Holiday Cheer

There is truly some holiday cheer with regard to all the good that takes place at Schools Count and that is largely due to the generosity of our family of supporters providing resources to so many children. I am certainly appreciative of your many contributions to the cause of providing for those students in need. Nothing like a helping hand!!

There is no such deed or contribution, large or small, which isn't significant. The significance lies in fact that you have chosen to take action to support students reeling from the effects of natural disasters or poverty. Often these effects which are felt are not merely classroom related; rather, they are almost always tied to the emotional well being of the children.

I truly hope your holiday season is one of much joy, joy in the presence of loving family and friends all while realizing the joy you have long provided to so many thousands of students both here in the state and abroad. I'll look forward to reconnecting with you in the New Year. Until then...be well.

Happy Holidays,
Dick

How Very Sad

Over nearly one decade of working with schools in the Harvey, IL K-8 system it has become apparent that the schools have continued to do their utmost to help the children living within the community. Thankfully there are many eager children and committed educators in each building.

Sadly, what exists outside the respective schools is more than alarming. I have seen homes become vacant and boarded up over the past years but over these last few weeks I believe conditions are worsening. There are literally complete blocks of abandoned homes in portions of the neighborhood.

I left two schools yesterday wondering if the community will survive in the years ahead.

Dick

Spending on Public Education

As I continue to follow events with with regard to spending in public schools I've become accustomed to those who want to either limit what is spent or to make cuts to programs. Either of these two paths is not in the interest of ANYONE!! If money is mismanaged or stolen that's a whole different story.

Money put into programs and educators has been proven to be beneficial. It's not a hoax. Bruce Baker at Rutgers states emphatically that too many people are operating out of a long ago mindset/belief system that says putting more money into education is a waste. Simply not true according to Baker.

Linda Darling Hammond of the Learning Policy Institute makes clear that more funding does aid student learning. As she notes, funding alone is simply one element of aiding in student/school progress. I have spent a good deal of time following and reading research out of the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Research. The evidence is clear more money spent on the right programs works.

So here we are...if money is not stolen, not mismanaged then we need to continue to invest in public education.

Dick

It's Not Just

I had the privilege of helping to provide some needed resources to a far south side elementary school yesterday. It is a school that not only needs physical supplies but, more importantly, the children could surely use some personal help that supplies have next to nothing to do with.

I've been to this school and neighborhood on a number of occasions. All the manufacturing firms that I passed to and from the school are shuttered. Liter is strewn about. Within the building, the kindergarten class has 31, yes 31, students...far, far too many for any teacher in any American school.

Supplies are in urgent need and I'm not just referring to classroom supplies. The kids desperately need socks, mittens, coats, scarves
and school uniforms.

The school population can change on almost any given day. Some students remain for just a few days and then they are off to who knows where.

And yet I found the 21 year Asst. Principal, a couple of teachers and an administrative assistant to be helpful and positive. They were and are truly appreciative of the assistance provided by Schools Count. I've thought long and hard about all of the good people and I have a number of reactions, one being that this just isn't just.

Dick

Cuts in Education - Real Consequences

In the private sector you might here the talking heads talking about 'cutting their way to prosperity.' I have watched large and small companies say and do this for a very long time. By and large, the cuts leads to additional cuts and those cuts don't ever seem to be restored. In fact the cycle of cutting doesn't seem to end until the firm goes out of business or is snapped up by another company.

What does this discussion have to do with public education? Plenty!!

Making cuts to public education, in any area, usually results in the cuts being both harmful and, like the cuts in the private sector, are likely not to be reversed going forward. Eliminate good teachers, dump curriculum programs, and ending other classroom/non classroom initiatives and you'll be hurting the children.   It's as simple and hurtful as that.

Dick

Thankful Wednesday

Giving Tuesday was a terrific success for Schools Count. More to the point...it was a wonderful event for the children in need. That's leads to the obvious statement of a 'Thankful Wednesday.' The donations totaled in excess of $3,500.00 and each of our donors made a commitment to share in their bounty.

I will keep you informed and up-to-date on the use of these special funds. Please accept my thanks for your steadfast commitment to see to it that children are properly resourced.

Many thanks,
Dick

Giving Tuesday

Giving Tuesday is certainly appropriate particularly coming on the heels of Cyber Monday and shopping for oneself and others. The number of charities and the good work they do is simply incredible and inspiring. I'd be most pleased if you would consider making a donation to Schools Count (link below) as we endeavor to assist those in where fires and hurricanes have devastated regions from coast to coast.

I'd be pleased to match the first $500 in donations with a personal donation.



Please accept my thanks!!

Dick Flesher
President of Schools Count

Happy Thanksgiving

On behalf of our Board of Directors I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the countless thoughtful and kind people who provide the resources and support to Schools Count so that we can lend as much assistance to children as possible. Your ongoing efforts through donations, labor, fundraisers and more all make a difference in the lives of the students served.

It is our wish that you, your family and friends find the Thanksgiving holiday one of peace and joy. From our vantage point we would like to extend a hearty 'thank you' for all that you have done in the past year. I believe if the children we are fortunate to help were able to write this note that would be even more emphatic in expressing their thanks!!

Enjoy your time with family and friends,
Dick

Fires in the Paradise, CA Schools

These are a couple of photos of all that is left of the Paradise schools. As many of you are acutely aware large swaths of California, including Paradise, are still at the mercy of devastating fires.

A number of Schools Count Corp. supporters have inquired about any help we can render to the children/schools. Frankly, at this point I don't have an answer regarding what we might be able to do. The community and schools are understandably reeling. I will certainly stay in touch with our Board of Directors and concerned citizens with regard to any assistance we may be able to provide.

Dick

Moving too Fast

There are many reasons why a good number people don't enter the teaching profession. There's also an abundance of reasons why great teachers leave the profession in their prime. Some of the problems confronting this group of fine instructors has to do with what we put in their laps and those in charge could do something about it.
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The advance of technology means that lesson plans, assessments, emails, texts and more can be processed at lightening speed. And, in part, therein also lies the problem. People on the other end expect to get results sooner. They demand feedback now, right away. There's no time to dilly around as if teachers did that!!!

Processing, planning, teaching, assessing and other 'ing's' involved in being a teacher can not, repeat CAN NOT, be completed instantly. Many of the qualities that go into a rich teaching/learning scenario take time...plain and simple. Teachers, and students alike, realize this fact.

Too many things move fast in the world of a teacher and many of them are harmful in terms of expecting too much, too soon. It's one of the forces driving people out of the profession.

Dick

A Few Reminders

There are plenty of ways of helping Schools Count and the children we serve. Kelsey's Resale in Downers Grove has some great items for sale...the holidays are just around the corner. Kelsey's is open on Fridays (10-4) and Saturday (10-1). They have a wide assortment of Bags, Sweaters, Booties and Coats/Jackets. Kelsey's is located at 239 Ogden Ave. Kelsey's will be making a cash donation to Schools Count based on their November sales.

Many of you have inquired about possibly donating to Schools Count on Giving Tuesday. This year's Giving Tuesday is after Thanksgiving on November 27th. I'll stay in touch with you going forward.

As the holidays approach please accept my thanks for your support as we look to provide gloves, hats, coats and sock - yes socks - as the cold weather is at hand.

Thank you,
Dick

In Tribute - John Filipiak

The Naperville North High School community, along with family and friends, lost a wonderful man, John Filipiak. There were countless occasions when the soccer players, and other athletes and coaches, benefited from the great grounds keeping work of this cheerful man. On behalf of Peggy and David Bucher (former head boys soccer coach at NNHS) a donation has been made in John's name to Schools Count Corp. May the Filipiak's find peace and comfort in the joy John brought to one and all.

Respectfully,
Dick Flesher

Money Makes a Difference

I'm tired of hearing people say that money doesn't make a difference in education. The lament of these naysayers is that 'you're just throwing good money after bad.' The 'bad' assumes that money was wasted in the past. Of course money shouldn't be wasted! I don't disagree with the premise that if money is wasted then why should more funds be allocated.

The fact of the matter is this...school districts throughout the country realize that they have a finite amount of money to use and that they have to be careful in their spending. They realize costs go up, contracts have to be negotiated, needs change and they have to be accountable to taxpayers.

So the 'bad' argument is a false proposition!! Most schools don't commonly ask for funds realizing the above. So when school officials do levy and/or ask for bonds to pay for something the school board members and administrators they know full well that they will be held accountable.

Take a look at some of the best performing schools throughout America, be they private or public, and the vast, vast majority are much better funded than those starving for funds.

Dick

Tell Me the Alternative

Other than doing little to remedy a problem in the classroom or saying no to a referendum please tell me, other than saying no, what you would propose. No is a completely accepted answer only if there is an explanation and a proposed solution or alternative. But saying no just to be obstinate while offering little else is not acceptable.

