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
Friday, December 19, 2014
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Kudos to the Fenwick Friars
Dick
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
Winter Wear
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
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
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
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
- 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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
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
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
