Sunday, March 21, 2004
Monrovia SchoolLink Preview for Wednesday, March 24, 2004 meeting
I wasn't expecting this so soon. There'll be a hearing at this Wednesday's meeting on the GATE program. So if you're interested, show up with your ducks in a row. You're welcome to speak. It's item 6.11, below.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
LOCATION AND TIME ~ The board meets at the school district office at 325 E. Huntington Drive, on the north side of Huntington, just across from Smart and Final. There'll be a closed session at 6:30 p.m. (Don't bother attending because you can't get in), followed by the regular meeting at 7 p.m.(not 7:30, as it used to be).
~ Items 4.1, 4.1.1, and 4.12 - The board is going to thank a bunch of groups: the Monrovia City Council for chipping in $4,000 for an after-school recreation program at Mayflower, the Monrovia Public Library for $8,000 for the district's Pro-Active Tutoring (PAT) program [Do the tutors give PAT answers?], and (together with the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce), four employees:
- Julia Clegg, Clerical Assistant, Bradoaks Elementary School
- Shannon Johnson, Teacher, Bradoaks Elementary School
- Martha Moncada, School/Community Liaison, Monroe Elementary School
- Edwina Johnson, Teacher, Monroe Elementary School
~ Item 4.2 - Public hearing for items not on the agenda. If you want to talk about an infestation of sparrows on school grounds, this is a good place to bring it up. Any school-related topic is fair game. But if you want to speak about the GATE program, hold on, that's coming up a bit later.
~ Item 6.9 - The board will "approve Monrovia High School students for graduation on June 16, 2004." I've always wondered what would happen if the board didn't approve this item. Would the students have to stay in High School for another year? Until they're all 18? Hmmmmm. Enquiring minds want to know.
~ Item 6.10 - The board will approve a new high school course in zoology. Now, I know what you're asking. You're asking, "How does Mr. High-And-Mighty Brad know they're going to *approve* this measure since the board hasn't even voted on it yet?" Well, just trust me on this. They're gonna approve it.
~ Item 6.11 - Okay, here's what all you GATE parents have been waiting for: "Public Hearing to Receive Input on the Monrovia Unified School District Gifted And Talented Education Programs. Action: convene a public hearing to receive input on the vision and planning for Monrovia Unified School District Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs for the future." Are your ducks all lined up? Quack! Good. Then all you have to do is take your turn and tell the board your thoughts about the GATE program.
ON THE WEB ~ You may also see this fine publication, and assorted back issues, on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
(0) comments
I wasn't expecting this so soon. There'll be a hearing at this Wednesday's meeting on the GATE program. So if you're interested, show up with your ducks in a row. You're welcome to speak. It's item 6.11, below.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
LOCATION AND TIME ~ The board meets at the school district office at 325 E. Huntington Drive, on the north side of Huntington, just across from Smart and Final. There'll be a closed session at 6:30 p.m. (Don't bother attending because you can't get in), followed by the regular meeting at 7 p.m.(not 7:30, as it used to be).
~ Items 4.1, 4.1.1, and 4.12 - The board is going to thank a bunch of groups: the Monrovia City Council for chipping in $4,000 for an after-school recreation program at Mayflower, the Monrovia Public Library for $8,000 for the district's Pro-Active Tutoring (PAT) program [Do the tutors give PAT answers?], and (together with the Monrovia Chamber of Commerce), four employees:
- Julia Clegg, Clerical Assistant, Bradoaks Elementary School
- Shannon Johnson, Teacher, Bradoaks Elementary School
- Martha Moncada, School/Community Liaison, Monroe Elementary School
- Edwina Johnson, Teacher, Monroe Elementary School
~ Item 4.2 - Public hearing for items not on the agenda. If you want to talk about an infestation of sparrows on school grounds, this is a good place to bring it up. Any school-related topic is fair game. But if you want to speak about the GATE program, hold on, that's coming up a bit later.
~ Item 6.9 - The board will "approve Monrovia High School students for graduation on June 16, 2004." I've always wondered what would happen if the board didn't approve this item. Would the students have to stay in High School for another year? Until they're all 18? Hmmmmm. Enquiring minds want to know.
~ Item 6.10 - The board will approve a new high school course in zoology. Now, I know what you're asking. You're asking, "How does Mr. High-And-Mighty Brad know they're going to *approve* this measure since the board hasn't even voted on it yet?" Well, just trust me on this. They're gonna approve it.
~ Item 6.11 - Okay, here's what all you GATE parents have been waiting for: "Public Hearing to Receive Input on the Monrovia Unified School District Gifted And Talented Education Programs. Action: convene a public hearing to receive input on the vision and planning for Monrovia Unified School District Gifted and Talented Education (GATE) programs for the future." Are your ducks all lined up? Quack! Good. Then all you have to do is take your turn and tell the board your thoughts about the GATE program.
ON THE WEB ~ You may also see this fine publication, and assorted back issues, on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
Thursday, March 18, 2004
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 78 ~ March 18, 2004
I caught a smidgen of the March 10 board meeting, but being a bit on the slow side, I didn't quite understand the meaning of all the API results that Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Joel Shawn went over at the meeting, so I dropped by his office and asked him to explain it again. This issue is mostly about that, though there is a bit of other stuff, too.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
The good news about the API scores is that the elementary and middle schools have improved remarkably! Up, up, up! Very nice. Congratulations to all! The bad news is that the high school is not doing so hot. Well... by one measure it is doing a tad better, but by another it's doing worse.
The API information Shawn presented at the board meeting shows two measures: 1) How Monrovia schools rank compared to ALL schools statewide (I'll call this the "All Schools Ranking"), and 2) How Monrovia schools rank compared to similar schools statewide (the "Similar Schools Ranking"). (There's a whole formula to measure similarity - number of non-English speakers, ethnicity, family income, and so forth - but I'm not going to get into that). One thing the latest report does not do, however, is tell you how the schools did compared to their own scores last year. I looked for that information in vain, and that's just not what this report is about, so it's not there.
Before I tell you about my chat with Joel Shawn, let's start off with a look at the data.
On both measures, Monrovia's elementary and middle schools moved up, sometimes dramatically. Of particular note is Plymouth School. Plymouth is in the south end of town and I'd guess probably has fewer afluent families and more non-English speakers than any other school in town. In 2001 it ranked a rotten 3 in the 1-10 Similar Schools Rank. But in 2003 it had moved up to rank 8! Not only that, but in the All Schools Ranking it moved from a 4 to a 6, a two-point increase that takes it from below average to above average. This is a remarkable achievement and I think the whole Plymouth crew should be very proud! Congratulations.
Shawn credited the rise to three factors. 1) In the elementary and middle school levels, the district has aligned the curriculum to meet the state's standards, 2) The teachers are quickly adapting to the curriculum and doing a good job teaching it, and 3) the district keeps an eye out for students who are having troubles and gives them special attention, including tutoring and placing them into special classes to help them catch up.
There are a lot more good things I could say about the schools, but I think it might be simpler to show you. Look at the three-year trend on these schools, and remember, both these scales are 1-to-10:
ALL SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
Bradoaks 5 5 6
Mayflower 7 8 8
Monroe 5 6 6
Plymouth 4 5 6
Wild Rose 4 4 5
Clifton 6 6 7
Santa Fe 4 4 5
SIMILAR SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
Bradoaks 8 8 9
Mayflower 8 10 10
Monroe 4 7 8
Plymouth 3 5 8
Wild Rose 3 4 5
Clifton 7 7 10
Santa Fe 7 7 10
Now, I am, of course, known as a fault finder, so I'll give it a try, though it is mighty tough when all the numbers are going nicely in the right direction. Nevertheless, I am a bit curious about Wild Rose. Wild Rose is in a fairly nice part of town - not surrounded by $3 million homes, but still, not bad at all. Nevertheless, Plymouth School - which is probably in the poorest part of town - is surpassing it. Methinks maybe Wild Rose needs a bit of extra attention.
Okay, now on to Monrovia High School. I was very surprised at the last board meeting that nobody asked anything about Monrovia High. It is the one dark spot in an otherwise glowing picture.
Here are it's numbers:
ALL SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
MHS 5 5 4
SIMILAR SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
MHS 5 6 5
Compared to all schools in the state Monrovia High is now worse off than in 2001, and compared to similar schools it's just flat. Why?
Actaully, Shawn said, the high school is not worse off. It has been increasing its API scores. It's just that most of the rest of the high schools in the state have increased their scores *more*, which caused Monrovia High to drop relative to the other schools.
Nevertheless, Shawn agrees: "It is fair to say that our high school is below average - and that's not okay for me, for the high school staff, for Superintendent Taylor, or for the board."
Well, why is it below average?
He said the API test has changed. (I gather he means that this has introduced an element of uncertainty into the scoring.) Also, he said, the high school gets the middle school students who haven't been had the benefit of the earlier programs.
But, I said, haven't all the other schools in the state faced the same situation?
True, he said. But, he added, one big difference between elementary/middle schools and high school is that "high school is more about teachers with specific expertise. And now," he said, "we're asking them to filter that expertise through the state standards. That's a fairly big change."
While the state has a selection of approved textbooks for elementary and middle schools, he said, in high school "teachers make the determination whether the books align with the standards." Further, he said, the teachers "may or may not agree with the standards."
I take it by this that he means that the choice of textbooks may not always be as closely aligned to the state standards as they could be.
Also, he said, the lower grades have recieved the bulk of the attention thus far.
Okay, so what's happening or going to happen to make things better at the high school?
Shawn said that Monrovia High is now beginning to get a "full court press."
He said the district has been making a big effort to get parents involved. It sent out a study guide to all high school parents; there was a parents' meeting attended by about 55 percent of the high school's parents, and the district has been in personal touch with another 15 percent who did not make it to the meeting.
Shawn also said there is a big effort to make Monrovia High a "college bound" school. He noted that the number of students going on to college has jumped dramatically. I asked if this wasn't just the work of fireball counselor Oscar Ibarra. (Ibarra, if you don't know, has done some amazing work in this area.) He agreed that Ibarra has done a tremendous job, but said his work is part of a coordinated plan to raise the expectations of Monrovia High students, to let them know they can go on to Yale or Harvard or other top schools.
In addition, he said, the high school is adopting new textbooks and curriculum; it is working to make sure that English language learners get the support they need (he said there is a correlation between low English skills and poor test results), and at the higher end it is instituting honors classes, a zoology class, and an alternative independent study program for high performing students.
The changes coming to the high school remind me of an incident that occurred some time ago at one of the many jobs I've held. Someone asked me what my job description was. I replied that it was, "Be flexible." Something tells me that would be a good motto for Monrovia High instructors.
Okay, on to other topics...
