Friday, December 19, 2014

Volunteer of the Month

Some firms like to honor the work of their employees with an award called 'Employee of the Week' or 'Employee of the Month.' Our charity has no such award. Actually, we have so many deserving donors and volunteers that it simply amazes me. I am often left speechless (hard to imagine!) with the kind and generous work of so many.

So, for the first time ever I am giving special mention to long-time volunteer Cynthia McGann. For years, Cynthia has supported School Count in a number of ways. She has often volunteered in a number of ways particularly when it comes to collecting winter clothing. Cynthia, for the past four years, has run her own 'Winter Wear' collection of clothing for the children we serve in the CPS system and south suburban schools.

This year Cynthia, for over a month, has been collecting winter clothing from three hockey clubs; the Hawks, Huskies and the Fenwick H.S. hockey club. Her collection is truly amazing. Cynthia, in conjunction with members of the various organizations has collected; 196 coats, 148 hats, 98 pairs of gloves/mittens, 33 scarves and 3 pairs of snow pants.

Just imagine how many children, heading to and from school, will be kept warm and dry this season!!!

Kudos to Cynthia!!!

Many thanks,
Dick

Thursday, December 18, 2014

Kudos to the Fenwick Friars

Though Fenwick High School is a good distance from our central location in Mokena, the miles didn't manner as the hockey team collected a great deal of winter wear for the students in Chicago. Kudo's to the boys and their families for collecting 41 coats, 65 hats, 31 pairs of gloves/mittens, and 13 scarves. A special thanks for Cynthia McGann for organizing this drive!!!

Dick

Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Winter Wear

My great friend, Cynthia McGann, has been assisting us as we help to provide warm winter clothing for the children in the Chicagoland area. Her efforts are many; including two area hockey clubs - the Hawks and Huskies - in addition to collecting from Fenwick High School.

Cynthia makes sure the coats are washed/cleaned and she sees to it that the gloves and mittens are a match. All of the winter wear is just like new and, in fact, some of the items are new!! Cynthia sees to it that the bags of coats are organized and that they are ready to be delivered.

It goes without saying that Cynthia, the hockey clubs, the players, parents and good folks at Fenwick are truly making a difference at a time of the year when there is a chill in the air. Actually, the wonderful collection has brought a degree of warmth and comfort to the children!!

Many thanks,
Dick

Tuesday, December 16, 2014

Keep the Faith

I understand that it is easy to be quite cynical about the state of education. Too much standardized testing, an over intrusion by various government agencies, and the dismal state of affairs with regard to what communities deal with in the face of poverty, blight, low wages, safety and more.

Add to the above, the very real issue that educators are under attack from the so called reformers and that educators KNOW they aren't really the power brokers when it comes to curriculum and one has a recipe for cynicism.

All I can say is that there are thoughtful, conscientious teachers and supporters out there who will not stand for education being battered by ill conceived plans or misguided leaders. Many are already pushing back against the private sector driven forces intent upon running public education. Know that all of you who really challenge yourselves and students aren't doing this in vain.

The pendulum does swing and people will wake up to the reality that those who endeavor in the halls of public education are vital to our success. Keep on keeping on!!!

Dick

Monday, December 15, 2014

What One has to Do, One Does

There are many schools we work with where the lack of school resources is but one of many hardships faced by the students, their families and the school. Of course these resources are critical to the growth of students.

What many people may not realize is the fact that the lack of other resources, not specifically dealing with coursework, is just as damaging when it comes to how students perform in their classes.

Many kids, at this time of the year, through no fault of their own, will not receive any Christmas/Holiday gifts. How do you suppose that would make a young person feel? Don't you think there is every possibility that they would 'be down' or a bit glum? I do!! A good number of children don't have the proper type of clothing or hygiene. Again, it is pretty easy to believe this condition is harmful when it comes to how one performs in school.

Many of the schools facing these conditions find agencies or other people to assist them with the above. Many Local School Councils, teachers, principals and outside groups work hard to make the holidays special for the children. Schools go above and beyond to meet the many needs of their students. It is to their credit that schools step up to help children in this manner.

Dick

Friday, December 12, 2014

Will Rauner Charterize IL Public Schools?

The answer to that question will remain unanswered for some weeks, perhaps months, until newly elected Governor Rauner takes office. Let's put it this way, Rauner is a staunch supporter of charters and the Illinois State Charter School Commission is still a viable entity. Given these facts and the outcry, a rather false one, that charters outperform traditional neighborhood schools, one gets the sense that many more charters may well be on their way in the State of Illinois.

Aside from proponents saying that charters "free the schools from many state mandates" and that "they can be creative," it is also a fact that the per student spending is less than the counterpart neighborhood school. It is also a fact, based on my being in a number of schools, that SOME charters are selective in terms of who attends the school. Not everyone gets in as compared to traditional public schools.

Less anyone think differently, you can be certain that charterizing is, in large part, a financial move. Make no mistake about it!!

I think that those of us who truly value real public education for all need to keep a close eye on this...a real close eye.

Dick

Thursday, December 11, 2014

Some Things I'm Curious About

- Just wondering if any of the designers of the PARCC Test have taken the sample test online.

- Since teachers teach different from one another and learners learn in different ways, doesn't it make sense NOT to standardize?

- Why not start school a bit later in the morning?

- Why aren't ALL school boards elected?

- Have never known of an association (union) tearing apart a school...really!

- No reason to see different constituencies as adversaries. Can't we just work together?!

- I see fewer schools 'wasting' money than some of our govt. agencies

- I'm perplexed as to why don't allow classroom teachers to drive change as opposed to those outside the profession

- Why is that too many don't understand the 'real' keys to student success?

The list is long but I am still mystified by the above and more.
Dick

Wednesday, December 10, 2014

He loved Education

Bruce Dansfelser was the first Assistant Principal I served with when I came to Hinsdale Central in 1979. I found Bruce to be an ally and a welcoming colleague. I never viewed Bruce as an adversary in any way, shape or form. He did his job and always treated me in a very professional manner. I had great respect for Bruce.

This morning I learned that Bruce passed away last week. I also learned that Bruce was an educator for life. Aside from his work at Proviso West where he coached, taught and ran the Key Club, Bruce carried on with many of the those types of responsibilities when he came to Hinsdale in 1970. Bruce remained at Central until 1988.

Little did I know that when Bruce returned to Indiana he continued his work in education. Bruce taught History and was a principal at two church schools during the period of 1988 to 2002. Not many people continue to work in the classroom into their 70's!! One need not even venture a guess as to why Bruce continued to stay in the hallways of learning.

I didn't count Mr. D as a friend; rather, our relationship was strictly based on how we interacted at HC. Bruce always gave me the straight scoop and treated me as a professional. Who could ask for more. Maybe it's now time to say...rest in peace, my friend.

Dick

Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Turn down the Heat on Teachers

Only a fair portion of the American population, not a large part of it by any means, understands what it means to be a great teacher in America in 2014. I am tired of hearing of people bashing teachers for all sorts of reasons; summers off, alleged high pay, tenure, unions and more.

The fact of the matter is that the above don't even enter into what goes on in the life of a teacher. Most teachers quietly talk among themselves or come home to vent their frustrations, real ones at that! The biggest reason for not discussing these significant issues is because few will acknowledge them and even fewer will do anything about those issues.

The issues and concerns are often subtle and naked to the eye. Teachers want to be in the classroom and disruptive late start days, early dismissal days and long periods of time attending IEP meetings all serve to put teachers and students behind the proverbial '8 ball.' This is not a minor concern.

Students who miss long stretches of class due to illness, out of school suspensions, in-school suspensions are not minor disturbances. It seems as though everyone pounds the drum demanding that teachers suddenly meet the needs of these children after long stretches of absence. Teachers do their best to meet the needs of these kids but missing three, five or seven days of class at a time aren't made up in a 10 minute after school meeting with the teacher. Valuable class time is valuable class time and simply giving students missed assignments misses the point.

Many teachers have a number of students with IEP plans or other special accommodations and the students can typically be in the same classroom. Three special aides, as many as 35 to 40% of the class composition being Special Education students who require different curriculum and different assessment adds to the real craziness of running the class. On a given unit test, teachers may have to make three or four different exams, see to it that certain students are pulled out of class to go to their own room, making sure someone is available to proctor the tests and then have different answer keys and different criteria for grading those different tests makes this one small portion of the class - what use to be one simple unit exam - a HUGE undertaking.

To be quite blunt, even more troubling, is the fact that the 'powers that be' do very little to acknowledge the above (in addition to further underlying concerns) and the teacher is left to fend for themselves. With no acknowledgment of these issues it is no wonder that nothing is done about the above. I know for a fact that little is done about the issues that are of concern to teachers and students alike. I hear more terrific teachers lamenting the daily grind and pressures of obstacles that take away from their ability to teach effectively.