This obfuscation by the type of naysayers above happens all too frequently. Should there voices be heard...of course. Should they have an opportunity to offer suggestions or solutions...you bet. But to simply say no while offering no way forward is not acceptable and it does absolutely nothing to remedy a problem or move the needle forward.

Dick

Building vs. Tearing Down

Moving the needle forward on issues with regard to education (or for that matter on a whole host of other concerns) always seems to be challenging. Allow me to provide a metaphor. It a much more intricate and thoughtful process to build a house than it is to take a wrecking ball to one and, in turn, to drop it to the ground.

That seems to be the case when working to pass referendums, adding content to curriculum, making changes to the daily schedule, offering new courses, improving school safety and much more. The status quo or simply saying "no" doesn't take a whole lot of effort.

Those of us who have taught and are still in the game understand the enormous amount of time, energy and thought that goes into making real improvements in our schools. Not an easy task often times.

Allow me to say this to all those schools, school leaders, students, teachers and the public at large. The fight for better public schools, improved resources and proper funding are always worth fighting for, the fight is almost always an uphill battle against those who are often opposed to various initiatives.

But there is no other choice other than to carry on and I've learned that over my years as a teacher and President of Schools Count. Never give in, always get up and help the kids.

Dick

Voting and Education

Your vote matters so make your voice heard!! There's much at stake in nationwide elections when it comes to education. We can pick officials at the federal level who will stand up to the proposed Dept. of Education cuts that Ms. DeVos supports. We can maintain our schools by selecting board members who will support referendums that will help our students.

We can vote for state legislators who will see the wisdom in cutting back on the overburdening of staff and students through too many regulations and state testing mandates. It would be wonderful if those same legislators, who we happen to select, can come into our schools and see what is taking place rather than making it an opportunity for them to drone on and on. In other words, the would show up and LISTEN!

So this blog is intentionally short today for an obvious reason...your vote matters so make your voice heard!!

Thanks,
Dick

This is Sickening

The more teachers I talk to and listen to the more I hear their concerns.   Actually, concerns is putting it mildly.   Teachers are simply overwhelmed, they are asked to do more, to take on more, and that's often without the proper time and resources.

And all of this from our best in the profession.   They are told to take attendance online, to assess work online, and to produce lesson plans online if there is a snow day.   Just one problem (well actually more) the computer system is down or not up to par.   "Hey teachers, we need you to take on this coaching position, another club, and/or another activity.

That's just a small part of it.   The many dozens of emails each day, the committee load, people making a request of you but they don't follow through on their end, parents who demand something five minutes ago, kids texting you at night, fund shortages, the threat of looming referendum that may fail!!!

The list is endless and if this continues then we are in for a teacher shortage the likes we have not seen before.

Dick

Donate to SCC Through Amazon Smile

To Our Schools Count Supporters,

Just a very quick ask. Amazon Smile has a program which provides funds to charities if you purchase items. This will just last through the end of today, November 2nd. If you purchase, as noted below, from Amazon Smile our charity will get a 5% cash donation. Kindly consider this wonderful offer if you need to make a purchase.

Many thanks,
Dick Flesher

Dear Charity Administrator,

We have just completed the AmazonSmile donation disbursement for the 2018 Q3 disbursement cycle to organizations that generated the $5 minimum disbursement amount or more. We will hold your donation and add it to a disbursement in a future quarter. For more details, visit http://org.amazon.comand click on the Receive Donations tab.

In the meantime, your can increase your AmazonSmile donations by taking advantage of our biggest bonus donation ever —5% for 5 days! Now through Nov 2, we're donating 5%, ten times our usual rate, on all eligible smile.amazon.com purchases. Click here for details.

You can use the copy and banners below to spread the word.

Through Nov 2, AmazonSmile is donating 5% (ten times the usual amount) to Schools Count Corporation NFP when you shop at smile.amazon.com/ch/20-8566691. #AmazonSmile #StartWithaSmile

Kelsey's Supporting Us

To All of Our SCC Donors and Volunteers,

I have some great news to share with you!!! Kelsey's Community Shop is donating their proceeds from their November sales to Schools Count. Please take a look at the information below and kindly consider stopping in, as the holidays are approaching, and consider making a purchase. This is wonderful gesture on the part of Kelsey's and I know I will be stopping in during November.

Many thanks,
Dick Flesher

Information about Kelsey’s Community Shop

Kelsey’s Community Shop is a Charity Shop located in Downers Grove, IL. The shop was founded by Kelsey Resale Boutique with locations in Hinsdale and LaGrange, IL. The Community Shop is run by a full time Manager and volunteers. Each month, the shop’s proceeds will benefit a different charity. We will be posting the charities each month in the store along with the amount donated. For November, the charity will be Schools Count Corp! Please stop in and check it out, there are many wonderful accessories, shoes and clothing items from top designers at fabulous prices!

Store Hours are: Monday – Saturday 10-5pm and Sunday from 12-4pm

Location: 239 Ogden Avenue (Just west of McDonald’s on the South side of the street)
Downers Grove, IL 60515
630-442-7969



See the website at: www.shopkelseyresale.com for more information.


Kelsey’s Community Shop is a 501 (c) (3) organization and a tax receipt will be provided for donations.

If you have a question about our organization or would like to request a favorite charity to receive our help, please email us at: Kelseyscommunity@gmail.com. Thank you.

Be Prepared

The news of CPS losing 10,000 students this year doesn't come as a complete shock. It should not surprise you to learn that it is very likely that some of the district's schools will shutter their doors in the 2019-20 school year. In particular, there are a number of high schools with fewer than 300 students.

Yes, I get it...if a school has very few students and the trend is moving in a downward direction then it makes sense that the district can't sustain keeping such a school open.

What has to be taken into account however is the very real need of a neighborhood to have a public school. If a community has a good deal of blight and if there is no public school within two or three miles within that community then those individuals need to have their voices heard.'

So, yes, some schools will close but hopefully the powers to be will recognize the fact that children are some type of physical commodity to be shipped around in some sort of 'willy nilly' fashion.

Dick

Just a Warning

For all of those who believe that the only or even the primary reason why CPS has fewer than 10,000 students this year is due to the poor quality of schools I have one thing to say. You are wrong! That's right, you are not well informed on the overall conditions in the neighborhood and what is going on with regard to other factors that have caused an enrollment decrease.

When the city neglects large swaths of a portion of the city with regard to infrastructure, jobs, social services and more then why would parents/residents stay in such conditions. They have little choice but to look for a better location which will afford them and their children something better.

Unless and until the conditions that drive people away from the southside and southwest portions of the city the school system will continue to lose students.

Dick

Fewer CPS students

October 1st is the official count day for CPS enrollment as it was the 20th day of school. The numbers aren't good for the most part. There are 10,000 fewer students attending CPS schools this year than last year and since 2011 a staggering 41,000 fewer students are going to the district schools. The hardest hit sector was the elementary school segment which finds that 7,000 less students this year than last.

According to CEO Janice Jackson some of the loss of students can be 'chalked up to declining birthrates and national immigration trends.' Jackson went on to add 'that CPS has held onto a consistent rate of school-aged children over the past five years.'

One of the elephants in the room not addressed by Jackson is the effect of declining student enrollment to selective and private schools. Also not mentioned is the overall decline of CPS students due to the loss of the population in the city. And that final point about abandonment, particularly on the south side and south west portions of the city, caused by poverty and the loss of a job base was never cited as a factor in the loss of students in the school system.

It's as if no one wants to touch that.

Dick

A Challenge

How do we find way to get great young people to seriously consider entering the world of teaching? There are plenty of ways and here is but one...

I want to put out a call to everyone reading this blog/facebook/twitter. Please ask you daughter and/or son if they have any interest in working with young people, in any way, to consider entering the teaching profession. Should they babysit, and enjoy it, then maybe, just maybe, it is one sign that they could well be the type of person who would benefit tomorrow's youth.

Thanks,
Dick

Elections and Education

Yes these two institutions, for better or worse, are married together!!

Local Board of Education members set budgets for schools. If funds are needed for the schools they can set levy levels, issue bonds, use funds from savings, move funds around (depending on various state laws) and possibly ask for monies in a referendum.

State government officials pass laws that impact what schools can do and can't do in any number of areas. Same for the federal government. Not only are laws passed but funds are provided for the programs. Of course laws can be passed but that doesn't matter if the legislators don't fully fund the various programs or if they cut the funding.

So, who you vote for does make a difference in our nation's schools. Get out and vote for those who really support public education.

Thanks,
Dick

An Idea on Funding for New Teachers

Both the State of IL and the U. S. Department of Education, if they are really serious, could well aid the development of a pool of future teachers. Here's what some well spent funds could do to aid this cause. They ought to provide direct dollars to high schools in all regions to have a course called Invitation to Teaching.