SNOW ~ I got a comment about the board members' comments defending bringing in snow for the kids: "Snow schmoe," writes Rosemary Harrahill, "I, too, thought this sounded excessive! There's a damn budget crisis looming over all of us, for heaven's sake! How are we going to convince the Monrovia voter the schools need money when it's spent on snow!!!
DISTINGUISHED ~ And another letter about distinguished schools. "About the distinguished school honors... as I understand it our three schools still face a visitation by a committee that will then make a determination as to our eligability, and if we pass that we will become distinguished schools. All of the elementary schools in Monrovia were eligable to apply - very exciting! - and three are still in the running! We are especially proud of Bradoaks because our application scored a 7.9 out of a possible 8." That from Kathryn Lamb, a "slightly biased Bradoaks parent."
CHANGES ~ As I mentioned earlier, I poked my head in briefly at the last meeting to see the new board in action. A few things struck me as positive changes: First, there were quite a few people. When I left there must still have been 15 to 20 people in the audience. When I used to go to these meetings regularly, I could count the audience on one finger - me. ~~ Now, when there is a PowerPoint presentation, it is presented on the screen behind the board members instead of on the side wall, which means they have to come around and sit with the audience. Unpleasant for them, perhaps, but nice for the audience. ~~ The podium has been moved to the side, which gives the audience a better view of whomever is speaking. ~~ The board members (for the most part) are actually asking questions and trying to understand the reports. ~~ And finally, this...
JARGON ~ Some time ago I was an E4 in USAREUR. I frequently worked under the NCOIC on CQ. Sometimes he'd borrow my P38. My suspicion is that the preceeding sentences made little sense to 90 percent of you. The remaining 10 percent of you have served in the military. I bring this up because listening to the acronyms at the board meeting made me think about how incomprehensible this stuff can be to outsiders. When I went to school board meetings regularly, I became used to it and didn't notice it, but coming back for a visit I was hit by it. I really think it would be nice if staff reports layed off jargon, just for the sake of us ignoscenti. And if you're wondering, those sentences mean: "Some time ago I was a specialist 4th class (equivalent to a corporal) in the U.S. Army in Europe. I frequently worked under a sergeant watching the barracks at night. Sometimes he'd borrow my can opener."
(0) comments
I caught a smidgen of the March 10 board meeting, but being a bit on the slow side, I didn't quite understand the meaning of all the API results that Associate Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Joel Shawn went over at the meeting, so I dropped by his office and asked him to explain it again. This issue is mostly about that, though there is a bit of other stuff, too.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
The good news about the API scores is that the elementary and middle schools have improved remarkably! Up, up, up! Very nice. Congratulations to all! The bad news is that the high school is not doing so hot. Well... by one measure it is doing a tad better, but by another it's doing worse.
The API information Shawn presented at the board meeting shows two measures: 1) How Monrovia schools rank compared to ALL schools statewide (I'll call this the "All Schools Ranking"), and 2) How Monrovia schools rank compared to similar schools statewide (the "Similar Schools Ranking"). (There's a whole formula to measure similarity - number of non-English speakers, ethnicity, family income, and so forth - but I'm not going to get into that). One thing the latest report does not do, however, is tell you how the schools did compared to their own scores last year. I looked for that information in vain, and that's just not what this report is about, so it's not there.
Before I tell you about my chat with Joel Shawn, let's start off with a look at the data.
On both measures, Monrovia's elementary and middle schools moved up, sometimes dramatically. Of particular note is Plymouth School. Plymouth is in the south end of town and I'd guess probably has fewer afluent families and more non-English speakers than any other school in town. In 2001 it ranked a rotten 3 in the 1-10 Similar Schools Rank. But in 2003 it had moved up to rank 8! Not only that, but in the All Schools Ranking it moved from a 4 to a 6, a two-point increase that takes it from below average to above average. This is a remarkable achievement and I think the whole Plymouth crew should be very proud! Congratulations.
Shawn credited the rise to three factors. 1) In the elementary and middle school levels, the district has aligned the curriculum to meet the state's standards, 2) The teachers are quickly adapting to the curriculum and doing a good job teaching it, and 3) the district keeps an eye out for students who are having troubles and gives them special attention, including tutoring and placing them into special classes to help them catch up.
There are a lot more good things I could say about the schools, but I think it might be simpler to show you. Look at the three-year trend on these schools, and remember, both these scales are 1-to-10:
ALL SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
Bradoaks 5 5 6
Mayflower 7 8 8
Monroe 5 6 6
Plymouth 4 5 6
Wild Rose 4 4 5
Clifton 6 6 7
Santa Fe 4 4 5
SIMILAR SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
Bradoaks 8 8 9
Mayflower 8 10 10
Monroe 4 7 8
Plymouth 3 5 8
Wild Rose 3 4 5
Clifton 7 7 10
Santa Fe 7 7 10
Now, I am, of course, known as a fault finder, so I'll give it a try, though it is mighty tough when all the numbers are going nicely in the right direction. Nevertheless, I am a bit curious about Wild Rose. Wild Rose is in a fairly nice part of town - not surrounded by $3 million homes, but still, not bad at all. Nevertheless, Plymouth School - which is probably in the poorest part of town - is surpassing it. Methinks maybe Wild Rose needs a bit of extra attention.
Okay, now on to Monrovia High School. I was very surprised at the last board meeting that nobody asked anything about Monrovia High. It is the one dark spot in an otherwise glowing picture.
Here are it's numbers:
ALL SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
MHS 5 5 4
SIMILAR SCHOOLS
School 01 02 03
===================
MHS 5 6 5
Compared to all schools in the state Monrovia High is now worse off than in 2001, and compared to similar schools it's just flat. Why?
Actaully, Shawn said, the high school is not worse off. It has been increasing its API scores. It's just that most of the rest of the high schools in the state have increased their scores *more*, which caused Monrovia High to drop relative to the other schools.
Nevertheless, Shawn agrees: "It is fair to say that our high school is below average - and that's not okay for me, for the high school staff, for Superintendent Taylor, or for the board."
Well, why is it below average?
He said the API test has changed. (I gather he means that this has introduced an element of uncertainty into the scoring.) Also, he said, the high school gets the middle school students who haven't been had the benefit of the earlier programs.
But, I said, haven't all the other schools in the state faced the same situation?
True, he said. But, he added, one big difference between elementary/middle schools and high school is that "high school is more about teachers with specific expertise. And now," he said, "we're asking them to filter that expertise through the state standards. That's a fairly big change."
While the state has a selection of approved textbooks for elementary and middle schools, he said, in high school "teachers make the determination whether the books align with the standards." Further, he said, the teachers "may or may not agree with the standards."
I take it by this that he means that the choice of textbooks may not always be as closely aligned to the state standards as they could be.
Also, he said, the lower grades have recieved the bulk of the attention thus far.
Okay, so what's happening or going to happen to make things better at the high school?
Shawn said that Monrovia High is now beginning to get a "full court press."
He said the district has been making a big effort to get parents involved. It sent out a study guide to all high school parents; there was a parents' meeting attended by about 55 percent of the high school's parents, and the district has been in personal touch with another 15 percent who did not make it to the meeting.
Shawn also said there is a big effort to make Monrovia High a "college bound" school. He noted that the number of students going on to college has jumped dramatically. I asked if this wasn't just the work of fireball counselor Oscar Ibarra. (Ibarra, if you don't know, has done some amazing work in this area.) He agreed that Ibarra has done a tremendous job, but said his work is part of a coordinated plan to raise the expectations of Monrovia High students, to let them know they can go on to Yale or Harvard or other top schools.
In addition, he said, the high school is adopting new textbooks and curriculum; it is working to make sure that English language learners get the support they need (he said there is a correlation between low English skills and poor test results), and at the higher end it is instituting honors classes, a zoology class, and an alternative independent study program for high performing students.
The changes coming to the high school remind me of an incident that occurred some time ago at one of the many jobs I've held. Someone asked me what my job description was. I replied that it was, "Be flexible." Something tells me that would be a good motto for Monrovia High instructors.
Okay, on to other topics...
SNOW ~ I got a comment about the board members' comments defending bringing in snow for the kids: "Snow schmoe," writes Rosemary Harrahill, "I, too, thought this sounded excessive! There's a damn budget crisis looming over all of us, for heaven's sake! How are we going to convince the Monrovia voter the schools need money when it's spent on snow!!!
DISTINGUISHED ~ And another letter about distinguished schools. "About the distinguished school honors... as I understand it our three schools still face a visitation by a committee that will then make a determination as to our eligability, and if we pass that we will become distinguished schools. All of the elementary schools in Monrovia were eligable to apply - very exciting! - and three are still in the running! We are especially proud of Bradoaks because our application scored a 7.9 out of a possible 8." That from Kathryn Lamb, a "slightly biased Bradoaks parent."
CHANGES ~ As I mentioned earlier, I poked my head in briefly at the last meeting to see the new board in action. A few things struck me as positive changes: First, there were quite a few people. When I left there must still have been 15 to 20 people in the audience. When I used to go to these meetings regularly, I could count the audience on one finger - me. ~~ Now, when there is a PowerPoint presentation, it is presented on the screen behind the board members instead of on the side wall, which means they have to come around and sit with the audience. Unpleasant for them, perhaps, but nice for the audience. ~~ The podium has been moved to the side, which gives the audience a better view of whomever is speaking. ~~ The board members (for the most part) are actually asking questions and trying to understand the reports. ~~ And finally, this...
JARGON ~ Some time ago I was an E4 in USAREUR. I frequently worked under the NCOIC on CQ. Sometimes he'd borrow my P38. My suspicion is that the preceeding sentences made little sense to 90 percent of you. The remaining 10 percent of you have served in the military. I bring this up because listening to the acronyms at the board meeting made me think about how incomprehensible this stuff can be to outsiders. When I went to school board meetings regularly, I became used to it and didn't notice it, but coming back for a visit I was hit by it. I really think it would be nice if staff reports layed off jargon, just for the sake of us ignoscenti. And if you're wondering, those sentences mean: "Some time ago I was a specialist 4th class (equivalent to a corporal) in the U.S. Army in Europe. I frequently worked under a sergeant watching the barracks at night. Sometimes he'd borrow my can opener."
Monday, March 15, 2004
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 77 ~ March 10, 2004
Thanks to Maria Gray for the following report. Also, I caught a bit of the last meeting and was a bit curious about parts of the report on the API scores, so I went to talk about it with Mr. Curriculum, Joel Shawn. I'll send you a report about it in in a day or so. By the way, there's going to be another of those all-day board meetings this Wednesday. Apparently this is number two in a series of five, all with a California School Board Association consultant. They're called "New Beginnings" and the next one is this Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
By Maria Gray
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS PRESENTATION - Several students from Monrovia High involved in specialized classes, such as photography, TV production, automotive, and culinary arts - whose work earned them special recognition - were honored by the board this evening
CHARLOTTE AND LEE SCHAMADAN received special recognition for putting together the "MUSD State of the Schools Report to the Community." They put it together, helped to fund it, designed and published it. The board commended them for a wonderful job!
