* Sadly, smaller Newton tragedies continue to hit American school children each and every day. Yesterday, Hadiya Pendleton, who last week attended the 2nd inauguaration of President Obama was shot and killed. As Mary Mitchell so eloquently stated 'when is enough, enough?'
* CPS has hired an ex-marine, who once sorted out prisoner exchanges in the Kosovo war, to oversee the transfer process of students when schools are shuttered in the fall of 2013. Pretty obvious this won't be easy.
* A good number of charter school parents and students rallied at Union Station yesterday demanding more funding for charter schools in Chicago. Everyone who started a charter knew that the funding level was going to be lower than a CPS neighborhood school. It was only a matter of time that charter organizations demanded financial parity. Good luck on that one.
Dick
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
A bit more on Unions
Just a couple of more thoughts about the value of unions. With hundreds of thousands of teachers in the United States, it make little sense for every individual to bargain for himself or herself. Teachers have collective concerns and ideas that are best pooled together which is a very real reason for their need and existence.
Let me also offer this...there are few better 'sounding boards' or avenues of information, on a whole host of issues, that administration, boards of education and government agencies can turn to than teacher unions. They provide a rich source of information that those who run schools can turn to in order to make wise decisions.
At the state, national and local levels, unions provide courses, in-service training and they provide materials which help teachers grow and mature.
Are unions the panacea for what may ail a school. No, I'm not making this proclamation. I'm simply stating that teachers, and others in education, are positively affected by unions in a variety of ways.
Dick
Let me also offer this...there are few better 'sounding boards' or avenues of information, on a whole host of issues, that administration, boards of education and government agencies can turn to than teacher unions. They provide a rich source of information that those who run schools can turn to in order to make wise decisions.
At the state, national and local levels, unions provide courses, in-service training and they provide materials which help teachers grow and mature.
Are unions the panacea for what may ail a school. No, I'm not making this proclamation. I'm simply stating that teachers, and others in education, are positively affected by unions in a variety of ways.
Dick
Monday, January 28, 2013
Tackling Issues
Let's see...tenure, unions, vouchers, school closings, school reform, charters, selective schools, merit pay, standardized testing and more. They are hot botton issues and I've made some passing comments on them in the past. One thing is certain, and no one should be confused, these issues are very much related to one another.
For example, take a look at tenure. Many people say it is outdated and protects poor teachers. Of course far too many people don't understand that tenure protects excellent teachers. Too few people recognize that fact.
Tenure exists because of the existence of local associations of teachers as well as the AFT and NEA. These organizations of teachers saw a problem with constant teacher turnover many years ago. Decades ago, school districts constantly let veteran teachers go with the knowledge that they could save money by hiring someone right out of college. Unions saw a wrong and worked to right it through tenure legislation.
By the way, tenure laws were agreed to in collective bargaining. It's not as if unions proclaimed tenure without school districts weighing in.
As I start writing about these various issues, it ought to be clear, from the above illustration, that adjusting one facet of education will impact other educational vehicles and issues. I will endeavor to deal not with just a single issue but its impact on other critical elements dealing with education.
Dick
For example, take a look at tenure. Many people say it is outdated and protects poor teachers. Of course far too many people don't understand that tenure protects excellent teachers. Too few people recognize that fact.
Tenure exists because of the existence of local associations of teachers as well as the AFT and NEA. These organizations of teachers saw a problem with constant teacher turnover many years ago. Decades ago, school districts constantly let veteran teachers go with the knowledge that they could save money by hiring someone right out of college. Unions saw a wrong and worked to right it through tenure legislation.
By the way, tenure laws were agreed to in collective bargaining. It's not as if unions proclaimed tenure without school districts weighing in.
As I start writing about these various issues, it ought to be clear, from the above illustration, that adjusting one facet of education will impact other educational vehicles and issues. I will endeavor to deal not with just a single issue but its impact on other critical elements dealing with education.
Dick
More on Educational Issues
Unions. Too often they are demonized by far too many who consider themselves as reformers or those who are critical of schools and, by extension, teachers. For all the decades that unions have been part of the fabric of public education, it is only in recent years that critics have blasted education unions. Funny that for so many decades few paid any significant attention to them. To now lambaste unions for the perceived ills of American education is out of place.
My guess is that most parents want a reasonable size class for their children. This wouldn't have taken place had unions not pushed for smaller class sizes. Many parents realize that aides are needed in classrooms as teachers often have to teach at a couple of levels within the same class period. Again, teacher associations and unions have been leading the charge on this.