These funds would be used by the schools, who have teachers qualified to teach such a course which would include direct in-class instruction as well as field work in feeder schools within the neighborhood.

There are a scant number of these programs and I'm familiar with them and can report that they are highly successful in terms of inspiring/encouraging many to enter into the teaching field. Not coincidentally, many of these same students, having engaged in such high schools programs, are now in America's classrooms.

Let's do this!!

Dick

One Teacher at a Time

Yes, the long slog - and it often is just that - to find new, bright and energetic people to join the teacher profession will take time. Grassroots efforts always take time and it seems as though the obstacles are difficult to overcome.

I am asking my teacher friends from yesteryear and those of today to keep on teaching, keep on providing the type of leadership demanded of our society. And yes I am respectfully asking you to seek those few individuals you come into contact with to inspire them to join the ranks of America's teachers.

The road is long but I am confident that today's teachers will provide the path forward for tomorrow's educators.

Thanks,
Dick

Grassroots Fight for Teachers

The drain on the number and quality of teachers nationwide is real. And to do something about it; well, we have to get 'down and dirty.' Forget writing to the NEA, IEA and AFT (as I've done to no avail) we have to engage in an all-out grassroots campaign to let Americans know they have to do something about the disappearance of this American institution.

Here is but a sampling of what it will take to see to it that every neighborhood school in this country has excellent teachers; have an Introduction to Teaching course in high school, current teachers nurture and convince their students of the value of this career, start a club in middle school, high school and college called Future Educators of America, building principals and counselors talking to classes about the importance of becoming an educator, and bringing in retired teachers to talk about the critical need for young people to join the profession.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of the approach that needs to take place to get young people involved in this wonderful endeavor. But when all is said and done, it will be a grassroots approach that will get our nation's youth to become tomorrow's teachers.

Thanks,
Dick

A Need for Teachers

The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education reports that there was a precipitous decline in college candidate teacher preparation, nationwide, to the tune of 23% during the 2007 to 2015 period of time. To many of us in the teaching field this doesn't come as a shock though it is a more than troubling trend.

The above association according to Educationdive is pushing to change the curriculum offerings at many of the colleges and universities that provide education degrees.

The new course/curriculum offerings include; less standardized testing and more training in performance based assessments, a stronger background in pedagogy, a greater emphasis on what is termed 'community focus,' and a shift to preparing teachers to deal with changes that reflect a multi-cultural classroom.

In the coming days I'll be commenting on the causes of the decline of those entering the profession, what can be done to stem this tide and other issues that are part of the narrative that speaks to putting great teachers in front of our students.

Dick

Coats or Bust

We have had a couple of frosty evenings within the past week. And that all adds up to are children waiting outside for the bus or walking to school. We are in desperate need for coats for CPS children who are very young. I am looking to gather up to 200 coats for the kids. We are collecting children's small and medium sizes and want to provide them to the youngsters sometime in the November 5th - 9th time period.

Please consider providing the students with some warm clothing. I'd be glad to pick up the coats if you are local. Simply give me a call at 630-863-6035 or email me at rich219@comcast.net.

Thanks for your consideration!!
Dick

Technology Bust??

Pieces of chalk could bust in the palm of my hand as I wrote on the chalkboard. I could just as easily make a mistake entering, by pen, a score in the grade book. The mimeograph machine was might be too low on fluid. But those errors could easily be rectified with a new piece of chalk, 'whiting out' the score, or adding fluid to the tank of the mimeograph. No problem.

These educational resources have almost entirely disappeared replaced by computers and other digital resources. What I have learned from observation and talking with educators is that the technology in use today is often in disrepair, not fully functional, slow and - bottom line - not user friendly!!

This is not a minor glitch. The computer/digital issues are widespread...in rural, urban and suburban schools. Aside from these functionality concerns is the issue of big bucks. And these digital concerns are much more costly than the pieces of chalk, whiteout, pencils/pens and mimeograph fluid.

Technology is but one tool and if it isn't more functional than what I am learning some decisions need to be made that might help students and educators return to some resources that are more user friendly.

Dick

Another Bootstrap Point

Per prior posts about too many children and families, and by association schools, those urban and rural areas in America where property values are low, good paying jobs too few and wages depressed, then the people living in those areas aren't going to be able to afford the necessities required for the school children.

So being without the 'bootstraps' within a school building is but one problem. Not having the funds generated from OUTSIDE of the building simply compounds the issue of having too few supplies for the kids.

There are literally all sorts of bootstraps that are missing in many neighborhoods and communities. I would even venture to guess that this has something to do with the creation of all sorts of non-public schools.

Dick

Another Earthquake in Haiti!!

I wanted to get a brief note out to you as a couple of our generous donors were asking about conditions in Haiti after another earthquake ravaged part of the country.

The island nation of Haiti just can't catch a break!! A roughly 6.0 earthquake hit the northwestern portion of the island two days ago. I thought I'd get this note out to you with regard to the fact that the two schools we have worked with, one west of Port au Prince and the other on the island of La Gonave were not impacted.

Thanks for your concern,
Dick

Stop the Madness

Teachers are a treasure in terms of their value to young people and advancing the values and ideals of our society. If that sounds like 'pie in the sky' so be it. In working with and observing what is taking place in our nation's public schools I have come away not only impressed but saddened to witness the overburdening of our country's teachers.

Teachers have plenty to take care of with teaching, preparing lessons and assessing student learning. Add to this work are the necessary requirements to participate in clubs, school functions and athletics. This has always been the case.

But the laundry list of other obligations is simply getting out of hand. Don't believe me? Talk to teachers and allow me to provide evidence of the 'maddening' duties required of teachers that simply detracts from the time, energy and effort necessary to take care of what I have outlined in the previous paragraph.

Here's but a sample of the 'maddening' list of duties that needs to be looked at and, in many cases, put to a halt. Teachers are constantly dealing with; breakdown/slowness of technology, a shortage of classroom assistance, a lack of resources, having to sacrifice teaching time for mandated testing, often having to respond to 50 to 100 emails in a day, limitations on their individual teaching strengths due to the perceived notion that a curriculum MUST adhere to a certain method of teaching, absolutely ridiculous teacher evaluation tools and so much more.

For the sake of the teachers and kids...stop the insanity.

Dick

Cuts Are Harmful

If curriculum programs are cut, if teachers are eliminated, should activities be diminished and if funds are wanting then does anyone think that a child will get the best educational experience possible? And that my friends is the deal...public education HAS to provide student the very best experience.

I want current teachers, retirees, the public at large, administrators and government officials at all levels to understand that cutting ones way to financial stability may get one to that goal. But the real goal has to be something more important than finances. And it is hard to believe, given everyone's gloating over the economy, that money for schools is an issue.

Fund our public schools.

Dick

Education Cuts

Cuts are cuts and they hurt; well, they hurt the ones who are exposed to the cut!! The government and the Dept. of Education are proposing a 5% cut to the Dept. of Education and the kids will feel the brunt of the cuts make no mistake about it. Properly funding public schools is essential.

I have gone into a number of selective schools, charters and private schools (which I respect is someone's choice to send them to) and I can tell you the vast majority of them do not have facilities and faculty to take care of autistic children, those with various handicaps, or IEP'S.

So when people talk about cutting education budgets at the local, state and federal levels...be careful it may be your child who is all the worse off.

Dick

Coats ARE Bootstraps

Imagine it getting down right cold (not for a bit please!!) and kids heading off to school or waiting at the bus stop as the thermometer continues to drop. Yes, young children caught in the polar blast could sure use a winter coat under such conditions. One might not think of it this way but having the proper clothing is one of those 'bootstraps.'

I am collecting children's (no adult coats please) small and medium size coats to be dispersed in early November. I'd like to extend an invitation to you to provide a warm coat to a CPS student. To participate in this annual program kindly let me know that you want to participate. You can email me at rich219@comcast.net and we can make arrangements for me to stop by and pick up your donation.

Thanks for your consideration!!!

Dick

They Know Their Needs.

I've had the great honor to represent our charity in dozen of schools in Chicago and around the country. I've learned much and one of the many lessons I've been taught, by those in need, is to listen. Hear them out, listen to their concerns/problems and let them tell us what their needs are. Just to send some supplies to the children, which they might not need, is in many respects a waste.

The point is this...allow them to tell us which 'bootstraps' are most critical. I have learned that Music and Art programs are some of the vital areas where there are almost no resources and where the teachers and students, alike, desperately want to participate. I've seen children put crayons in their hands and others give a trumpet or saxophone a try. And one result is always the same...a smile!!

Dick

More on Bootstraps

It's not just a matter of devastated schools and those impoverished families going without supplies and various resources (missing critical bootstraps) it's also about said schools and children having little hope. This latter point can't be dismissed. Both points are critical.