There are so many concerns and issues like the above that need to be addressed that one is left to wonder how America's teachers will be able to respond. I left the profession ten years ago but stay in touch with many in the classroom. I'm not sure, given the nature of the profession, that I would have been up to the task and that saddens me.

By the way, I don't want to hear some cynic say that 'if they can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.' Put another way, cynics, turn down the damn heat!!!

Dick

Monday, December 8, 2014

Not Changing Anything, Just a Bit of Help

I think we have all been told that we can change or do anything we set our minds to. There might be a modicum of truth to that but I am pretty sure we are better off setting our minds to simply helping where help is needed. I think it is nearly impossible to change anything; conditions in the world, others, or even ourselves.

I know for certain that our charity has brought aid and comfort to a number of students. I have absolutely no idea if our work has changed anyone's life. That may or may not happen for a number of years. Besides, we have plenty on our plates to simply bring resources to bear where they are needed.

As long as we know we are keeping kids warm, providing children with needed school supplies, and getting needed music/athletic/art materials to them then we can point to those acts as giving students every opportunity to succeed.

Thanks,
Dick

Friday, December 5, 2014

I Wonder...

Trying, and that is the key word, to put myself in the situation that so many young children face is impossible not improbable. That being said, I wonder what it would be like to live in a somewhat desolate and grim neighborhood? What would it be like not to have breakfast or any decent meal? And what would it be like to have the stress of the family having difficulties of all sorts.

These are but a few problems faced by a good number of school children day in and day out, year in and year out. How sad and unfortunate to live under such circumstances. I'm sure there is a fair amount of depression and little to look forward to for many of these young people.

Given this scenario, why would a child care about school, be concerned about homework, want to perform well on standardized tests, or even think about the future. The reality of day to day life takes precedence over such circumstances and I can understand why school might be the furthest thing from ones thoughts.

What I really wonder is why the rest of us can't come to some understanding of what it is like to deal with such issues and concerns.

Dick

Thursday, December 4, 2014

CPS acts Responsibly

Chicago Public Schools CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett made a couple of important and positive moves with respect to the rating of schools. Gone, thankfully, is the term 'probation' or 'probationary.' That is such a loaded term, in many respects, and its use certainly tainted the kids, teachers and the entire school community.

Also, many schools, last year, underwent significant changes as many schools were closed and others became welcoming schools with significantly different student populations. Some of these welcoming schools, under the old ranking system, would have had a lower rating due to the fact that test scores took a nosedive. But, to her credit, Byrd-Bennett realized that giving 'welcoming' schools a lower ranking, due to lower standardized test scores, would not be wise in light of the significant demographic shift.

To many these may not be big changes but to those children, families, staff and others, these changes reflect a sensitivity that are deserved by the various stakeholders.

Thank you CEO Byrd-Bennett for your understanding!

Dick

Wednesday, December 3, 2014

We can and must Change

I certainly don't have all the answers when it comes to poverty, areas of crime, unemployment, justice, and blight. These conditions affect many areas of America not just inner city regions. Yes, we hear the call of the inner cities but that is just a part of a larger issue.

I believe we have neglected to address the ills of our fellow Americans on a societal basis. I do believe we are all responsible for our own condition but when people are exposed to and suffer from various ills such as those above why wouldn't we in good conscience want to help as many of us do?

The fact of the matter is this...our SNAP programs, charitable foundations and numerous other agencies do blunt the effects of poverty, unemployment, a lack of nutritious food and more. The real issue isn't the good work of these groups; rather, whether our system of government and the organization of our society is set up in a way that makes it difficult for many to get out from under various hardships.

From my vantage point, things can be altered that would allow our fellow Americans to flourish.

Dick

Tuesday, December 2, 2014

Giving Back

Today is a global day of Giving Back. The smiles on the faces of the Harvey District #152 Superintendent and Asst. Superintendent are evidence of the good that takes place when we 'give back!' Please consider making a donation to Schools Count Corp., or another organization doing 'good' on this special day.

Many thanks,
Dick

Monday, December 1, 2014

Yes, 'Park' the PARCC test

Lauren Fitzpatrick, the Education Reporter for the Chicago Sun-Times, took the third grade PARCC test recently. As you will likely recall, the PARCC is offered at various grades levels and tests in the areas of English/Language Arts and Math. This year is the first year that the state exam will be rolled out in Illinois schools.

Ms. Fitzpatrick took the 3rd grade sample test. But to read her reflection, printed in today's edition of the Sun-Times, one would want to hold their breath if ones children were to take the exam. Why you ask? Well, for starters, when Ms. Fitzpatrick did some typing the information didn't show up in the box. In other instances Ms. Fitzpatrick kept "slipping the drag-and-drop box and wasted valuable time scrolling up and down that third long passage."

There were other issues and concerns with the 3rd grade test. I won't get into all of them as you have the idea.

What is most disconcerting is the scenario, as Lauren put it, of how she (as she recalled how she might react if she put herself when a third grader) or any third grade child would react to the problems described above. There's a great chance for confusion and frustration to set in. That should tell you all you need to know about this test being ready to be rolled out.

From my standpoint, 'park' the PARCC test!

Dick

Wednesday, November 26, 2014

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a wonderful holiday. People slow down a bit, families unite, and most of our fellow citizens do reflect upon the bounty that is theirs. It is also a time when the holiday season kicks off and people rush off to do some 'Black Friday' shopping or park in front of the television to take in some football.

Thanksgiving is also a time to see to it that others are given support, some needed food, or a helping hand. We fill Salvation Army kettles, participate in a walk for hunger, prepare meals for the homeless or perform some other act of kindness.

There is room for both caring for our own and others in society. Being able to serve ourselves and others is something that I will always be thankful for. For those who aid our charity, and in turn those we serve, please accept my heartfelt thanks.

Dick

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Keeping Kids Warm

Despite a flat tire in front of John Hay Elementary School, we were able to get over 30 coats to both John Hay and Pickard Elementary Schools yesterday. The staff was delighted to get the warm coats and other winter wear. You'd might be surprised to learn that attendance soars when kids are bundled up for the harsh winter. We are still collecting so that we can deliver to CPS, Harvey, Posen and Robbins schools in the days ahead.

Thanks to one and all!!
Dick

Monday, November 24, 2014

Common Sense from a Teacher

Saturday's Chicago Sun Times, as always, carried a 'Viewpoint' piece written by Hen Kennedy who is a middle school teacher at Carl Von Linne Elementary School. Ms. Kennedy's letter is not some off the wall piece harping on the senselessness of standardized testing. Rather, it is a thoughtful piece about the impact of standardized testing on learning.

Ms. Kennedy laid out what has taken place in her Social Studies classes this fall and the ramifications that 16 days of upcoming testing will have on her curriculum. As Ms. Kennedy puts it, "the amount of testing is limiting my students' opportunities to learn." It isn't just a matter of missing over three weeks of school, it is a matter of disrupting the flow of teaching/learning, losing ones classroom to testing, and other logistic headaches.

Ms. Kennedy isn't opposed to standardized testing so that point ought to be clear. What is at stake is the loss of significant opportunities to learn. Said Ms. Kennedy, "they (the students) cannot afford to lose access to the types of learning they find exciting, engaging and meaningful."

Anyone who argues with that last statement just doesn't get it.

Friday, November 21, 2014

Quite an Honor, Quite a Young Man

Evan Floersch a senior on the Hinsdale Central High School Varsity soccer team has enjoyed an amazing run for the past few weeks and months. It all culminated in a terrific honor at last nights Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Assn. All State Banquet.

Evan was not only an All State Selection but he was honored as the 'Player of the Year' in Illinois. Yes, THE Player of the Year! He was also the anchor of the Red Devil defense that captured the Illinois 3A Championship two weeks ago.

Beside these soccer feats, Evan was part of the group of HC players who raised $6,010 for Schools Count Corp in late summer/early fall. Like I said, quite a young man!!!

Thanks Evan!
Coach Flesher

Thursday, November 20, 2014

Two Stories in One

Today's Chicago Sun Times ran a story entitled, "Report: State Struggling to teach poor kids." There are certainly plenty of reasons why children from impoverished families and portions of the state have a tough time in terms of learning. This blog and other researchers have commented on this at length.

One of the disheartening aspects of the report centers on the extent of poverty in Illinois. Sadly, more than half of ALL students in Illinois are classified as low income. At the same time, state funding for education has been dwindling. To say the least, these are not good trend.

The great story in the article got buried in the final two paragraphs of the article. CPS, where some 80% of the students are low income, saw gains in math and reading that far outpaced those of students state-wide. Yep, that little piece of information got buried. Oh well...

To the kids and staff in those CPS schools, well done my friends, well done!!!

Dick

Wednesday, November 19, 2014

Thankfulness

It occurs to me that the idea of being thankful is not a one-sided endeavor or act of kindness. Certainly, you, our many donors and volunteers have stepped forward to voice your concern for others in so very many ways; labor, cash donations, product contributions and so much more. For that, I am eternally appreciative.