SNACK BAR/RESTROOMS @ MHS FOOTBALL STADIUM - Ed Gililland (of MHS "Big M Boosters" Club) announced that the proposed snack bar and new bathrooms are well underway. The business community is being asked for monetary contributions and Ed is encouraging the public at large to help with financial support and/or donating of time/materials to help build project. For those interested in contributing, call Ed @ 359-2197.
THANKS FROM THE UNITY CENTER! - Joan Whitenet (sp?) from the Unity Center expressed her sincere appreciation to Monrovia schools and the community for their outpouring of donations and special contributions to the center. Joan gave an update on program activities and said the center's major fundraiser, "Hoop Challenge," will bring out special TV and basketball celebrities to play ball (names could not be revealed because she had no "firm" confirmations as of that evening).
BOARD MEMBER'S REPORTS
BRUCE CARTER - Congratulated the "Read Across Monrovia" folks for a job well done! He participated in the program and was excited to report that again this year it was a huge success! Bruce also reported that there was one parent who complained about the snow brought in for the children to play in over the holiday season. He said the cost of bringing in the snow was the cost of what a school field trip would have been and that the overall parent feedback was extremely positive. He said many of our school kids had never seen snow before and that only one person had complained).
CLARE CHESELY - Attended Founders Day at Bradoaks, and Open House at Monroe and Plymouth and several DARE graduations as well. She also attended the "Beatles/Elvis" fundraiser show at Clifton and their Founders Day celebration where they honored former board member Francie Cash. She says she's so impressed with all the wonderful family-oriented programs taking place in our schools and encourages everyone to participate. (I'm very impressed with her, she sure seems to get out there where the action is a lot!). She had high praises for our music programs and encourages the community to support the MHS Booster Band Club with financial support (there was an article in the Star News soliciting funds). Those interested in supporting the MHS Marching Band can call: Karen Dryer @ 471-2800.
BRYAN WONG - Attended the Clifton "Beatles/Elvis" fundraiser and noted what great fun it was for him and his family. Bryan attended Monroe's DARE program and Plymouth's Open House. He also participated in "Read Across Monrovia" and had high praises for the schools, teachers, and administrators he's seen. (Boy, impressed again, these new board members sure are getting out there!)
MONINA DIAZ - Also discussed the one parent's concern over the snow this past holiday season. She stressed that the elementary school teachers took the event back to their classrooms and used the snow as a "science project" exploring such things as water freezing, then melting, snow texture, etc. She too was glad to report that the cost was minimal and that the experience brought many praises back to the schools. Monina participated in "Read Across Monrovia" at Canyon Learning Center and was very impressed with the passion and commitment of its teachers and staff. She commended them all for doing such a fine job with those children.
BETTY SANDFORD - Made a special announcement that MAFA (Monrovia Arts Festival Association) will be awarding one of Monrovia's finest for their works and contributions throughout our schools and city. Joanne Spring will be receiving this special award on April 22nd and Betty is encouraging all to come out and help honor Joanne. Congratulations, Joanne!
TIFFANY ROSS (MHS STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE) - Informed the board of the school activities for the remainder of the month.
DR. TAYLOR - Proud to announce that three of our elementary schools are the recipients of the "California Distinguished School Award" (Bradoaks, Mayflower and Monroe)! She was thrilled to announce that there were a total of 912 applicants, 288 awardees, three bestowed upon Monrovia - what an honor, indeed! The Clifton Band today was notified that it was the recipient of a $5,000 grant from the Pasadena Music Showcase House. Some Plymouth students have received gold medals for their science fair projects. Stacey Esparzica (sp?) (didn't catch school's name) got her "Nutrition Grant" today as well, and Dr. Taylor was just gleaming with pride!
DOCTORAL PROGRAM - The MUSD will be hosting a three-year doctoral degree program through USC for interested teachers. The program's been approved and if we can get 25 individuals to commit, the courses begin!
MARCH 17th KINDER REGISTRATION - Special thanks went out to Dr. Gail Grant and Rich Hill for all the publicity in getting the word out and informing the community of the importance of early registrations. It was announced that the new school year will begin on September 1st.
DEBBY COLLINS - Announced that due to budget cutbacks, parent/teacher conferences will now be offered to students K-5 on an "as needed basis." Parents will only be asked to conference if their child is not at "grade level." Still, if parents have any concerns and would like to meet with their child's teacher, a conference will be granted at their request.
6.4 ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE INDEX REPORT for 2003 - Dr. Joel Shawn presented the last of the 2003 school to school API comparisons ranks. (It was getting late and I was getting tired, if you'd like more detailed info. the report is public information and you can obtain copy.) But, in a nutshell, here's how it looked: The elementary schools went up. Mayflower sustained the highest rank again this year at "10." Both middle schools went up. MHS went down.
FACILITIES REPORT - Dr. Taylor stressed the importance of good facilities, but noted that realistically speaking the complaints are many but the funds are little! Funding is minimal but she recommitted to continue the progress of upgrading the appearances of all of our schools in as timely a manner as possible. Linda Dempsey reviewed the district's major maintenance areas with a report on progress thus far. Craig Windsor, President of Osborn Architects, presented the "Development of MUSD Facilities Master Plan" for 2004 improvement projects. A report noting project selections and budget realities were distributed to and questioned by the Board.
CERTIFICATION OF FISCAL REPORT - was presented by Business Director Linda Dempsey. She discussed the 2004/2005 proposed budget, including the governor's projections (which include the recently passed bond propositions). A motion and a second was taken to unanimously approve the budget. (Here again, if you want copy of the budget, the report is public information and you can obtain a copy upon request.)
ENROLLMENT ANALYSIS REPORT - Debby Collins announced that there has been a gradual decline in enrollment over the last couple of years. The ADA (Average Daily Attendance) is down in the city, as well as the state. Projected staffing for next year has been reviewed school-by-school. It appears that there will, more than likely, be no reductions in staffing other than maybe three teacher positions overall. Report was made available to the Board for review.
BOARD BUSINESS: The board approved resolutions to make March "Education Month," March 8-12 "Week of the Administrator," and March 15-19 "Adult School Week."
Meeting adjourned tooooooooooooooo late at 9:45 p.m.
Also, on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
(0) comments
Thanks to Maria Gray for the following report. Also, I caught a bit of the last meeting and was a bit curious about parts of the report on the API scores, so I went to talk about it with Mr. Curriculum, Joel Shawn. I'll send you a report about it in in a day or so. By the way, there's going to be another of those all-day board meetings this Wednesday. Apparently this is number two in a series of five, all with a California School Board Association consultant. They're called "New Beginnings" and the next one is this Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
By Maria Gray
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS PRESENTATION - Several students from Monrovia High involved in specialized classes, such as photography, TV production, automotive, and culinary arts - whose work earned them special recognition - were honored by the board this evening
CHARLOTTE AND LEE SCHAMADAN received special recognition for putting together the "MUSD State of the Schools Report to the Community." They put it together, helped to fund it, designed and published it. The board commended them for a wonderful job!
SNACK BAR/RESTROOMS @ MHS FOOTBALL STADIUM - Ed Gililland (of MHS "Big M Boosters" Club) announced that the proposed snack bar and new bathrooms are well underway. The business community is being asked for monetary contributions and Ed is encouraging the public at large to help with financial support and/or donating of time/materials to help build project. For those interested in contributing, call Ed @ 359-2197.
THANKS FROM THE UNITY CENTER! - Joan Whitenet (sp?) from the Unity Center expressed her sincere appreciation to Monrovia schools and the community for their outpouring of donations and special contributions to the center. Joan gave an update on program activities and said the center's major fundraiser, "Hoop Challenge," will bring out special TV and basketball celebrities to play ball (names could not be revealed because she had no "firm" confirmations as of that evening).
BOARD MEMBER'S REPORTS
BRUCE CARTER - Congratulated the "Read Across Monrovia" folks for a job well done! He participated in the program and was excited to report that again this year it was a huge success! Bruce also reported that there was one parent who complained about the snow brought in for the children to play in over the holiday season. He said the cost of bringing in the snow was the cost of what a school field trip would have been and that the overall parent feedback was extremely positive. He said many of our school kids had never seen snow before and that only one person had complained).
CLARE CHESELY - Attended Founders Day at Bradoaks, and Open House at Monroe and Plymouth and several DARE graduations as well. She also attended the "Beatles/Elvis" fundraiser show at Clifton and their Founders Day celebration where they honored former board member Francie Cash. She says she's so impressed with all the wonderful family-oriented programs taking place in our schools and encourages everyone to participate. (I'm very impressed with her, she sure seems to get out there where the action is a lot!). She had high praises for our music programs and encourages the community to support the MHS Booster Band Club with financial support (there was an article in the Star News soliciting funds). Those interested in supporting the MHS Marching Band can call: Karen Dryer @ 471-2800.
BRYAN WONG - Attended the Clifton "Beatles/Elvis" fundraiser and noted what great fun it was for him and his family. Bryan attended Monroe's DARE program and Plymouth's Open House. He also participated in "Read Across Monrovia" and had high praises for the schools, teachers, and administrators he's seen. (Boy, impressed again, these new board members sure are getting out there!)
MONINA DIAZ - Also discussed the one parent's concern over the snow this past holiday season. She stressed that the elementary school teachers took the event back to their classrooms and used the snow as a "science project" exploring such things as water freezing, then melting, snow texture, etc. She too was glad to report that the cost was minimal and that the experience brought many praises back to the schools. Monina participated in "Read Across Monrovia" at Canyon Learning Center and was very impressed with the passion and commitment of its teachers and staff. She commended them all for doing such a fine job with those children.
BETTY SANDFORD - Made a special announcement that MAFA (Monrovia Arts Festival Association) will be awarding one of Monrovia's finest for their works and contributions throughout our schools and city. Joanne Spring will be receiving this special award on April 22nd and Betty is encouraging all to come out and help honor Joanne. Congratulations, Joanne!
TIFFANY ROSS (MHS STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE) - Informed the board of the school activities for the remainder of the month.
DR. TAYLOR - Proud to announce that three of our elementary schools are the recipients of the "California Distinguished School Award" (Bradoaks, Mayflower and Monroe)! She was thrilled to announce that there were a total of 912 applicants, 288 awardees, three bestowed upon Monrovia - what an honor, indeed! The Clifton Band today was notified that it was the recipient of a $5,000 grant from the Pasadena Music Showcase House. Some Plymouth students have received gold medals for their science fair projects. Stacey Esparzica (sp?) (didn't catch school's name) got her "Nutrition Grant" today as well, and Dr. Taylor was just gleaming with pride!
