'core' of the process of teaching and learning.

Dick

Reign of Error

As Diane Ravitch says, "I try to stand up for the weak and powerless and voiceless, and some people don't like that." Some of her critics accuse her of being too close to unions, others believe she picks fights, and still others believe she cherry picks information to lambast charter schools or to assail test based accountability.

One of the reasons I enjoy Ravitch's books and journal writings is that she has seen all sides of education. Ms. Ravitch has worked in the Dept. of Education, has studied the history of the field, and once backed tying test scores to school performance. Not exactly a background that one would think would make teachers her best friend.

Today Ms. Ravitch assails the reformers in her new book "Reign of Error: The Hoax of the Privatization Movement and the Danger to America's Public Schools." The book comes out next week and one of its major points is that the problem of race and income inequality is largely ignored.

I'll be sure to pick up the book, dig into it and share many of its ideas and concerns.

Dick

Common Core is Here

Step aside ISAT and 'No Child Left Behind,' there is a new kid on the block and it's called Common Core.  Illinois joined with some 40 other states in 2010, declaring it would institute the Common Core in the 2013-14 school year followed by Common Core assessment implementation the following year.

I'm not completely schooled on Common Core but the idea is the depth in learning is now to be emphasized over breadth.   For my money both depth and breadth have always been critical in the process of educating a student.

A new emphasis is to be put on critical thinking and concept mastery in the English language arts and expanding academic vocabulary in Math.   These are among some of the highlights of the CCSS reforms.  Of course, once the standards are in place relative to what is being taught, then assessments will be implemented to determine the extent to which the standards are being achieved.

My sense is that the nation's schools are going to find it difficult to sort through everything to implement these standards by next fall.   I don't know of too many schools who have really got the ball rolling on this as of yet.   From what I hear, the standards will be pretty darn tough and the kids scores are likely to hit the skids.  I'm sure the press will be all over this and declare that the education system is failing the students.  

I'll have more to say on this in the coming days.

Dick

Well Isn't that just Great

Now there's a great idea...NOT!!

CPS is now determining exactly how many children are attending each school within the system on the 10th day of school.   That 10th day just happens to be today.   CPS is counting heads on the 10th day rather than the 20th day as in the past.   In turn, the principals of the schools will know how much money they will have to work with for the remainder of the school year based on an equal amount of dollars doled out for each child..

Prior to the start of the school year principals were handed funds based on student enrollment projections.  As of today, if the projections come up short then principals will have to make cuts.   If a school has more students than originally anticipated then they will receive additional funds.

This is crazy!   Okay, a school needs more staff as they have more students.   That makes sense.   But to trim more staff after the school year has commenced is senseless and wrong.   This scenario, potentially, means that a second grader, who is already accustomed to his/her teacher, may one day soon see that he/she won't have that teacher.

You also might, likely, have a situation in which there are two classes of 22 students in third grade.   A principal, because total enrollment is less than projected, could well have to cut one of the third grade teachers.   Yes, that means that 44 students would be in one classroom.

It seems as though the cuts and decisions made by the CPS brass are never ending.   That's too bad as it's the students and teachers who suffer.

Dick

That Just Beats All!

Public hearings are again underway within the various communities across Chicago with respect to...what else, facilities!!   The 2011 law passed by the State of Illinois requires that CPS must come up with a 10 year facilities plan and they have to have it ready by Oct. 1st.

One of the things most troubling about part of the contents of the 10 year plan is the fact that CPS has already recognized - are you ready for this? - that some schools are overcrowded.  Yes, overcrowded.   Worse yet, CPS will put out the word for those to come forward with proposals for charter schools in these overcrowded schools.

More charters?   I am tired of CPS simply giving over more of its responsibility to run public education within the city.   We are coming to the point where 'true' public schooling will no longer take place within inner cities in this country.  

Everyone seems to want to fault the kids or teachers if a school 'fails.'   It is time to hold public officials accountable for failing the students, their families and the staffs who run the schools.