What I would like to convey to each of you is this simple message. Wherever we deliver winter coats and accessories, band instruments, school uniforms, after-school resources, or student supplies, the outpouring of genuine thankfulness is simply heartwarming. I constantly receive notes of thanks, letters of appreciation or emails that express gratitude for your acts of caring and concern.

I can relate to you that no one takes your work for granted particularly those who are the recipients of your generosity.

Dick

Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Makes Sense to Me

I know very little about the new Archbishop of Chicago, Blase Cupich, other than what I have read in the newspapers over the past month or so. But what I heard Cupich say in a Monday evening homily gave me pause as I reflect on the work of our charity.

My reflections on the Cupich homily comments don't have anything to do with religion. Out of his many insights, I found this one particularly poignant..."So many are left unconnected because of poverty spread across generations, racism or not having mentors to guide and inspire them." He continued, "Our aim should be to make sure everyone has a place at the table of life."

My sentiments exactly and they fit with the work of Schools Count.

Dick

Monday, November 17, 2014

The Power of Individuals

Ingrid and George, Mom and son, participated in collecting warm winter wear for the students we serve in Chicago and the south suburbs. This was a Community Project George was involved in and he got his Mom to lend him a hand. Together, this Mokena Family, collected four good sized bags of dozens of pairs of gloves, mittens, scarves and hats along with a number of coats.

Yes, one and two kind hearted and thoughtful individuals do make a significant difference. The significance lies in the fact that a number of children will be properly clothed this winter. Some warm hands and dry feet will surely put a smile on the faces of the kids and their parents.

Thank you Ingrid and George!!!

Friday, November 14, 2014

Before you build another school...

CPS is spending a good deal of money to open new schools. I have talked at some length about closing dozens and dozens of neighborhood schools while watching other ones being built. There is another issue which should be addressed in terms of the budget and spending more money on new schools and it deals with the health of children.

Did you know that a good number of CPS schools have a nurse in the building one day a week? That's right, one day a week!!! So what about the other 80% of the week? It's left to others on staff to attend to the sick children.

Let's be clear, there are many, many important aspects to running a school but there aren't many things more important than the welfare of the children. In short, that means a nurse HAS to be in every building five days a week. Put another way, would you want your children to attend ANY school if there was a nurse available just one day a week?

The kids deserve better!

Dick

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Brrr!!!

It's 27 degrees outside this morning and spitting a few flurries. We have sorted and delivered 80 coats along with many mittens, scarves and hats to Greater Rock Missionary Baptist Church, Hughes Elementary, Johnson Elementary and Pilsen Elementary. I can tell you that there were plenty of smiles when the bags of warm clothing were unpacked. It made the cold a little more bearable.

Thanks to our volunteers and donors. We will continue to collect for the next three to four weeks in order to help the children in CPS as well as the south suburban schools. Many are still in great need.

Many thanks,
Dick

Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Kids Can't be Cast Aside

No matter your background, level of schooling and the degree to which you think parents are responsible for their children (and they are responsible for sure), the fact remains that too many 5 year olds, 7 years olds, and 12 year olds find themselves with great needs.

Kids are left without the proper foods, don't have a decent school uniform, are lacking warm winter clothing, often don't have the proper school resources and more. Worse yet, these children might very well be homeless. The result...well, you can figure it out. Children living in such dire circumstances are likely to be despondent, without hope and left in the lurch. What will happen to these kids?

As the weather turns colder and the holidays are upon us, our charity recognizes that this is a situation that has to change. We are all the better when we see to it that our fellow citizens, in this case school children, have their needs met while lifting their spirits.

People DO lift up others and our volunteers and donors will do just that.

Dick

Tuesday, November 11, 2014

A Letter of Thanks!

Below is a letter I received yesterday from a teacher at Palmer Elementary School in Chicago.    We recently donated a good deal of money to help her purchase iPad's for the children.    It is indeed a great testimonial for all the good provided by our donors and volunteers

I can't fully express my joy, excitement, and thanks for your donation to my project. It is great to see that you share my vision for reaching children. We often find ourselves not knowing what technology really has to offer because there are so many different types.

The tools that you have funded will enable students to learn just that. My students are so thrilled to finally have an iPad center where they will be able to work in small groups. They will be able to learn how to use iPads as well as laptops thanks to your support and generosity!

With gratitude,
Ms. Hermann

Monday, November 10, 2014

Putting Up a Fight

The Spring of 2015 should prove to be an interesting time when CPS has to administer the new PARCC test. This test, aligned with Common Core state standards, is to given in place of the old ISAT test.

The Illinois State Board of Education has already warned parents against opting out of the PARCC. State Superintendent Christopher Koch recently wrote to the district administrators stating that 'opting out' of PARCC is not option. This stance is based on the federal law which states that there is prohibition for children to opt out of taking the test.

A number of PARCC people opposed to the test state that requiring the test to be given isn't the same as requiring children to take it. In a show of common cause, both the alliance, Raise Your Hand Illinois, and CPS CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett want to stave off the full impact of PARCC implementation for at least another year.

Whether this joint effort will allow CPS some breathing room on the PARCC test is yet to be seen.

From my vantage point, this merry go round, regarding the constant standardized testing and ever changing forms of testing, is but a reminder of some of its negative consequences.

Friday, November 7, 2014

What's REALLY Changed?

What has really changed in education in the past 30, 40, 50 years? No, this is not meant to be a rhetorical question. Put another way, are teachers less well trained and less effective than many years ago? Are students really getting less of an education than in the past? Are unions performing any differently than years past?

The answer to all of the above questions is a resounding NO!!!

What HAS changed are many things. We ask teachers to do much more in teaching the whole child. Schools are asked to deal with all of the issues which affect a child's education and life. More standardized tests exist. There are enhanced expectations of the American education system. Governments, at all levels, are more a of driving force for change than the education experts.
The social, behavioral and economic concerns of the population are thrust upon schools and educators. The family structure, in some areas, has seen changes, sadly, which have great implications for learning.

I am convinced that these changes have altered our view of the education landscape and that what teachers and schools do each day has not changed for the worse but; in fact, has shown dramatic improvement.

Dick

Thursday, November 6, 2014

NYC Community Schools

Perhaps NYC Dept Mayor said it best a couple of days ago when he made these remarks about the Renewal Schools initiative. “There is no magic bullet,” Mr. Buery said. “No one is saying Community Schools by itself are going to fundamentally change the work, but what I would say — and is critical — is that Community Schools are a necessary part of that work, as well as a deeper strategy to improve teaching in the building.”

So both the Mayor and Deputy Mayor get it. They realize that the 'Community Schools' approach, in and of itself, is no panacea for what ails students, families and communities which are struggling.

What I like about this two-year program that will pump $150 million into 94 of the most troubled schools - and by association the students and teachers - is the fact that it goes beyond resourcing the children and staff in the classroom. Two of the most crucial components of the program address needs outside of the school walls. Many students with mental health issues will get the assistance they desperately need. Beyond this component, the program will provide food to the children when it is determined that they are able to get those meals at home.

As Buery said, there is no 'magic bullet' but it is an initiative that deserves time and support. The last thing the community needs is to shutter the neighborhood school doors and to walk away from the problems.

Dick

Wednesday, November 5, 2014

Kudo's to Mayor de Blasio

New York City, like too many other urban areas, has a number of students who are struggling. Plenty of administrators have applied all sorts of remedies to make changes. Mayor Bill de Blasio has announced some significant changes for 94 of the city's most troubled schools. The program is called Renewal Schools and it has some specific ideas that should provide added assistance to those with the greatest needs.

Students will receive an extra hour of instructional time each day, teachers will receive additional professional training, a number of the schools will be in line to pick up extra resources and the schools will have the ability to have summer school.

While these changes, on their own, will not change things overnight, they are a welcome idea. Instead of shutting down so called 'failing schools,' de Blasio is willing to see to it that neighborhood schools remain and that they are strengthened. From my standpoint, the idea of trying to keep a community vibrant and to help it recover/stay sustainable is partially dependent upon strong schools. As I see it, this is a step in the right direction.

Dick

Tuesday, November 4, 2014

Tests Come and Go!

There are some things that remain constant in public education. The classroom, notwithstanding some internet courses, will continue to be populated by teachers. Students endure and they will be in our hallways for many years to come. And, for the most part, young 5 year olds, 7 year olds and teenagers come into the classroom with much the same background as those who attended schools in years past.

Yes, we'll probably even keep right on having standardized testing. We'll certainly continue to see teachers using various assessment tools in their classrooms.

But back to standardized testing for a moment. What I have noticed in a merry go round of sorts in Illinois with standardized testing. It is constantly changing. We have Prairie States, ISAT's, PARC's and more. They test students in a variety of areas; for intelligence, growth and more. Okay, these are important.

But my view of things is that they don't have much of a real bearing on significant learning and the probability that students will someday be successful. Put another way (took me awhile to say it), you really can't quantify everything about teaching and learning. It just isn't that simple. Therein lies part of the fallacy of almost any standardized test.