DOCTORAL PROGRAM - The MUSD will be hosting a three-year doctoral degree program through USC for interested teachers. The program's been approved and if we can get 25 individuals to commit, the courses begin!
MARCH 17th KINDER REGISTRATION - Special thanks went out to Dr. Gail Grant and Rich Hill for all the publicity in getting the word out and informing the community of the importance of early registrations. It was announced that the new school year will begin on September 1st.
DEBBY COLLINS - Announced that due to budget cutbacks, parent/teacher conferences will now be offered to students K-5 on an "as needed basis." Parents will only be asked to conference if their child is not at "grade level." Still, if parents have any concerns and would like to meet with their child's teacher, a conference will be granted at their request.
6.4 ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE INDEX REPORT for 2003 - Dr. Joel Shawn presented the last of the 2003 school to school API comparisons ranks. (It was getting late and I was getting tired, if you'd like more detailed info. the report is public information and you can obtain copy.) But, in a nutshell, here's how it looked: The elementary schools went up. Mayflower sustained the highest rank again this year at "10." Both middle schools went up. MHS went down.
FACILITIES REPORT - Dr. Taylor stressed the importance of good facilities, but noted that realistically speaking the complaints are many but the funds are little! Funding is minimal but she recommitted to continue the progress of upgrading the appearances of all of our schools in as timely a manner as possible. Linda Dempsey reviewed the district's major maintenance areas with a report on progress thus far. Craig Windsor, President of Osborn Architects, presented the "Development of MUSD Facilities Master Plan" for 2004 improvement projects. A report noting project selections and budget realities were distributed to and questioned by the Board.
CERTIFICATION OF FISCAL REPORT - was presented by Business Director Linda Dempsey. She discussed the 2004/2005 proposed budget, including the governor's projections (which include the recently passed bond propositions). A motion and a second was taken to unanimously approve the budget. (Here again, if you want copy of the budget, the report is public information and you can obtain a copy upon request.)
ENROLLMENT ANALYSIS REPORT - Debby Collins announced that there has been a gradual decline in enrollment over the last couple of years. The ADA (Average Daily Attendance) is down in the city, as well as the state. Projected staffing for next year has been reviewed school-by-school. It appears that there will, more than likely, be no reductions in staffing other than maybe three teacher positions overall. Report was made available to the Board for review.
BOARD BUSINESS: The board approved resolutions to make March "Education Month," March 8-12 "Week of the Administrator," and March 15-19 "Adult School Week."
Meeting adjourned tooooooooooooooo late at 9:45 p.m.
Also, on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
Saturday, March 06, 2004
Monrovia SchoolLink Preview for Wednesday, March 10, 2004 meeting
This is the meeting to attend if you are interested in school maintenance and API results. The maintenance issue will be discussed in a study session and in the regular meeting. Also, a bit more on some fireworks that went off at the last meeting. (When the last issue went out I didn't really understand how many firecrackers were popping.)
~ Study Session 5:30 p.m.
The Board will review details and discuss with staff the documents and information supporting the formal facilities report, Agenda Item 7.7, on this Regular Meeting Agenda.
~ Regular meeting 7 p.m.
4.1 ~ The board will honor students for their success in the "CA Skills USA - VICA, Leadership and Skills State Championships," whatever that means. Whatever it is, it looks as if the students needed a pickup truck to bring home all their gold and silver medals - in photography, TV/video productions, automotive technology and culinary arts.
4.1.1 ~ The Board will recognize Charlotte and Lee Schamadan for their efforts in designing, producing and coordinating the fundraising for the State of the Schools report to the community. That was the slick magazine-like thing you got in the mail. In reading it, it seems to have be paid for mostly by private contributions, which is cool. I'm not sure I'd be happy if it was paid for by district funds.
4.2 ~ Public hearing for items not on the agenda. This is when you get to say whatever you please.
4.5.1 ~ The schedule for Spring 2004 K-5 Parent Teacher Conferences
5.1 ~ The district will accept "miscellaneous holiday decorations, wrapping paper, and greeting cards having a declared value of $11,696.96, received from Party City of Monrovia." Wow! sounds like a few tons of wrapping paper and greeting cards.
6.4 ~ Receive 2003 Academic Performance Index (API) Base Report. I get confused with all these official tests, but I think this is the biggie!
7.7 ~ The report on facilities that was discussed in the study session.
8.3 ~ A report on enrollment and staffing for 2004-05.
8.4 ~ Receive a Position Control Report for 2003-2004. A "Position Control Report," if you are not familiar with the term, is a report about the control of positions. Now you know as much as I do.
9.0 ~ Woo Hoo! Let's celebrate. The board is going to proclaiming March as "Arts Education Month," March 8-12 as Week of the School Administrator," and March 15-19 as "Adult School Week."
LETTER ~ I got a letter from Charlotte Schamadan who said she was surprised that there wasn't more about Cyrus Kemp. [My fault. I'm a bad editor.] She said "Cyrus Kemp walked to the front of the dais and talked with ... no, make that hollered at ... Kris Mariconda, and then proceeded around the back of the dais to holler at Louise Taylor. And, he continued hollering when he left the dais and went to the back of the room. He disrupted the proceedings and the speaker at the podium."
I checked the minutes of the meeting and found this (Usually minutes are kinda dry, but this was pretty spicy): "At this point in the meeting there was a disruption by Mr. Kemp who first spoke with Mrs. Mariconda about stopping the meeting because he believed it was a violation of the Brown Act to allow Mrs. Cornils to speak, then walked behind the Board table and approached the Superintendent forcefully voicing his opinion that allowing Mrs. Cornils to speak was a violation of the Brown Act. The Superintendent firmly responded that it was not a violation of the Brown Act, that he was interrupting the meeting unnecessarily, and directed him to take a seat in the audience. As Mr. Kemp walked from behind the Board table and toward the audience, he continued to direct comments loudly to Board President Sandford stating again that this was a violation of the Brown Act."
Whew! On occasion I've liked some of Cyrus' thoughts, so I hate to say this, but this sounds WAY over the top. Also, Cyrus, why in the world do you feel Adele Cornils' speaking to the board violates the Brown Act?
ON-LINE ~ Since other people have begun helping do the newsletter, I figured it wasn't fair for their work to build up my personal Web site, so all the new newsletters (beginning in 2004) are on-line at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
(2) comments
This is the meeting to attend if you are interested in school maintenance and API results. The maintenance issue will be discussed in a study session and in the regular meeting. Also, a bit more on some fireworks that went off at the last meeting. (When the last issue went out I didn't really understand how many firecrackers were popping.)
~ Study Session 5:30 p.m.
The Board will review details and discuss with staff the documents and information supporting the formal facilities report, Agenda Item 7.7, on this Regular Meeting Agenda.
~ Regular meeting 7 p.m.
4.1 ~ The board will honor students for their success in the "CA Skills USA - VICA, Leadership and Skills State Championships," whatever that means. Whatever it is, it looks as if the students needed a pickup truck to bring home all their gold and silver medals - in photography, TV/video productions, automotive technology and culinary arts.
4.1.1 ~ The Board will recognize Charlotte and Lee Schamadan for their efforts in designing, producing and coordinating the fundraising for the State of the Schools report to the community. That was the slick magazine-like thing you got in the mail. In reading it, it seems to have be paid for mostly by private contributions, which is cool. I'm not sure I'd be happy if it was paid for by district funds.
4.2 ~ Public hearing for items not on the agenda. This is when you get to say whatever you please.
4.5.1 ~ The schedule for Spring 2004 K-5 Parent Teacher Conferences
5.1 ~ The district will accept "miscellaneous holiday decorations, wrapping paper, and greeting cards having a declared value of $11,696.96, received from Party City of Monrovia." Wow! sounds like a few tons of wrapping paper and greeting cards.
6.4 ~ Receive 2003 Academic Performance Index (API) Base Report. I get confused with all these official tests, but I think this is the biggie!
7.7 ~ The report on facilities that was discussed in the study session.
8.3 ~ A report on enrollment and staffing for 2004-05.
8.4 ~ Receive a Position Control Report for 2003-2004. A "Position Control Report," if you are not familiar with the term, is a report about the control of positions. Now you know as much as I do.
9.0 ~ Woo Hoo! Let's celebrate. The board is going to proclaiming March as "Arts Education Month," March 8-12 as Week of the School Administrator," and March 15-19 as "Adult School Week."
LETTER ~ I got a letter from Charlotte Schamadan who said she was surprised that there wasn't more about Cyrus Kemp. [My fault. I'm a bad editor.] She said "Cyrus Kemp walked to the front of the dais and talked with ... no, make that hollered at ... Kris Mariconda, and then proceeded around the back of the dais to holler at Louise Taylor. And, he continued hollering when he left the dais and went to the back of the room. He disrupted the proceedings and the speaker at the podium."
I checked the minutes of the meeting and found this (Usually minutes are kinda dry, but this was pretty spicy): "At this point in the meeting there was a disruption by Mr. Kemp who first spoke with Mrs. Mariconda about stopping the meeting because he believed it was a violation of the Brown Act to allow Mrs. Cornils to speak, then walked behind the Board table and approached the Superintendent forcefully voicing his opinion that allowing Mrs. Cornils to speak was a violation of the Brown Act. The Superintendent firmly responded that it was not a violation of the Brown Act, that he was interrupting the meeting unnecessarily, and directed him to take a seat in the audience. As Mr. Kemp walked from behind the Board table and toward the audience, he continued to direct comments loudly to Board President Sandford stating again that this was a violation of the Brown Act."
Whew! On occasion I've liked some of Cyrus' thoughts, so I hate to say this, but this sounds WAY over the top. Also, Cyrus, why in the world do you feel Adele Cornils' speaking to the board violates the Brown Act?
ON-LINE ~ Since other people have begun helping do the newsletter, I figured it wasn't fair for their work to build up my personal Web site, so all the new newsletters (beginning in 2004) are on-line at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
Friday, March 05, 2004
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 76 ~ Feb. 25, 2004
Thanks to Irma Walling for this report on the Feb. 25 school board meeting. Apparently the board had quite a chat about school maintenance. By the way, I've got another special report planned in the next week or so. The interview is set for next Tuesday, then I'll write it up and get it out to you shortly thereafter.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Here's Irma's report:
Betty Sandford attended SBA Conferences in San Diego last summer. On the 18th the School Board spent an hour with Molly Mcgee, a specialist of CSBA (California School Board Association). Betty said, "It will help us understand each other and our responsibilities."
Pam Woodbury presented the Chamber of Commerce Awards for employee of the month. Janice Herr and Marlene Wood received Teacher of the Month. Sandra Cortez and Mariann De La Torre received Classified Employee of the Month.