As I've mentioned in the past, plenty of education issues are intertwined. Insurance needs to be provided to teachers, and other workers, and unions have been there to advocate for such issues. When it comes to tenure, most schools that I have worked with don't interfere with an administrator who wants to terminate a poor teacher. In today's world, plenty of teachers are let go long before tenure would even kick in. Unions realize that the only way to have a quality learning experience for students is to have quality teachers.
The time has come to realize the good that unions offer their professionals.
Dick
My guess is that most parents want a reasonable size class for their children. This wouldn't have taken place had unions not pushed for smaller class sizes. Many parents realize that aides are needed in classrooms as teachers often have to teach at a couple of levels within the same class period. Again, teacher associations and unions have been leading the charge on this.
As I've mentioned in the past, plenty of education issues are intertwined. Insurance needs to be provided to teachers, and other workers, and unions have been there to advocate for such issues. When it comes to tenure, most schools that I have worked with don't interfere with an administrator who wants to terminate a poor teacher. In today's world, plenty of teachers are let go long before tenure would even kick in. Unions realize that the only way to have a quality learning experience for students is to have quality teachers.
The time has come to realize the good that unions offer their professionals.
Dick
Thursday, January 24, 2013
You're Invited!!
To our Supporters,
The gifts of giving continue to astound and inspire. Your efforts have made it possible to serve children, over recent years, from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Ocean and from the north side of Chicago to the southern suburbs. Donations, hours spent volunteering and encouragement have enabled children and teachers to be supplied with resources that allow for their success in the classroom.
The Schools Count Corp Board of Directors is extending an invitation to attend the Tuesday, March 12th 'Appreciation Dinner.' This will be a very special occasion as one of the bands, King Elementary, which we provided with music instruments, will perform at the dinner. In addition to this highly anticipated performance we'll also hear from Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times. This award-winning columnist is sure to spark our interest as she attended CPS schools and has written extensively on education within the city of Chicago.
Appreciation Dinner,' March 12, 2013
Not only will it be a grand occasion for the above reasons but it will be a time to celebrate many accomplishments, meet some terrific people and to come face to face with those we are privileged to work with in and around Chicago. I look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the ongoing work of Schools Count Corp. It's because of you that we are able to forge ahead! Thank you so very much.
Sincerely,
Dick Flesher
The gifts of giving continue to astound and inspire. Your efforts have made it possible to serve children, over recent years, from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic Ocean and from the north side of Chicago to the southern suburbs. Donations, hours spent volunteering and encouragement have enabled children and teachers to be supplied with resources that allow for their success in the classroom.
The Schools Count Corp Board of Directors is extending an invitation to attend the Tuesday, March 12th 'Appreciation Dinner.' This will be a very special occasion as one of the bands, King Elementary, which we provided with music instruments, will perform at the dinner. In addition to this highly anticipated performance we'll also hear from Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times. This award-winning columnist is sure to spark our interest as she attended CPS schools and has written extensively on education within the city of Chicago.
Appreciation Dinner,' March 12, 2013
Hinsdale Central High School student cafe
Doors open at 6:00 pm, program and dinner at 6:30 pm
Appearances by Mary Mitch of the Chicago Sun-Times
and the King Elementary School Band
(to make your reservations, send names attending to Dick Flesher
at rich219@comcast.net no later than March 1st)
Not only will it be a grand occasion for the above reasons but it will be a time to celebrate many accomplishments, meet some terrific people and to come face to face with those we are privileged to work with in and around Chicago. I look forward to seeing you and sharing with you the ongoing work of Schools Count Corp. It's because of you that we are able to forge ahead! Thank you so very much.
Sincerely,
Dick Flesher
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
36 in a Class?!
If it's true that the CPS is looking at using a formula of 36 children per classroom then the process of determining which schools are underutilized is flawed. Really, 36 students per class? Does anyone want their son and daughter to be in a class with 35 other students? Well...no!!
By using a factoring of 36 children per room, it will be rather easy to find schools at 45%, 50% or 60% of capacity. If a divisor of 30 students per class is used, as the negotiated contract calls for, then the number of schools with a higher capacity will manifest itself.
Obviously, the more space used in a school, the lower its prospects for closing.
This is a complicated issue aside from what number is used to determine a school working below, at, or above capacity. There are a fair number of schools with an Educational Services student population of 25% or more. In such a situation, 30 students per classroom is far too large.
