CPS Update

Yesterday's CPS monthly Board of Education meeting had plenty of fireworks; people protesting outside headquarters in addition to lots of discussion taking place inside once the proceedings got underway. CEO Byrd-Bennett commented on her take that the closings made the district stronger. I'm sure some residents would dispute that remark.

Byrd-Bennett said that the 'Safe Passage' routes had no major violent incidents while workers were on duty and she noted that grade point averages had increased.

The meeting also saw parents of Ames Middle School protest the board's recommendation that the school be converted into a military school. A survey of verified voters indicated that 69% of those responding to a survey want to keep Ames as a community school and not turned into a military one.

Also, the board wants three more community schools made into 'turnarounds.' Remember, turnarounds fire everyone, from cafeteria workers to teachers to the building administration. If this plan goes through, as expected, this would mean that AUSL would have 32 turarounds in the city.

Make no mistake, plenty of people are none too pleased with the above actions.

Dick