Cyrus Kemp said Claire Chesley asked to have poor janitorial conditions put on the agenda, but said it did not appear on the agenda. He accused Betty and Louise of sweeping it under the rug, but it was on the agenda -- item 4.5.1.
He spoke about going to a class on Thursday and said he would like to see meetings shortened. He suggested using committees to get the community involved, called them commissions. Cyrus encouraged the board to consider this.
Adele Cornils, from Glendale, is the President of the Monrovia Teachers Association. She said she is concerned about comments made about our teachers. It is her 19th year with the district. She taught for 17 years and this is her second run as President of the MTA. She sees herself as a "recycled leader". She said, "We often disagree but we don't have to be disagreeable".
At this point Cyrus disagreed, saying the board was in violation of the Brown Act.
Back to Adele: Rah Rah for the teachers. She's not happy that she will have to prove she is qualified because of "No Child Left Behind." She said she already has a long list of degrees. I don't know much about it, but like in any profession, just because you hold a degree doesn't mean you are qualified for the job.
Bruce Carter said he visited Wildrose and is very impressed with the focus on academics. He said he loves these visits.
Clare Chesley went to both Wildrose and Santa Fe's Founder's Days. She said both were wonderful celebrations. She mentioned the Honor Society at the High School, where 60 students applied and 20 were selected, not just on grades but also on character. Clare was very impressed and honored to be there. She thanked the city council for its donation of $4,000 to Mayflower for its after-school program. Mayflower does not qualify for the after-school program that the other elementary sites have. Clare plugged the fundraiser being held at Clifton this Friday to raise money for lunch benches. Sounds like fun - Elvis and the Beatles with the Clifton band, chorus and cheerleaders to open.
Bryan Wong said he did not want to be repetitive, so he passed.
Monina Diaz went to the Honor Society meeting and felt the same as Clare. She also attended Santa Fe Founder's Day. She said Santa Fe is an amazing place, family oriented, with a great PTA core of 10 parents who have brought in $11,000 in fundraising. She said she was very impressed.
Betty Sanford said the High School will be putting in a new Big M Boosters Snack Shop and extra bathrooms, to be ready for the next football season. Some of the funding is already in place.
Louis Taylor attended Santa Fe and Plymouth Founder's Days. Founder's Day celebrates the PTA and PTSA groups. She visited Bradoaks and Wildrose and says she saw happy children ready to learn. She also said something about the National Honor Society, and Francie Cash, and the MTA and CTA. Francie is being honored on March 17th. March 4th is Read Across Monrovia Day, board members will be reading to kindergarteners at the Early Learning Canyon Center.
Business Manager Linda Dempsey, speaking about building maintenance, said the district has not achieved its goal of having all sites modernized. She said the sites are short staffed but the district is working on ways around that with daily, weekly, monthly and annual checklists. It seems there are 25-28 full-time or part-time custodians for all sites. Not very many for the size of some of the campuses and the number of students per school (in my opinion). There is no custodial supervisor; that was eliminated in the early 90s. The district is looking to hire one before end of this school year.
Clare was interested in knowing what the graffiti removal practice is at Bradoaks. It seems there was some graffiti over the holidays and it was still there when school resumed in January. Funny, the graffiti that showed up at Mayflower over the holidays was taken care of in less than 48 hours. Linda Dempsey said the painters were on vacation at the time.
Clare also received a call from a parent about the high school bathrooms being locked. Linda said she was uanaware of that. Bryan asked if there was a policy at the district level or at each individual site, as he has been at sites and been unable to locate an open bathroom for his child. Linda said there was no policy. In general they are locked after school. Debby was able to speak to the vice principal (he was in the audience) regarding the locking of the bathrooms and was told that the restrooms are never all locked. I can't imagine having to run across campus looking for an open bathroom. Do they have a list somewhere informing the students which bathrooms are going to unlocked and when?
Clare asked if there was a form to make a formal complaint. Linda said they are working on this. How does a district as old as Monrovia's not have a complaint form? Clare would like there to be a way that the board can follow up on these complaints.
Gail Grant with Gail Perroti(?) gave an overhead presentation about Special Education. There are 576 students out of 6,556 that are diagnosed as Special Ed in our district. Clare was interested in knowing what avenues of dispute parents who are concerned about the cost have open to them. Monina wanted to know how the students are recommended for the program - is it staff or parents? Bryan asked how many complaints they receive from parents. Between Gail G., Gail P., Louise, and Linda all questions were sort of answered. They were not able to give an estimate of staff vs. parent recommendations. There have been times when the district has had to file a complaint, although neither complaints from parents or the district usually become formal complaints. It is unfortunate that the cost has tripled this year and that it does cost more to send the students out of our district, but they do what is best for the student. The nice thing though, is that with the clinics at Mayflower there are outside students coming in, and we can then charge them.
Cyrus Kemp made another appearance and stated that the conditions of the schools have been deteriorating for years. Time to step up to the plate maybe put it out to contract, he said. All he hears is excuses.
(0) comments
Thanks to Irma Walling for this report on the Feb. 25 school board meeting. Apparently the board had quite a chat about school maintenance. By the way, I've got another special report planned in the next week or so. The interview is set for next Tuesday, then I'll write it up and get it out to you shortly thereafter.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Here's Irma's report:
Betty Sandford attended SBA Conferences in San Diego last summer. On the 18th the School Board spent an hour with Molly Mcgee, a specialist of CSBA (California School Board Association). Betty said, "It will help us understand each other and our responsibilities."
Pam Woodbury presented the Chamber of Commerce Awards for employee of the month. Janice Herr and Marlene Wood received Teacher of the Month. Sandra Cortez and Mariann De La Torre received Classified Employee of the Month.
Cyrus Kemp said Claire Chesley asked to have poor janitorial conditions put on the agenda, but said it did not appear on the agenda. He accused Betty and Louise of sweeping it under the rug, but it was on the agenda -- item 4.5.1.
He spoke about going to a class on Thursday and said he would like to see meetings shortened. He suggested using committees to get the community involved, called them commissions. Cyrus encouraged the board to consider this.
Adele Cornils, from Glendale, is the President of the Monrovia Teachers Association. She said she is concerned about comments made about our teachers. It is her 19th year with the district. She taught for 17 years and this is her second run as President of the MTA. She sees herself as a "recycled leader". She said, "We often disagree but we don't have to be disagreeable".
At this point Cyrus disagreed, saying the board was in violation of the Brown Act.
Back to Adele: Rah Rah for the teachers. She's not happy that she will have to prove she is qualified because of "No Child Left Behind." She said she already has a long list of degrees. I don't know much about it, but like in any profession, just because you hold a degree doesn't mean you are qualified for the job.
Bruce Carter said he visited Wildrose and is very impressed with the focus on academics. He said he loves these visits.
Clare Chesley went to both Wildrose and Santa Fe's Founder's Days. She said both were wonderful celebrations. She mentioned the Honor Society at the High School, where 60 students applied and 20 were selected, not just on grades but also on character. Clare was very impressed and honored to be there. She thanked the city council for its donation of $4,000 to Mayflower for its after-school program. Mayflower does not qualify for the after-school program that the other elementary sites have. Clare plugged the fundraiser being held at Clifton this Friday to raise money for lunch benches. Sounds like fun - Elvis and the Beatles with the Clifton band, chorus and cheerleaders to open.
Bryan Wong said he did not want to be repetitive, so he passed.
Monina Diaz went to the Honor Society meeting and felt the same as Clare. She also attended Santa Fe Founder's Day. She said Santa Fe is an amazing place, family oriented, with a great PTA core of 10 parents who have brought in $11,000 in fundraising. She said she was very impressed.
Betty Sanford said the High School will be putting in a new Big M Boosters Snack Shop and extra bathrooms, to be ready for the next football season. Some of the funding is already in place.
Louis Taylor attended Santa Fe and Plymouth Founder's Days. Founder's Day celebrates the PTA and PTSA groups. She visited Bradoaks and Wildrose and says she saw happy children ready to learn. She also said something about the National Honor Society, and Francie Cash, and the MTA and CTA. Francie is being honored on March 17th. March 4th is Read Across Monrovia Day, board members will be reading to kindergarteners at the Early Learning Canyon Center.
Business Manager Linda Dempsey, speaking about building maintenance, said the district has not achieved its goal of having all sites modernized. She said the sites are short staffed but the district is working on ways around that with daily, weekly, monthly and annual checklists. It seems there are 25-28 full-time or part-time custodians for all sites. Not very many for the size of some of the campuses and the number of students per school (in my opinion). There is no custodial supervisor; that was eliminated in the early 90s. The district is looking to hire one before end of this school year.
Clare was interested in knowing what the graffiti removal practice is at Bradoaks. It seems there was some graffiti over the holidays and it was still there when school resumed in January. Funny, the graffiti that showed up at Mayflower over the holidays was taken care of in less than 48 hours. Linda Dempsey said the painters were on vacation at the time.
Clare also received a call from a parent about the high school bathrooms being locked. Linda said she was uanaware of that. Bryan asked if there was a policy at the district level or at each individual site, as he has been at sites and been unable to locate an open bathroom for his child. Linda said there was no policy. In general they are locked after school. Debby was able to speak to the vice principal (he was in the audience) regarding the locking of the bathrooms and was told that the restrooms are never all locked. I can't imagine having to run across campus looking for an open bathroom. Do they have a list somewhere informing the students which bathrooms are going to unlocked and when?
Clare asked if there was a form to make a formal complaint. Linda said they are working on this. How does a district as old as Monrovia's not have a complaint form? Clare would like there to be a way that the board can follow up on these complaints.
Gail Grant with Gail Perroti(?) gave an overhead presentation about Special Education. There are 576 students out of 6,556 that are diagnosed as Special Ed in our district. Clare was interested in knowing what avenues of dispute parents who are concerned about the cost have open to them. Monina wanted to know how the students are recommended for the program - is it staff or parents? Bryan asked how many complaints they receive from parents. Between Gail G., Gail P., Louise, and Linda all questions were sort of answered. They were not able to give an estimate of staff vs. parent recommendations. There have been times when the district has had to file a complaint, although neither complaints from parents or the district usually become formal complaints. It is unfortunate that the cost has tripled this year and that it does cost more to send the students out of our district, but they do what is best for the student. The nice thing though, is that with the clinics at Mayflower there are outside students coming in, and we can then charge them.
Cyrus Kemp made another appearance and stated that the conditions of the schools have been deteriorating for years. Time to step up to the plate maybe put it out to contract, he said. All he hears is excuses.
Monrovia SchoolLink Preview for Wednesday, Feb 25, 2004 meeting
If you are interested in the GATE program, then the meeting this Wednesday is the meeting to attend. Go to the study session, which begins at 5:30 p.m. Also, note that the regular board meeting will be a half hour earlier from now on, at 7 p.m., not 7:30.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
The Study Session
At the study session, which, again, begins at 5:30 p.m., the board will discuss the Gifted And Talented Education (GATE) Program: "The Board will receive a status report on GATE Program development for 2004-05 and discuss key issues identified by staff through research and parent communication."