Putting more students in classrooms may shrink the space needed in the building but it will also diminish the chances of student success. As I said, is there really anyone out there who wants his son and daughter to be in room of 36?
Dick
By using a factoring of 36 children per room, it will be rather easy to find schools at 45%, 50% or 60% of capacity. If a divisor of 30 students per class is used, as the negotiated contract calls for, then the number of schools with a higher capacity will manifest itself.
Obviously, the more space used in a school, the lower its prospects for closing.
This is a complicated issue aside from what number is used to determine a school working below, at, or above capacity. There are a fair number of schools with an Educational Services student population of 25% or more. In such a situation, 30 students per classroom is far too large.
Putting more students in classrooms may shrink the space needed in the building but it will also diminish the chances of student success. As I said, is there really anyone out there who wants his son and daughter to be in room of 36?
Dick
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
A Simple Question
Given that a good many South Bronx children are facing a situation where the median income of its citizens is $20,000, the unemployment rate is 25% and at least 40% of the people live in poverty, do you suppose that the students growing up in this environment are at a disadvantage?
As the Stephen Ritz video (www.ted.com) portrayed, once the children were resourced, there was a blooming in terms of school attendance and achievement.
The video left me inspired and hopeful. It also left me pondering other issues and concerns facing South Bronx residents and the students attending the various schools. Are the students, in many respects, no different than others though they live in a different area and substantially different living conditions? Aren't the South Bronx just as eager to learn as their counterparts in other parts of America?
But I was left with but a simple question based on the work of Ritz and his students. In areas of decline, poverty, and unemployment there are rays of hope.
I am left with one question. Can't we heed the call?
Our charity believes we can!!
Dick
As the Stephen Ritz video (www.ted.com) portrayed, once the children were resourced, there was a blooming in terms of school attendance and achievement.
The video left me inspired and hopeful. It also left me pondering other issues and concerns facing South Bronx residents and the students attending the various schools. Are the students, in many respects, no different than others though they live in a different area and substantially different living conditions? Aren't the South Bronx just as eager to learn as their counterparts in other parts of America?
But I was left with but a simple question based on the work of Ritz and his students. In areas of decline, poverty, and unemployment there are rays of hope.
I am left with one question. Can't we heed the call?
Our charity believes we can!!
Dick
Monday, January 21, 2013
Inspiring Story
Take one teacher, in this case Stephen Ritz, and watch what he can do with a group of students. These children come from the South Bronx where Mr. Ritz instructs them. This is an area that has 25% unemployment, where 40% of the citizens live below the poverty line and the median income of the area is a paltry $20,000.
I'd like to have you watch the following link and I think you will agree that, among us, given the resources, there are some bright, energetic and determined people. We can help young people rise up. I believe this story will affirm this. Once you get to the site then type in 'Stephen Ritz' and you can select the video. The video is entitled a 'Teacher growing green in the South Bronx.'
www.ted.com/speakers/stephen.ritz.html
Thanks,
Dick
I'd like to have you watch the following link and I think you will agree that, among us, given the resources, there are some bright, energetic and determined people. We can help young people rise up. I believe this story will affirm this. Once you get to the site then type in 'Stephen Ritz' and you can select the video. The video is entitled a 'Teacher growing green in the South Bronx.'
www.ted.com/speakers/stephen.ritz.html
Thanks,
Dick
Friday, January 18, 2013
Guns and Schools
A huge clash between basketball titans Morgan Park and Simeon took place a couple of night ago. The game was held on a neutral court, Chicago State. Apparently is was quite a game. I know who won but I also know who lost...Tyrone Lawson III. He was shot (multiple times) and killed on a campus parking lot after the game..
Tyrone parents typically pick him up after the games, drive him to school on a daily basis and more. It appears as though they were really doing their parenting. Tyrone would never sneak off someplace, he always asked for permission. I don't know anymore about Tyrone other than what the Chicago Sun-Times reported in its page 2-3 story this morning.
The above is what I know. I also know that there was heavy security at the game. Lots of police and other security personnel, people with guns no doubt. But all of these guns obviously didn't save Lawson's life.
How sad that a person who wants to attend a basketball game ends up losing his life. As the Mother of Tyrone said, "There is no safe place." How very sad and how very true.
Guns in and around schools?
