Today is a day to commemorate the lasting work and legacy of one, Martin Luther King. While many know of the social issues and ills of the country which he sought to correct, it is worth noting that Dr. King also very much wanted to advance the quality of education, for all, in America.
One quote of his, regarding education, stands out. Dr. King had this to say about education in the United States..."the function is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education." I could not agree more! The work goes on!!
Thank you Martin!
Dick
Monday, January 16, 2017
Thursday, January 12, 2017
CPS Pension Crisis
I haven't weighed in on events with regard to the Chicago Public Schools for awhile so I think it's only wise to get back to work covering many of the schools we serve in the district.
In December, 2016 Governor Rauner vetoed a $215 million dollar pension bill that would have certainly helped the cash strapped district. To say that CPS CEO Forrest Claypool was dismayed or that Mayor Emanuel was upset is an understatement. Obviously the CTU was none to pleased though they weren't surprised by the Governor's veto.
Fortunately, at least for CPS, the Illinois Senate has already overridden the veto but as of today the Illinois House has not taken an override vote. It remains to be seen if Speaker Madigan can muster the 71 votes needed to override Governor Rauner's action.
The fact remains that the pension crisis and budget woes of the school system are still a major front burner issue and little seems to have changed in recent weeks.
Dick
In December, 2016 Governor Rauner vetoed a $215 million dollar pension bill that would have certainly helped the cash strapped district. To say that CPS CEO Forrest Claypool was dismayed or that Mayor Emanuel was upset is an understatement. Obviously the CTU was none to pleased though they weren't surprised by the Governor's veto.
Fortunately, at least for CPS, the Illinois Senate has already overridden the veto but as of today the Illinois House has not taken an override vote. It remains to be seen if Speaker Madigan can muster the 71 votes needed to override Governor Rauner's action.
The fact remains that the pension crisis and budget woes of the school system are still a major front burner issue and little seems to have changed in recent weeks.
Dick
Wednesday, January 11, 2017
The Challenge
As the New Year unfolds it is well worth considering the plight of others in need as well as the demands made of school children and their teachers. This isn't a small point or one that ought to be dismissed.
The normal rigors of the education day persist as they always have. What is different in 2017 is the fact that greater demands and challenges are confronted by both students and staff. Make no mistake about it, both groups have to accept the various challenges.
Today, students and teachers are confronted with more complex issues; new evaluations, a myriad of technological changes, more rigorous standardized testing, higher demands made of students, and so very much more. I mention all of this in light of changes in school structure, financial considerations and critics of public education.
All of this makes it all the more vital for our charity to continue to assist children, schools and staff going forward. As always we will do our best to help those suffering the effects of various calamities.
Dick
The normal rigors of the education day persist as they always have. What is different in 2017 is the fact that greater demands and challenges are confronted by both students and staff. Make no mistake about it, both groups have to accept the various challenges.
Today, students and teachers are confronted with more complex issues; new evaluations, a myriad of technological changes, more rigorous standardized testing, higher demands made of students, and so very much more. I mention all of this in light of changes in school structure, financial considerations and critics of public education.
All of this makes it all the more vital for our charity to continue to assist children, schools and staff going forward. As always we will do our best to help those suffering the effects of various calamities.
Dick
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
What's Ahead for SCC this Year
As with any year, 2017 offers our organization the opportunity to assist those students and, by association, their families who ha a need for the basic tools and supplies in order to get a terrific education. A top priority is to continue to work with students and schools in the immediate area.
But, as is the case at times, some issues and problems occur or come up without notice or planning. At times floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes harms school and school communities. You can be sure that our Board of Directors will do our very best to address these to the best of our abilities.
In the coming days I'll outline some of our activities we'll undertake in the coming year. I look forward to seeing you and working with you on these important initiatives.
Dick
But, as is the case at times, some issues and problems occur or come up without notice or planning. At times floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes harms school and school communities. You can be sure that our Board of Directors will do our very best to address these to the best of our abilities.
In the coming days I'll outline some of our activities we'll undertake in the coming year. I look forward to seeing you and working with you on these important initiatives.
