Enjoy the Holidays

I'll close out 2015 by saying that never before have we been able to help so very many children who are in need of assistance. This year has been astonishingly successful not only in terms of the number of students who received needed supplies but it has been a banner year in terms of the number of different ways we have been able to provide support.

We've helped to create three band programs, supplied hundreds of coats to kids so they can stay warm, put shoes and boots on the feet of many, brought Christmas gifts to those who would otherwise go without, and provided funds for special projects at various schools. All of this while we brought school supplies to nearly 20,000 children.

To those of you who donated money and to the many who collected/organized/donated/delivered all of the above, it warms my heart to know that you care. Please accept my thanks.

I will take a two week hiatus from blogging but want to extend to each of you my sincere best wishes for a peaceful and enjoyable holiday. May you find great happiness in being with family and friends. Wishing you all the very best in the coming year.

Sincerely,
Dick

Dim pre Holiday CPS News

The Chicago Public Schools Board of Education meeting yesterday was not exactly one loaded with holiday cheer. A number of actions took place that offered a look into what promises to be rather bleak spring. Here's a look at what took place at the meeting:

- Larry Hawkins Charter School is being shut down because "its academics are not up to par and it had not made enough progress."

- The board voted to borrow another $250 million, much of it needed to pay expenses to get through this school year.

- It was noted that the State of Illinois is late on providing $150 million in block grant money.

- The board is asking for another $120 million in long-term bonds for a new Dyett H.H. and for new roofs and boiler at other schools.

- Jesse Ruiz, the board Vice President, stepped down

Any way you examine it, the picture of CPS, on a number of fronts, is anything from bright as we head towards the holidays. As I've note before, unless every single party at the local and state level, sits down together to mutually understand all of the problems and concerns then no progress will be made. Finger pointing, accusations, and the like seem to prevail while problems go unresolved.

Dick

Essentials Final Thoughts

There's no arguing that the University of Chicago's Consortium work regarding the 5Essentials bears heeding. There's also little doubt that the schools that can meet three, four, or five of the Essentials will likely have more students success than those who can meet two or fewer of those standards.

The work of the Consortium raises concerns about the ability of schools, and their respective staffs, to make gains in these areas.

Just yesterday I was in one school where the principal was dealing with some of his students who are homeless. There are MANY schools where the homeless population is pronounced and the need to attend to these children will take considerable resources and energy to address. Quite simply, dealing with the homeless population is a greater and more urgent priority than working on the 5Essentials.

Where schools are finding that there are significant budget cuts and key personnel in the classroom being let go, there is an urgent need to address these shortages. Until these issues are dealt with, the various commitments that the 5 Essentials demand will have to be directed towards the manner in which the respective schools will have to deal with these draconian cuts.

My point simply is this...For some schools there are clearly more pressing issues and concerns than the 5 Essentials.

Dick

Another Essential Doesn't Make the Grade

Ambitious instruction. Of course instruction ought to be ambitious, it needs to be rigorous. No one is questioning this University of Chicago Consortium Essential. On this parents and educators of all stripes can agree. But, like the other U of C Essentials, answers need to be generated concerning what this looks like and will schools, and the public-at-large, step up and facilitate this critical aspect associated with student learning.

I believe one impediment to Ambitious Instruction is the rendering of teaching to a rote type of enterprise. I see more and more school districts embarking on a path of requiring teachers to become proficient in the use or one or two prescriptive teaching/instruction styles. Schools are requiring ALL teachers to perform in such a manner.

Doing something of this nature, in my view, can serve to diminish the unique gifts that are possessed by individual teachers. This uniqueness trait has always been at the very center of a strong instruction tradition in this country.

Dick

There's More to It

When the University of Chicago explains 'Supportive Environments' as "The school is safe and orderly. Teachers have high expectations for students. Students are supported by their teachers and peers," I believe they have missed a large part of what it really means to be 'supportive.' Of course you want teachers accomplishing these tasks but unless, and until, teachers and other personnel are themselves supported little will change.

Yes, having high expectations for students is what we should strive for. However, when schools slash budgets, cram children into classrooms, reduce supplies and resources in the classroom or don't provide the necessary items (I know music teachers who have NO band instruments) and take away resource teachers then reaching those goals diminishes significantly. There are other fundamental ways in which many teachers, particularly in urban areas, don't have the support they need.

Often this support ought to come in the type of leadership support that principals, assistant principals and department chairs can and should provide to staff and, in turn, the students. The support gained by assisting with lesson plans, classroom management and teaching techniques is a necessary part of this Essential referred to as 'Supportive Environments.'

I think the U of C Consortium has only partly identified the crucial points or aspect of Supportive Environments.

Dick

School Rankings are 'RANK!"

Todays Chicago newspapers are replete with PARCC test scores. How wonderful!! The manner of reporting on the scores, though factual, is done by indicating the 'Top 50' and the 'Bottom 50' in Math and English/Language Arts. For the most part, the top scores in each belong to the suburban schools and a few 'gifted' or 'classical' schools in Chicago. The 'bottom 50' are almost exclusively Chicago City Schools.

Whether its the PARCC, ISAT, Prairie State, ACT, SAT this constant ranking of schools and students is an endless exercise. It's an endless exercise in putting pressure on schools, staff and students. It is an exercise in placing standardized testing ahead of the important endeavor of classroom teaching and learning. It's also a means of government bodies telling the professionals what ought to be taking place in schools.

Whether people want to acknowledge it or not, this constant ranking also offers the sad psychological warfare of the 'have's' and 'have not's.' Come on, how would you feel if, as a CPS teacher/student/parent, your kids gave it their very best just to learn that someone or some agency outside of your school said you are at the bottom or ranked low or failed or weren't proficient?

I'm tired of this constant 'ranking' by outsiders. More harm than good comes from it.

Dick

Involved Families

It should come as no great revelation that families who are 'involved' with the learning of their children will likely make a difference in their students school success going forward. This has been true since the founding of this country. Supportive families make a difference.

There are a good number of parents and grandparents who support the idea of involvement but they aren't 'involved' in the learning of their children. Contrary to what many may think, it's not as if they don't care or don't want to be involved, they may simply not have the time if they are working two low paying jobs.

Not to excuse others who aren't involved but, these people feel people that, at the end of the line of education of their kids, there is no hope. They feel as though their children will come to the same fate as they are now living. As I said, I'm not excusing this belief nor do I subscribe to it but I acknowledge that I can understand why they feel this way.

Yes, as the University of Chicago research reveals, 'involved families' may a positive impact on a child's education. Coming to grips with the reality of why there are shortcomings among some is another more important element.

Dick

More on the 5Essentials

As if the teaching world and public at large didn't know, we need collaborative teachers according to the work of the University of Chicago Consortium in School Research. The platitude which states that "the staff is committed to the school, receives strong professional development, and works together to improve the school," is all fine and good.

I have often wondered to myself whether or not Principals, and other hiring personnel, REALLY look for this quality in a prospective staff member. My experience tells me that this is not a high priority. Of course, it ought to be.

Teachers know they need to collaborate...that's a given. What is not given are daily schedules and the necessary time to pull off the important work of collaboration. Here's what I mean. Let's say there are three Algebra I teachers. If the three of them never have the same planning period, tell me how they are suppose to collaborate? By the way, I don't want naysayers to tell me they can meet before or after school. Those time slots are already crammed with obligations.

This gets into the time element. Teachers have lesson preparation, teaching, grading, tons of emails, clubs, coaching, plenty to do with standardized testing, rankings and the like and more, there isn't, as the saying goes, "enough time in the day." And thoughtful collaboration takes significant time and commitment.

Real collaboration will take place only when those in charge make it a meaningful endeavor.

Dick

Essential - Effective Leadership

According to the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research, 'Effective Leadership' is defined as "The Principal works with teachers to implement a clear and strategic vision for school success." Well of course this is one component of effective leadership. It, however, doesn't even come close to the most meaningful forms of effective leadership needed by our teachers and students.

I reference teachers and students because principals need to be on the front lines with these people. Principals should be helping teachers with classroom management, providing insights on how to 'connect' with students, and offering ideas on effective lessons and lesson planning. These, and other functions, have long been staples of effective leadership in our schools and they are constantly needed by staff.

Students need to realize that the principal is someone who cares about them and their growth. Principals have long served as role models for staff and students and that must continue. Another critical component that the principal must play in the school is that he/she must be involved in the classroom and school activities. Principals must 'be there' for kids. The idea that the principal is in the cafeteria, classrooms and hallways may seem outdated to some but, I would suggest these are fundamental to safety as well as learning.

Look at any successful enterprise and there is much more at work than articulating "a clear and strategic vision." Effective Leadership is far more involved than such a concept/idea.

Dick

This Isn't Mundane Stuff

This week I will tackle the latest means of so called 'school reform' by examining the 5Essentials. Almost all Illinois schools administer this survey. The measurement was created by the University of Chicago Consortium on School Research. The bottom line, according to the U of C, is that schools "scoring strong on three or more of the 5Essentials were 10 times more likely to improve students learning gains in math and reading than schools weak on three or more of the Essentials."