Dick

Monday, November 3, 2014

Cash Strapped?

It seems that all we hear out of CPS is that they are cash strapped and that cuts (all types including school closings) are necessary. I won't argue that CPS is short on funds but the fact that they can pay consultants far more in wages than they pay the CEO of the school system, and the Mayor for that matter, seems out of line.

I'm not an expert on what consultants ought to be paid but the optics on this are alarming.

Not only do the consultants make more than top city officials, the fact remains that many schools don't have the resources needed. I know some schools don't have the programs they would like to have for the children. As alarming as this scenario is the fact that some school principals have told me they don't have enough toilet paper or proper nursing care on an everyday basis.

This isn't merely about paying consultants, it is about getting classroom priorities taken care of, the priorities that most matter.

Friday, October 31, 2014

Nothing New on ISAT's

Kudo's to the students at the various schools who scored well on the 2014 ISAT's. The schools always near the top of the list of high performing schools, year in and year out, are still right there. In Chicago these are the 'classical' and 'gifted' schools for the most part. In the suburbs, the schools are New Trier, Hinsdale Central, Stevenson and other north side suburban schools. It is what one would expect.

Yes, there were some CPS neighborhood schools who made some real progress on ISAT's this year. Well done!!

What you typically won't see, though, in terms of great gains on the standardized test are schools where 80% (and above) of the students come from low income families. I have discussed at length the many disadvantages facings students and families with high rates of poverty. In fact, poverty is just one of many variables working against these good people.

Before anyone shouts out that the parents are to blame or the schools are to blame, kindly take stock of the very real conditions that these students and families have to contend with on a daily basis and then you will understand why scores don't often go up. In fact, you'll reach the conclusion that it isn't all about the scores.

Dick

Thursday, October 30, 2014

The Power of Many

Yes, there is power with many. When it comes to collecting winter wear, there are plenty of ways to engage a big group to help with this cause. Please consider any of the following!

Why not ask your son or daughters classmates to help

Get your religious affiliation or civic organization to jump in

Check with your neighbors...they are bound to have something in those closets

I bet your co-workers could be of assistance

This is a terrific project for a boy scout or girl scout

A school club or sports team might find this a great bounding initiative


Thanks for your consideration,
Dick

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

It's Urgent

Yesterday's call to action was an important one...let's provide warm winter clothing to the kids who need it. But a one day call to arms is not nearly enough to get the job done. I'm certain some people will heed the call to come up with the gloves, boots, mittens, coats, and hats that will keep the students warm this winter but I want to encourage everyone to see themselves as part of the answer to help those in need.

Aside from personally buying the clothing I've suggested you purchase or finding some suitable clothing in the closet, why not go a bit further? Perhaps your place of work or religious or civic organization, that you are a member of, would be willing to collect the above listed items. Maybe you are a teacher and can ask a club to pitch in and help.

I do know that the students, parents and teachers are appreciative of the generous donations that you've made in the past. I also know that providing items of need beyond the supplies received at the start of the year makes a real difference. Sadly, poverty doesn't end when a child gets his/her school supplies, it continues to hurt in so many ways; be it nutritious food, clothing, medical care and more.

Please consider asking your friends, your house of worship, your place of employment to join with us in collecting winter wear. Caring is critical, taking action is the solution.

Many thanks,
Dick

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Need for Kids Winter Clothing

Cold, snow, ice, slush (an occasional warm day) and wind are all part of winter around Chicago. With the wintry weather not far away, it is time to help the students we work with in the Chicagoland area as the bad weather descends upon us! Aside from PK-8 grade winter coats, we are also collecting mittens, gloves, hats, boots and scarves for the children. These are the warm clothing items that the children are often missing and are just as necessary as a warm coat.

Keeping the children in warm winter wear has been a big part of the work of our charity over the past years and it continues to be a huge need according to school officials and parents. Many children wait for a bus or walk to school and nothing beats staying warm and dry as the students head to and from classes.

We will be collecting all of these items from Nov. 1st through Dec. 10th. As in the past, if you are kind enough to collect the clothing, I will be more than happy to stop by and pick them up. Give me a call at 630-863-6035 or email me at rich219@comcast.net and we can make arrangements. Sizes needed are children through adult medium.

As in the past, new clothing is always sought though we do accept very clean and 'gently used' items. Please accept my thanks for your consideration of helping us as we continue to support the kids.

Dick

Monday, October 27, 2014

No Way to Treat Them

I find it insulting whenever I see that various government bodies fund schools based on a given amount per student. It as if, according to their thinking, that this is a 'fair' way of dispensing money. That might be true if all the other variables were the same. That's certainly not the case.

An affluent area in a district, with little crime, high employment and other positive school/learning environmental factors shouldn't be penalized for being successful. On the other hand school children in less affluent areas where other factors mitigate against learning could use greater funding to compensate for the negative influences surrounding the learning situation.

It may sound 'fair' to dole out the same amount of money to every school based on a particular amount per student but fair is in the eyes of the beholder. Just what comprises 'fair' in one situation is not necessarily so in another instance. What I believe is 'fair' is to provide each school what the leaders of that school deem as necessary to properly educate their students. In that regard, the amount provided per student will surely differ from one school to another.

We went through an era of 'separate but equal' and we don't need to go there again!!

Dick

Friday, October 24, 2014

Well, What do you Know!!

Yesterday, CPS Board Member Andrea Zopp actually made an admission of sorts. Ms. Zopp essentially said it was hypocritical of CPS to close 50 schools in 2013 while opening new charters at the same time. In her own words, Zopp remarked, "We cannot continue to open new seats [charters] and then say 'Well we closed schools because we have too many seats.' It's highly hypocritical."

Zopp went further on charters. "But we need to be thoughtful and strategic about what schools are where, and also make sure they're performing charters. Many of our charters are not performing."

Many citizens are under the impression that just because a public school becomes a charter then all is well. That isn't the case. The name of a school system and how it is organized is not assurance of student success. Student growth and success has many, many variables and whether it is a charter or not has little to do with such achievement.

Let's hope other CPS personnel heed this warning.

Dick

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

Slipping Away

For the first time in some years, the population of the CPS schools has dipped below 400,000 students. To most, that isn't all that meaningful. After all, you teach whoever shows up at the door. I get that point. What is troubling is the fact that the slid has other implications for all of those involved in running and attending the schools.

For one, state and federal funding is affected by enrollment on the 20th day of classes. There is certainly bound to be less of these funds heading to CPS schools due to the decline in enrollment.

Just as troubling, at least to me, is the constant drip of students out of the CPS system into the myriad number of other school systems in the city. The reason I raise the issue is not to take a shot at these systems; rather, the more students who leave CPS the more the negativity surrounds those who remain within the hallways of CPS schools.

Critics of CPS will say that the options offered elsewhere better serve the students. Whether this is true or not may be tough to judge and never really comprehended by the masses.

For me, it is hard to watch the system lose students.

Dick

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

Public Schools

I was well on my way to get a cup of coffee and to add a second segment on the wonderful book I am reading entitled "How Children Succeed. Well, as I pondered the next couple of ideas I wanted to make in today's blog it suddenly occurred to me that I had a more pressing urge. That urge deals with the true meaning of public education.

There are selective schools, charters and other public school facilities that aren't really part of the normal neighborhood school. What really irks me is the fact that every darn school in this country ought to be 'selective' in the sense that it has an unbelievable faculty, great facilities (for the most part) and so very many rich programs.

Every public school in every corner of this country ought to have all the tools that selective schools have at their disposal. To ignore making every school 'selective' is to ignore the growth of children. Creating 'selectives' merely says that some students count and that other students count for less. That is the message whether people like it or not. Just a different form of discrimination!!

Dick

Monday, October 20, 2014

"How Children Succeed"

We have been going along full steam for the past couple of years being told that all educators had to do to ensure student success was to make sure that we did a great job at cognitive development. Of course that level of cognition can always be assessed/measured and that is one of the reasons for all the testing.

Some of the most recent studies have found that what matters most in terms of children succeeding is not getting young people stuffed early in life with numbers and reading. To be sure, this is not a rant about the need for cognitive development; rather, it is an examination of the forces that have a larger bearing on long term success in life.

Paul Tough has found that what really makes a difference in one life are the forces of grit, curiosity, persistence and the hidden power of character. His research, along with that of others, across many spectrum (social sciences, stress physiologists, economics and more) have found that the care and attention children receive in early life are the building blocks that shape the above qualities.

Tough has found that it doesn't matter if a child is reared in an economically impoverished home or that in a wealthy neighborhood. What matters is limiting the stress that anyone can confront and stress can be found in within any socio-economic area or locality. All of that being said, it is likely that children in locations of high crime, poverty, broken homes and the like face greater stress obstacles.

If we are truly looking at helping children succeed then we need to examine current practices and look at other meaningful ways of assisting children as we school them.