Dick
Monday, January 9, 2017
A New Year and 10 Year Anniversary
2017 marks a remarkable milestone as it signifies the 10 year anniversary of Schools Count Corp. During this period your many efforts, have enabled thousands of children, and their families, access to school resources as well as the materials needed to rebuild their schools, homes and neighborhoods.
As I reflect back on the past ten years, whether serving those in Chicago, bringing supplies to tornado/hurricane devastated areas throughout the U.S. or supporting those in earthquake ravaged Haiti, the resilience and gratefulness of those served is real and quite profound. No amount of aid, large or small, is greeted by anything other than a warm hug, smile or note of thanks.
One other thought...I've never had the sense that those we've helped have ever sought to abuse a helping hand. Quite the contrary, there are those who we've supported who have pitched in and assisted on the various initiatives we have undertaken in addition to sharing supplies with others.
It is my privilege to ask you to continue your support of Schools Count in 2017. As has been our practice, over these past 10 years, 100% of all monetary donations will be used directly for the purchase of supplies for those in need.
Many thanks!
Dick
As I reflect back on the past ten years, whether serving those in Chicago, bringing supplies to tornado/hurricane devastated areas throughout the U.S. or supporting those in earthquake ravaged Haiti, the resilience and gratefulness of those served is real and quite profound. No amount of aid, large or small, is greeted by anything other than a warm hug, smile or note of thanks.
One other thought...I've never had the sense that those we've helped have ever sought to abuse a helping hand. Quite the contrary, there are those who we've supported who have pitched in and assisted on the various initiatives we have undertaken in addition to sharing supplies with others.
It is my privilege to ask you to continue your support of Schools Count in 2017. As has been our practice, over these past 10 years, 100% of all monetary donations will be used directly for the purchase of supplies for those in need.
Many thanks!
Dick
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Holiday Thoughts
It has been a pleasure to work with you throughout the year. I am often reminded of the good of so very many; those of you who so generously and selflessly give of your time, money, and energy to the cause of those in need. You are the backbone of not only this organization but, whether you know it or not, you are often the group that provides tangible care to the most vulnerable among us so very close to our homes.
I am often reminded of your kindness when I open a donation envelope or get a note of encouragement. And it is not uncommon to be greeted by teachers and principals who wear a broad smile when our little yellow Penske truck pulls up to the door with some goodies for the students. I'm also reminded of just what it means for a child to get a new clarinet, a set of notebooks, a warm winter coat or a new basketball when I get a letter of thanks from students.
So, as I take a break from blogging/facebook - and sometimes venting - I want to extend my warmest wishes to you, your family and friends for a peaceful and joyful holiday.
Be well and see you in 2017!
Dick
I am often reminded of your kindness when I open a donation envelope or get a note of encouragement. And it is not uncommon to be greeted by teachers and principals who wear a broad smile when our little yellow Penske truck pulls up to the door with some goodies for the students. I'm also reminded of just what it means for a child to get a new clarinet, a set of notebooks, a warm winter coat or a new basketball when I get a letter of thanks from students.
So, as I take a break from blogging/facebook - and sometimes venting - I want to extend my warmest wishes to you, your family and friends for a peaceful and joyful holiday.
Be well and see you in 2017!
Dick
Monday, December 12, 2016
A Final Plea
Hinsdale District #86 has two schools, South and Central, and we do have students who qualify for federal help because of low income in addition to having students who are homeless. In our area of abundance, I'd like to make one final request for you to join with us as we look to raise funds for these children.
Simply go to www.gofundme.com and type in the word 'pircon' where it asks for a search word. You will then see 'D86: Neighbors in Need.' You can donate any amount to this worthwhile initiative. At this time of the year, when others are struggling, often due to factors beyond their control, I can think of no better act of kindness than lending a helping hand to your neighbor.
Many thanks,
Dick
Simply go to www.gofundme.com and type in the word 'pircon' where it asks for a search word. You will then see 'D86: Neighbors in Need.' You can donate any amount to this worthwhile initiative. At this time of the year, when others are struggling, often due to factors beyond their control, I can think of no better act of kindness than lending a helping hand to your neighbor.
Many thanks,
Dick
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