This doesn't come as a surprise to me...far from it. One would expect such an outcome. I'm much more concerned with a couple of points relative to the Essentials. First of all, I believe the definitions/criteria on some of the 5Essentials misses crucial aspects of what ought to be measured. I'll get into this over the next couple of days. Finally, some schools are going to almost naturally grade low because of decades long neglect/built in handicaps. Again, I'll explore this in the days to come.

A final thought. Beyond rating schools on each of the 5Essentials, I'm much more concerned with finding ways to help individual schools combat such deficiencies. To merely say a school is lacking in a certain attribute offers little guidance in terms of growth/improvement. It's another issue to be dealt with going forward.

Dick

Not the Way it's Suppose to be

Prepare lessons, grade papers, meet students before/after school, attend in-service sessions, go to grad school, teach class, prod students, inspire others, keep kids on task and more. This is a big part of the life of a teacher. As I approach writing this morning's blog I am reminded of the harm wrought on innocent people.

Teachers and other school personnel now have to be on guard. No, it's not some of juvenile pushing and shoving that can happen in the hallways that teachers and hall monitors have to attend to. Nor is it the rather innocent barbs that are traded between kids. No, staff now have to be sure to conduct safety drills in the event of some heinous crime perpetuated on a group of people who just want to teach and learn. Teachers have to be ready to conduct 'lockdowns' in the event some horrible crime is committed in the school building.

It's enough to make me sick to my stomach.

Schools were and ought to be safe havens.

Dick

I'll Keep Today's Message Simple

When it comes to schools in America...
Say YES to books, teachers, computers and learning
Say NO to guns

The 5 Essentials - More of the Same

The Illinois State Board of Education has posted the results of the '5 Essentials' on its website. The five essentials are; effective leaders, collaborative teachers, involved families, supportive environments, and ambitious instruction. It goes without saying that schools that score high in these five areas are doing more for a child's education.

I tire of everything being ranked! Kids, schools, teachers and more. We, here in Illinois, have PARCC tests, other standardized exams, the ACT's and SAT's, the 5 Essentials and more. What's next the 10 most critical things a teacher is to say to each student each day? Don't laugh.

Education is sadly becoming standardized and homogenized to too large of an extent. It's as if we all have to be in the same place at the same time on the same day!!! Working with a variety of students isn't that neat and clean. It just doesn't work that way.

The rankings are a pecking order of sorts and it certainly doesn't take certain environmental and neighborhood factors into account. I am certain there are plenty of schools with 'low' ranking statistics that are doing their very best despite many obstacles. In fact, they may very well be putting forth more effort and progressing at a higher rate than schools ranked ahead of them.

I learned long ago that quantifying something isn't the end all or all that it's cracked up to be.

Dick

Giving Tuesday

It seems appropriate that today is Giving Tuesday since the weekend was consumed with a good deal shopping and yesterday being Cyber Monday. What better way to transition from spending during the holiday season to another type of spending. Giving Tuesday certainly falls within the realm of the holiday spirit.

Our charity lives the spirit and ideal of giving. Make no mistake about it, we look at our mission of giving as a way to help others improve their lives. It is merely the spoken words of giving/helping; rather, it's finding those students with the greatest needs and providing them with tangible products, supplies and resources to aid their work in school.

There is no time like the present to say I'm willing to help, I want to make a difference and I'm willing to GIVE! Please contact me if you want to be part of the Giving Spirit.

Thanks,
Dick

How Would Students Respond?

James Comer, founder of the Comer School Development Program, knows something about educating the 'whole child.' One of the critical components of Comer's belief of students processing focuses on the idea that every interaction that teachers, and others in the school setting, have with students matters and that these greatly influence how a child feels, acts, and responds.

I mention this point because the absence of positive interactions can have consequential results just as surely as the presence of them. As adults we interact hundreds of times each day with a large score of children in so very many ways. Likewise, each student has many interactions within the school day.,

All of this is not new for the vast majority of educators. Why do I mention this? I believe that placing a higher priority on one-to-one positive interactions is far more critical to a child's learning and growth than the overdone amount of standardized testing we are currently engaged in.

Here's a question for you. How do you suppose children would 'feel, act, and respond' to the onslaught of standardized testing? Put another way, do you suppose students would prefer a positive in-class teacher-student lesson (whatever that might entail) over a standardized test?

As teachers often say to students, "please pay attention!"

Dick

Signs of Hope and Despair

In the past two months I have been in the Syracuse, NY area, Minneapolis/St. Paul and Chicago (specifically Mokena since this where our home is located). Different regions of America but all with a sadly similar fate for low income people. What I have witnessed and read about over this period is the number of people (of course, including school aged children) who are relying on the goodwill of others in terms of food and other forms of aid.

Heck, I just noticed in today's Minneapolis Star Tribune where nearly half of the North Carolina state troopers are reporting a need for food stamps or other forms of help. Many of these state troopers are also having to take second jobs.

In many of the locales people of good conscience are helping out via food pantries, meals, food kitchens and the like. How very kind of such organizations to step up and help others.

In terms of Schools Count Corp., and our mission, these cases of people 'going without' have great implications in terms of how students perform in school. Certainly how children do in their classes is but one hurdle in their daily lives. But 'going without,' whatever that entails, is going to have a profound impact on the kids.

Yes, there is hope due to what charitable groups do on behalf of other but, at the same time, the growing number of people living in poverty and having too little to make it in life also reveals far too much despair.

But one thought to share with you on the subject. Far too many people talk about the minimum wage. Forget discussing a minimum wage, it is far more important and more critical to address the notion of people having a living wage. Until that happens we'll continue to see more people reaching out to others for assistance.

Dick

Thanksgiving

There is probably no better term to express one's sense of belonging/family, appreciation for what others have done for a greater cause and for being able to celebrate all that we are grateful for than the word Thanksgiving. It encapsulates how we live, evokes memories of a time long ago and it is a celebration of the now.

So whether it is a warm day in the South, a sunny but crisp day in Chicago or a rather dark and wintry mix somewhere in the Rockies, it is a day to be thankful for all of our many blessings.

Please accept my thanks for bestowing so many of your very own blessings towards the work of Schools Count and the many thousands of children we work with each year. Your kindness and generosity is something that I admire and am so very grateful for. May this holiday allow you the time to enjoy family and friends.

Happy Thanksgiving,
Dick

Not Even Close

When the two sides in the current CPS contract talks can't even agree on the name or meaning of the recent CTU 'practice strike vote' then it's likely that it's just a matter of time before a real strike vote occurs and that will be easy to understand. Whether one calls the CTU vote, approved by 97% of those who cast a ballot, a 'practice vote' or a 'push poll' according to CEO Forrest Claypool, is irrelevant.

What is relevant is the fact that the sides are far apart and the prospects for both sides working to find common ground, in light of all that is taking place here in Chicago and Springfield, are dim.

By the way, a Fact Finder is required by law so a strike is not on the immediate horizon. The Fact Finder process runs 100 days before any strike can occur. So don't look for a strike until March 2016 at the earliest. Sorry to say, but I think the probability of the financial woes being properly addressed are about as dismal as the prospects for reaching settlement on a teachers contract.

Dick

As the Holidays Approach

It always seems to be a festive time of year during this week of Thanksgiving. It is the time when our attention turns to family and spending time with loved ones and friends. The aroma of freshly baked pies, turkey, casseroles, sweet potatoes and more fills the home. As it should be!

Soon after Thanksgiving we will turn our attention to the next holiday in December. Much joy abounds!!

But as we enter this holiday period I can't help but think of too many people, school children included, who are going without; going without proper food, not having warm clothing or a warm home, without the support they need, and missing out on the good that the holidays have to offer.

All of this is a reminder of the good each of you do on behalf of these children-in-need. Thank you for assisting them in so very many ways.

Dick

That Feels Good!

The snow and cold of late fall and early winter seems likely to rear up for another season. We just delivered many coats and boots to deserving children in various schools within CPS, Nathan Hale and Harvey, IL schools. We are pleased to be able to do our part to help kids warm as they go to and from school,

Charters Shut Down

The Chicago Public School Board closed three low performing charter schools yesterday. A fourth charter may likely face the same fate when the CPS board gets together in December. The charter schools don't operate under the same rules as typical neighborhood schools. The neighborhood schools are regulated by a state-mandate process that is somewhat lengthy. Charters aren't under the purview of this process. CPS gets to determine the process of keeping charters open or closed.

It ought to be known that a couple of these schools have made progress and the CPS chief education officer acknowledged as much but she also said that "they failed to meet goals they laid out in remediation plans."

I believe it is also worth noting that these four charters - three closed - are mostly in poor neighborhoods. Here's the point...it doesn't matter if its a neighborhood school or a charter; the structure of a school doesn't guarantee success. Areas of poverty, crime, unemployment, low property values (low property tax income) and other concerns have a huge impact upon what takes place within the four walls of a school. Until all sides come to grips with this, the 'closing' trend will likely continue.