Dick
Tyrone parents typically pick him up after the games, drive him to school on a daily basis and more. It appears as though they were really doing their parenting. Tyrone would never sneak off someplace, he always asked for permission. I don't know anymore about Tyrone other than what the Chicago Sun-Times reported in its page 2-3 story this morning.
The above is what I know. I also know that there was heavy security at the game. Lots of police and other security personnel, people with guns no doubt. But all of these guns obviously didn't save Lawson's life.
How sad that a person who wants to attend a basketball game ends up losing his life. As the Mother of Tyrone said, "There is no safe place." How very sad and how very true.
Guns in and around schools?
Dick
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Sun-Times Says it Best
Mark Brown, Chicago Sun-Times columnist, said it best in today's piece entitled 'We owe this to our children.' Of course what he is referring to is the point made by President Obama who yesterday said that 'This is our first task as a society, keeping our children safe.'
I work in plenty of areas in inner cities where the safety of children and adults is paramount, where one has to worry about a 7 year-old making it to school, being safe during the day, and returning home unharmed.
I listened intently to President Obama's address, have read the executive order and parsed the proposals that he is forwarding to the Congress. I can't see where anyone who is a responsible gun owner will be harmed in any way by these initiatives and directives.
But that isn't the main point I want to make today. What is critical is that we have to look out for our 5 year-olds, 8 year-olds, and 11 year-olds. From the day a child is born, Mothers and Fathers, as well as teachers, have had to make sure they are safe... safe on the streets, safe on the playgrounds, safe while with their friends, safe at school and safe whiling riding their bikes.
Put another way, we can protect gun owners and children at the same time. It is not a matter of preferring or taking action to help one while, at the same time, denying others various protections. We can and have to accomplish both at the same time.
Dick
I work in plenty of areas in inner cities where the safety of children and adults is paramount, where one has to worry about a 7 year-old making it to school, being safe during the day, and returning home unharmed.
I listened intently to President Obama's address, have read the executive order and parsed the proposals that he is forwarding to the Congress. I can't see where anyone who is a responsible gun owner will be harmed in any way by these initiatives and directives.
But that isn't the main point I want to make today. What is critical is that we have to look out for our 5 year-olds, 8 year-olds, and 11 year-olds. From the day a child is born, Mothers and Fathers, as well as teachers, have had to make sure they are safe... safe on the streets, safe on the playgrounds, safe while with their friends, safe at school and safe whiling riding their bikes.
Put another way, we can protect gun owners and children at the same time. It is not a matter of preferring or taking action to help one while, at the same time, denying others various protections. We can and have to accomplish both at the same time.
Dick
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Here's a Thought
It is a fact that many elementary schools are underutilized and have plenty of empty seats. As a side note, I can understand this situation in various neighborhoods amidst poverty, crime and neglect. But I digress.
Just because there are empty seats, it doesn't mean that great education and progress isn't being made at such schools. Look, if empty seats are the real problem (which I don't think is the bottom line) then one simple thing can take place while leaving a well functioning school in place in the community.
Close off the top floor or a section of the building. Seal it off! Don't use the space if it isn't warranted.
If you need twenty classrooms, rather than forty, then use the twenty.
Here's the deal...CPS is in debt. If you can close many dozens of schools under the veil of too many empty seats in the building then the brass can eliminate lunch, janitorial, teaching and administrative staff. Once you unload these hundreds of people and not have to pay bills for building maintenance then you can save money. I get it.
What CPS doesn't get is that many schools slated for closing ARE doing their jobs and doing them well.
Dick
Just because there are empty seats, it doesn't mean that great education and progress isn't being made at such schools. Look, if empty seats are the real problem (which I don't think is the bottom line) then one simple thing can take place while leaving a well functioning school in place in the community.
Close off the top floor or a section of the building. Seal it off! Don't use the space if it isn't warranted.
If you need twenty classrooms, rather than forty, then use the twenty.
Here's the deal...CPS is in debt. If you can close many dozens of schools under the veil of too many empty seats in the building then the brass can eliminate lunch, janitorial, teaching and administrative staff. Once you unload these hundreds of people and not have to pay bills for building maintenance then you can save money. I get it.
What CPS doesn't get is that many schools slated for closing ARE doing their jobs and doing them well.
Dick
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
I Wonder
As I think about the many hard working and dedicated students, teachers, parents and administrators at possible targeted CPS schools that may be slated for closing next year, I ponder just how they are feeling right now knowing that they might be on the chopping block.