Dick

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

KICK keeps on Kicking In

Led by seniors; Tim Brankin, Austin Beard, Wes Begevin, Evan Floersch and Justin Yi, the Hinsdale Central Boys Soccer Team scored BIG in its KICK effort this fall. As a unit, along with their teammates at all levels, the HC teams raised $6,010.00 through various endeavors.

The KICK effort is providing the funds to Schools Count Corp. so that we can continue to aid students in both the Chicagoland area as well as in other locations. The $6,010.00 is the second highest amount ever raised during the six years of KICK's existence. To the five seniors, their teammates, HC soccer parents and local businesses, please accept my thanks for making it possible for students to have a better chance of realizing success in their studies.

Your contributions are most significant even beyond the supplies you provide to the children!!

Many thanks,
Dick

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Crop Walk Success

The CWS Hunger Crop Walk in Mt. Morris was a whopping success. Thanks to our generous donors the 'Flesher' team raised $1050.00. I have participated in this walk and this is the first time we have been able to raise over $1,000.00. No doubt, some families in the Polo, IL area will be better fed because of your generosity.

Thanks,
Dick

Friday, October 10, 2014

More on "A Nation at Risk"

True to form, the commissioned report entitled "A Nation at Risk" was a scathing attack on public education. To read portions of it, as I have done, one would think we were at war both with ourselves and the rest of the world. It is clear from the harsh tone and actual language that we had lost our way. It is mind blowing to understand just what motivated this lashing-out at education and teachers. Was it because of the actual classroom conditions, perceived failures, 'the times,' the ushering in of the Reagan era (remember he didn't even want a Dept. of Education) or was it, most likely, a combination of many forces.

Whatever precipitated the onslaught, the damage was, and still is, done. We have moved towards a time when any successes/failures in the classroom and education in total must be quantified. Standardized testing, accountability, time on task, more testing, longer school days, lengthier school year, merit pay tied to student test scores and more. It is a perpetual maze of meeting standards, measuring up if you will.

Of course almost all of the above doesn't come close to dealing with students; their level of interest in material, their level of motivation, how they see themselves in the world and other issues pertaining to their lives. Much of the quantification craze also has little to do with great teaching!

To get right down to it...Perhaps the report "A Nation at Risk" has done more harm than good!

Dick

Thursday, October 9, 2014

A Nation at Risk - Part II

If you read my recent blog concerning itself with the 1983 report, "A Nation at Risk," you will understand that this commissioned report has had much to do with events currently taking place in the classrooms of America. Be it standardized testing, the creation of charters or the accountability factor, it is clear that the report has had a profound influence on today's education.

Where to start. Well, first of all President Reagan refused to commission the report. His Secretary of Education, T.H. Bell set up the commission. In fact, President Reagan, as one of his goals, actually wanted to abolish the Department of Education. No wonder he didn't commission it!

It's general outcome was that America was "was not meeting the need for a competitive workforce." The thinking was that we were becoming less competitive because something must be wrong with primary, secondary and post secondary education.
I think this is an important point because it seems to assume that the goal of education is to prepare our citizens to be workers while seemingly ignoring the other crucial roles that education plays in the lives of its citizens. So, it appears that the mission of the report almost completely ignores other crucial roles that education has played throughout the course of America's history and which has helped to advance our society

The report came up with five content areas that need to be addressed. These include; content, standards & expectations, time, teaching, and leadership & fiscal support. In the coming days I will comment on these areas and do my best to demonstrate the relationship between these and what is currently taking place on the American education scene.

Dick

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

A Nation at Risk

That famous piece of bureaucracy encased in the report, "A Nation at Risk" certainly caused a stir in 1983 and it still, in my view, sadly remains a landmark that continues to bash public education as it set off the cry for accountability, national standards, testing and so very much more. As these particular features of American education still persist to this day it is worth noting that this report was driven during the Presidency of Ronald Reagan along with his Education Secretary William Bennett.

The report essentially said that many of America's teachers were not up to par. Of course, lots of blame was laid at the doorsteps of teacher associations...unions to many.

Though the movement spawned by this report was big on closing the gap between test scores of whites, blacks and others of color, it is worth noting that the report explicitly rejected many of the other civil rights oriented goals of the previous two decades. It's as if the report, and subsequent actions, were blind to many of the realities back then and even today. Yes, scores must improve but by not addressing those still harmed by the lack of civil and economic rights those actions were doomed to fail.

Perhaps the actions which followed in the aftermath of "A Nation at Risk," today's charters, mandated testing and the like did more to jeopardize or harm the nation than they solved. I believe it is worth thinking about!

Dick

Tuesday, October 7, 2014

True Reform

School reform, in my mind, is a misguided and poor term to use in discussing the state of public education. I believe what we all ought to be discussing or focused on education going forward. To say that we need to reform education smacks of 'something is terribly wrong.' It's not a matter that something is wrong; rather, that we need to make adjustments and modifications in or to move the enterprise forward.

The history of public education is laced with as many ups and downs as any institution has endured. That being said, the history of American education is one of proven success. It is critical to examine long term/larger picture in order to see that the American public education system has served this country well.

True 'reform' (if that term must be used) is one that has always been at the forefront of the discussion. This is nothing new. Nearly everyone has gone to school and/or college and that means people have a basis of knowledge because of that fact. It is understandable that everyone is going to weigh in on the state of education.

I believe that moving forward we would all be best served, not by shutting anyone out of the conversation, but by making sure that the over 3,000,000 teachers in this country are the ones who need to lead the dialogue. When we look to our teachers, professors and other professionals in the classrooms of America I believe we will find the ideas and solutions that will continue to serve the citizens of this country in the manner they deserve.

Dick

Monday, October 6, 2014

Another Myth Buster

One of the major complaints of the reformers is that too many bad teachers are protected by tenure and unions (actually most schools are part of associations not unions). Well, hold on friends, I have some news for you!! In a thoughtful and provocative recent release Dana Goldstein in "The Teacher Wars" debunks this harmful and misguided myth.

As Goldstein notes, the Bureau of Labor Statistics found that companies with over "1,000 employees lost only about 2% of their workforce from firings, resignations, and layoffs combined." By the way, this is recent research from 2012. Goldstein goes on to say that "In 2007, the last year for which national data is available, 2.1% of school teachers were fired for cause, a figure that includes tenured teachers.

The fact of the matter is this...teachers are more, not less, likely than many other workers to get fired.

Maybe some out there want more teachers to be fired but that is a different proposition than saying that teachers aren't let go because of poor performance. It would serve everyone well to get their facts straight.

Just another one of those myths circulating as truth but, in fact, it is just that...a myth and not truth!

Dick

Thursday, October 2, 2014

Another One Bites the Dust

The Spring of 2013 saw the closure of 50 neighborhood CPS schools. Word now comes that Hancock High, a neighborhood high school, will now become a selective enrollment school. As the Sun Times reported on Oct. 2nd, that means "the school will no longer guarantee any of its seats to neighborhood children."

Hancock will become the 11th selective enrollment high school in the city. One of the key things to understand, among many regarding the choice of Hancock, is the fact that students get into selective schools via a test. So when you get right down to it, this will not be a neighborhood school in any way, shape or form.

By the way, no public hearings were held prior to this announcement. How is that for engaging the public on such a plan? A community hearing will be held to gauge reaction to the proposal to make Hancock a selective school but you can be pretty darn sure nothing will change.

Just curious...has the current Hancock done something wrong? Can the current school's administration add the programs destined for Hancock as a selective school without gutting the current school's programs? I wonder if that was looked at...not likely!

Dick

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

No Cuts!!

Well, a bit of good news out of CPS late last week with regard to funding. The 10th day of school is always an important benchmark in terms of attendance as it relates to either an increase in funding or a decrease to the individual schools. Traditionally, if a school, on the 10th day of classes has fewer students than what was projected, that usually results in funding cuts to schools which have lower actual enrollment figures.

The CPS brass made a decision not to take back any of its money from schools that did come up short on enrollment. This is good news for the often cash strapped CPS-run schools. Sadly, many of these schools did see a reduction in student enrollment after 10 days of classes.

Thank goodness CPS didn't penalize the schools who suffered a shortfall of students. Any more cuts to these schools, some which face an array of problems, would further cripple learning and further inflame other issues and concerns within the various communities.


Dick

Monday, September 29, 2014

Amazing Work

73 soccer players from Hinsdale Central took part in yesterday's KICK (Kick it in for Chicago Kids) event held at the high school tennis courts. Thanks to seniors Austin Beard, Wes Bergevin, Tim Brankin, Evan Floersch, and Justin Yi for organizing such an amazing turnout on a bright, sun filled and great day. In total, the players, donors, parents and community raised thousands of dollars to support Schools Count Corp and the children we serve in the Chicagoland area.