Dick

Progress, Not So Much

Yesterday Forrest Claypool, who is the CEO of the Chicago Public Schools, warned of dire cuts to school budgets and staffing without the assistance of the State of Illinois. This statement is similar to others made over the past couple of months. There is nothing new here.

What is new is that the Senate President, Mr. Cullerton, is pushing a measure that includes a two year freeze on local property taxes and while infusing $200 million into the pension relief for CPS. Here's the glitch; House Speaker Madigan, Governor Rauner and Chicago Teacher's Union Vice President Sharkey aren't in support of this proposal. So much for progress.

When on earth will these factions sit down at the same table, at the same time, and hash out these problems? I guess it is partly a rhetorical question as the answer seems to be that there is little chance of this taking place.

Dick

Give Me Education or Give Me Testing!

Yesterday I posed some critical questions to teachers, students, and parents regarding the idea that time spent on standardized testing as opposed to using the time for face-to-face. Whether you talk to students or teachers you will find that they are pretty much fed up with the overdose of standardized testing.

The answer is quite simple. Those most impacted by standardized testing want to teach and learn. They prefer to be in the classroom where real teaching and learning takes place.

There is a real or perceived disconnect between standardized testing and the benefits from such devices. Those most involved in the testing simply don't see the benefits of the tests. So the mantra of 'Give Me Education or Give Me Testing,' has a resounding answer...'Give Me Education.'

Dick

Just Ask Them

Given the enormous overload of standardized testing and the effort to use certain models of teaching to homogenize the efforts of teachers to instruct their students, some questions need to be posed to teachers and students regarding the effect(s) of these so called school reforms.

First, to teachers, "Would you rather see the time spent on standardized testing stay the way it is or would you prefer to use that time to teach?"

Second, also to teachers, "Do you feel standardized testing helps you teach and that it is a good measure of student learning in your class?"

Third, to teachers, "Do you feel that some of your instruction is used to prepare students for standardized testing and, if so, is that a good use of the time?"

Fourth, to students, "Would you rather take the standardized tests or would you prefer to use that time to be in the classroom?"

Fifth, to students, "Do you think standardized testing, and it results, help you to learn or play a significant role in motivating you going forward?"

Finally (though other questions need to be posed), to all groups in the public, "Do you feel as though there is too much time spent on standardized testing at the expense of classroom instruction?"

I'll talk about these tomorrow!

Dick

This is Urgent

Friends of Schools Count,

Below is a note I received from a Counselor at one of the elementary schools we work with in Chicago. I find it both sad and distressing that the children, their families and the school are facing these difficulties. Our charity WILL help them to the extent that we can. I omitted the name of the school and the counselor for obvious reasons (if you would like more info on the school please email me at rich219@comcast.net). They are hurting enough without seeing their names in print. If you would like to contribute towards these items simply send a check payable to Schools Count Corp., Dick Flesher, 20048 S. Kohlwood Dr., Mokena, IL. In the memo section please write the word 'holiday' so that the funds are exclusively used for the items below.

Many thanks,
Dick


We are completely tapped out for the holidays. Plus our STLS (Students in Temporary Living Situations) population has tripled this year. Here is a list of some items that we can use this year.
Christmas gifts for STLS families
Hygiene items
coats
hats, gloves, scarfs
Turkeys and non perishable Thanksgiving items
socks, underwear, boots
uniforms for our pre-k students Youth sizes small/medium
games
sport equipment
and any other items you can help us with.....

I hate to beg but we are hurting...

Enough Already

We entrust our teachers with the safety of the children of this country in addition to asking our nation's finest to educate our youth. This is as it should be. That being the case, it is time that local, state, and federal government bodies get out of the way of our nation's educational system.

Often the above government agencies create all sorts of accountability measurements and standards typically through all myriad number of standardized testing instruments. Let me be clear...every darn teachers who cares about kids realizes what it means to be held accountable. Their methods of being 'held accountable' are far more meaningful than those imposed from above.

Let local superintendents, principals, assistant principals, departments chairs, and teachers run their own affairs. It's time to restore both the integrity and system of educating our youth by putting it back in the hands of the professionals.

Dick

We Can and Must Do More

22,000,000 children live in poverty in America in 2015 and at least 15,000,000 kids often go hungry each day. Millions, yes millions, of our nation's youth are homeless. Who's to say how many are neglected, aren't afforded proper health care and aren't properly clothed.

I mention all of this because our charity works with many of these students. It is hard to fathom that the kids can perform well in school given these situations/conditions. I am not sure I would be able to do my best in school, or that I would even care about school, if I had to endure going without so many essentials.

What's important is this...the causes of the above conditions - no doubt - should be addressed; however, it is far more important to provide the assistance right now. Lives are at stake and we can't afford to wait any longer.

For the sake of everyone, let's keep on fighting for one another.

Dick

Listen to the Students

Late last week a number of CPS students descended upon the headquarters of the school system. The students know what is taking place and by taking place I mean that they understand real cuts have already been made to budgets and a reduction in the respective staffs has already taken place within the various buildings. The kids get it!!

When you get right down to it, the students have every right to protest the losses. Heck, they are the very ones who feel the impact of too few dollars, too few supplies and too few teachers.

Too often in this country a good number of people have admonished students for protesting. I say god love them for sticking up for their right to receive a decent education. In fact, that is exactly what we want people to do in terms of understanding their rights as well as to advocate for themselves. Expressing their First Amendment right in a responsible fashion is great to see. Also, having a desire to see the phrase 'with liberty and justice for all,' come to fruition is most noteworthy.

As I said, CPS, listen to the students.

Dick

Thanks for the Memories!

Last night's Hinsdale Central boys soccer banquet may well be the last one I ever attend. On the surface, one might say, "What on earth does this have to do with School Count Corp and assisting those children in need?" The answer is this...the night and the people involved have everything to do with our work.

This year the KICK initiative, headed by Mitch Collins, Bryan Loebig, Nick Silva and Jimmy Walker raised over $15,000!!! Never before has any endeavor, by any foundation raised such an impressive amount of funds so that our company can help others. It wasn't just that the KICK event raised that amount, they even involved soccer alumni!!!

My memories of my many decades of involvement with HC soccer as both a coach, timer and announcer are many. In total, as I write this brief blog, the many people who have been a part of this program have put a broad smile on my face. Your many acts of kindness, support and generosity are the likes of which I have never experienced.

I will ever be grateful!

Thanks for the memories,
Dick

Charters to Close

Thee fact that four south side charter schools are most likely to be closed in June of 2016 shouldn't come as a surprise. The four charters are languishing in terms of making academic progress. And that should come as no surprise since a good number of charter and non-charter public schools are having difficulties where the poverty rate is high among along with a whole host of other problems.

As noted in the past, the performance, generally speaking, of the charter schools compared with traditional neighborhood school is not all that different. Some charters do well, some don't, just as is the case with neighborhood schools.

The low academic performance of the four charters should not obscure the more important issues facing educators, families and students in the various types of buildings. Academic performance and progress are difficult to address where the environment presents serious problems well beyond the four walls of the building or the manner of organizing the school.

My issue is this...the four schools will close and the children will again go elsewhere but will the issues of low wages, unemployment, crime in the area, blight, and more be addressed? I have seen no evidence over the past years. What I would hope is that the CPS brass would look at the conditions that exacerbate the likelihood that growth is not taking place.

Merely shutting down any type of school, with little or no other attendant action, will do absolutely nothing.

Dick

All Sorts of Safety for Kids

I subscribe to the notion that there is a way to both make children and firearms safer. Look, it took us years to put seatbelts in vehicles to lessen the likelihood that there would be fewer deaths and injuries. Some people ranted and raved at the prospect of having to wear seatbelts and some cussed up a storm that it became law. In the final analysis we are all the better for adding this safety feature to cars.

Surely we can make sure that guns are safer. If the proposition is that guns and kids can be kept safer, as the starting point, why on earth wouldn't we want to take steps to ensure that both occur?

Let me go back to the car. You have to have a key to start the car (okay, I realize that many cars are keyless now). Is it possible that a person with a firearm would have to have a key to operate it? No key, no use of the gun. It is a random thought but, the point being, we need to sit down and take seriously any number of ways to improve gun safety and the safety of our citizens.

As I've intimated throughout the week, the fact that a 9 year old was gunned down ought to make all of us take seriously what the implications are for our friends, neighbors and families. Time to pull together.

Dick

It Doesn't have to be this Way

In 2013 the Centers for Disease Control pointed out that there were 33,636 deaths in this country due to the shooting of said firearm. That's roughly 90 deaths a day. There's no need to compare this number to those killed in transportation accidents or any other cause. The number is simply sad and most distressing.

Raising the primary question among all of our fellow citizens, is this acceptable or even remotely tolerable? I suspect most people think this is not something that can continue.