Indeed, this has probably been the situation for a number of schools for a number of years. Talk about some tension, apprehension and more. UGH!
I will tell you this...I have been in schools that have been closed or 'turned around' (meaning everyone was let go at year's end) and I have witnessed the tireless efforts to excel by all of the above named groups. You might be surprised to learn that these people just go about their business of teaching and learning.
I wonder just how many CPS officials REALLY are aware of and understand the commitments made by these individuals. I wonder if they REALLY 'get it.' I wonder if they will take into account, aside from empty seats, the heartfelt dedication, grit, determination and progress made by teachers and students.
I wonder...
Dick
Indeed, this has probably been the situation for a number of schools for a number of years. Talk about some tension, apprehension and more. UGH!
I will tell you this...I have been in schools that have been closed or 'turned around' (meaning everyone was let go at year's end) and I have witnessed the tireless efforts to excel by all of the above named groups. You might be surprised to learn that these people just go about their business of teaching and learning.
I wonder just how many CPS officials REALLY are aware of and understand the commitments made by these individuals. I wonder if they REALLY 'get it.' I wonder if they will take into account, aside from empty seats, the heartfelt dedication, grit, determination and progress made by teachers and students.
I wonder...
Dick
Monday, January 14, 2013
Let Me Give it Another Shot
Yesterday I made mention of the fact-finding CPS commission that is investigating the 'method' to be used in determining which schools to close later this spring. I also said that one of its recommendations is to not close any high schools due to gang related issues.
I don't disagree with this point. Using this parameter in addition to other 'on the ground' realities should also be used by the commission. What they would find is that there are plenty of indicators which should lead the commission and the CPS brass to close very few schools.
Let me touch on some other issues, beyond the gang situation, that ought to be examined.
The commission needs to understand that neighborhoods need an anchor. The school is often that unifying force. Beyond that fact, if the school has a 30% or 40% rate of empty seats but it is succeeding test score wise or by growth, that school needs to remain open.
A school should not be closed if a new administration and new staff has been put in place in the last year or two. These people have to be given a fair chance to lead. Closing a school just because there are empty seats is no justification for a staff, with a relatively new beginning, to have the plug pulled. Right now, this type of instability is far too rampant in the CPS system.
The CPS hierarchy needs to attend to many of this critical points in assessing which schools will close and which are to remain open.
Dick
I don't disagree with this point. Using this parameter in addition to other 'on the ground' realities should also be used by the commission. What they would find is that there are plenty of indicators which should lead the commission and the CPS brass to close very few schools.
Let me touch on some other issues, beyond the gang situation, that ought to be examined.
The commission needs to understand that neighborhoods need an anchor. The school is often that unifying force. Beyond that fact, if the school has a 30% or 40% rate of empty seats but it is succeeding test score wise or by growth, that school needs to remain open.
A school should not be closed if a new administration and new staff has been put in place in the last year or two. These people have to be given a fair chance to lead. Closing a school just because there are empty seats is no justification for a staff, with a relatively new beginning, to have the plug pulled. Right now, this type of instability is far too rampant in the CPS system.
The CPS hierarchy needs to attend to many of this critical points in assessing which schools will close and which are to remain open.
Dick
Sunday, January 13, 2013
More CPS News
The Commission on School Utilization, formed by CEO chief Ms. Byrd-Bennett, has come out with a few initial recommendations. The commission's most eye-popping point, two days ago, was that no CPS high schools be targeted for closure because of gang related issues. WOW! Gangs are indeed an issue so at least the commission considered something other than empty seats in a school.
Speaking of empty seats. This is still likely to be the major driving force for closing elementary schools commencing with the 2013-14 school year. Tensions are running high throughout many neighborhoods with regard to potential being on the chopping block.
By the way, the commission is not suppose to recommend which schools are to be closed; rather, its task is to determine the 'best method' for arriving at such a decision. Incidentally, the CPS brass doesn't have to follow the commission ideas. That seems unlikely since Byrd-Bennett set up the commission.
Not surprisingly, the commission has already gone on record as saying that 'turnaround' schools should not be considered for closure. That's not a shock. CPS is quite heavily vested in them and to close some would be tantamount to admitting some sort of failure.
Over the next few days I will have more to say about CPS school closings. Stay tuned.
Thanks,
Dick
Speaking of empty seats. This is still likely to be the major driving force for closing elementary schools commencing with the 2013-14 school year. Tensions are running high throughout many neighborhoods with regard to potential being on the chopping block.