Well done!!
Coach Flesher

Friday, September 26, 2014

Another Myth

Among the many myths perpetuated by the so called 'education reformers' is the notion that a Degree in Education 'isn't worth the paper it's written on.' That couldn't be further from the truth and it does a disservice to the students, teachers and the entire field of education.

A Degree in Education has much to do with studying how to 'reach' students, the means to motivate them and simply studying what makes them tick. Without an understanding of the psychology of young people and developing an awareness to various cues as to behavioral concerns/issues, a teacher is in deep trouble. Developing a keen appreciation and understanding of the social and academic needs of young people is best fostered by a strong background in education.

Beyond the above, an Education Degree is fundamental to good lesson preparation, understanding how schools/staff/departments function, developing a sound approach to conducting ones class, and properly assessing what has been taught.

The truth be known, there isn't enough room in today's blog to assert all of the merits of a Degree in Education.

A Degree in Education is worth much more than the paper it's written on!!

Dick

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

A Picture is Worth a Thousands Words!

John Hay Elementary School now has its very own band thanks to Schools Count Corp., our many donors, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Hinsdale Central Jazz Ensembles.

What a wonderful event...Music abounds in the hallways at Hay

Many thanks,
Dick

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

School Fair...Is it?

Parent Power is hosting a school fair. Okay, I suppose any group can hold a 'fair.' But let's look at the details. The group is hosting the fair for 7th and 8th grade students as they ready to go into high school next year and the year after. Parent Power is working in conjunction with CPS, the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Illinois Network of Charter Schools.

Parent Power was founded by Tom Hurvis who use to serve on the board of New Schools for Chicago. New Schools is a charter organization. Though he no longer serves on the board of New Schools and denies that Parent Power has a pro charter agenda, one has to wonder.

What I wonder is this...how did CPS and its CEO, Barbara Byrd-Bennett, decide that Parent Power would host this? Who took the initiative to ask Parent Power to host? From my vantage point CPS should be hosting the fair and paying for it. When it comes to public education then the agency, the board, should be in charge. This is the best way to insure a degree of 'fairness' prevails.

Dick

Monday, September 22, 2014

A Day Late and a Dollar Short

Sunday's Chicago Tribune carried an editorial piece called "A new Plan of Chicago: 12 ways to heal our city." Well, wouldn't you know it, the first 'way' to heal the city dealt with schools. Actually, I found the argument to have some merit but I mostly came away from reading about 'schools as tools' laughing. A lamentable laugh have you.

The editorial calls for the recently closed public schools to be revived as community centers. Here's why it's laughable. First, CPS didn't put the money into keeping these schools going in the first place. Just who does the Tribune see as putting in the massive funding to revive the buildings as community centers? That's just pie in the sky.

Laughable because the schools shouldn't have been closed in the first place. Many were functioning quite well at the time of closing. Had the buildings remained open then adding a community center within the schools would likely have been smoother and more likely to happen with the building already in use.

All the reasons for having a community center have merit. No argument here. Why on earth did the powers that be in City Hall and at CPS as well as within the school communities - not to mention the editorial board at the Trib - put forth the idea when the schools were humming with activity.

Your guess is as good as mine!!

Dick

Friday, September 19, 2014

Funding

The Illinois Senate passed SB 16 the other day though the House is yet to act on it. In short, the bill will redirect money from some areas, typically ones in better shape financially, to areas where funding is a problem. Yes, that means some of the wealthier collar counties will get less funding than areas with greater poverty.

Understandably, some will lament the loss of state funding while others will heave a sigh of relief if the House passes the bill and Governor Quinn signs it.

From my perspective, there are far too many inner city children (not just Chicago) and numerous rural areas that surely need an infusion of funds. I realize that it is asking some to give up some dollars but I hope they see the larger picture and heed the call for help in these areas of need.

The point is this...if education is critical then it is critical for ALL children. This is a plea for those areas who will lose funding to realize the benefit gained by all of us in terms of reaching out to those with greater needs.

Dick

Thursday, September 18, 2014

All in a Day's Work

The next time you hear a citizen complain about teachers or education here are a few things to let them know.

Teachers plan and grade many hours each night and over weekends. The various majority of teachers are constantly being in-serviced or taking graduate courses so that they can stay current and, more importantly, make the classroom experience all the more richer. Summers off! Again, you would be stunned to see how teachers are planning, revising and writing curriculum during the summer.

The school day. It is often crazy. Attend to parent emails, respond to Administration requests, attend IEP meetings, and make classroom adjustments in curriculum as you have to respond to the 'special need's of certain students. What this latter point signifies is the fact that it is really two or three classes going on at one time in one room!!

Grading, planning, running activities or clubs (the community wants more kids involved), coaching and more takes time before, during and after school.

Oh, sorry, I forgot one important thing. The teachers have to teach their classes One other admission...this brief synopsis doesn't even come close to describing what is meant by "All in a Day's Work."

Dick

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Musical Chairs

If memory serves me somewhat correctly, musical chairs is something we played when we attended kindergarten, 1st grade or 2nd grade. I may be off but those sound about right. Yes, everyone scrambled for a chair (more like a mad crush) when the music ended.

A version, sadly, of musical chairs too often takes place in terms of moving principals around. They are here one day, gone the next. Here one year then they disappear. It's as if the music has ended and so has their worth and employment.

Just the other day, as reported in today's Chicago Sun Times, the Principal of Marshall High School was terminated. That's right. Some two weeks into the new school year and she is gone. If you are going to change leaders why do it part way through the year? Has she done something so egregious in the first two weeks of the semester to warrant removal? Hmmm...I doubt it.

This brings up a larger point. As our charity goes into many of the same schools year after year I too often see the above trend. I know of one school that has had three principals in each of the past three years. That is not an uncommon occurrence at a number of CPS schools. The last thing struggling students and schools need is a lack of stability.

I don't care how it is spun, constantly changing principals, asst. principals and other staff just isn't in the best interests of the students.

Dick

Monday, September 15, 2014

For Profit Companies in Schools? NO!

Privatize, privatize, privatize. Whether it's for-profit charters schools or outside firms coming into the schools, the result is often the same. Too frequently the outcome is lacking in quality or not getting the job done the right way

The Chicago Sun Times reported on Saturday that numerous CPS schools had "filthy conditions after janitorial services were privatized." The result, aside from dirty schools, means that principals are often dealing with this serious issue rather than the more critical dual task of assisting teachers and students in the classroom. As one principal of a South Side elementary school put it, "I have hardworking janitors, but they can't keep up, since several were cut."

There you have it. Going on the cheap. It works like this. Your goal is to 'save money.' First, you let some of the staff go (a bad idea since most are committed workers) since they are too expensive. Next you hire outsiders at a cheaper rate. Finally, you're likely see a decrease in job quality.

Cutting corners in public education is wrong.

By the way, the amount paid to the outside janitorial service was a cool $340 million!!! Not such a good return on their investment.

Dick

Thursday, September 11, 2014

Lots to Learning

There is much more to learning than one may think. The University of Chicago's Consortium on Chicago School Research made that point very clear in some research done through surveying 98 CPS high schools.

The report, thorough indeed, found that having a challenging and rigorous class and material was not enough to insure learning and advancement on standardized tests. When a class was both challenging and it was orderly then significant gains were made. To those of us who have taught, this doesn't come as a revelation. However, among many in the public this information is critical to understand from a standpoint of how we get students to learn and the daunting tasks faced by teachers.

By the way, a course rich in content doesn't insure success and orderliness. The skills that a teacher must possess to obtain and maintain order is no easy task. That's just a start if one can pull it off. Teachers then have to stimulate interest, keep students on task, determine who needs help and what type, make learning meaningful and much more. All of these qualities help lead to a classroom and students who 'keep it together.'

Dick

Wednesday, September 10, 2014

Say Yes to Neighborhood Schools

The so called 'school reform' movement pushes selective schools, school choice, charters, 'new and improved standardized testing,' and so much more. Along the way, not coincidentally, the traditional neighborhood public school is seen as being disposable.

For anyone who feels that way about neighborhood schools I have a few things to say about the matter. The very term 'neighborhood' is more than a namesake. It gets to the very essence of the meaning of a community. A neighborhood public school is one of the elements that binds people together. People living in a geographic area tend to have common interests and shared experiences.

Ask any child why they like their school and they will comment that it is where they have their best friends. True, one can find other friends in other locations but the very fact that someone across the street or down the block goes to the same school is most significant.

A school, like a grocery store or religious organization, binds people together. Close or shutter any of these and the ties that bind people together are severed. If not severed then they are certainly torn. Take a look at a vibrant community, maybe yours, and you'll see businesses in full operation, a public school(s), a library, a fire department, a post office, or other such body.

Close the neighborhood public school and you've hurt the kids and the very essence of that town, community or village. Neighborhood public schools are a must.

Dick





Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Music Aiding the Disadvantaged

Nina Kraus of Northwestern University has some great news surrounding the value of music related to learning for those children who come from disadvantaged areas. Ms. Kraus studied the impact of music education on children living in gang areas of Los Angeles and found that those who received free music instruction were all the better for it.