I have worked in many areas over a period of years where supplies are absent and that leads to greater despair.

Early on in our work in New Orleans, following Hurricane Katrina, I spent a good deal of time talking with the Principal of Benjamin Banneker Elementary regarding her inability to get the schools kitchen up and running. Absent an oven and other resources she was concerned that the children wouldn't get properly fed. Absent a useful kitchen one can't have students come back to class.

This is but one example of hundreds, no thousands, of missing bootstrap.

Dick

Bootstraps - Day 2

In working in areas ravaged by storms or regions hit hard by poverty I have found a number of things to be true with regard to the idea of people helping themselves; that is, picking themselves up. The vast majority of people impacted by either type of travesty are always desirous of helping themselves.

Often in the aftermath of being harmed or left without various supplies and resources I have had people tell me that these people 'need to help themselves' or 'get off their lazy butts (they use another term).' I have news for everyone...the vast, vast majority do get up and work hard to recover from the blow they were dealt.

I have found that what little people have to work with is often viewed as a 'blessing.' And even more common reaction from those in dire need is that they wish they didn't have to ask for assistance.

Bottom line...most don't have the bootstraps that they need to move on. And that's where Schools Count Corp comes in.

Dick

Schools Count - 'Bootstraps'

This blog has been going on for years sometimes discussing issues important to students and teachers alike and, at times, discussing the larger issues impacting education and our society at large. I have often been tempted to record my experiences and those that have impacted the good people affiliated with Schools Count in some sort of manner.

Not so long ago it occurred to me that perhaps the best way to describe those events that have shaped my life after teaching - some thirteen years ago - was to both recount said events and pass them along to you. So periodically (hopefully more days each week than not) I will attempt to recall those special occasions and to provide you with insights that have both shaped my life and given me renewal.

This gets me to the word 'Bootstraps.' Many of us have been indoctrinated with the term 'pick yourselves up by your bootstraps.' I certainly remember being told to do so in my early childhood. This journey, in my capacity as President of Schools Count Corp., has afforded me with the opportunity to call upon some inner strength to 'pick myself.'

But I have also come in contact with students in regions devastated by tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes were bootstraps have perished. I, and our charity, have also worked in impoverished areas - schools - were, those same resources/bootstraps don't exist.

I'm looking forward to engaging you in recalling just what this journey has entailed.

Thanks,
Dick

CPS Heading to College

Not only are more CPS students graduating from high school these days but many more are heading off to college. In just one short decade the rate of students attending a 2 or 4-year college ticked upward in a dramatic fashion. In 2006 just 50% of all CPS students went on to attend a college/university. By 2015 the percentage of students going on to college had shot up to 63%.

Don't get me wrong on the surface this is great news. Here's my hope...I hope these students are able to find a calling (occupation) once they have received their degree. It would be a shame to have a degree only to find that they are left behind.

In fact starting college isn't the point finishing is. The Chicago Tribune reported that the just 18% of the freshmen class in 2016 had completed a four year degree. So starting college is one positive, not completing ones studies is another important topic of conversation.

But for now getting more CPS graduates into college is a positive sign.

Dick

Daughters of the American Revolution

This is a copy of a letter from the non profit Haiti Partners which was in receipt of funds through the Daughters of the American Revolution. DAR's mission to promote education at home and abroad is simply amazing the organization should take great pride in their work to promote education.

As Summer Turns to Fall

As summer turns to fall we are seeing less and less daylight. What is bound to happen - as you well know - is that we will soon be getting into some cooler and dare I say colder nights.

Our charity will once again be collecting winter coats for the children in the Harvey and Chicago Public Schools. We have a bit of a change this year in terms of items to collect based on what the various schools are asking for this winter.

We ONLY collecting Children's small and medium size coats. I'd like to respectfully ask you NOT to provide us with adult size coats of any type. It's the very young who are in most dire need.

So if you are planning on assisting us with our coat drive I'd appreciate that any and all coat donations be received no later than Halloween which fall on Wednesday, October 31st. Please contact me and I'll be sure to pick up the coats. You can call me at
(630) 863-6035 or you email me at rich219@comcast.net so that we can make arrangements.

Looking forward to helping the children stay warm as they head to and from school this winter!!

Thank you!!
Dick

More on Teacher Compensation

Roughly 10 days ago I reported that teacher wages have, nationwide, shown a net decrease over the past 20 years. Of course actual pay is just part of a total compensation package. So to be honest about teacher pay we have to include the benefits provided to the teachers of America.

Over the past 20 years teachers have realized a net gain in their 'benefits.' Such benefits include insurance, retirement plans and other forms of 'compensation' that otherwise doesn't show up in a paycheck.

According to the EPI report, notwithstanding the benefits increase over that 20 year span, the bottom line is this...the overall compensation penalty reveals a DECREASE of 11.4%.

This is not the right way to treat our school teachers in today's day and age, a time when we demand more from them.

Dick

A bit of Followup on KICK

Yesterday I made mention of the fact that our HC Varsity Soccer KICK team members had a successful event on Sunday. As of today, they have already raised well in excess of $10,000 and more is to come!!! This is a significant amount of money and these funds do so very much to help the thousands of children we annually serve.

When I hear people too often complain about young people - which seems to occur generation after generation - I wonder if it is up to us with a bit more experience and background to help them along. Perhaps those of us who have aged a bit (notice I didn't see we are old!) who are the ones who have let them down or not provided enough guidance.

At any rate, these boys; Ryan Counts, Marcus Gruvberger, Kosta Kinnas, John Paul Ltief and Gavin Schwarz have done much to benefit Schools Count.

Dick

They Make a Difference

Hinsdale Central H. S. boys soccer team seniors; Ryan Counts, Marcus Gruvberger, Kosta Kinnas, John Paul Ltief and Gavin Schwarz have certainly left their mark on the soccer program. Not only are they having a terrific start to their season they also have seen fit to make the annual KICK endeavor a successful endeavor.

The boys have run a soccer-tennis tournament, secured donations from many area businesses and have raised money in a variety of other ways. And while the fundraising continues it is clear that this year promises to be one of the most successful in the 10-year history of the initiative.

Just one more thought...the boys had a choice, they could have chosen NOT to be a part of raising funds for children with great educational needs; instead, they DID choose to donate their time and energy to make a difference and they have done exactly that.

Thanks boys!
Coach Flesher

The Harsh and Sad Reality

It will come as no surprise to many that the west side and south side CPS schools are seeing their enrollment tumble. Along with the loss of population in these neighborhoods there is a loss of many other social and economic institutions and safeguards. But this just a small part of the story.

The Sunday Chicago Tribune also put a spotlight on the 'less access to top programs for black, latino students.' To that point the Tribune noted that 'Citywide, 45 percent of black students attend Level 1 or 1-plus schools while 91 percent of white students attend top rated schools.'

To be sure, there are many factors that can account for the above discrepancy but at its very basic level the fact that the chasm exist is great cause for concern. Will or can this difference in 'access to top programs' be addressed is anyone's guess.

Dick

Time Magazine - Must Read

On the heels of the Economic Policy Institute report detailing the real nationwide decrease in teacher pay over the past twenty years comes a startling article in the upcoming week's Time magazine regarding the story of one teacher who, aside from teaching, has two part time jobs and donates blood to supplement her teacher salary.

At this point I don't have my hands on the article but as soon as I do I'll be sure to fill you in on the story. To say the least, this story is bound to add further evidence to the EPI report.

Have a great weekend,
Dick

Downturn in Teacher Wages and More

The other day I remarked that REAL teacher wages nationwide have tumbled over the past twenty years. That's a fact. This is but one symptom in various states of a broader trend, the trend to starve public schools of public funds. Why are some states making the conscious choice to do this one might reasonably ask.

There are various reasons. Quite simply some state legislatures don't place as high of a priority on funding public schools compared to other state needs. Another plausible reason for the cuts or failure to properly pay teachers and fund programs is the growth in other forms of education. Why bother to fund public schools in the appropriate manner if other non-public entities decide to get into the education business.

This last point is not a conspiracy theory. There are plenty of companies out there, for-profit ones, which are now part of the education landscape. A state may therefore decide that it is not worth competing with these groups. And if that is indeed the case then shame on everyone for letting this happen to our public schools.

Dick

A Real Shot in the Arm

$40 million will be provided to give Hyde Park Academy High School a much needed face lift. No doubt that is welcome news to the school personnel and neighborhood. Nothing wrong with assisting this south side school. Many of the schools in this part of the city having been starving for years.

I wonder why it took this long to make this happen and I'm puzzled as to how CPS could come up with this kind of money given all the recent news about the school system being starved for cash.

This expenditure is part of the nearly $1 billion of capital spending announced this past summer. My, how things have changed in just a few short months. This is not to say that the investment isn't needed. What moved heaven and earth to make all of this possible?