Whether it's suicide, accidental shootings, or other forms of firearm death, this simply can't continue without some action. Why would a civilized nation continue to tolerate this condition? We shouldn't. It doesn't matter the form of death; car accidents, firearms, disease or other forms of meeting ones fate, we can do something about it.

Yeah, I know this is a contentious issue but on one thing I am certain everyone can agree and that is on the issue of firearm safety. Ask any decent gun owner and they will tell you that safety is a major concern of theirs. So, that's where we all have to start...the issue of safety. Everyone should want to find a way to keep safe and to ensure the safe use of guns. There are lots of options about how to achieve this goal and the sooner we tackle this, all the better.

I, for one, am tired of seeing 9 year-olds gunned down in the middle of the afternoon. We all ought to be driven to action to see to it, as best as possible, that the chances of this happening again are limited through sensible gun safety action.

Thanks,
Dick

Kids Getting Killed

Late yesterday, around dusk, a 9 year-old boy was shot multiple times on the south side of Chicago. He lost his life. A 9 year old mind you. As I think about the children we serve in the city schools of Chicago and all the problems that they have to deal with, the proliferation of guns on the streets is but another stark reminder of too many mountains to climb. How is a 9 year-old to overcome this?

We lose too many young people to gun violence and everyone can certainly agree to that fact. And what we will, what will I, what will any of us decide - if anything - to do about it.

For our charity, we will continue to do our best to help the students in the classroom.

On another front, we have to add voices, reason and action to stem the flow of gun violence. Whatever the causes, wherever shooting deaths occur, and no matter our lot in life we have to be more proactive in seeing to it that a fourth or fifth grader doesn't meet their end to life at the end of a barrel.

No matter what our U.S. Constitution, along with the amendments, there IS a way to deal with the harm inflicted daily by guns. You see people created our charter, we are the ones who pass laws and regulations of all sorts, and the citizenry are those who can either stand by idly or come to our senses to make this a safer country, one worthy of young boys and girls living long past the age of nine.

Yes, as the saying goes, "We the People..." The people of this country can and must take action. I can think of fewer ways, at this moment, to think of creating "a more perfect union" than to address the issue of gun violence.

Thanks,
Dick

Schools Back in Session

Now that my surgery is over and I'm on the mend, it is time to get back to the business of children, schools, our charity and the plight of education. As they say in the elementary grades, "if you can play right you'll have to have a timeout!" Well, that's just what I needed as I recuperate. Doing much better!!

As October has quickly moved into November, the time is short on a State of Illinois budget. Why is this a big deal? The budget passed by the Chicago Public Schools Board of Education is banking on receiving hundreds of millions of dollars in order to make the budget work. Word has it that if the state doesn't 'pony up' then the CPS brass will make drastic teacher cuts, translate...thousands of positions, leading into the holidays.

I don't get the sense that much positive movement has taken place on this front and there is every likelihood that the wheels are already turning in terms of determining which staff members and how many of them will get pink slips. In fact, I'd be shocked if these draconian cuts don't occur.

A sad state of affairs for all concerned. That last word is really it, isn't it? Are the 'powers that be' really that concerned?

Dick

This Whole Thing Stinks

Today's likely guilty plea by ex-CEO of CPS, Barbara Byrd-Bennett, is nothing short of shameful, disappointing and harmful. Ms. Byrd-Bennett may well plead guilty today to a scheme of alleged kickbacks. I say alleged as there has been no court proceedings regarding the matter. Apparently, there are plenty of facts that point to the CEO potentially receiving potential monetary kickbacks for directing the services of her former employer(s) to do business with CPS.

I have no desire to get into the details about the case beyond what has been reported. Actually, even if I had more information I wouldn't go into more depth on the matter. Let the law take care of this.

No, the real loser in all of this is CPS as a whole. At a time when finances are in disarray, when schools have had to make personnel cuts in the middle of the year and a contract with CTU needs to be hammered out - among many other real issues - the schools, children and their families don't need anymore chaos and disarray.

It's hard for me to imagine working in this system. It certainly is not serving students, their families and school staffs in an appropriate manner. This whole fiasco is not certainly leading by example. What a travesty.

Dick

I Have an Idea

Yesterday Mayor Emanuel told the City Council that he wants an annual $45 million for construction projects. It seems that there were few specifics in terms which projects would be tackled first or whether there would be borrowing against the new pot of money so that construction can begin in earnest.

Let me say this. Forget using the entire $45 million for construction. Yes, repairs need to be made, crowding does exist in some buildings (remember the 50 schools closed a few years back? Not such a good idea was it?) and upkeep for structures has to take place. But, if the specifics aren't there then a problem exists.

I have an idea. I know two people who are teachers in the CPS system and they have been RIFed (let go) within the past 10 days. That's right, they have been dumped part way through the school year. This has nothing to do with their performance but dollars and enrollment. What a travesty for these individuals and the children they taught.

So, if the City Council and Mayor Emanuel are puzzled over how to use the $45 million, bring back these two staff members and the 500 that have been let go during the school year. That would be a 'constructive' use of the funds.

Dick

Everyone Matters

Whether one attends school in a remote part of the Great Plains or goes to classes in Harlem or any part of the country, one thing remains at the fore of public education...everyone matters!!! Ones station in life, ones struggles (or lack thereof), and ones aspirations should never be ignored.

Every single child who attends school must be given a rich, fulfilling and vibrant education.

If a child can't get their hands on a trumpet or paint brush, we have to find a way to provide these learning tools. Should students not have paper, pencils, books or folders then it is incumbent on all of us to find a way to get these supplies to the kids. If a youngster is hungry how on earth do we expect this student to learn? We can and must provide them with the proper nutritious food.

Put another way, friends, if YOUR son and/or daughter went without the items mentioned in the previous paragraph wouldn't you be grateful for your fellow citizens saying, "I'd be glad to help!!" Whether your family or that of another, "Everyone Matters." And that is exactly why our organization exists.

Thanks,
Dick

The Unsinkable School

The Chicago Sun Times 'Another View' recounts the remarkable 2 minute comment made by Laurie Viets, the mother of three children, who talked about one of her son's experiences at Beard Elementary School. Ms. Viets has three children who attend Beard. What she had to say at the CPS Board of Education meeting yesterday was powerful.

Ms. Beard chose to reference Beard Elementary in terms of comparing it to the 'unsinkable' Titanic. Laurie pointed out the greatness of Beard just as the Titanic was so powerful and majestic when it left England bound for the US. You know what happened on that voyage.

Ms. Viets said that Beard's loss of teachers, building staff and services is tantamount to hitting an iceberg. One is left wondering if Beard will meet the same fate as the Titanic. Clearly losing the services at Beard indicates that the school has hit an iceberg of sorts and the students are losing, her children are losing. When you get right down to it, lots of students are losing, we're all losing.

What will the CPS system do to rescue the kids from the cold water where their schools are slipping into the cold Atlantic?

Dick

A Bit of Followup

Lamenting the RIFed band instructor, as I did in yesterday's blog, is not nearly enough. Remember, this was not about the teacher's classroom performance which is exceptional. The 'riffing' was about dollars and too few students in the school. It is critical to know that the number of students in the band program wasn't down.

Parents of the band program need to go straight to the CPS Board of Education and the CEO with their concerns. The principal, by the way, isn't the culprit. If there are fewer students in the school, in total, the principal is TOLD to make cuts. The principal is at the mercy of CPS headquarters.

The 'slash and burn' that is going on in many inner public schools is astounding and more than a bit concerning. As I continue to watch the plight of big city schools I foresee a time when traditional neighborhood schools will largely become extinct. Oh, they may EXIST but, for all practical purposes they will be constrained by so many factors that the product they can and must deliver will be truly compromised.

What a shame!!

Dick

A Death Blow

A terrific band instructor is being RIFed part way through the school year. That's right!! Because of decreasing enrollment at this particular school this teacher is being let go after the band program and school year have commenced. This raises lots of questions and concerns but I will pose a personal one to each of you. Here it is...How would you like it if your son and/or daughter had their competent teacher cut?

Mind you, this is not a RIF situation because of poor performance in the classroom. No, according to the brass this is about lower enrollment. You see it is all about dollars.

Okay, how about some other big issues aside from dollars. Who will teach band to the children? Will band be held five days a week? If there is band practice/instruction, what will be the quality of the instruction? What will happen to the instruments if there is no band? What was looked at, if anything, in order to keep this competent teacher?

This is but another example of the erosion of 'electives' in public education and I, for one, am tired of it. By the way, FACS, Music, Tech Ed., Art, Business Ed., Shop, and others should not be considered electives. These are programs that are fundamental to our system of public education.

Just one more 'death blow.'

Dick

Thanks for All You Do!

Too often when charities collect funds for relief efforts after a storm or they collect money to aid a very critical cause, donors are left to wonder just who benefits. Contributors give generously but seldom see the true results of their goodness. In many cases this is understandable given the conditions in a particular area ravaged by a storm or the distance between locations. And, justifiably, we trust the charity to follow through on their commitments.