Ms. Kraus had a group of 44 young students, 18 who received two years of free music instruction while the other 26 received but one year. Her findings noted that the children were able to process the sound of syllables more rapidly than those who didn't receive the instruction. Her work also found that those with two years of instruction outpaced those with one year of music under their belts.

As Ms. Kraus noted, "this could lead to better learning and skills." That being the case, the more music instruction for these kids, all the better.

Our charity is pleased to be able to help build band programs and, given the Northwestern University study results, are all the more eager to help bring music education to those most in need of all that the world of music offers them.

Dick

Monday, September 8, 2014

Starving Schools

Over one year ago Tim Meegan, a nationally board certified teacher at Roosevelt H. S. in Chicago wrote an interesting piece that warrants our attention. The piece was posted online and was titled 'CPS starving its schools to justify privatization." It is hard to argue that this isn't exactly what is taking place.

Let me give you a couple of examples of how this is taking place as outlined by Meegan. CPS is spending millions of dollars to finance Teach for America and the principal academy used by the school district. While the funds were being spent on these initiatives, and other sorts of programs, many principals were taking big hits relative to the school budgets.

As Meegan said, "The formula for privatizing district is the same all over the country: Open charters operated by private organizations. Simultaneously defund neighborhood schools, declare them "failing," and then close them. Fire certified professional teachers and replace them with temporary unskilled Teach for America recruits."

Tomorrow I will get into where some of the outside financing comes from that supports the charter and non-neighborhood school movement.

Dick

Friday, September 5, 2014

Local Control Works

The history of education from the days of the earliest, rural, one-room school house until recent times (so called reform movement) has been one full of many successes. It was left to the locality and the educators within that locality to take care of the schools and the students. Was in perfect (nothing is), no, that's not the point or goal. Things worked well for the most part.

The infusion of non-educators, all-stakes testing, legislatures, and naysayers of public education have taken a toll on the system of public education and the students and teachers. This isn't conjecture this is based on eye-witness accounts of events and hearing from top professionals.

The list of transgressions against public education is so long that it boggles the mind. Let me put it this way. Leave the local public schools to those in the classroom and the residents served by the schools. Those outside of the local units need to quit telling them how to teach, what to teach, how to treat kids, why they should do this, and more. Enough is enough; well, actually its gone beyond this point.

Don't allow excellence and the good being done to be outdone by the perfect.

Dick

Thursday, September 4, 2014

We Do Make a Difference

Step by step, one day at a time, one school at a time. Our charity, with each of you pitching in, is making a significant difference in the lives of many children. Just yesterday we delivered 30 trumpets, clarinet, flutes, trombones and saxophones to John Hay Elementary School. Band lessons will commence next Monday. Mr. Williams, the Principal and Ms. Chicoine, the Music Teacher, are hoping to put on a Spring Concert. I will keep you posted on the details.

Last year we helped Pilsen Elementary by providing band instruments to the school. During the past school year Pilsen had a wonderfully successful after school band program. Due to the popularity of the program, music will now be a part of the every day curriculum for the coming year!!

Whether its school supplies, art resources, band instruments, winter clothing or athletic/recreation gear, your hard work, and that of the students and staff at our partner schools, is paying off in a big way. We certainly appreciate the funding of our various projects and want to keep you in the loop!

Dick

Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Yes, there are Challenges at CPS

Todays Chicago Sun Times Editorial entitled 'CPS Can Cheer, but Challenges Remain' is right on target. Yes, graduation rates are up as are ACT scores in addition to some other gains. Also, the rate of adding charter to the system has slowed considerably during the upcoming school year.

What is most troubling, at least to me, are two factors. Neighborhood schools took another hit on funding for the coming year. In addition to taking a massive drop in funding last year the traditional public schools will take another knock, losing an additional $67 million. This is at a time when individual principals at the various schools can barely find the funds to continue various programs, get substitute teachers and, yes, even find enough funding for simple things like supplies and toilet paper.

Related to the funding is a second issue. There are still simply too few professionals in the buildings to deal with the social and emotional woes that children bring to the classroom. Make no mistake about it, these are very critical concerns and have an enormous impact on the ability of students to learn let alone with simply trying to enable them to cope with the various issues and problems.

When one gets right down to it, unless these mental-health concerns are properly addressed then the advances will slow to a trickle.

Thanks,
Dick

Friday, August 29, 2014

Accountability vs. Responsibility

I'm not parsing words here. The so called reformers are loudly calling for 'teacher accountability.' Those of us who have taught and the many millions still in the profession want the public to realize that teachers want to follow through on their responsibilities.

The call for accountability goes like this, teachers are accountable for student achievement, better known as standardized test scores. Based on this premise (a false one) then teachers should be rated based on how students score and they should therefore be paid accordingly.

Anyone who has raised children, taught, or knows anything about child psychology understands that there are a myriad number of factors outside the classroom which have a significant impact on the extent to which a child learns. But the reformers, sadly, often fail to realize this reality.

Do teachers want to carry out their responsibilities? You bet!!! Teachers realize that they have to have a rich content background and must understand what makes students tick. Teachers have to be organized, demonstrate dedication and determination and they must see to it that they challenge and nurture young people. Great teachers stay up on their subject matter, offer thoughtful lessons and projects, and are motivated to bring out the best in their pupils.

Fulfilling these responsibilities is far more important than the accountability argument.

Dick

Thursday, August 28, 2014

A Dose of Reality

I was thrilled to see the actions of the Jackie Robinson West boys during the LL World Series and during the aftermath of the actual baseball. No doubt, many neighborhoods and suburban areas, in addition to the city, got on the bandwagon. Well they should!! It was and is a wonderful ride.

I know that many folks on the southside, in particular, were pleased to see some positive news presented about the team and, by association, the area. People in those difficult areas found some hope and something to be proud of.

There is a part of the story that we all need to come to grips with and that is the fact that this one event will not put an end to depravation, blight, unemployment, malnutrition, crime and joblessness. Unfortunately, such a wonderful and exciting event will not put an end to the crime. I wish this weren't so.

The Jackie Robinson players, coaches, parents and communities should rightly take great pride in these many baseball related successes. The successes are many but it is but one, an important one at that, stride towards a better day. However, it will take many such events, and ones outside of sports, to properly assist these communities going forward.

The JRW story should call on the better side of each of us to pitch in and help. We're all in it together.

Dick

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

It Will Make a Difference

At first glance one might wonder what on earth Mayor Rahm Emanuel's proposal to raise Chicago's minimum wage to $13 per hour by 2018 has to do with the work of our charity. It has much to do with what we provide to school children. The fact of the matter is that many parents have a difficult time coming up with the funds to provide for all of the necessities of their school age children.

At just over $7 per hour parents have to provide for food, clothing, insurance, shelter, medical needs and the like. By the time some of these urgent needs are taken care of, there are scant dollars left to provide for the supplies that the children need in the classroom.

So a big jump in the minimum wage will do wonders for those most in need of a helping hand. Most of the families we work with would prefer to purchase their own supplies, uniforms, band instruments and more if they had the means to do so. The people we assist are glad to have our support but they also want to provide for their own. So, here's hoping the $13 per hour is not just a 'pipe dream.'

Dick

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Makes Sense to Me

Some ten days ago Steve Chapman of the Chicago Tribune wrote a piece entitled "Ferguson and our stubborn racial divide." Yes, plenty of folks don't want to admit that such a divide exists. Still others in America deny its existence while some just go about life as if it doesn't affect them in any way, shape or form.

Steve essentially makes the point that there is a gulf between races in the United States. He goes on to talk about studies that detail the difference between whites and blacks when it comes to how they are treated by police, being taken advantage of in terms of the whole subprime mortgage fiasco and the existence of many social and economic ills.

What does this have to do with the work of our charity? Plenty!!

I have often described the conditions in many schools and neighborhoods where poverty, crime, few jobs and blight are commonplace. Mr. Chapman remarks, along these lines, "How are children raised in places where such conditions prevail supposed to learn responsible habits? How fair is it to blame children raised in poor lawless communities for turning our badly as adults? How would your kids do if they had been raised in those circumstances?"

Steve concludes his 'Commentary' piece with the following, "Black Americans still live in a different country, with different rules, different dangers and different rewards than those faced by others." It is precisely because of this condition that Schools Count Corp. endeavors to mitigate against to limit and eliminate such rules and dangers.

Dick

Monday, August 25, 2014

An Incredible Week

The week of August 11 - 15 was amazing for many reasons. Not only did we provide a massive quantity of assorted supplies to nearly 20,000 students at some forty schools but we did so with an energetic and hard-working group of volunteers.