By the way, the commission is not suppose to recommend which schools are to be closed; rather, its task is to determine the 'best method' for arriving at such a decision. Incidentally, the CPS brass doesn't have to follow the commission ideas. That seems unlikely since Byrd-Bennett set up the commission.
Not surprisingly, the commission has already gone on record as saying that 'turnaround' schools should not be considered for closure. That's not a shock. CPS is quite heavily vested in them and to close some would be tantamount to admitting some sort of failure.
Over the next few days I will have more to say about CPS school closings. Stay tuned.
Thanks,
Dick
Friday, January 11, 2013
A Big Event
Yes, March 12th is two months away but, we have a wonderful event planned for that evening!! Our 'Donor/Volunteer Appreciation Dinner' will take place to honor the unselfish and generous work of so many giving people.
Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times and the King Elementary School band headline the activities.
Mary is the multiple award winning columnist for the Times. Her work has earned her a reputation as a stalwart in terms of social justice and a journalist who isn't afraid to tackle the tough issues. Her remarks will no doubt be timely and thought-provoking.
The King Elementary band is excited to perform for our entire SCC audience, knowing that we had much to do with putting instruments in their hands! I can't wait to hear them!!
The dinner will be held on Tuesday, March 12th in the Hinsdale Central High School student cafeteria. The high school is located at the intersection of 55th and Grant Streets in Hinsdale. The doors open at 6:00 pm with the dinner/program commencing at 6:30. To attend simply email me at rich219@comcast.net with the names of those attending.
It is an honor for us to take some time out of our busy days to get together and share in the successes that you have made possible through your hard work, support, and generous contributions. I look forward to seeing you.
Dick
Mary Mitchell of the Chicago Sun-Times and the King Elementary School band headline the activities.
Mary is the multiple award winning columnist for the Times. Her work has earned her a reputation as a stalwart in terms of social justice and a journalist who isn't afraid to tackle the tough issues. Her remarks will no doubt be timely and thought-provoking.
The King Elementary band is excited to perform for our entire SCC audience, knowing that we had much to do with putting instruments in their hands! I can't wait to hear them!!
The dinner will be held on Tuesday, March 12th in the Hinsdale Central High School student cafeteria. The high school is located at the intersection of 55th and Grant Streets in Hinsdale. The doors open at 6:00 pm with the dinner/program commencing at 6:30. To attend simply email me at rich219@comcast.net with the names of those attending.
It is an honor for us to take some time out of our busy days to get together and share in the successes that you have made possible through your hard work, support, and generous contributions. I look forward to seeing you.
Dick
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Many Ways to Assist Us
There are almost as many ways to raise money for worthwhile activities and charities as there are people!! You name it and it can be done. Auctions, raffles, car washes, donations, flower sales, matching gift programs, product sales and more!!
Speaking of product sales, I have one friend, Annette, current teacher and former colleague of mine, who is willing to donate 100% of her Avon sales this January to Schools Count. Annette has aided our charity on many previous occasions and this is another one of her ways of helping the children we serve. So why not take a look at the link, below, see if something strikes your fancy. Remember, you'll not only purchase something for yourself or someone else you'll also be facilitating the work of Schools Count Corp.
Thanks for your consideration!
Dick
Dear Dick:
For the month of January I will donate 100% of my profits to Schools that Count.
Here is my website:
http://heydoctord.avonrepresentative.com/
Speaking of product sales, I have one friend, Annette, current teacher and former colleague of mine, who is willing to donate 100% of her Avon sales this January to Schools Count. Annette has aided our charity on many previous occasions and this is another one of her ways of helping the children we serve. So why not take a look at the link, below, see if something strikes your fancy. Remember, you'll not only purchase something for yourself or someone else you'll also be facilitating the work of Schools Count Corp.
Thanks for your consideration!
Dick
Dear Dick:
For the month of January I will donate 100% of my profits to Schools that Count.
Here is my website:
http://heydoctord.avonrepresentative.com/
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Some Snipets
Ouch!! The other day I mentioned that Kids4Good was hosting a Haitian art exhibit with the opening this Saturday, Janurary 12th. I put out the wrong address. The exhibition will take place at the Haitian American Museum of Chicago. The address is 4654 N. Racine, Chicago, IL. This is certain to be a hit as we approach the third anniversary of the devastating earthquake.