Dick

The Have's and Have Nots

I have a fairly simple question I would like to pose for the CPS brass. The question goes like this..."Why is it that 'receiving' or 'welcoming' schools got ipads and air conditioning while those non welcoming schools (is that what they are?) were largely ignored?"

No, this is not a rhetorical question nor is it one asked in jest. It's a serious question - which deserves a serious and thoughtful answer - because there are thousands upon thousands of students and their families who despite giving their best are left out in the cold simply because they weren't a welcoming school.

How tragic!! If it is hot, humid and sweaty in the classroom, ALL students and staff deserve the same treatment. To reward a school with ipads and a/c simply because it is welcoming students from a school that was shuttered while denying a school the same resources is wrong on many counts. Talk about bad policy, poor politics and lousy PR!

Like the expression goes, there are have's and have not's in the world.

Dick

A Huge Help

There are plenty of wonderful charitable organizations that conduct terrific work here in the states and, for that matter, around the world. Doctors Without Borders, the United Way, Lions Clubs, Habitat for Humanity, the March of Dimes are but some of the more well know organizations out there. Many philanthropic organizations often fly below the radar when it comes to the good that they do for others.

One such organization of this caliber that assists Schools Count is Kid4Good. Just last week this group donated 200 new spiral notebooks to our cause which seeks to provide students, who often go without essential classroom supplies, with these critical resources as the school year has commenced in the Chicagoland area.

Kids4Good is a huge supporter of our 'Go Green' endeavor which provides recycled student supplies to CPS schools. This organization often provides volunteers for many of our initiatives throughout the year. To this end they have been by our side these past years.

Kids4Good is also fundamentally responsible for helping to rebuild the IMN School in Haiti following the 2010 earthquake. Over the years Kids4Good has provided school resources, medical supplies and clean water to the children. Recently, Kids4Good just raised $10,000 to provide IMN with a brand new toilet system.

A new school, clean water, medical supplies, school resources and a modern toilet system...pretty incredible. Talk about a charity that makes a difference. Kids4Good may not attract international attention and dollars but its work sure merits our heartfelt thanks. Thank you Cynthia McGann and Mary Beth Owano!!

Dick

That's Better

I was pleased to learn that a couple of positive things are taking place within CPS and some of the neighborhood areas that have much to do with the schools.

On one front, Representative Bobby Rush and Senator Kirk took a tour of the Englewood neighborhood. Though these two disagree about a good deal including the structure of area gangs, both acknowledge the need for assistance to the community. Rush commented that "we need jobs, we need jobs." For his part, Kirk proposed granting anyone who invested in commercial property a 10 year waiver of federal taxes. It is clear both men know the despair that too many live through day after day.

I was pleased to hear that the CPS brass is dropping the use of 'probationary' with respect to the poorest performing schools. In the past, there were three levels for rating schools, the lowest two tiers were considered probationary. Now, schools are put in one of five tiers, the lowest two will be classified as either 'provisional support' or 'intensive support.'

Finally, it was great to see that just 65% of the rating of elementary schools will be based on standardized test scores. The old measure leaned on test scores at the rate of 86%. Great to see that someone is coming to their senses when it comes to understanding that the value of a school far exceeds standardized test scores.

Dick

March On!

Perhaps Jitu Brown, reflecting on the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington, of the Kenwood Oakland Community Organization said it best when he described what it was like for his son to attend school.   "Fifty years later we still have young people being escorted to school [remember James Meredith at Oxford or Little Rock] by armed guard.  My son should not have to walk next to a police officer in 2013 when there is a perfectly good school across the street from his house."

Hard to argue with this. Oh, some people might but my guess is that they don't live under such conditions as those described by Mr. Brown.   Jitu was commenting on the education of his son in light of the 1-day school boycott which saw hundreds of activists descend upon CPS headquarters to protest various conditions and lament the school closings and dwindling budgets of individual schools.

As I sit here in the comfort of my home I wonder if much will change in the next fifty years.  Yes, social progress has been made but economic progress has been a dream gone adrift for far too many people.   It is a fact, not conjecture, that the poor are getting poorer and the number of poor is exploding.