I have often thought that a charity can make a great connection when donors and volunteers of an organization can come together with those who are the recipients of the gifts. Schools Count endeavors to help make these connections.

On Wednesday, October 7th Schools Count will offer just such an opportunity as we will get to meet a number of personnel from schools who have received school supplies, uniforms, band instruments, winter coats and more. I am sure these people will want to say 'thank you' in their own way.

To be a part of this wonderful evening, including a free dinner, just shoot me an email to say you will attend. The 'Appreciation Dinner' will be held on the 7th at Hinsdale Central High School in the student cafeteria. We will meet at 6:00 pm and that will be followed by dinner at 6:30. Everyone, yes, everyone is welcome!!! Just send Dick Flesher, at rich219@comcast.net, the names of those attending.

I look forward to hearing from you and seeing you!!!

Thanks,
Dick

We Are Doing What's Right

I have just watched and witnessed the Pope addressing our Congress as well as viewing his going to St. Patricks to feed the homeless. I think everyone would be moved in some way, large or small, by his words and actions. No, this is not a short note about religion; rather, a simple message that connects to the mission of Schools Count Corp.

His words of expression about helping others or following the golden rule certainly resonate with our desire to continue to help the children in need. Quite simply, assisting others, lending a helping hand or recognizing the needs and aspirations of others is critical to not only improve education but the very quality of life we all wish to have.

Quite simply, we are privileged to be able to help others and by doing so we are 'Doing the Right Thing.'

Thank you,
Dick

5,000 Pink Slips

With the ever increasing CPS budget debt and cuts already put in place at the start of the school year, the district's teachers, students and their families are now looking at a looming crisis of exponential size.

The brass at CPS is hoping the nearly $500 million deficit will be eased by legislators in Springfield. Good luck on that one! As of this morning I have seen no movement whatsoever that would indicate that Springfield will be able to ease the pain.

Absent help from the state capital, CEO Claypool has broached the idea of cutting up to 5,000 teachers (1,000 for each $100 million) to get the district out of the red. Okay, even IF that saved the money it accomplishes something far more harmful.

Such a move would seriously imperil student learning...plain and simple not to mention causing plenty of pain for many folks. Talk about a travesty!!!

Dick

Generous Sponsors and Donors

A good number of people helped to make our Sunday KICK fundraiser so very successful. These photos give you some idea of the extent to which numerous companies and families stepped forward to say, "I will help the KICK initiative and Schools Count see to it that children are provided with the necessary resources to be successful in the classroom."

Amazing generosity and kindness put smiles on the faces of school children!

Dick

KICK Success

Mitch Collins, Jimmy Walker, Bryan Loebig and Nick Silva, along with their Mothers, truly made yesterday's KICK event an overwhelming achievement. It was a bright, sunny day with lots of fun; tennis-soccer matches, spike ball, pizza and other refreshments, music and so very much more!!

It was heartwarming to see the boys in the HC soccer program engage in this terrific endeavor which does so very much to help SCC as we work to get resources to thousands of deserving children in many regions of the Chicagoland area.

This initiative collects funds for our charity through various sources; the entrance fee to the tennis-soccer matches, proceeds from an auction, family and corporate sponsorships, material donations and so very much more. I can relate to you that the gross proceeds will exceed $10,000 this year. What an incredible amount, what an amazing way to help deserving students.

To each participant, to each sponsor please accept my heartfelt thanks!

With gratitude
Dick

CPS - An Elected School Board?

Peter Cunningham as the Executive Director of Education Post (a school reform organization) has written a 'Perspective' piece in today's Chicago Tribune arguing against an elected school board in Chicago. He has a number of thoughtful points and arguments to be sure, some that certainly merit our attention and consideration. One such point is the idea that appointed citizens to the board aren't involved in elections and are shielded from the messiness that is our politics.

However, even that point needs to be examined. Sure, the members don't have to run for office, raise money and, in turn, aren't beholden to groups who raised the funds and might expect something in return. Still, without being elected isn't it possible that board members will feel beholden to the mayor of Chicago? Politics are always in the equation.

Cunningham also says that "without control of schools, Chicago mayors could not argue to state lawmakers that funding will be well-spent." That argument suggests that elected board members won't have that ability to make such a case and I simply believe some well qualified and thoughtful board members can make those arguments to the folks in Springfield. Besides who says that an elected school board and mayor can't work in a cooperative fashion? They can.

Finally, the citizens who have a direct interest in public education are the ones who ought to pick school board members. We allow them to vote for the mayor, state and federal legislators and the President of the United States of America. If we entrust citizens with this responsibility we can and should allow them to select members to the CPS Board of Education.

Dick

So You Want some REAL Leadership

Real leadership in education, at any level, must exist for high quality education to exist in this country. So the question is, what does REAL leadership in education look like? Plenty of scholars, and non-educational personnel, have weighed in on this so I'll give it a shot.

There are a number of essential ingredients. Among them are some of the following...

A real leader must ask, yes ask, those in the trenches what their needs are. Real leaders don't tell those who are teaching what they need or how to get the job done. Of course, this very salient point begs the idea that people must work in concert with one another. Once those needs are expressed, real leaders work hand in hand with personnel to obtain whatever resources are needed.

Real leadership in education is based upon trust. A principal, asst. principal, dept. chair or division head leads by example on this issue. Trust is built up by follow-through, by seeking out the advice of others and by inspiring through example.

Boisterous, loud and in-your-face aren't part of real leadership in schools; rather, thoughtful, diligent and engaging personnel will provide the leadership teachers, students and families are craving in the 21st century.

Just some of my thoughts...

Dick

Come Together

Part of our mission at Schools Count Corp. is to bring people together so that they both understand, learn from and appreciate what each person and each group brings to the table in order to make our work both meaningful and impactful.

I can think of no more positive manner to make the above happen then celebrating our many accomplishments together. Sharing a meal, having a relaxing evening and meeting those who, like you, make a difference in the lives of young people is inspiring. I always leave these 'Appreciation Dinners' thankful and more energized than before.

Please join us on Wednesday, October 7th at 6:00 pm at Hinsdale Central High School for what will surely be a memorable occasion. Just send me your name(s), along with your email address, and I will be sure to reserve you a spot at the table!!!

Looking forward to seeing one and all!

Dick

It's My Honor

It is truly a privilege and honor to represent the work of Schools Count Corp as the President of this giving organization. I can tell you that the various schools, children and families touched by the efforts of all of our volunteers and donors are truly appreciated.

The partnership between the various groups working to assist children in the classroom is genuine. It is because of the many people who are so kind and giving that I want to invite you to attend our 'Appreciation Dinner' on Wednesday, October 7th at 6:00 pm in the Hinsdale Central High School student cafeteria.

Everyone is invited...donors, volunteers, family and friends. There is no catch!!! All are welcome!!
Simply email me with all the names of those who want to learn about Schools Count and those we work with in the area. That's it...email me at rich219@comcast.net.

Looking forward to seeing everyone!!

More on Poverty and Schools in Syracuse

Though Syracuse is but one of many mid sized cities in America, hard times have hit this venerable treasure in the Northeast on a larger scale than a good number of other urban areas. As I've noted over the past few days, poverty in Syracuse is growing at an alarming rate. The causes are many and I pointed out that the Carrier manufacturing plant closing in 2003 was one of but many reasons for the onset of tough economic times.

I don't think it's any coincidence that the 2009 closure of Syracuse China was but another blow to the city and the growing rate of poverty that the city is now facing.

When such notable firms such as Carrier and Syracuse China fold the effects are immediate. It's not just the loss of jobs at these companies, it's the loss of jobs that supply parts and supplies to these firms and it's the loss of community anchors. Everyone knows what takes place when the doors close; unemployment, idle buildings, idle hands, loss of property values, loss of population and the schools take a hit.

School age children are caught in this cycle of job loss and poverty. What a shame!!

Dick

Poverty, the Loss of Jobs and Schools

Yesterday's blog concerning news of the heightening level of poverty in Syracuse (as well as Rochester and Buffalo, NY) came as shocking and disheartening at once. The level of poverty in the area so near to where I grew up is staggering among African Americans and Hispanics. No doubt, I'm sure the level of poverty has grown among the White population of the city in various neighborhoods. That fact should not be ignored.

Looking for a reason for the worsening poverty rate in the 'Salt City?" There are many causes but there is little doubt that closing the Carrier air conditioning plant in October of 2003 was a real blow to the city. More importantly it left skilled workers with the prospects of finding lower paying jobs should they even be able to find one.

Whether it is losing a Kodak plant in Rochester, a Firestone plant in Decatur, IL or the Carrier plant in Syracuse, income levels will shrink. Unemployment is sure to take place and people will have less disposable income. All of this, and more, is a recipe for the spread of poverty. In turn, lower levels of disposable income will mean that families have less money to spend on such important concerns as education.

It is a vicious and sad cycle but it is the reality of what is taking place in far too many urban areas of America.