Also at the study session, the board will try to figure out members various interests and availability and decide who's going to attend what district and community events.
And (we're still on the study session, here) the board will discuss ideas from December 2003 California School Boards Association (CSBA) Conference.
Hey! I was impressed by the agenda this time. It gave a nice summary of what would be discussed at the study session.
The Regular Board Meeting
At the regular session, which begins now at 7 p.m. (not 7:30) the board and Chamber of Commerce will honor several outstanding district employees, will recieve an overview report on special education programs, and do other stuff.
Plus, of course, there is the ever popular item 4.1, "Public hearing for items not on the agenda," which is where you can stand up and tell the board members whatever you think they oughta hear.
The meeting will be held at the district administrative offices at 325 E. Huntington Drive (On the north side of Huntington drive between Canyon and California.)
(0) comments
If you are interested in the GATE program, then the meeting this Wednesday is the meeting to attend. Go to the study session, which begins at 5:30 p.m. Also, note that the regular board meeting will be a half hour earlier from now on, at 7 p.m., not 7:30.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
The Study Session
At the study session, which, again, begins at 5:30 p.m., the board will discuss the Gifted And Talented Education (GATE) Program: "The Board will receive a status report on GATE Program development for 2004-05 and discuss key issues identified by staff through research and parent communication."
Also at the study session, the board will try to figure out members various interests and availability and decide who's going to attend what district and community events.
And (we're still on the study session, here) the board will discuss ideas from December 2003 California School Boards Association (CSBA) Conference.
Hey! I was impressed by the agenda this time. It gave a nice summary of what would be discussed at the study session.
The Regular Board Meeting
At the regular session, which begins now at 7 p.m. (not 7:30) the board and Chamber of Commerce will honor several outstanding district employees, will recieve an overview report on special education programs, and do other stuff.
Plus, of course, there is the ever popular item 4.1, "Public hearing for items not on the agenda," which is where you can stand up and tell the board members whatever you think they oughta hear.
The meeting will be held at the district administrative offices at 325 E. Huntington Drive (On the north side of Huntington drive between Canyon and California.)
Monrovia SchoolLink Preview for Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2004 special meeting
So, whatcha doin' this coming Wednesday, from, say, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.? Well, if you have nothing else to do, there is a one-topic, all-day board of education workshop with "a California School Boards Association consultant regarding Board of Education roles and responsibilities, team efforts, and goal setting." Is this a subtle way of trying to reign in the new board members, or is it just a standard orientation kind of meeting? I guess it's probably standard, though if you have a suspicious nature like mine, you see conspiracies behind every bush. Have I mentioned lately that the Air Force has these frozen flying saucer guys in Roswell, New Mexico, but refuses to admit it?
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
(0) comments
So, whatcha doin' this coming Wednesday, from, say, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.? Well, if you have nothing else to do, there is a one-topic, all-day board of education workshop with "a California School Boards Association consultant regarding Board of Education roles and responsibilities, team efforts, and goal setting." Is this a subtle way of trying to reign in the new board members, or is it just a standard orientation kind of meeting? I guess it's probably standard, though if you have a suspicious nature like mine, you see conspiracies behind every bush. Have I mentioned lately that the Air Force has these frozen flying saucer guys in Roswell, New Mexico, but refuses to admit it?
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 75 ~ Feb. 11, 2004
Thanks to John Pentecost for this very detailed report. I think Cyrus Kemp is right (below) that including a more lengthy description of study session topics in the agenda would be a good idea. After all, if you can't figure out what the session's about, why go?
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
All board members were present as well as the Monrovia High School Student representative. All staff was present except Ms. Mariconda, out with bronchitis.
Dr. Bruce Carter updated the public concerning the outcome of the closed session in which three items were discussed: 1. Expulsion of a student, 2. Rehab of a coach and, 3. Plan to renew the superintendent’s contract, though it could not be ratified due to "Errors in Agenda." This matter will be handled at the next board meeting.
For Items not on the Agenda, Cyrus Kemp requested the criteria used by the board for determination of the contract renewal and salary increase for the superintendent.
Cyrus also wanted the public to be assured that the board was not "winging it." He wanted specific criteria for evaluation purposes. He also wants each board member to be asked how they vote on a particular issue rather then "favorable" voice votes. He believes study sessions should be announced and their purpose described.
CONGRATULATIONS to Alex Boley from Plymouth Elementary, Santa Fe Middle and Monrovia High School, as well as to Jeremiah Elliott, from Wildrose Elementary, Clifton Middle and MHS, for winning the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealer Auto Competition. A trip to New York to participate in the National Championship is in store for them in April. Thanks to Charles Gill, Executive Director of New Car Dealer Association, Mike Wheeler, Sierra Auto Car Foreman (who gave 30 hours of training), and Peter Hoffman, owner of Sierra for all the team's involvement in this accomplishment!! Cheers and congratulations!
Peter Hoffman was also presented with the Employer Of the Year Award by Pam Woodbury for his active involvement in the ROP training program. The Golden Apple Award was also given out. Kudos to Mr. Clegg, who helped initiate the ROP program three years ago with an initial grant of $20,000. Monrovia has subsequently received two separate grants of $10,000 for ROP classes and training.
MEASURE G was introduced to the board by Citrus College President Dr. Michael Viera, who explained the need for maintenance and upgrades at Citrus. He said only one other bond has ever been floated to support Citrus and now the infrastructure is in serious need of attention. Each homeowner in the district would have $25 per $100,000 of ASSESSED value charged to their tax bill for approximately 20 years to repay the bond. (It could be paid off sooner if homes are reassessed at higher values and income is received more quickly). Bryan Wong asked for clarification. Is it about $4 per month for the AVERAGE homeowner in Monrovia? Yes it is.
Dr. Carter explained that for every three seats in higher education facilities in California two are in community colleges. We need to rally around Citrus! Thanks to Mrs. Montgomery for attending the meeting also!
The public was invited to participate in discussion, and Cyrus asked for a no vote because of the high number of taxes being placed on homeowners, many of who have high assessed values, well above the average.
However, the board voted unanimously to support Measure G.
Rosemary Harrahill asked for clarification regarding the district's homework policy. She said there are still outstanding issues relating to 1. Homework not being graded, 2. Material collected and promptly being thrown out, and 3. Poor follow-up on test results in class. A second issue is the writing tests administered in 4th and 7th grade. Are the students being adequately taught and prepared for the test? Dr. Joel Shawn expressed appreciation for the comments and said he will keep working on it.
Board member reports: Dr. Carter was eight days in Washington to visit with key representatives regarding education issues. This was at no expense to the district. He visited with 12 members assigned to work on education. He said pressures from both Washington DC and Sacramento are increasing but without the follow-through of funds promised. Work loads and requirements are more substantial than ever. Also, the American Disabilities Act is under review. In Monrovia, technically, about 60 percent of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch fee subsidies. Very tight auditing of this may occur in the future.
There is a problem in the "snapshot" view of the "No Student Left Behind" program. It seems that individuals are not evaluated on an individual basis. Each year the particular student sitting in a specific chair is evaluated and compared. This does not give a clear picture of progress. California standards are high but there is not a clear way to detail progress.
Also, there is increasing pressure for teachers to be certified in every specialized class they teach.
Clare Chesley wished to clarify statements made regarding Santa Fe. She wants everyone to hear that there is need for general maintenance and facility care upgrade. "The thing speaks for itself," she said. "As you go from site to site you see the need for better care of bathrooms, repair of peeling paint and other health and safety related issues. Let's have a staff report on this in a coming board meeting! Look at problems and solutions please."
UPDATE on school site visits by Clare and Bryon. They visited Mayflower Elementary with principal Jill Selek. She was pleased to convey that Mayflower was the only school to exceed the 800 test result benchmark She explained that it gets more difficult the higher the bar is raised. She also wished to clarify old school misunderstandings. Mayflower has approximately 44 percent Hispanic population, 36 percent white and 11 percent African American. Across the board it is multicultural and multiethnic with significant income differences. There are many students in the subsidized meal program (48). SO, Mayflower reflects the community and excels in standards-based educational programs.
Further, it is seen as a happy and safe school. In conclusion she and Bryon looked at each other at the end of the tour in the parking lot and said "WOW!"
Tiffany Ross of MHS provided a summary of the high points of Black Student Month. Also, "Attitude is Everything." Give blood: the goal is to have 70 students participating at MHS.
Dr. Taylor summarized events of the farewell for Roger Grasiani who provided 20 years of leadership on the board. There was also recognition again of Tom Reilly, who took students on auto vocational training competition. CONGRATS for winning 17 gold and 3 silver for a total of 20 MEDALS!! KGEM is working closely with Monrovia High to develop a broad media coverage program. Congrats on the High School Career Center.
All principals met with Dr. Joel Shawn for staff development. Under review is the Open Court reading program.
Dr. Joel Shawn provided a very detailed PowerPoint presentation with Ms. Susan Hirsch regarding academic intervention 1. Imbedded, 2. Supplemental, 3. Summer school/inter-session. Copies of this presentation are available by request. Well worth reviewing! Summer School is like starting a whole new school up each year. Programs varied significantly from 2002 to 2003, with changes in site location and budget. Congrats to MS Hirsch for a fine PowerPoint description of the programs, which are undergoing constant change.
Mr. Clegg, principal of MHS, had a PowerPoint presentation of the WASC three-year revisited accreditation, which is a major issue for the high school. When the process began three years ago many players were new (i.e. Dr. Shawn and Mr. Clegg). It was difficult to face the review conclusions brought forward. It was somewhat overwhelming. But the staff and teachers and administration have made significant strides. They are preparing for a review on April 6th at 3:00pm. A complete copy of the extensive presentation is available. ASK FOR A COPY!
Dr. Shawn thanked the teachers for coming to the board meeting! There is a strong sense of purpose to continue the progress. Thanks to Dr. Geiger for the tremendous progress on the technology upgrades despite the thickness of the walls, which were constructed in the early 1900's!
NOW THE BUDGET!! Linda Dempsey updated the board and the public on the current projections. Well, we really do not know. Perhaps there will be as much as a $550,000 shortfall for the district. On paper we retain the budget we wish to have, but are prepared for all scenarios proceeding from the political initiatives of Prop 57 and 58. Bryon said that these will have a significant impact on future budgets and activities throughout the district. At issue are class size reduction requirements of the state without adequate provision for staff and classes. Block grants, guaranteed ADA and COLA. Stay tuned for specific budget information as it becomes available. On April 28th there will be a full budget presentation.!!! For 2004-2005, the total restricted and unrestricted budget projection is $39,525,429, compared with a 2003-2004 budget of $40,044,600.