Dick

Downturn in Teacher Wages

The Economic Policy Institute, in my view, does its homework. They do great research and are most thorough. Just last week the EPI came out with an 18 page report that should be a real eye opener for all of us.

Among other things the EPI has studied what has happened to the pay of public school teachers between 1994 to 2017. That's a pretty extensive period of time. The study reveals that teacher pay during that period of time has gone down while adjusting for inflation.

Between 1996 to 2017 average weekly wages of public school teachers, nationwide, decreased $27 per week. At the same time weekly wages of other college graduates grew by $137 per week.

I bring this one point up for numerous reasons; first, it stands in stark contrast to the added responsibilities facing teachers; second, it can be another reason why fewer people join the teacher ranks and those in the classroom decide to leave; third, it is a real slap in the face given the fact that many state legislatures have more money during the past few years but are making cuts to public education.

In fact, the EPI report is none to reassuring.

Dick

More than Graduation Rates

The good news from CPS high schools is that graduation rates continue to climb. This is one but one measure of what is taking within the district. But I'd like to suggest that quantitative measures alone, which are too often used, miss the mark in terms of how schools are performing.

There has to be serious consideration of the qualitative...the means by which we find out if students are satisfied with their education, if they are better prepared to continue to march into adulthood.    Are the students curious?    Are they sincerely engaged in learning and exploring?   Are they getting the most out of classroom instruction?

And lest we forget, how are the students who come from difficult circumstances outside the classroom being assisted in school so that they get the most out of the classroom experiences??

Is much more than test scores and graduation rates.

Dick

Ponder This

The economy is strong, companies are looking for employees and many people have money to spend. Then what is the problem with respect to funding public education in many parts of America?

If the money is there then why are suburban voters screaming about spending for referendums? Why are inner city and rural schools finding it hard to fund various school programs and other initiatives? And lest people think this is all talk or a farce then go check out these talks and talk to the constituents.

Where is the REAL money? That's the point...much of the money in this economy gets in the hands of the very wealthy. That's just a fact. Just look at the new tax law. Look at the REAL wages of many inner city and rural areas. Make no mistake about it, I'm not complaining that people have wealth. What I am saying is that many areas where education funding is needed, people don't have the cash to make improvements.

Dick

More on the Mayor and Education

In the wake of Mayor Emanuel opting not to seek a third term I mentioned that at least two issues with regard to education will be critical for candidates to address for those seeking to succeed Emanuel. For one the next mayor will need to thaw what has been a frosty relationship between City Hall and the Chicago Teacher's Union. A second issue revolves around whether the new mayor will keep an appointed school board or move to have the members chosen directly by the constituents.

There is a third major issue that must be addressed. Will the new mayor fully support neighborhood public schools? I have written extensively in the past few years about how selective schools and charters have essentially undermined the viability and vitality of neighborhood schools.

Anyone who doubts that these issues will play a critical role in the minds of the voters doesn't grasp the concerns of the public with regard to the issues that the new mayor will have to address.

Dick

Mayor Steps Down

To many the Emanuel announcement that he won't run for a third term as Mayor of Chicago came as a blockbuster. With nearly a dozen in the race and facing mounting resistance the Mayor's departure from the race certainly means that the landscape has changed substantially.

From my standpoint with Emanuel stepping down there may be an impact on the public schools in couple of major areas. It will be interesting to see if any of the candidates will propose that the CPS Board of Education be an elected body or continue to be appointed by the Mayor.

It has been no secret that the Mayor has had a frosty relationship the CTU. Perhaps a fresh voice at City Hall and at the Chicago Teacher's Union will prove fruitful.

The issue of education will certainly be towards the front burner in what promises to be a hotly contested race in 2019.

CPS Graduation Rates Tick Up

Of course its great news that the graduation rates are trending in a positive direction at CPS schools. Roughly 78% of the high school students graduated in 2018, within five years, starting in the ninth grade. Positive news is always welcome.

One of the continuing alarming trends is the fact that the district's overall five year graduation rates for African American and Latino students saw scant change from 2017. Just as alarming is the fact that the five year span for graduation for black males sits at slightly less than 65% for 2018.

With a district the size of CPS and the various outside-of-school factors affecting African-Americans and Latino students in their respective communities not only raising graduation rates but, even more importantly, attending to other student needs will take herculean efforts in the coming years.

At any rate, let's hope that positive results continue to take place for ALL CPS students.

Dick

A Note of Thanks

Below is but one simple note of thanks that we receive at this time of the year as we've made our delivery of student supplies to the various CPS and Harvey IL schools. In many respects such simple notes are all the justification one needs to acknowledge our great donors and volunteers and their concern for others. To realize the sincerity and warmth with which our donations are received means so very, very much.

Hi Mr. Flesher,
Just wanted to let you know that the backpacks arrived here at Jensen sometime last week and to thank you and your organization again for your generosity!
Have a wonderful weekend!

Thanks to one and all,
Dick

More of the School Safety Commission

Here's my take on things with regard to the School Safety Commission headed Ms. DeVos the Secretary of the Department of Education. There are some positives among them the fact that there have been numerous meetings of the commission as well as a number of stakeholders weighing in.

Here's my biggest beef. If the charge (which it is) is to look at school safety then ALL points need to be on the table including all issues with respect to firearms. Why? The commission is a result of a firearms shooting at a Parkland High School. So it simply makes sense that firearms would be investigated in full as part of the work of the commission.

To ignore any discussion of firearms is simply wrong.

Dick

The Federal School Safety Commission

The good news is that Ms. DeVos, the Secretary of Education, has convened the School Safety Commission on a number of occasions this summer. There have been many witnesses to the four person commission including the Attorney General. There have been a wide range of opinions and thoughts regarding school safety put forth.

I'll get into more of these in the next day or two. At least two things seem clear from my examination of the reports that come out of the meetings; first, there seems to be a growing consensus that a type of 'citadel' - a strong fortress - is being touted. Also, the idea of arming teachers or other personnel has some attraction to the commission.

One thing seems evident to me...there seems to be little chance that the Commission will look at 'gun control' as it pertains to schools and school safety. This is an interesting/confusing juxtaposition in that the Commission might well arm personnel in schools but doesn't want to look at 'gun control.' Seems to me that they ARE dealing with the issue, dealing with it by potentially allowing guns to be out of control!

Dick

A Drop in Dept. of Educ. Funding

I always think it is important to be steeped in facts in order to be informed prior to rushing to judgement or making any assessments. In looking at the Department of Education funding going into 2019 I have noticed that the budget has been slashed by over $3 billion from the 2017 level.

As we have more students involved in education, both public and private, with a greater demand for all types of additional services, it seems to be a black mark that doesn't bode well.

Though the U. S. Dept. of Education is but one element of the total funding in the country, the 5% reduction is bound to harm various programs. In fact, beyond the drastic reduction in funding, the department is also looking at 'streamlining, eliminating, or reducing 39 programs.

For this educator I am saddened at this unfolding news.

Dick

More on the Dept. of Education

The possible use of federal Dept. of Education funds to purchase firearms for schools has certainly stirred some controversy and it's not the first time Secretary DeVos has found herself in the cross hairs of controversy. The complaints have been many and over a good portion of her tenure.

Ms. DeVos has been quiet on the proposal to severely slash the department's funding. She's also not weighed in on the Administration's proposal to merge the Department of Labor with the Department of Education. Her silence on these issues has sent a chilling warning to the education community at large.

This past spring Ms. DeVos found it difficult to ease peoples concerns about the Dept. of Education not doing enough to stop 'abusive practices' by companies serving student loans.

Together, these controversies and others have not only shed a light on Ms. DeVos' ideas but they have put many education initiatives in peril. Hopefully, the vigilance of many in Congress and within the education network will serve to head off any harm.

Dick

DeVos and the Gun Issue

Apparently the Secretary of Education, Ms. DeVos, is considering using funds from the $1 billion Student Support and Academic Enrichment grant to arm teachers with guns in the nation's classrooms. Now this should come as a major shock for any number of reasons not the least of which is this...most children would be all the more upset and fearful.

There is another reason why DeVos' consideration of putting guns in the classroom is wrong. Just this past March the U. S. Congress passed the School Safety Bill which expressly prohibits the use of the money to put firearms in schools. It seems clear that our House and Senate don't want monies used for the purpose of arming school personnel.

One can only hope that Ms. DeVos will take a much more serious look at the many ways of improving school safety absent putting more firearms in our schools.

Dick

Dollars Do Matter

Those who strongly support and believe in public education are well aware of the need to have a broad curriculum including all of the electives. You name it; Music, FACS, Art, Physical Education, Foreign Languages, Tech courses and Shop and the answer is the same...they are invaluable to the growth of each student.

Here's where I'm going with this. If the above is indeed the case - and it is - then dollars DO matter!!