A lack of jobs, low pay, having too little money to provide for ones health care and nutritious food and making ends meet are emblematic of the lack of economic progress.   For people to take part and achieve the 'American Dream' things will have to change.

Dick 

50 Years Later and Today

The March on Washington 50 years ago moved the nation forward in so very many ways. When all is said and done it wasn't just a matter of aiding civil rights, it was a movement to assist in the enhancement of human rights.

There are acitivists and those striving to move the need ahead on these two fronts in Chicago on this day to mark the 50th anniversary of the march. These people are calling for a 1-day school boycott to bring attention to a whole host of issues. Coincidentally, the CS Board of Education is slated to vote on the fiscal year 2014 budget, a budget which contains significant millions of dollars of classroom cuts.

The boycott today is in protest of these cuts, the closing of nearly 50 schools, teachers being terminated, a school board which is appointed rather than elected and much more.

There are those who would say that the kids need to be in the classroom today. My reply is this...Who are we, on the outside, to questions this? I really mean it. Like 50 years ago how are we to know the dire conditions that today's students and families live in? We really have no idea what it is like to fight escalating poverty, too few jobs, school closings, dwindling budgets and a whole host of other problems.

I applaud people for saying no to these conditions, many not created of their own doing. I understand and support their willingness to stand up and say no more! Like 50 years ago, they have every right to draw attention to the above predicament. At the very least, we ought to be able to empathize with our fellow citizens.

Dick

Keep Them Safe

So far so good in terms of the CPS children getting to and from school safely on the first day of classes. Mayor Emanuel had the troops; police, safe passage workers, crossing guards, streets and sanitation officials and others, out in full force. That's good news!!

I'll add this note, just as I did during the years that I taught, I want to see what happens in October, February and March to get a better hold of just how things are shaping up. The first day of school and the last day are important but they aren't really good barometers in terms of learning, teaching, and, in this case, safety.

Let's see if the 'powers that be' keep security personnel out in full force - as they did yesterday - in the many days to come. When it's -5 will the same number of police and crossing guards be out there? Will Emanuel walk to school with children on Nov. 1st or on a rainy day in April? The safety concerns of school personnel and families won't abate on those days. Of that you can be sure.

If everyone pitches in, as they did yesterday, the students will be all the better for it.

Dick

The Funds are Coming In

Last Friday I noted that the State of Illinois put $89 million into capital improvements for the schools in the CPS system. Fortunately, about $16 million may be used to alleviate overcrowding. Okay, sounds good so far.

This point about overcrowding leaves me wondering about whether CPS closed too many schools too quickly; thus, resulting in classes and schools having too many students. Don't get me wrong, having the funds to make the necessary repairs and upgrades are most welcome but the spring closures should have avoided any overcrowding problems or concerns.

One wonders just how these funds will be used given the statement made by Abdon Pallasch, a spokesman for Governor Quinn, who noted that other state school districts have to submit projects for approval. CPS, on the other hand, may determine how it spends the money without going through the same process.

Given the above point, it will be most revealing to see just how CPS decides to use the state funds. Stay tuned.

Dick

Talk About News!!

It will take me a couple of days to digest and and write about so many events surrounding CPS schools. But let me give you a very brief synopsis of happenings in the past 24 hours.

Despite a district -wide budget deficit, the closing of 49 neighborhood schools, major cuts to the budgets of the individual schools and laying off 3,168 personnel, Mayor Emanuel is doling out bonuses to the principals of schools where there was academic growth.

The State of Illinois on Thursday announced that $89 million is being awarded to CS to make capital improvements of which $16 million can be used to alleviate overcrowding. Wow, that's interesting. I thought CPS just got done, this past spring, saying that so many schools were not crowded and were underutilized. Which is it?

On Wednesday, August 28th various city activist groups are call for a 1-day school boycott. The boycott is attempt to call attention, as the Chicago Sun-Times reported,to the show CPS that education is a human right and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington.

I'll comment on all of the these in the next few days. They certainly warrant our attention.
Dick