Who loses? It's not just the children in school who are harmed. Families lose out and the community at-large is hurt.

We are looking forward to helping some of the Syracuse school students in the fall of 2016. They deserver the assistance.

Thanks,
Dick

Trouble at Home

I grew up in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, a beautiful part of the country. Not far from where I went to high school, Skaneateles, is located Syracuse, home to a terrific university. Like other parts of America, Syracuse was an industrial hub up to the 1950's and '60s. That's all changed.

A new report out of Rutgers University paints a gloomy picture for the Black and Hispanic populations of Syracuse. In fact these population groups have the highest poverty rates in the nation's 100 largest metropolitan areas in the United States. Sadly, the trend is growing at an alarming rate as it is in the country as a whole.

There are 30 neighborhoods in Syracuse that are suffering from what is referred to as "extreme poverty." This condition is one in which at least 40% of the inhabitants is living in poverty.

The causes and implications are many and I will get into some of these in the coming days. As it relates to the work of Schools Count, there is little doubt that high poverty rates have devastating consequences in terms of having the necessary monies to properly fund schools.

Dick

Dyett Drags On

I must confess that I've only followed the events with Dyett High School on a limited basis. Dyett has had a declining enrollment for some time and CPS has had its hands full trying to quell the cry to make the school an open enrollment "green technology school." For the past nearly three weeks Dyett activists have held a hunger strike to make their point.

CPS had to do something. The pro-activist coalition has taken their position to Arne Duncan in DC, descended on Mayor Emanuels headquarters at City Hall, and have been vocal at Town Hall meetings this week.

Forrest Claypool, CEO of the public schools, yesterday, announced that Dyett will re-open as an open enrollment high school but it will be an "arts-focused neighborhood school." The brass at CPS feels that this arrangement will satisfy the demands of the Dyett coalition. That remains to be seen but at first glance the move does not seem to have quelled the demands of those on the hunger strike.

Nerves are frayed on the Dyett issue and much works remains to be done to fix the situation.

Dick

The Optics Aren't Good

Yesterday some 200 people gathered at Daley College to speak on behalf of building additional Noble Charter Schools, some spoke against the plan while still others talked about the need to make repairs to Kelly High School. That last point was made because Noble wants to build a charter in the vicinity of Kelly.

What should not be lost on anyone is the fact that the desire to build charters is ongoing as is the likelihood that the CPS administrative brass will go along with this scenario.

Proof of the above is the fact that five charter operators are seeking CPS Board of Education approval to open 13 new schools in September of 2016. That's right...13 new charters. By the way, CPS has recently stated that they are withdrawing all start-up money for the new charters.

To some, that may sound encouraging. Sadly, I believe the charters will tap into private funding and if that is the case, in my view, then you are seeing the very essence of public education being eroded at its core.

Sad indeed

Dick

Uniforms to Lavizzo Elementary

Some happy staff members at Lavizzo Elementary in Chicago receiving white polo uniforms for the students. All of this was made possible due to the donations and hard work of Lynn Kuessner and some of her friends. Many thanks! Dick

The Longer I Write...

Some schools have already opened their doors and welcomed students back for the start of another school year. Others will commence classes the day after Labor Day. Whenever things get going there is always plenty of excitement. To be fair, there is also a measure of trepidation and uncertainty.

Given the above, the longer I observe what takes place in the classroom, the more I'm convinced that frills and gadgets (however you define them) just don't cut it. Teachers who are bright, hard working, full of passion/energy and those who sincerely care about the students make the enterprise of teaching and learning come to full bloom.

Quite simply, the very best teachers, the real professionals are the ones who engender and they are the ones who have much to do with helping students thrive. It remains this way as it has for many generations.

Great teachers make the start of another school year come alive.

Dick

Time to Celebrate

Make sure to mark Wednesday, October 7 as a day to get together to celebrate what has been a spectacular year for Schools Count and for all the good done on behalf of thousands of children. Our Donor/Volunteer Appreciation Dinner will be held at Hinsdale Central High School in the student cafeteria. We'll get together for a 'Meet and Greet' at 6:00 pm with dinner to follow at 6:30.

You'll get to meet many volunteers and donors who share the passion to assist students and schools as they forge ahead in the coming year. A special part of the evening will be the introduction of principals from various recipient schools who can share their stories of success and gratefulness. It is always wonderful to hear from them.

Please feel to bring family members and friends to our dinner. To make your reservation to attend simply email me with the name(s) of those who will attend. Kindly email me at rich219@comcast.net with the information.

Many have come forward to donate in a variety of ways be it through the contribution of funds or volunteering your time and talents to the cause. Please know your desire to assist Schools Count and the children we serve is greatly appreciated and valued.

On behalf of our Board of Directors, I look forward to seeing you on the 7th!

Regards,
Dick

It's Not Going to Get any Easier

Fully funding public education is not going to get any easier as we go forward. Serving ALL students, those with disabilities and without, is costly. The age of computers, with all that technology has to offer, is in a word...expensive!!!

Pensions, salaries, insurance, athletics and more are also quite costly not to mention paying for the building and upkeep of structures.

We need not kid ourselves, the costs are great and real. This situation is not likely to abate. All that being said, an educated public is absolutely essential to a sound, free, robust, democratic, literate, and successful civil society.

Expensive, yes, but we have to find ways to ensure that the strength and fabric of public education is at the forefront of public debate and consciousness. Quite simply we can't afford not to maintain a strong public education system.

Dick

Sad State of Affairs

Yesterday the Chicago Public Schools Board of Education unanimously passed a $5.7 billion budget. That's right...a 7-0 vote. Don't let that fool you. Major cuts are hitting Special Education, the district is in debt and the budget passed is banking on $480 million from the state event though the General Assembly hasn't committed to taking this on.

As if to underscore the dilemma, Ginger Ostro, the CFO for the district, when on record saying "We know this is not the budget we want to be presenting to you, but it does reflect the reality of where we are." Ouch, that surely is an ominous warning to say the least. Mind you, this comes from the boards' very own CFO!

I really don't see this moving in a positive direction. I see more cuts coming, more children and their families (if they can afford it) fleeing to charters and private schools and an economic diaspora which leaves the most economically vulnerable behind in the years to come.

Urban education, not just in Chicago, is in for some tough years going forward. Sadly!

Dick

What Matters Most - Anywhere

Systems, organizations, and hierarchy. As if these are the panacea for what education, students and teachers most need to get and give their very best in the classroom. It doesn't matter if it's Chicago, New Orleans, LA or the small rural school in Mississippi, the overarching question about the aforementioned idea that how schools are organized will render the best education possible is simply ludicrous.

Having qualified teachers who are hard working, intelligent, resilient and are willing to engage students and to build a respectful relationship with them has far more to do with student success than whether a school or district is a 'select' or 'charter' school. Providing support and resources to teachers and students, alike, will go much further to reaching educational excellence than creating an 'efficient hierarchy.'

When was the last time a principal, asst. principal, school board member or any other person in charge of a school or department said - and really meant it when they asked - "what can I do to help you, what do you need?" And then they went ahead and worked with you to provide those supplies or resources or answers to your querry?

As I have read about the demise of traditional neighborhood public schools in New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina I am reminded about what most matters in the classroom. It's not that hard to figure out.

Dick

Schools - Ten Years Later

I confess that I can't possibly summarize the New Orleans education reform movement that has taken place since Hurricane Katrina slammed into the city schools. But suffice it to say, the movement is unlike what anyone might have envisioned.

Essentially, the children of NOLA now attend private, parochial or charter schools. In reality, the neighborhood schools are dead.

Resentment still abounds when 7,000 teachers were let go right after the hurricane unleashed its fury. That was just the beginning. Resources were sparse (understandable) and the RSD system took over control of a good portion of the schools often to the dismay and chagrin of many.

Today the 'All Charter' movement buses students from one part of the city to another. The number of students displaced from their neighborhood often results in 10 to 12 hours days for the kids according to Salon.com. This typically means that parents are not a real and meaningful force in the education setting of their kids.

This situation, administratively, finds that the African American population - 60% to 65% make up the student enrollment - has no representation within this education hierarchy.

This displacement of children and exclusion of the students and parents from their 'community school' will be a source of many problems in the years to come. The fact that thirty-nine percent of children remain in poverty will simply exacerbate the issues.

What a shame.

Dick

10 Years Later

It was a Monday morning ten years ago today (actually Aug. 29th) that Hurricane Katrina lashed New Orleans and large swaths of the Gulf Coast. Some 1,000 died in the Crescent City and over 1,800 perished in the region. Many of us have become friends with those who lost loved ones.

We all have images of people clinging to rooftops holding out the hope that they would be rescued. There are stories of those caught in the Super Dome and those who trudged through water/sludge to get to high ground. We have heard plenty about how the levees simply crumpled in the wake of the hurricane. Books have been written about the levees and, for that matter, much about the storm and its effects.