You can't provide a comprehensive public education on the cheap. Yes, I realize dollars need to be spent wisely. Prudent use of taxpayer dollars is critical. But to those who lament something along the lines of 'we're just throwing good dollars after bad' miss the point.

The mind and the growth of an individual is best fostered by providing a world class education. Anything less and we are shortchanging the children.

Dick

The Skinny

For the most part public schools are funded by the local taxpayers by paying their property taxes. In school districts where the property values are high due to a variety of factors. In those school districts where property values are low and continue to slid, there is a dearth of funds for schools.

All this being said I'm still, after all these years, perplexed that public education - that is the children - are subject to the dizzying array of financial factors that I believe shouldn't have anything to do with the quality of education that EVERYONE deserves.

When people talk about reform perhaps it ought to have more to do with funding than tinkering with the structure of schools.

Dick

Schools Count - Moving Ahead

Dear Donors, Volunteers and Friends,


I hope this note finds you well and that you have been able to enjoy your summer!


Much is taking place with Schools Count Corp. and, to say the least, there is much excitement surrounding our efforts to assist those in need. Both Archer Daniels Midland and the Daughters of the American Revolution organizations, along with the many donors - yourselves included - are continuing to generously fund our many efforts to help students in need both here in the Chicago area as well as abroad. I'll pass along more information regarding their efforts in the coming days.


Two weeks ago Schools Count delivered school supplies and uniforms to 34 CPS and Harvey, IL schools. The supplies are a welcome way to get students off on a positive note as the school bells ring in the coming days. Our volunteers were remarkable, two weeks ago, in terms of getting the resources to where they are truly needed.


One of the prominent organizations that continues to support Schools Count is the Hinsdale Central High School boys varsity soccer team. A group of boys (Ryan Counts, Marcus Gruvberger, Kosta Kinnas, John-Paul Ltief and Gavin Schwarz) is making great strides at putting together a number of fundraisers through the KICK initiative. There will be an auction, cash raffle and much more. In the coming days fundraisers at Portillo's (in Willowbrook on Monday, Sept. 17th from noon to 8 pm) and Chipotle (in Westmont on September 10th from 5 to 9 pm) will benefit KICK and Schools Count. I'd be pleased to send you the flyers. Just email me at rich219@comcast.net and I'll get them to you!! You have to present the flyer in paper form or on your phone in order for us to reap the rewards.


Please be sure to stay in touch and to follow all that is taking place with Schools Count. You can keep abreast of all that is occurring by following us at our website at www.schoolscountcorp.org and by checking in daily by going to our blog at www.schoolscountcorp.blogspot.com


I appreciate all that you have done and continue to do to support the students we help along their education journey.


Sincerely,

Dick Flesher

Unfilled Seats

Though the Chicago Public School students don't hit the books until Sept. 4th there are still plenty of events unfolding as the lead-up to the ringing of school bells. Even though our charity doesn't work with high school students we remain concerned and vigilant with respect to matters affecting the children in the neighborhood schools.

By this point in time most incoming freshman students have enrolled. Of the 40,000 seats allocated for incoming freshmen, nearly 14.000 seats remain unfilled. Of course one of the factors leading to this shortfall is the huge loss of population of families with school age children. The CEO of CPS, Ms. Janice Jackson, admitted as much.

There are other factors that certainly are at play in terms of fewer freshmen enrolling in the public schools. One thing is certain, the footprint of what CPS high schools will look like in the years to come is bound to undergo serious change.

Dick

What's the Alternative?

Given the abject poverty of many rural and inner city areas of America it is little wonder that many school districts and, by association, hundreds of thousands of children are in desperate need of numerous resources. Not coincidentally, teachers and the parents of students feel the very same effects.

So, the point is this...if children in public schools don't have the proper resources then how can we expect them to succeed and succeed on ANY level? We are shortchanging them and, in turn, doing the same to ourselves.

And I'm not simply talking about earning high grades in school and then later on at the university level. We owe to our young to see to it that they are well equipped citizens and that they have the opportunity to add to the legacy of their families and the society at large.

So, in short, the alternative to help those in need. That's our mission.

Thanks!
Dick

Now is the Time

Yes, the children will soon head back to the classroom and, in turn, they'll find that they have some new supplies waiting for them. We are continuing to work with 35 CPS and Harvey, IL schools. As pleased as we are to serve thousands of students we'd like to be able to help others.

Just because we've made our deliveries doesn't mean that our work is done. There are many more schools, students, teachers and families that could use some additional assistance. The bottom line is this...we can't become complacent. We need to find a way to forge ahead and do more.

We can't sit on our laurels. To join in please consider making a donation of a music instrument or a cash donation. Simply email me at rich219@comcast.net.

Thanks,
Dick

School Bells are Ringing!

Thanks to all of the wonderful volunteers in these photos, Schools Count was able to deliver 4,000 binders, 25,000 folders,
11,600 notebooks, 5,000 crayons, 800 backpacks, 600 school uniforms, 1,000 colored pencils, and 30,000 pencils to some eager Chicago Public School and Harvey IL students.

I want each and every donor and volunteer to know that you have put smiles on the faces of the children in addition to seeing to it that they have the supplies needed for Day 1 of school.

Dick

Enjoy Your Summer!

Each year at this time those of us either teaching or supporting the work of our students and teachers come to grips with the fact that another school year has come to an end. Students graduate, some move on to college, others head to work while still others will return in the fall to the start of a new and exciting school year. A few of our teaching colleagues will close the classroom door one final time as they head into retirement.

For me, as a representative of Schools Count, I will also take some time off from blogging. It's always a great feeling knowing that summer is upon us. It's a time of leisure, travel and recharging the battery.

I want to take this opportunity to thank you for following us this school year. Your interest in our work, your support through donating funds and/or volunteering, and your desire to see young people grow is paramount. I'll look forward to reconnecting with you in late July or early August.

All the best my friends,
Dick

Closing of Harvey Schools

The closing of two Harvey, IL schools, Sandburg and Lowell Longfellow, is indeed sad news for the those living in the immediate area of each building. These schools have been around a long period of time, many generations of various families having passed through the doors of Sandburg and Longfellow.

The closing of each is much more than ending the chapter of an educational institution. It demonstrates the movement of people, it reflects a loss of jobs in the region, and the shuttering of each is a symbol that the community continues to suffer. There are fewer factories, less tax revenue, vacant and abandoned buildings, and all the harm that can arise out of such conditions.

The closure of these schools represents not just a shrinking of the district but stands as a symbol of decay, decay that people have to cope with and live in each and every day.

To those who say the people, the schools, and the community-at-large need to 'pick themselves up by the bootstraps' please note that the loss of schools, factories, stores and community organizations are the very 'boot straps' needed. They'd probably grabs those 'straps' if they were available.

Dick

Sad News

Our charity has worked with the Harvey IL School District 152 for a number of years. During this period we have been fortunate to assist six elementary schools and one middle school. But poverty, the loss of jobs and the attending drop in the community population has meant a decline in school enrollment.

This past year Lowell Longfellow Elementary was shuttered and next year Sandburg Elementary will also close their doors. There aren't enough children to warrant keeping these two schools open. There's enough room in the other five district schools to house the students.

I want everyone to know that these two schools did NOTHING wrong! There were, and are, plenty of good teachers and eager students in both Longfellow and Sandburg. Too often, those who know next to nothing about conditions in the community are too eager to place the blame at the doorstep of the teachers and those in charge of the schools.

To those who work in our charity as well as those who were part of Longfellow and Sandburg please know your efforts were, and are, most meaningful and greatly appreciated.

Dick

A Grateful Group of Principals

Over the weekend I contacted the various CPS principals to let them know when we would be delivering school supplies to their students in August. Below are some of the responses I received from the principals and I'd like to share them with you. As you can see as you can see they are truly grateful for the support.
Dick



Happy Sunday Mr. Flesher,

Thank you for the email. I am well and definitely looking forward to summer vacation. We are so thankful for the generous work you do to ensure our students have school supplies on the first day. We are hosting summer school this year, so someone will certainly be at the school. We look forward to this continued partnership.

Warmly,

Janelle Thompson

Hi Dick:
Thanks so much, again, for what you do for our school community! I will be in the building for the deliver on August 8.
Always,
Marilyn

Yes, thank you so much, we still have some supplies, however, they will be used to reburbish for the last quarter. I am copying the clerk and the engineer to make sure they are aware of the delivery.
Thank you on behalf of the the Lowell students.


Hello Mr. Flesher,
It is a pleasure hearing from and thank you for your generosity. I should be in the building n August. Also, my assistant principal Mrs. Walker and the secretary Ms. Bufford should both be in the building. Enjoy your summer and I look forward to seeing you on August 9, 2018.