GREAT NEWS! Mary Mitchell, the award winning columnist of the Chicago Sun-Times has agreed to give the keynote address at our Donor/Volunteer Dinner on Tuesday, March 12th. Along with the King Elementary School band, Mary is sure to spark some thoughtful discussion about inner city education. Mary attended CPS schools and has a real understanding of the dynamics of neighborhood public education. Just email me and let me know you are attending.
Todays Chicago Sun-Times reports that "The Walton Family Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Wal-Mart's founder, gave more money to Chicago to start new charter schools last year than it did to any other city - $3.8 million. Okay, I will check their website and apply for some funding for SCC!
Dick
GREAT NEWS! Mary Mitchell, the award winning columnist of the Chicago Sun-Times has agreed to give the keynote address at our Donor/Volunteer Dinner on Tuesday, March 12th. Along with the King Elementary School band, Mary is sure to spark some thoughtful discussion about inner city education. Mary attended CPS schools and has a real understanding of the dynamics of neighborhood public education. Just email me and let me know you are attending.
Todays Chicago Sun-Times reports that "The Walton Family Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Wal-Mart's founder, gave more money to Chicago to start new charter schools last year than it did to any other city - $3.8 million. Okay, I will check their website and apply for some funding for SCC!
Dick
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
My Take on Pension Reform
Don't get me wrong. The mess pertaining to the underfunding predictament deals with the state government not taking care of matters over the years. That being said, nothing will solve this crisis unless everyone becomes part of the solution.
The state government, current teachers, business community, unions and retirees will each have to weigh in 'dollarwise' to end the spiraling pension black hole. I have some fellow retirees who may not like to hear this but, as a retired teacher I am willing to do my part.
As a retired school teacher, I have a good pension. I get a 3% Cost of Living increment each year. I am willing, along with the above groups, to do my share to solve the problem. I would certainly be willing to go without the COLA for a period of four, five or six years as part of the package to solve the pension crisis. If I have to pay a bit more for my health care when I hit 65 so be it.
Despite those people (and there are a number of them) who got us in this mess, one group, alone, won't get us out of it. Everyone has to contribute some funds or forego some benefits.
Dick
The state government, current teachers, business community, unions and retirees will each have to weigh in 'dollarwise' to end the spiraling pension black hole. I have some fellow retirees who may not like to hear this but, as a retired teacher I am willing to do my part.
As a retired school teacher, I have a good pension. I get a 3% Cost of Living increment each year. I am willing, along with the above groups, to do my share to solve the problem. I would certainly be willing to go without the COLA for a period of four, five or six years as part of the package to solve the pension crisis. If I have to pay a bit more for my health care when I hit 65 so be it.
Despite those people (and there are a number of them) who got us in this mess, one group, alone, won't get us out of it. Everyone has to contribute some funds or forego some benefits.
Dick
Monday, January 7, 2013
Exciting News
There's some terrific news on two fronts!
First, Hinsdale Central's Students Assisting Students Club conducted a 'Caroling for Coats and Cans' over the holiday break. The result...the students collected 98 articles of clothing (mostly coats) and 131 canned goods. We'll help the students put these in the hands of those most in need.
I also want to alert you to a wonderful event taking place this weekend. The Darien based Kids4Good is hosting the 'ArtWorks4Good' (part of thie long standing commitment to Haiti in their Hope4Haiti initiative) viewing of scenes of Haiti and IMN School in Haiti. This organization was providing aid to the school well before the 2010 earthquake and its efforts continue to this day. On the cusp of the third anniversary of the quake a visual arts exhibit will be open to the public at the Haitian American Museum of Chicago. The museum is located at 740 East 56th Place, Chicago, IL. The opening of the exhibit is this Saturday, Janurary 12th from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. I think you'll find the exhibit to be inspiring and a reminder of the good done by so many in the face of trying circumstances and conditions.
The above are two wonderful examples of people stepping forward to make a concrete difference in the lives of others!!
Thank you,
Dick
First, Hinsdale Central's Students Assisting Students Club conducted a 'Caroling for Coats and Cans' over the holiday break. The result...the students collected 98 articles of clothing (mostly coats) and 131 canned goods. We'll help the students put these in the hands of those most in need.