The faces of the storm include President Bush, "Brownie," Mayor Nagin and so many others, too many to include in this short post.

What I will remember are those who stepped forward to help us right here in the Hinsdale/Clarendon Hills/Chicagoland area. From the semi truck drivers to those who loaded trucks to those who donated water, medicine, cleaning supplies and money. you were there when those in the South needed you.

I will always be indebted to those of you who took trips to NOLA to refurbish and gut homes in addition to the ventures to work with RHINO (Rebuilding Hope in New Orleans) and Habitat for Humanity. Your desire to improve the lot and condition of our good friends made a difference

It was an honor for me and for Schools Count to spend six years in New Orleans in order to help children get the supplies they needed so they could get back to class, to find some normalcy in their lives and to have the opportunity to move forward. It was and continues to be a life changing event.

Dick

I Wouldn't Do it Again

I didn't vote for Jimmy Carter for President in 1976. Too bad he isn't running in 2016, I'd make up for that mistake made some 40 years ago.

Okay, this isn't about voting, politics or anything of that sort. As many of you know former President Carter has cancer. The soon-to-be 91 year old told the nation and world of his condition yesterday while answering questions about the disease, his prognosis, the work of the Carter Center all while reflecting on a whole host of other issues.

As I watched the press conference it was clear that President Carter was at ease and was both cheerful, thoughtful, candid, mellow and good natured. His affable way and smile were ever present.

President Carter, over the past 35 years has done much to improve the human condition throughout the world. There just might be no single President in the history of this wonderful nation who has done more to seek to better the quality of life of humans on this planet than President Carter.

What a good and decent man. I wish I could vote for him in 2016.

Dick

Another Sad Chapter

In the ongoing story that, in my view, is taking place regarding the slow - maybe not so slow - tearing apart of neighborhood schools is the instance of a charter receiving greater funding than an nearby neighborhood school.

Both Polaris Charter Academy and Gregory Academy (the traditional neighborhood school) are roughly of the same size and with similar characteristics. This coming year Polaris will receive about $338,000 more in funding while Gregory will receive $184,000 less. By the way, Gregory will have more students this year than last year.

Gregory, by the way, is one of the schools we work with on a yearly basis.

Even if you didn't compare the two schools to one another (which makes complete sense) one has to wonder why any school should take nearly a $200,000 hit if enrollment is increasing. Speaking of taking a hit, the traditional neighborhood schools are due to collectively take a $146 million reduction in funding this year compared to last year.

Yes, this is a sorrowful chapter in the ongoing saga of traditional public schools suffering from being improperly funded. The cuts this year will hurt kids...of that you can be certain.

Dick

An Abundance of Aid

Last week marked a high water mark in terms of our donors and volunteers bringing needed supplies to thousands of students. As the schools open or ready to start the year here are the schools we supplied with resources last week. 42 schools served!!

Chicago: Harriett Beecher Stowe, Chase, Yates, John Hay, Lowell, Chopin, Gregory, Hughes, Jensen, Johnson, Pickard, Pilsen, Metcalfe, Curtis, Lavizzo, Haley, Fuller, Wadsworth, Tanner, Barton, Holmes, Mays, Sherwood, Wentworth, LEARN Charter, Thorpe, Prospectives High School, and Evers.

Posen/Robbins: Gordon, Childs, Kellar, and Posen

Harvey: Sandburg, Bryant, Brooks, Whittier, Holmes, Lowell Longfellow, and Maya Angelou

Cook County District 130: Nathan Hale Middle, Nathan Hale Primary and Nathan Hale Intermediate

Darien: Anne M. Jeans

To all who assisted with this important work...my heartfelt thanks!

Dick

You Know the Expression!

As the saying goes..."When the cat is away, the mice play!" Well, that is precisely the case as I took a break from blogging this summer. Much transpired over the past two months with regard to issues in education and leadership.

Sadly, many of the principals we have worked with over the past few years are no longer serving schools where we assist students. It's not as if they have left the occupation; rather, many have moved into other positions. The result is often a scenario where there is a lack of stability in a building where it is desperately needed.

On another note, Forrest Claypool is the new CEO of the Chicago Public Schools. Time well tell how that works out. Claypool is the former head of the CTA and he has brought some of his former colleagues to the CPS system.

And what would the end of the summer be like without the very real possibility of a strike at CPS?! All will be tested in order to arrive at a contract which everyone (or nearly everyone) can live with. Stay tuned!!

Dick

Supply Delivery Success!!

To our SCC Donors and Volunteers,

My apologies for getting this note of thanks to you a bit late. This past week has been a tremendous success as we delivered supplies to 42 schools in addition to providing band instruments to Barton, Harriett Beecher Stowe and Nathan Hale Middle School. Whether you loaded trucks and pallets or helped get the student supplies in the respective buildings, please know I appreciate all of your efforts. It certainly was a warm and humid number of days this week but, as always, you pulled it all off in an amazing fashion. Below are a couple of notes of thanks that I received from personnel at recipient schools and I wanted to share them with you.

Again, my profound thanks,
Dick Flesher


Mr. Flesher,


Thanks so much for the generous donation that was delivered to Tanner School yesterday. We are extremely appreciative and we look forward to using the resources to support our students' learning during the upcoming school year.

Thanks Again,

Andromeda Bellamy
Assistant Principal
Tanner Elementary School
7350 S. Evans Avenue
Chicago, Illinois 60619


Good Morning Dick,

I just wanted to express our gratitude for Schools Count generous donation of school supplies to John Hay! This donation along with all your other contributions has been a blessing to our school! School Supplies will be distributed to students and teachers at our Back to School KickOff in September. Thank you for helping our school community get the school year started off well prepared!



Thanks for everything,

Crissie Williams
Assistant Principal
John Hay Community Academy

Say It Ain't So

The work we do on behalf of children in need (as well as their parents and schools) is important. At this time of the year, it is all the more clear that collecting donated supplies from area schools reinforces my belief that Schools Count isn't doing charity work.

Yes, officially we are considered a charity. The term 'charity' seems like a terms that has the connotation of a 'handout.' In reality I believe our many volunteers and donors are engaged in seeing to it that others are provided with resources and opportunities to better themselves. We are simply helping our neighbors if you will.

The depth of concern, assistance and support is truly amazing. The degree of selflessness in the name of improving the condition of others defies the term 'charity.' As I continue to pick up supplies from around the Chicagoland area I am reminded of the good of some many individuals. That sums up the work of our organization much more accurately than referring to the usage of the word charity.

Thank you for your concern and willingness to support the children in need.

Dick

Why Would Anyone Want to Run CPS?

This is the headline covering the front page of the Chicago Sun Times this morning. On the surface, this seems like a plausible question given all the recent problems; alleged wrongdoings, a budget in the red, impending negotiations with the teachers, a CEO who recently resigned and more.

Let me answer the question by looking at the position and the state of affairs in a different manner. The reason why a person would head the CPS is no different than why a person becomes a teacher, a principal, a para professional or takes on another position within any school district.

I'm not ignoring the very real problems in the school system but the reason any of us ought to get into public education is to work with students, to see them grow and to accept our responsibility to get them to realize their potential. This is a noble endeavor and that why a CEO has to be found who possesses these qualities. That is why someone would want to head CPS.

Dick

CPS boss steps down

It's that time of the year. Schools are about to call it a year, graduation takes place, teachers retire and the kids have summer vacation. This year, at CPS, another event is taking place as the doors close and the year comes to an end. CPS CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett has resigned.

Ms. Byrd-Bennett has resigned in the wake of the federal probe of a $20.5 million dollar no bid contract. The contract with SUPES Academy, where Ms. Byrd-Bennett worked prior to coming to CPS is under a great deal of scrutiny. There are other issues and personnel tied to the case and it certainly appears that had the CEO remained on the job it would have been problematic at best.

Just what the Board of Education and Mayor Emanuel decide to do going forward remains to be seen relative to picking a new CEO. For now Jesse Ruiz will continue in his role as interim CEO.

With an enormous school budget deficit, pending teacher negotiations and more issues, this summer will not likely be a quiet one in Chitown.

Dick

Teaching and Learning Takes a Hit in WI.

Any way you put it, the item added to the Wisconsin State Education Budget at 1:30 am (yes, really!!) is a travesty. The rider or amendment, whichever term you want to use, states that anyone with a bachelors degree can be hired and licensed to teach core courses in Wisconsin.

This means that a person who earns a Bachelors in agriculture can potentially teach a literature class. A person earning a BA in Accounting can teach Chemistry. If this is the case then Wisconsin education, namely, student learning will suffer.

The law also states that someone with 'relevant experience' can teach a non core course. It appears that a college or high school education is not needed in this instance.

This is another sad case of a government body getting involved in an area, education in this instance, where they have no business passing such ridiculous legislation. The concern is that teaching expertise and student learning are being sacrificed and for what reason or to what end?

I am tired of the gutting of public education in this country. When will it end?!