Grateful,

Shootings in Schools

The most recent and tragic loss of life in the Santa Fe mass shooting is but another sad mark on the senseless loss of life not through disease, illness or plague. No, the loss of innocents is not due to any of these maladies; rather, it's to do with what we typically associate with weapons of war.

Yes, the gun violence which takes place all too often takes place outside of the school building has now found its way into the classrooms of America. Make no mistake, the shooting don't occur in the rough and tumble of inner cities. Suburban and rural schools are just as prone to death at the hands of a killer.

I'll leave it at this for now. What are WE to do? What can I do to help stop the carnage?

Dick

What's a Monitor to Do?

Have you ever seen the commercial currently running on television where a man is in a dental chair and a couple of people are mentioning how much dental work needs to be done and they comment that they are heading to lunch? The incredulous patient says, in essence, "are you going to do the dental work?" The two people say "no, we are just monitoring what is to take place."

I mention this because the Monitor that the State of IL has appointed to oversee the Special Education program in CPS schools may well find herself/himself in the very same boat.

That is, what power do they really have to affect change in programs and, more importantly, to affect what takes place in each of the many schools with the Special Education students and teachers? The Monitor will certainly need certain authorities that extend beyond the Administration level of CPS. If that person or persons don't have the proper abilities to make changes then this will go for naught.

Otherwise the Special Education students and parents will be left much like the patient in the dental chair.

Dick

State moves in on CPS Spec. Ed.

After many months of investigating the CPS Special Education program the State of IL has voted to put a monitor in place to oversee almost all aspect of the district's Special Education Services. All of this comes on the heels of a WBEZ investigation that was largely spearheaded by many parents and various advocacy groups.

The complaints have been lodged for a number of years by the various stakeholders. One has to wonder why the district, acutely aware of the problems, has done so little to address the issues and concerns relative to the delivery of services.

To a person, the vast majority of parents and advocacy groups welcomed the vote for a state appointed monitor to step in. In the next couple of days I will weigh in on the steep climb that the monitor and needed personnel will face.

Dick

Thank You

As the school year winds down in different parts of the country my thoughts turn to the teachers who have spent many long days and hours helping our nation's children. Often overlooked are the times spent by teachers to assist students in ways that many of us can't imagine.

There are times when students simply need a place to unwind. That's often during their lunch period and what better place to go than to their teachers for that respite. Some children simply want to be told that they matter in spite of all that may be happening in their lives. In this instant the kids will find a teacher to chat with.

Teachers are there to do more than 'teach' material. They are a positive force, they inspire and they may even cajole. They lend the time and energy to lift up others.

No matter where you teach, regardless of the grade level, no matter the subject matter...a thank you to our nation's leaders, our teachers.

Dick

More on CHIP

The Children Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is a program designed to help children, and in turn students, of the lowest income families. Funding is on the chopping block. This is a federal program run by the various states. It ought to be noted that the cuts aren't being proposed because of misuse of the funds. Quite the contrary.

Not only is this a program that delivers, as intended, it's a vital program for a number of reasons. Let me give you one critical reason why this program has to continue and to be fully funded. Whether in low income rural regions or the inner city portions of America students often attend schools where a nurse is available but one or two days a week at most.

If the kids aren't able to access proper medical care at school then the CHIP initiative becomes all the more imperative. It is a vital lifeline for students from low income families.

Dick

Children Shouldn't be Bargaining 'CHIPS'

The proposed $7 billion dollar cut to the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) is bound to hurt young people. The CHIP program provides health care to kids from low-income families. It is also a program that both sides of the aisle have long supported.

So I'll be as succinct as possible. From an education standpoint - since this is the work of our charity - ANY cuts to the program not only are detrimental to the health of a young child, such cuts are bound to play out in school. A child not receiving proper medical care is a child who will almost certainly be faced with challenges in the classroom.

And it doesn't have to be this way.

Dick

It's All Good!

There are weeks where, day after day, not much takes place with our charity. During those times I wonder if the general public has major concerns with the state of public education and the plight of young people who come from neighborhoods where life is more than difficult...it's down right frightening.

But today is not one of those days. Archer Daniels Midland (ADM), as others manage to do, put a smile on my face today. Why? ADM Cares came through with some funding (as they often do) to support the purchase of STEM resources for a couple of CPS schools.

I'm not the biggest backer of STEM education but there is absolutely no reason why children, and in turn CPS schools, shouldn't have the opportunity to participate in STEM. Smiles all around today!!

Schools Today

Years ago we had the same reader as our brothers and sisters if not for our parents. There were no computer labs, no one to one learning, few if any Special Education classes and fewer sports/activities. And there were plenty of other resources that are present today that weren't even thought about.

As you are well aware that's not the case today. The resources and supplies needed today are extensive and many are expensive. That's not to say they aren't needed...they certainly are warranted. The services being rendered are much different than 50 or 60 years ago.

I mention this because in this day and age of teacher strikes, the demands of educating children and more it should not come as a surprise that school districts are asking for additional funding in terms of referendums. People can't expect to pay the same amount in property taxes as they did in the past.

I say all of this as the debate continues about school funding, so called school reform and more. As is always the case, one must educate themselves about how effectively your dollars are being used.

Dick

Let me Ask You This

So some universities are paying the way for those coming from low income homes to attend college. Aside from the financial assistance and the very real fact that universities are realizing a greater degree of diversity there is another point that I believe is worthy of discussion.

Let's look at it this way. What if we just ignore these young people? What happens to these hard working individuals if they don't have the opportunity to advance? How are they suppose to realize the so called American Dream? What does America look like if these kids aren't given a chance?

I believe the only way to address the above questions is for America, and by association its citizens, to pitch in and lend a hand. That's what we do if there is a natural disaster. Why not do the same for a man made disaster?

Dick

More on the Underserved

One of the many points of contention with regard to assisting young people with respect to obtaining assess to college revolves around the issue that these individuals, who are admitted, may well be taking the place of an individual who has higher test scores and can afford to pay the tuition.

That is not 'fake news.' It is a legitimate concern for the university at large as well as for those who are denied entrance even though they seem to have the required funds and test scores for entrance.

So why admit those who are from the lower socio-economic rungs? Many of the those at various universities, along with the Gates', see that these individuals as hard working and eager to get ahead but for the lack of money. These same university presidents and provosts believe that the underserved deserve a shot at the so called American Dream. They also believe that the university benefits from the standpoint of adding to its diverse student population.

From my point of view...kudos to those involved in helping those who need a bit of help.

Dick

Helping the Underserved

One of last nights episodes on 60 Minutes dealt with scholarships to help the poor with regard to being able to go to college. Many people who live in poverty quite simply cannot afford to pay the rapidly escalating cost of attending the university of their choice. It's not a matter of effort either.

The President of Princeton, along with Melinda and Bill Gates, are seeing to it that students who otherwise couldn't afford a college education are getting a chance. That means that the Gates, and others, are paying the freight.

The results of assisting those in poverty are stunning. Students who come from the low rungs of the socio-economic ladder are doing extraordinarily well terms of making the grade in school and they are performing at a high standard in the world of work.

That might be surprising to some but to those offering the scholarships they have found that just because one comes from an impoverished background that doesn't mean they don't study or that they don't care about their future. Melinda and Bill Gates have found that plenty of people, who come from meager means, do want to get ahead and they'll work hard at doing it.

Dick

What's Happening in Dunning?

The far Northwest Side of Chicago will find a new CPS school in the fall of 2019 (projection). It's sorely needed as the current Taft High School is overcrowded and there are a number of other feeder schools where enrollment has ballooned in recent years. The new building, at a cost of $70 million, will hold 1,200 students.

This sounds like good news and it is to a large extent. Just one huge hiccup though...

Who will attend the new Dunning building? Will it be a sole high school for just the freshman class at Taft or will it take in Taft freshman and other students who aren't attending Taft? Perhaps the Dunning school won't have Taft students and it will be purely a high school for those living in the bustling community.

The answers to these questions have not been provided by CPS. Hopefully, sooner rather than later, CPS will let everyone know as time and patience is running short.

Dick

Jazz Time Friends!

Why not put aside the I phone, turn off the TV and head to the Hinsdale Community House (8th St. and Madison Streets in Hinsdale) for some lively jazz performed by the various Hinsdale Central High School Jazz Ensembles. This is bound to be a wonderful night of smooth music being put on by some wonderful and generous musicians.

The event swings into action at 7:00 pm and the entrance fee is a mere $5 per person or $10 for the entire family!!

All of the proceeds of the evening will go towards the purchase of music instruments so that the children at Chase Elementary School in Chicago can have their very own after-school band program. So head on out to the Community House...chill, take in the music and know that you are assisting some students who will have a chance to replicate the HC Ensembles!!