So here is a 'shout out' of thanks to our many wonderful workers; Isabel Arce, Skip Begley, Kristin Bronke, Ed Bulak, Dylan Canavan, Erin Cassato, Megan Chu, Heather Fehrman and Family, Keith and Kristy Giltner and Family, Rosemary Grant, April Hardenbol, Anthony Hernandez, Lisa Hikes, Barb Ioli, Pam Kalafut, Corky and Julie King, Sibyl Krucoff and Mark, Nancy Krumpolz, Erik Kupczyk, Myles Laffey and his daughter, Gloria Lane, Don Mack, Donna Manning, Janelle Marconi, Angie McCormick, Earl McMahon, Terry Meyers, Jim Muldoon, Jim O'Brien, Dawn Oler, Maddie Oler, Barb Plantz, Joe Prieto, Kate Saunders and daughter, Ann Scott, Len Serwat, Michael Smith, Jeff Sheppard, Sarah Steinke, April Tatro and Mike Wiggins.

To each of you, please accept my heartfelt thanks for taking the time to help make our deliveries. If it you commitment and concern for others which makes these ventures so worthwhile. Not only have you brought needed supplies to the students and staff at the various schools, you have put smiles on the faces of one and all.

Many thanks,
Dick

Friday, August 22, 2014

Back in the Saddle

After nearly 100 days of working on the house, sorting school supplies, vacationing and delivering supplies to 40 area schools (CPS, Posen, Robbins, Harvery, and Nathan Hale) I'm ready to keep you up-to-date on all the good being done by our charity.

Besides delivering to the above mentioned schools, last Sunday, we delivered many supplies to Greater Rock Missionary Baptist Church in the North Lawndale neighborhood. On behalf of our Board of Directors, donors and volunteers, I had the opportunity to attend the festive 'Unity in the Community' gathering.

What a great event!!! Haircuts were provided, school supplies given out, clothes of all sizes were available and a wonderful meal was provided to the throng. Of course a church service highlighted the event. Lots of games were played by the children and the kids had a chance to have their faces painted!! This went on throughout the afternoon.

I was pleased to be acknowledged by the Pastor James and others for providing supplies to the children. To say the least, I was awestruck by the hospitality and warm welcome. Just one more reason why this is an honor to keep Schools Count Corp. moving forward!!

Dick

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Great News!!

I have great news for all of you who follow events with Schools Count!! We have been collecting mountains and mountains of supplies from many, many area schools. To those staff, students and groups who have donated to us...thank you so very much.

And now...I need your help!! These supplies need to be sorted as we will be delivering to some forty schools later in the summer. We will be sorting supplies this coming Saturday, June 21st from 9:00 am to noon at our home located at 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr. in Mokena, IL. You are bound to have fun, meet some great people and help a most worthwhile cause.

Please let me know if you can make it by emailing me at rich219@comcast.net.

Thanks so much!!
Dick

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Common Core Shortcomings

Take it from Adam Heenan a Social Studies teacher at Curie High School in Chicago who weighed in regarding the harm that Common Core standards will impose on his students. Adam teaches a course at Curie entitled Financial Literacy. Does anyone, of any age, think that having financial literacy skills is a critical one? The obvious answer is a resounding YES!

Adam has found that the units offered in the course make students aware of the decisions and factors that go into decision-making regarding all sorts of money issues and uses. As Adam says about his course, "Most of my lessons priortize what is relevant to the content and valuable to my students."

The sad truth of the matter is this, according to Mr. Heenan, with regard to the coming high stakes Common Core testing that is on the horizon for the coming school year. "I risk compromising my students' voices in the learning process, which sets students on a path toward disengagement in activities, then classes, and finally school in general."

That, in a nutshell, is exactly the point...we risk losing kids.

Dick

Tuesday, June 3, 2014

YOU Are Always the Solution

Whether it's helping children-in-need, supporting a cause to end a disease, participating in 5K, or assisting a charitable institution, citizens in this country always seem to be the guiding light.

I've heard many people say something like this regarding children and schools who are short on resources. "It's a shame." Still others lament the deplorable situation by saying "Something ought to be done about it."

This charity (ours, yours)is based on your energy, donations, time spent volunteering, and dedication to keep the flames of optimism burning. I appreciate the fact that many of you are joining us this Saturday to sort supplies for the students in the CPS system and southern suburbs. Because you are willing to take the time to sort, the kids will have many more of the materials they need to be successful.

Schools Count has always relied on you and I want each of you to know that I respect and honor your willingness to give of yourself to our various causes. As stated, YOU are the solution to many of the problems plaguing the tough conditions faced by children who had nothing to do with the dilemmas they face each day.

Thank you,
Dick

Monday, June 2, 2014

New Orleans Schools Now Charterized

The final public neighborhood schools, as we once knew them, in New Orleans will disappear when school starts in the fall. The RSD will now operate charter public schools going forward. This movement has been taking place since Hurricane Katrina came ashore in August 2005.

Like any other 'reform' movement, this one has plenty of critics and advocates. The full impact of this change will not be known for some time in terms of its wide array of effects.

To be clear some of the changes are already viewed as harmful. Yes, a good number of children will have to be bused and a good number of kids won't be walking to and attending school in their neighborhood. Given this dislocation, don't kids yourselves, it will make it that much harder on many parents.

This isn't about NOLA neighborhood schools failing. Our charity worked with many of the RSD public schools and many of them made terrific progress - by any number of measures - over a sustained period of time. So before anyone goes with the argument that "charters yield better results," it ought to be clear that the vast majority of neighborhood schools got the job done.

A sad day :(

Dick

Friday, May 30, 2014

Lockport Bonaza!

Not only did Sarah Steinke and Lockport East come through in a big way with student supplies, the photo indicates the twenty-plus boxes of student materials gathered by Sarah Smith at Lockport Central High School.

Together these two schools came through with over 600 spiral notebooks, 450 folders and 400 binders. Included are dozens of pens, markers, index cards and plenty of loose leaf paper. Quite a donation to say the least!!

Remember, we are sorting all of these supplies next Saturday, June 7th from 9:00 am to noon. Three hours will do the trick!! Meet like minded volunteers, have some fun and support a great cause. Just email me at rich219@comcast.net to let me know of your availability.

Many thanks,
Dick

Thursday, May 29, 2014

Lockport and Steinke

Today commences the first of nearly 40, yes 40, school supply pickups this spring. The start of this wonderful recycling effort was started by Lockport East Science Teacher Sarah Steinke. Sarah has long been an advocate of reusing various supplies and stepped to the fore when our charity started looking for public schools who could help us.

Sarah has long collected, sorted and boxed binders, pencils, binders and a whole host of other supplies that she, in turn, provides to our charity so that we can get them in the hands of kids who really need them.

Sarah's work involves other Lockport teachers as well as hundreds of students. It is fair to say that her efforts have provided us with many thousands of dollars of perfectly good supplies that students-in-need so desperately desire and can't go without.

Not only does Sarah spearhead this enormous initiative she has also donated funds to our charity, painted schools, loaded trucks and recently helped secure a grant from the Daughters of the American Revolution. This grant will go a long way towards buying band instruments for John Hay Elementary School in Chicago.

With Sarah and Lockport at our side, Schools Count Corp will continue to be able to support many thousands of students in the years to come. Well done Sarah.

Dick

Wednesday, May 28, 2014

Viewpoint

Here's my bucket list, in part, for neighborhood schools which have too few resources and a low tax base no matter where they are located in the United States.

- Provide them with the needed nurses and social workers every day of the week
- Make sure that the kids have full access to Music, Home Economics, Physical Education and Art
- See to it that the schools have clean washrooms and toilet paper (No, I'm not kidding)
- School districts should not be firing principals, asst. principals and teachers during the year
- If a school has a program then provide the resources
- Let teachers teach and forget the time spent on standardized testing
- Administrators, and the public at large, should ask for responsible teachers and put less emphasis on accountability
- Quit chastising unions

Just some thoughts about what I hope will be some positive changes in 2014-15.

Dick

Tuesday, May 27, 2014

As One Year Winds Down...

As this school year's end is fast appproaching, it has given me pause to think about the work of the students and schools we serve as well as the people out there, YOU, who make so much possible. When people are hit with a storm or poverty plenty of people step forward to help and that is a good thing.

But, the longer our volunteers and donors continue to engage in providing assistance to students in need it has become abundantly clear that a one-time stop gap measure is not the solution.

The harm caused by a hurricane or the devastation wrought by tornadoes or the despair caused by poverty doesn't end overnight or in a short period of time. The upcoming summer vacation will provide some respite to those who suffer from any number of perils but it doesn't eliminate the harm done or the cause of problems.

So, as this school year winds down (which is great) it leads me to think about helping kids get off to a good start in August. Yes, school is ending but I can't help but think about getting supplies ready for some eager children with those beaming smiles. The start of another school year will be here in a few months and I am excited about readying our donors and volunteers for the service we provide to many deserving students and teachers.

Dick

Girls Singing at IMN

Classes Singing at IMN

IMN School Opens

Driving into Port Au Prince

IMN School Welcome

Tour of IMN School

IMN School