I also want to alert you to a wonderful event taking place this weekend. The Darien based Kids4Good is hosting the 'ArtWorks4Good' (part of thie long standing commitment to Haiti in their Hope4Haiti initiative) viewing of scenes of Haiti and IMN School in Haiti. This organization was providing aid to the school well before the 2010 earthquake and its efforts continue to this day. On the cusp of the third anniversary of the quake a visual arts exhibit will be open to the public at the Haitian American Museum of Chicago. The museum is located at 740 East 56th Place, Chicago, IL. The opening of the exhibit is this Saturday, Janurary 12th from 4:00 to 8:00 pm. I think you'll find the exhibit to be inspiring and a reminder of the good done by so many in the face of trying circumstances and conditions.
The above are two wonderful examples of people stepping forward to make a concrete difference in the lives of others!!
Thank you,
Dick
Sunday, January 6, 2013
More from Staten Island
Saturday, January 5, 2013
Much Remains to be Done
It is hard for me to fathom that the destruction rendered on many towns, cities and other eastern communities by Hurricane Sandy is still very much in evidence. It is even more difficult to comprehend, two months after the storm, why the U.S. House of Representatives has just passed but a paltry $9.7 billion to cover flood insurance claims. Most experts say that the real aid need is in the neighborhood of $60 to $80 billion.
I have been involved in many scenarios where there have been earthquakes and horrible hurricanes. I get the fact that there are 'channels' to go through to distribute aid but to see that our Congress has learned few lessons from these recent ravaging storms is pathetic.
As people are trying to get back on their feet, for Congress to wait this long to provide the assistance is simply criminal. Here's the real kicker, the House doesn't come back to session until January 14th. Are you kidding me!!! If a Congressional leader had a home or business on the Jersey shore or lived in the devastated section of Queens, I'll lay you odds there would have been more action by now.
And to think that 67 House members voted against the $9.7 billion in aid. That is very sad.
Dick
I have been involved in many scenarios where there have been earthquakes and horrible hurricanes. I get the fact that there are 'channels' to go through to distribute aid but to see that our Congress has learned few lessons from these recent ravaging storms is pathetic.
As people are trying to get back on their feet, for Congress to wait this long to provide the assistance is simply criminal. Here's the real kicker, the House doesn't come back to session until January 14th. Are you kidding me!!! If a Congressional leader had a home or business on the Jersey shore or lived in the devastated section of Queens, I'll lay you odds there would have been more action by now.
And to think that 67 House members voted against the $9.7 billion in aid. That is very sad.
Dick
Friday, January 4, 2013
Report from Staten Island
Many areas of Staten Island, weeks after Hurricane Sandy, are scathed with homes swept from their foundation or are in such a state of disrepair that it appears as though the fury of the storm occurred yesterday. The eastern beachfront areas of Staten Island around Midland Beach took a huge hit.
A fair number of children who attend Staten Island schools lived along the hardest hit areas of the coastline. These are students we are working to assist with our delivery of school supplies and winter coats.
The many thousands of binders, pencils, coats, spirals, paper, pens and folders will be distributed to those children and families, affected by the storm, who are currently living in shelters. In fact, as I write this blog Marie Castelucci and Zulma Cruz, along with others in the district office, are getting supplies to those with the most urgent needs. Once these students have been helped we'll see to it that those who lost many of their belongings will get some assistance.
Speaking of assistance, thanks to an extraordinary donation from ADM, we were able to provide the schools with nearly four tons of supplies. No doubt, hundreds and thousands of children will get the help they so richly deserve.
Channel 1 in NYC covered the trip and I have included a link with an article and video that you might enjoy.
http://www.ny1.com/content/top_stories/174918/chicago-based-charity-donates-goods-to-sandy-impacted-si-schools
Dick
A fair number of children who attend Staten Island schools lived along the hardest hit areas of the coastline. These are students we are working to assist with our delivery of school supplies and winter coats.
The many thousands of binders, pencils, coats, spirals, paper, pens and folders will be distributed to those children and families, affected by the storm, who are currently living in shelters. In fact, as I write this blog Marie Castelucci and Zulma Cruz, along with others in the district office, are getting supplies to those with the most urgent needs. Once these students have been helped we'll see to it that those who lost many of their belongings will get some assistance.
Speaking of assistance, thanks to an extraordinary donation from ADM, we were able to provide the schools with nearly four tons of supplies. No doubt, hundreds and thousands of children will get the help they so richly deserve.
Channel 1 in NYC covered the trip and I have included a link with an article and video that you might enjoy.
http://www.ny1.com/content/top_stories/174918/chicago-based-charity-donates-goods-to-sandy-impacted-si-schools
Dick
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