Thank you,
Dick

Crisis - Looming Teacher Shortage

My concern about others; teachers, friends, concerned citizens and govt. officials, not responding to the present teacher shortage in Illinois as well as other parts of America apparently is not shared by a good number of citizens. There are many reasons why I'm raising the issue apart from the harm to our students.

The chasm is deep and getting expert teachers, not unlike people in the medical or law professions, will take time in terms of training and student teaching. Districts can't just run an ad/hang out a shingle and expect a whole crop of extraordinary teachers to apply. That is a rare commodity these days and it is only likely to exist in school districts with a long pedigree of academic success.

Here's but one solution that needs to be implemented right now. There are scant number of high schools in America that offer courses akin to 'Introduction to Teaching' which puts students in elementary schools and feeder schools a few days a week while offering instruction in the high school setting to complement the work in the field. I have seen these programs and have witnessed their successes.

If the AFT, NEA and local school boards were on top of their game, this is a great place to start in terms of tackling the problem.

Dick

Teacher Crisis - Calling all Allies

If I can motivate just one person to respond to this blog/facebook post, enlist the help of one individual to write a positive 'Letter to the Editor' or find one individual to contact a public servant to address the teacher shortage crisis and the need to invest in recruiting others to join the profession, well...then this brief note will be worth it.

Standing by, idly, while curriculum programs go without classroom teachers and while education programs at colleges dwindle in size, by the day, won't cut it. Allowing schools to cut back on the types of classes offered simply because there are too few properly trained teachers can't be allowed.

Whether young or not quite so young, we all need to get involved. Without being hyperbolic, it may very well be your daughters and sons who go without those valuable resources called teachers!

Dick

Teacher Crisis - Don't Tolerate It!

Yesterday I brought you the news that there are over 200 openings in schools in Kane County, IL. This is a county that should have plenty of access to teacher recruits given its proximity to Chicago and many surrounding area universities. Obviously, much more is at issue here.

Whether it's people bellyaching about teachers, reformers (often critics of public education) who champion other delivery systems, a loss of funding for a variety of reasons and a whole host of other issues, one thing is clear...the teacher shortage is growing and many students are suffering as a result.

I have taught for over thirty years and have been fortunate to work with great individuals in our charity for over a decade but the time has come to take the gloves off. Ignoring this problem, and others associated with it, has to come to a grinding halt. Unless individuals step up to say no more and unless we get engaged in preserving the sanctity of the profession of teaching we are in for a rough ride.

I am asking those of you who work with us, donate funds, volunteer or who otherwise support the cause of assisting students and teachers in need to redouble your efforts. How can this be done you ask?

Let govt. officials know how you feel, donate to causes that aid students and teachers, get on a school board, write an op-ed to voice your concern. The ways to let people know how you feel about this crisis is only limited by not getting involved. Everyone is needed.

Dick

Teacher Crisis

Make no mistake about it there is a severe teacher shortage. When Kane County, as of this morning, advertisers on its website (teachinkane.org) that it has 207 openings then you know there is a significant shortfall. Among the openings are the need for 40 elementary school teachers, 69 high school teachers and another 35 in the middle schools.

That is just one county in the State of Illinois. Imagine the openings in Cook County. And this crisis is not isolated to one county or merely one state. This is a nationwide problem of significant importance.

Ah, the word importance. The fact that thousands of jobs are available in teaching and the fact that Education Departments at many universities don't have enough teacher candidates is certainly alarming. Personally, what I find alarming is that I don't get the sense that the larger public sees a problem and if they do; well, so what!!

We might very well be beyond a crisis. My friends...we are.

Dick

Democracy in CPS

I've always been a big proponent of an elected School Board for CPS. That isn't the case right now. The Mayor gets to make that nod concerning who serves though the state legislators could approve an elected board. Right now that's not even on the back burner. But there is another important role for democracy in the neighborhood schools of Chicago.

Tomorrow elections will be held for Local School Council (LSC) members. These members serve within their own school boundaries and though their power has diminished over time they are an important vehicle to the parents of each school. Some CPS schools have contested elections while a good many can't find enough people willing to run let alone serve.

As one might expect, the effectiveness of the LSC's varies greatly. I do know that the LSC of Pickard Elementary is a positive, powerful and highly effective LSC. It's members are active in terms of providing resources to the children as well as working closely with the school staff. Pickard is a school that has been on the rise and it is due, in no small part, to the great efforts made by the LSC.

LSC's have an important voice in a good many schools and they will be effective only as long as the constituents participate in the process.

Get out and vote, get out and get engaged. It's your school, it's your community, and it's the future of our children.

Dick

Rarin To Go!!

I have six varsity boys soccer players from Hinsdale Central High School who are eager to run the 2018 version of our KICK (Kick It In for Chicago Kids) on behalf of our charity. Ryan Counts, Zach Drescher, Marcus Gruvberger, Kosta Kinnas, John Paul Ltief and Gavin Schwarz are ready to roll.

These boys are committed to raising funds for the children in need of resources living in high poverty areas in the Chicagoland region. In the next few months the boys will seek corporate and business sponsorships, organize a soccer/tennis event on Sept. 16th and they'll be running a auction.

I'll be sure to keep everyone posted on how you can be a part of this wonderful initiative.

Dick

Cleaning CPS Schools

In the aftermath of filth conditions in many CPS schools, revealed by the Chicago Sun-Times, CPS has undertaken moves not only to start addressing the cleanliness issue of the schools but, at the same time by doing so, has averted a strike by the district's janitors.

Just two days before the janitors were to strike the brass at CPS has agreed to hire an additional 200 janitors at a cost of $7 million to address the problems. In fact, at least 100 of the newly hired personnel will stay on the job once this clean-up has been completed.

The fact that many buildings were not properly taken care of is but one of many issues that has to be solved. The work of the Sodexco Magic and Aramark, which together were paid nearly $90 million in the 2016-17 school year, has been a major concern in terms of their performance. Going forward, making sure that CPS gets the proper proverbial 'bang for the buck' will be critical.

The students, staff, parents and other school personnel deserve a clean and safe environment. Anything less isn't acceptable.

Time to clean up their act as well as the buildings!

Dick

All Jazzed Up

That's right, I'm all jazzed up!! That's an expression from some years back but it holds true for me when it comes to helping Chase Elementary put together an after-school band. It's exciting to see Ian - the Music Teacher - take the initiative to get this up and running and it's equally gratifying to know that the many dozens of Hinsdale Central High School musicians are willing to take the time and energy to help our charity assist the students at Chase.

So yes, I'm all jazzed up to know that we'll play to what hopes to be a crowded house on April 25th. To be a patron and attendee of this terrific evening please contact me at rich219@comcast.net and I'll give you the 'lowdown' on what promises to be a sensational evening of jazz!!!

Dick

Jazz Time

I'm not sure I can ever say that I understand what it means to go without particularly when it comes to my education and teaching tenure. Whether one needs a pencil, uniform, art supplies, a binder, folders or music instrument it is simply wrong that the students go without these vital resources. The children and staff of CPS schools often face this dilemma.

The Hinsdale Central High School Music Dept. will put on a benefit to help raise money to buy band instruments for Chase Elementary School in Chicago. The program will be held at the Hinsdale Community House (8th St. and Madison St. in Hinsdale) on Wednesday, April 25th. The music commences at 7:00 sharp and the cost is unbelievably reasonable...$5 per person or $10 for the entire family! There's one other way of paying for your entry fee while being recognized for your support of the musicians and Schools Count Corp.

Anyone making a donation of $25 will be recognized as a 'bronze' patron in addition to getting free entry. Anyone making a donation of $25 to $50 will be recognized as a 'silver' patron in addition to getting free entry. Finally, anyone making a donation in excess of $50 will be recognized as a 'gold' patron while obtaining free entry to the festivities. Of course these donations will enable you to obtain a tax deduction for your contribution.

Simply send your donation to Dick Flesher at 9550 140th Court, Unit 112, Orland Park, IL. 60462. Kindly make the check payable to Schools Count Corp. Please be sure to get your check to me no later than Friday, April 20th.

Hope to see you on the 25th for a great evening and wonderful cause.

Many thanks,
Dick Flesher

Cash is Coming to CPS

The whole story of the neediest schools in Illinois receiving additional funding is certainly good news. According to the Chicago Sun Times, "Chicago Public Schools is expected to receive $1.54 billion from the state in the current school year, according to the Illinois State Board of Education."

CPS, based on the deal reached last year, is expecting an additional $450 million going forward.

And while everyone seems pretty satisfied that funds will get to the poorest schools districts, including the Chicago Public Schools, I'd add a word of caution. As the Sun Times notes, "lawmakers will have to increase spending for schools each year for a decade for the formula to work.

That my friends might be a hefty lift. Will lawmakers, those in power and those who are not yet serving, see fit to follow through on the increases needed for the next ten years? We'll see.

Dick