A huge business venture that all of us need to take very seriously!!!!
Betty Sanford said she wishes to have the time of the board meetings changed. The board voted and approved a change to 7 p.m. for regular meetings, still preceded by study sessions. Sentiment was expressed that more of public could participate!!
Parent involvement, teacher involvement, staff involvement, district involvement! A team working together for the good of all students!!
(0) comments
Thanks to John Pentecost for this very detailed report. I think Cyrus Kemp is right (below) that including a more lengthy description of study session topics in the agenda would be a good idea. After all, if you can't figure out what the session's about, why go?
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
All board members were present as well as the Monrovia High School Student representative. All staff was present except Ms. Mariconda, out with bronchitis.
Dr. Bruce Carter updated the public concerning the outcome of the closed session in which three items were discussed: 1. Expulsion of a student, 2. Rehab of a coach and, 3. Plan to renew the superintendent’s contract, though it could not be ratified due to "Errors in Agenda." This matter will be handled at the next board meeting.
For Items not on the Agenda, Cyrus Kemp requested the criteria used by the board for determination of the contract renewal and salary increase for the superintendent.
Cyrus also wanted the public to be assured that the board was not "winging it." He wanted specific criteria for evaluation purposes. He also wants each board member to be asked how they vote on a particular issue rather then "favorable" voice votes. He believes study sessions should be announced and their purpose described.
CONGRATULATIONS to Alex Boley from Plymouth Elementary, Santa Fe Middle and Monrovia High School, as well as to Jeremiah Elliott, from Wildrose Elementary, Clifton Middle and MHS, for winning the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealer Auto Competition. A trip to New York to participate in the National Championship is in store for them in April. Thanks to Charles Gill, Executive Director of New Car Dealer Association, Mike Wheeler, Sierra Auto Car Foreman (who gave 30 hours of training), and Peter Hoffman, owner of Sierra for all the team's involvement in this accomplishment!! Cheers and congratulations!
Peter Hoffman was also presented with the Employer Of the Year Award by Pam Woodbury for his active involvement in the ROP training program. The Golden Apple Award was also given out. Kudos to Mr. Clegg, who helped initiate the ROP program three years ago with an initial grant of $20,000. Monrovia has subsequently received two separate grants of $10,000 for ROP classes and training.
MEASURE G was introduced to the board by Citrus College President Dr. Michael Viera, who explained the need for maintenance and upgrades at Citrus. He said only one other bond has ever been floated to support Citrus and now the infrastructure is in serious need of attention. Each homeowner in the district would have $25 per $100,000 of ASSESSED value charged to their tax bill for approximately 20 years to repay the bond. (It could be paid off sooner if homes are reassessed at higher values and income is received more quickly). Bryan Wong asked for clarification. Is it about $4 per month for the AVERAGE homeowner in Monrovia? Yes it is.
Dr. Carter explained that for every three seats in higher education facilities in California two are in community colleges. We need to rally around Citrus! Thanks to Mrs. Montgomery for attending the meeting also!
The public was invited to participate in discussion, and Cyrus asked for a no vote because of the high number of taxes being placed on homeowners, many of who have high assessed values, well above the average.
However, the board voted unanimously to support Measure G.
Rosemary Harrahill asked for clarification regarding the district's homework policy. She said there are still outstanding issues relating to 1. Homework not being graded, 2. Material collected and promptly being thrown out, and 3. Poor follow-up on test results in class. A second issue is the writing tests administered in 4th and 7th grade. Are the students being adequately taught and prepared for the test? Dr. Joel Shawn expressed appreciation for the comments and said he will keep working on it.
Board member reports: Dr. Carter was eight days in Washington to visit with key representatives regarding education issues. This was at no expense to the district. He visited with 12 members assigned to work on education. He said pressures from both Washington DC and Sacramento are increasing but without the follow-through of funds promised. Work loads and requirements are more substantial than ever. Also, the American Disabilities Act is under review. In Monrovia, technically, about 60 percent of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch fee subsidies. Very tight auditing of this may occur in the future.
There is a problem in the "snapshot" view of the "No Student Left Behind" program. It seems that individuals are not evaluated on an individual basis. Each year the particular student sitting in a specific chair is evaluated and compared. This does not give a clear picture of progress. California standards are high but there is not a clear way to detail progress.
Also, there is increasing pressure for teachers to be certified in every specialized class they teach.
Clare Chesley wished to clarify statements made regarding Santa Fe. She wants everyone to hear that there is need for general maintenance and facility care upgrade. "The thing speaks for itself," she said. "As you go from site to site you see the need for better care of bathrooms, repair of peeling paint and other health and safety related issues. Let's have a staff report on this in a coming board meeting! Look at problems and solutions please."
UPDATE on school site visits by Clare and Bryon. They visited Mayflower Elementary with principal Jill Selek. She was pleased to convey that Mayflower was the only school to exceed the 800 test result benchmark She explained that it gets more difficult the higher the bar is raised. She also wished to clarify old school misunderstandings. Mayflower has approximately 44 percent Hispanic population, 36 percent white and 11 percent African American. Across the board it is multicultural and multiethnic with significant income differences. There are many students in the subsidized meal program (48). SO, Mayflower reflects the community and excels in standards-based educational programs.
Further, it is seen as a happy and safe school. In conclusion she and Bryon looked at each other at the end of the tour in the parking lot and said "WOW!"
Tiffany Ross of MHS provided a summary of the high points of Black Student Month. Also, "Attitude is Everything." Give blood: the goal is to have 70 students participating at MHS.
Dr. Taylor summarized events of the farewell for Roger Grasiani who provided 20 years of leadership on the board. There was also recognition again of Tom Reilly, who took students on auto vocational training competition. CONGRATS for winning 17 gold and 3 silver for a total of 20 MEDALS!! KGEM is working closely with Monrovia High to develop a broad media coverage program. Congrats on the High School Career Center.
All principals met with Dr. Joel Shawn for staff development. Under review is the Open Court reading program.
Dr. Joel Shawn provided a very detailed PowerPoint presentation with Ms. Susan Hirsch regarding academic intervention 1. Imbedded, 2. Supplemental, 3. Summer school/inter-session. Copies of this presentation are available by request. Well worth reviewing! Summer School is like starting a whole new school up each year. Programs varied significantly from 2002 to 2003, with changes in site location and budget. Congrats to MS Hirsch for a fine PowerPoint description of the programs, which are undergoing constant change.
Mr. Clegg, principal of MHS, had a PowerPoint presentation of the WASC three-year revisited accreditation, which is a major issue for the high school. When the process began three years ago many players were new (i.e. Dr. Shawn and Mr. Clegg). It was difficult to face the review conclusions brought forward. It was somewhat overwhelming. But the staff and teachers and administration have made significant strides. They are preparing for a review on April 6th at 3:00pm. A complete copy of the extensive presentation is available. ASK FOR A COPY!
Dr. Shawn thanked the teachers for coming to the board meeting! There is a strong sense of purpose to continue the progress. Thanks to Dr. Geiger for the tremendous progress on the technology upgrades despite the thickness of the walls, which were constructed in the early 1900's!
NOW THE BUDGET!! Linda Dempsey updated the board and the public on the current projections. Well, we really do not know. Perhaps there will be as much as a $550,000 shortfall for the district. On paper we retain the budget we wish to have, but are prepared for all scenarios proceeding from the political initiatives of Prop 57 and 58. Bryon said that these will have a significant impact on future budgets and activities throughout the district. At issue are class size reduction requirements of the state without adequate provision for staff and classes. Block grants, guaranteed ADA and COLA. Stay tuned for specific budget information as it becomes available. On April 28th there will be a full budget presentation.!!! For 2004-2005, the total restricted and unrestricted budget projection is $39,525,429, compared with a 2003-2004 budget of $40,044,600.
A huge business venture that all of us need to take very seriously!!!!
Betty Sanford said she wishes to have the time of the board meetings changed. The board voted and approved a change to 7 p.m. for regular meetings, still preceded by study sessions. Sentiment was expressed that more of public could participate!!
Parent involvement, teacher involvement, staff involvement, district involvement! A team working together for the good of all students!!
Monrovia SchoolLink Preview for Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2004 meeting
The board will discuss whether to adjust its meeting times and will listen to a presentation about what I take to be summer school. Other stuff, too. I'd have thought the full agenda would be at the board Web site (http://www.monroviaschools.net/BOEMinutes.htm), but as I write this Monday night, it is not. Tsk, tsk, tsk. Also, check out the letters at the bottom. I feel a bit badly about these letters; I'm getting so much response that I'm having to trim and summarize more than I'd prefer. Hopefully I haven't mangled things too badly. Let me know if I have.
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
~ Board of Education Regular Meeting - 7:30 p.m. - Board Room
Item 4.1 The board will honor MHS students on winning first place in the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealer Association Automotive Competition.
4.1.2 Dr. Michael Viera, President of Citrus Community College, will address the Board regarding Measure G, The Citrus College Facilities Bond.
4.2 Public hearing for items not on the agenda.
6.6 The board will receive a report on "The Summer 2003 Program And Intervention Programs." I think this means the summer school programs, with an emphasis on students who are doing catch-up work.
6.7 The board will hear about the Western Association Of Schools And Colleges progress report on Monrovia High School. I think WASC is kinda like an accreditation group.
7.7 A report on projected revenue for the 2004-05 fiscal year.
9.1 Vote on whether to support of Measure G. That's the thingy up in item 4.1.2.
9.2 Vote to proclaim February as School Counselor Recognition Month.
9.2 Discussion, with possible action, regarding the revision of Regular Board Meeting starting time.
LODOLO ~ Rosemary Harahill wrote to say that she forgot to put in a good word in the last issue for Monrovia High School teacher Mary Lodolo, who won the Seaver Award for 2003-04. Rosemary said, "I thought her presence was so professional and dignified. I wish all teachers looked that good! You can tell Mary takes her job seriously!"
GATE COMMENT ~ Also, John Pentecost contacted me (in person and by email) about a comment by district representative Carol Kaylor at the recent GATE meeting, which was noted in the last SchoolLink issue. John said Carol was refering to the cost of the popular but more expensive GATE Astro Camp program, not to the GATE program as a whole, when she said that maybe only Mayflower parents could afford to contribute to it. One of the main topics of the meeting, John said, was exploring different ways of helping GATE, including getting corporate sponsors and gifts from individuals.
THEORY AND REALITY ~ Sharon Weiser writes that while GATE is supposed to be "integrated" and provide "differentiated instruction," the theory and reality are not the same.
"The problem," she writes, "comes in how teachers will be given support in differentiating lessons in a significant way so that the GATE students receive enriched curriculum. With the emphasis on teaching the standards to ALL students (this can be overwhelming in itself) now teachers are required to provide differentiation. This may be seen by teachers as having ANOTHER thing to do.