Dick

More Troubles for CPS

As if the CPS system didn't have enough issues with its finances and an investigation of its CEO, yet another problem has surfaced in recent days. The Chicago Sun Times has uncovered disturbing information about a firm that was suppose to bolster the performance of some of its schools.

Synesi, which was suppose to help four struggling CPS schools, was found by the Illinois State Board of Education to have "failed at a fundamental level to show how it would actually help schools improve if they were awarded the money."

Of course all of this adds to the controversy and investigation of SUPES.

Here's my take on all of this. Going to outside consulting firms to improve school performance is not a good idea. Better to hire the best staff to run your schools from inside the building. Far wiser to bring aboard the very best teachers. You don't have to head all over America to bring in consultants.

If you have superiors teachers, principals, deans, assistant principals, lunchroom staff, coaches, custodians and the like, inside the building, you will avoid these problems. Every school ought to heed this path.

Dick

Still Searching, Still Yearning

With June 6th right around the corner, with tons - yes tons - of school supplies I am reaching out to any and all of you to pitch in to help us sort, bag and box school supplies. If you don't think three hours (9:00 am to noon) of volunteering makes a difference; well, you couldn't be more wrong.

The more people who lend a hand, the more we can sort and the more children we can serve. Yep, it is as simple as that!!!

Besides helping the cause you bound to meet like minded people and good friends!! It is a 'win-win' all the way around. Please take a few minutes out of your busy day and busy weekend (Sat., June 6th) and head on down to Mokena to give us a hand. To be a part of the morning that helps children who are often going without the needed resources in class just shoot me a note at rich219@comcast.net.

Thank you,
Dick

Let the Collecting Begin

Today officially marks the kickoff to the school supply collection season. Our charity collects from far and wide; from Mokena north to Elmhurst and west into Naperville. Often, at the end of the year, everyone is in a hurry to 'call it a year' and too many valuable and perfectly useable supplies are thrown in the dumpster.

With nearly 40 schools participating in our 'Go Green' program we are able to rescue these resources and can get them in the hands of students who will make great use of them.

Our first stops today are at Lockport East and Lockport Central. These two school have participated in our program for many, many years. The effort has long been spearheaded by Sarah Steinke. This is the same person who helps us deliver supplies in August in addition to being responsible for our charity garnering $4,000 in cash from the Daughters of the American Revolution so that we could buy music instruments for John Hay Elementary School.

So here's to Sarah, her colleagues at Lockport and all the other kind hearted school personnel who participate in our recycling program.

Let the fun begin!!

Dick

Dump the Turnarounds

The other day I pointed out the lack of progress made as a result of the infusion of $3 billion in turnaround schools. Let me be clear, the money ought to be spent on education. Just how the money is allocated and what it is spent on is the real question.

The structure of the school shouldn't really be the issue. By that, I mean that getting rid of a certain percent of the teachers, staff, principals, etc. isn't really the answer. What remains undone, untouched are the conditions that exist within the larger school community that goes unearthed and unresolved.

I have long talked about these conditions - blight, poverty, unemployment, low wages, family issues/concerns, and more - and they are as ever present as they were before these 'reform' programs.

Creating more charters, selective schools, and charters hasn't got the job done and building more of these will likely render the same results.

Dick

Calling All Volunteers

The student school supplies are rolling into our garage at a furious pace!! That means that we need to sort them, box them up and ready them for our annual August delivery. We sure could use some help. Why not head down to Mokena on Saturday, June 6th and lend a hand?! It is always a fun time while visiting with friends. We'll work from 9:00 am to noon. To be a part of helping children-in-need just shoot me an email at rich219@comcast.net

Thanks,
Dick

Post Script

As a follow up to yesterday's blog concerning the largely failed infusion of $3 billion federal dollars into 'turnarounds,' I want to add a couple of thoughts. It should come as no surprise that many of the 1,500 schools receiving 'turnaround' funds had problems.

Those concerns are not borne simply out of a lack of staffing, expertise and technology as the U. S. Dept. of Education points out. The issues confronting the schools go far beyond these considerations. Until every government body, doling out funds, realizes this fact then 'turnarounds' or any other hybrid will likely encounter difficulties.

The school community as a whole, along with the neighborhood in which the school/students/families reside, must be examined and taken into account when determining the path forward. Simply removing staff, part of a staff or having some other sort of pre-determined and ill conceived criteria that dictates which schools get money and which don't won't suffice.

We can and must do better!

Dick

Turnaround or Not?!

The Washington Post recently came out with some hard hitting results on turnaround schools which were provided with funds as they were among the poorest schools in America. None other than the U.S. Dept. of Education's own research arm said that the $3 billion provided to 1,500 schools was pretty much a wash if not a failure of sorts.

The findings saw 1/3 of the turnaround schools performing better, 1/3 performing the same as prior to the infusion of federal money and 1/3 performing worse. Not exactly a resounding success.

The question that many will ask is why? Those schools responding to the follow up survey regarding the failure of the poorest performing schools to get turned around had some stark reminders relative to the difficulty of turning around. The three biggest obstacles were a lack of staffing, technology difficulties and a lack of expertise.

To those who toil in schools and who follow the plight of poor communities and struggling students, the news is nothing new. Without the proper resources, aside from funding, nothing will improve in schools. Chalk this up to the Dept. of Education not getting it right from the get go.

Dick

If it's May then it's Supply Time

With Memorial Day and the end of May in sight then it must be time to collect student school supplies. Many area schools are generously donating perfectly reusable supplies to School Count so that we, in turn, can get them in the hands of children who have such great needs.

So as the supplies start rolling in please keep in mind that we need volunteers to go out with me to load the trucks. Beyond that I'll need people to come to our home in Mokena on Sat., May 30th and Sat., June 6th to sort and box the donated goods. Sorting/boxing will take place from 9:00 am to noon.

To be part of the fun and important work or assisting children just shoot me an email at rich219@comcast.net to let me know you can lend a hand.

Thanks,
Dick

A Lesson in Learning

It doesn't matter if its the classroom or the principal's office or the board room of the Board of Education. What counts in all of these arenas is the component of cooperation. Unless it is pervasive and ever present not much in any meaningful way will take place in terms of educating children.

Students need to cooperate with teachers and the staff, in turn, must do likewise with the students. The building administration has no choice but to do the same with their entire staff...B & G, the teachers, students, parents, cafeteria personnel and the Board of Education. The same goes for the Board of Education. They have to find meaningful avenues to work collaboratively with one another, the community, the various staffs and more.

In this day and age of reform, high stakes standardized testing, and more, the time tested lessons that have always been part of education, since we all entered kindergarten, are as true and proven today as decades ago. Cooperation has always been a hallmark of the process of learning and today, more than ever, we need a healthy dose of it.

Dick

Take Heed!

Recently NEA President Lily Eskelsen Garcia made some remarks to the Detroit Economic Club concerning where education needs to move in the future. Ms. Garcia framed her comments around the oft-used them of the "whole child."

But her points should surely be taken to heart. As the NEA boss said, "the pillars of 'whole child education' are equity (every single student having the tools and resources to succeed), education that inspires (a collaborative effort between school staff to design the most exciting and engaging learning environment imaginable), and a personalized relationship between teacher and student and home and school."

These may not sound terribly new when examining the long history of education in America but, in my view, they have gone terribly absent in the recent couple of decades which have been highlighted by a homogenized system that has as its guidepost standardized testing.

Garcia is right on point regarding the way forward!

Dick

An Unspoken Truth on School Finances

It is an elephant in the room. Whether in negotiations or informal talks the topic regarding the monetary effect of providing Educational Services (Special Education and other related services) is simply not discussed. And we shouldn't kid ourselves, Educational Services take up a sizeable portion of the funding of most schools. That's fine!

My point is this...when people discuss teacher salaries, spending on capital projects, insurance, property taxes, state funding or any other money related issue, recognition has to be made concerning the rapid increase in spending, in recent years, that has to be devoted to providing Educational Services.

Often people lament the fairly large increases in spending in schools without understanding that it isn't merely teachers asking for more. The public may be surprised to find that spending on traditional education programs has remained fairly stable in recent years. I am aware of the fact that some schools have witnessed a rapid expansion of Ed. Services in recent years.

The public at large needs to realize that as there is a demand for more services then more money will be needed. At the same time, I tire of people saying that the increase in school expenses is somehow the fault of teachers.

Dick

That Time of the Year

Graduation, prom, final exams and Common Core. Okay, I get the first few elements but adding in Common Core and other standardized testing at the end of the year seems to be poor timing at the very least. Yeah, I get it, we want to check for progress.

But terrific teachers (and that's the vast majority) are checking for progress in many areas throughout the entire school year. Besides, students and staff are pretty tuckered out by May. It is likely that this is one of the worst times of the year to be administering high stakes tests.

Celebration is but one part marking the end of the school year. There are proms, retirement parties and more. It seems to me that, though classes should continue, the work load in May and June should not be the same as the rest of the year particularly if you want to keep students engaged in real learning.

That's just my take on things!
Dick