"Teachers can resent GATE students because often they march to the beat of a different drummer, are creative in their solutions (often different from the "right" one that the teacher has come up with), can ask "annoying" and persistent questions which challenges the teacher. And besides all this, they finish their regular work before the others and become a nuisance to the teacher and those students around them. Teachers will not, as a whole, welcome this integration thing. Just as they did not welcome the integration or collaborative model (special ed students in regular classrooms with support from the special ed teacher).
"Teachers need to be shown simple, effective strategies that they can implement that do not absorb all their time that will accomplish the goals of gifted and regular ed.
"This will not be easy. Maybe I'll just attend that study session!"
(0) comments
The board will discuss whether to adjust its meeting times and will listen to a presentation about what I take to be summer school. Other stuff, too. I'd have thought the full agenda would be at the board Web site (http://www.monroviaschools.net/BOEMinutes.htm), but as I write this Monday night, it is not. Tsk, tsk, tsk. Also, check out the letters at the bottom. I feel a bit badly about these letters; I'm getting so much response that I'm having to trim and summarize more than I'd prefer. Hopefully I haven't mangled things too badly. Let me know if I have.
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
~ Board of Education Regular Meeting - 7:30 p.m. - Board Room
Item 4.1 The board will honor MHS students on winning first place in the Greater Los Angeles New Car Dealer Association Automotive Competition.
4.1.2 Dr. Michael Viera, President of Citrus Community College, will address the Board regarding Measure G, The Citrus College Facilities Bond.
4.2 Public hearing for items not on the agenda.
6.6 The board will receive a report on "The Summer 2003 Program And Intervention Programs." I think this means the summer school programs, with an emphasis on students who are doing catch-up work.
6.7 The board will hear about the Western Association Of Schools And Colleges progress report on Monrovia High School. I think WASC is kinda like an accreditation group.
7.7 A report on projected revenue for the 2004-05 fiscal year.
9.1 Vote on whether to support of Measure G. That's the thingy up in item 4.1.2.
9.2 Vote to proclaim February as School Counselor Recognition Month.
9.2 Discussion, with possible action, regarding the revision of Regular Board Meeting starting time.
LODOLO ~ Rosemary Harahill wrote to say that she forgot to put in a good word in the last issue for Monrovia High School teacher Mary Lodolo, who won the Seaver Award for 2003-04. Rosemary said, "I thought her presence was so professional and dignified. I wish all teachers looked that good! You can tell Mary takes her job seriously!"
GATE COMMENT ~ Also, John Pentecost contacted me (in person and by email) about a comment by district representative Carol Kaylor at the recent GATE meeting, which was noted in the last SchoolLink issue. John said Carol was refering to the cost of the popular but more expensive GATE Astro Camp program, not to the GATE program as a whole, when she said that maybe only Mayflower parents could afford to contribute to it. One of the main topics of the meeting, John said, was exploring different ways of helping GATE, including getting corporate sponsors and gifts from individuals.
THEORY AND REALITY ~ Sharon Weiser writes that while GATE is supposed to be "integrated" and provide "differentiated instruction," the theory and reality are not the same.
"The problem," she writes, "comes in how teachers will be given support in differentiating lessons in a significant way so that the GATE students receive enriched curriculum. With the emphasis on teaching the standards to ALL students (this can be overwhelming in itself) now teachers are required to provide differentiation. This may be seen by teachers as having ANOTHER thing to do.
"Teachers can resent GATE students because often they march to the beat of a different drummer, are creative in their solutions (often different from the "right" one that the teacher has come up with), can ask "annoying" and persistent questions which challenges the teacher. And besides all this, they finish their regular work before the others and become a nuisance to the teacher and those students around them. Teachers will not, as a whole, welcome this integration thing. Just as they did not welcome the integration or collaborative model (special ed students in regular classrooms with support from the special ed teacher).
"Teachers need to be shown simple, effective strategies that they can implement that do not absorb all their time that will accomplish the goals of gifted and regular ed.
"This will not be easy. Maybe I'll just attend that study session!"
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 74 ~ Feb. 6, 2004
Since there's been a lot of discussion about the GATE gifted program, I thought I'd write a bit about it, but before I could Ann Hodgdon sent me a report about a recent GATE meeting, so I asked school officials for additional comments (Clare Chesley responded and Joel Shawn attempted to, but he and I got our wires crossed), and here it is. Also, at the bottom, some reports and comments from letters. By the way, feel free to write when the urge strikes.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
ANN'S GATE REPORT ~ On Tuesday, January 27th there was a meeting at the district office to discuss the GATE program. In attendance were Joel Shawn and Carol Kaylor representing the district and parent representatives from all Monrovia schools except Monrovia High. We were informed that two representatives from all schools were invited. I (Ann Hodgdon) am not a representative but I went anyway. [That's the spirit, Ann!] I initially sat in the audience away from the designated meeting table until Dr. Shawn politely asked me to join the group at the table (a nice start!).
Actually, we had two additional representatives from the district -- school board members Brian Wong and Clare Chesley. They were also present at the first GATE meeting prior to their election. I guess we know which board members care about this issue!
The atmosphere of the meeting was a change from the first GATE meeting, where there was more defense going on than you saw at the Superbowl (my opinion of course). Dr Shawn and Carol Kaylor initiated the meeting by expressing openness to change and said they want to start GATE discussions with a blank slate and initially without worrying about budget constraints (our GATE budget is $51,000 with some carry-over from last year). They admitted that they were aware of the stepchild perception of the GATE program in Monrovia and used a quote from Alex Zucco that it should be the crown jewel of our district.
The meat of the meeting consisted of Dr. Shawn and Carol Kaylor asking us to voice our interests as to what we would like to see happen in GATE. I was very exhausted and did not write down the names of the parents who spoke. Many did speak, however, and it seems we may have been heard. Without exception (at least from those who spoke up) it seems that parents would like to see GATE as an integrated part of the school day. This, of course, is what we should already be doing to be in compliance with AB2313. There was one comment though, that irks me every time I think of it. One parent rep suggested that due to budget constraints maybe GATE parents could be asked to contribute money to the program (not it). While several parents immediately said that they didn’t think that would be appropriate, Carol Kaylor made a comment (without thinking) that probably only Mayflower parents could afford it. I protested, but not loud enough, and the subject was quickly changed. This from the person heading up the GATE program.
Clare Chesley asked specifically how parents felt about the inconsistency of the GATE programs throughout the district. She also asked how parents felt about Astrocamp and other programs that benefit only a small fraction of the GATE students, yet comprise a significant fraction of the GATE budget. Jim Gauderman, from Mayflower, did comment on both of these topics (I remember this because I know Jim). He said the schools need some uniform direction from the school district in order for change to occur as teachers are already overwhelmed and may not willing to take on developing the significant changes a revised GATE program may entail. He also commented that he agreed with Clare that the Astrocamp and other summer programs comprise too much of the GATE budget and that the money could be more usefully spent on teachers and an integrated GATE program.
The meeting ended with a parent suggesting that we take a survey back to other GATE parents at each of our schools and schedule a meeting for some time in February to hand them out. We are to ask for input and suggestions so that all the GATE parents are represented. We then bring the info to another GATE meeting to be held at the district on Tuesday, March 23rd at 6 p.m. All are invited but don’t tell Joel Shawn I said that.
In addition, the school board and the superintendent will be holding a study session on GATE sometime in February. We don’t know the date yet but we should also have a few reps there I would think.
Well I guess that’s about it. I hope I did the meeting justice and that I didn’t offend anyone by leaving something out.
If you want to know more about GATE and AB 2313 go to www.cde.ca.gov/cilbranch/gate.
CLARE'S GATE COMMENTS ~ Clare wrote to ask me to encourage people to show up at the GATE study session. I think that's the one Ann mentioned above. The meeting should be mentioned in an upcoming agenda, and I'll try to send out a reminder a few days before to let you know it's coming up.
Also, Claire asked me to, "Please let parents/families know that they should contact their GATE representatives at their respective schools to share their input, especially if they cannot attend the GATE study session. At the last GATE meeting, the attendees decided that they needed to get broader input to avoid representing only their own opinions."
Also, she asked people to view the GATE program as a "clean slate," meaning she wants to hear everybody's ideas, regardless of what they cost. "Later," she said, "we can determine what we can provide within the budget."
BORED MEETING ~ June Richetts reports in with some comments on the last board meeting:
I attended most of the bored, oops, "board" meeting. The turn-out is pathetic and I'm not surprised. Board members really need to learn to focus on an issue they are presenting. Example: Bruce Carter spoke of his trip to Sacramento and about the slight financial increase per child that the state would be sending our way. After the Teachers Retirement fund takes their chuck (more about that later) and we pay back some of our obligations, the "increase" comes to $5 per child. I did some quick math and figured that Mayflower (I was sitting next to Mayflower Principal Jill Selak) would received an additional $3,000-$4,000 for this year. Cyrus Kemp did more math and figured that it was less than $30,000 for the entire District. I feel that Mr. Carter should have been more specific as to the impact on our district. $5 per child stinks, but $30,000, while not great, sounds like something that we could really put to use.
I agree with Claire about the condition of the middle schools and high school. Perhaps this is a good area for community involvement, ie: paint donations from Home Depot or something like that. I would like to add that it was great to see Al Clegg and Jill Selak stick the meeting out until the bitter end. It was also nice to see some staff from Santa Fe and the High School at the meeting to support their award winners. You'll have to find out from someone else about folks from Clifton, as I don't know anyone there.
Teachers Retirement... *sigh* Bruce said it's mandated how much they get out of the increase. Maybe I'm wierd about this but I don't begrudge a teacher retirement income as I am sure they don't complain about my employer's contributions to my retirement fund. I wish Mr. Carter had emphasized the bond repayment (which is what I understood that the majority of the funds will be going to) rather than mentioning the teachers retirement fund first.
OSCAR DESERVED BETTER ~ Rosemary Harrahill comments on high school counselor Oscar Ibarra being honored and on the board chatting when people are speaking:
The lady who announced Oscar Ibarra's accomplishments gets an F. It was the most blasse, boring delivery I've ever heard. That guy has done more to make that high school better than anyone I can think of by really going above and beyond the call of duty.
Cyrus [Kemp] is right -- they [the board members] talk among themselves when community members are speaking and DANG IT, it's rude as heck! KNOCK IT OFF!
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Since there's been a lot of discussion about the GATE gifted program, I thought I'd write a bit about it, but before I could Ann Hodgdon sent me a report about a recent GATE meeting, so I asked school officials for additional comments (Clare Chesley responded and Joel Shawn attempted to, but he and I got our wires crossed), and here it is. Also, at the bottom, some reports and comments from letters. By the way, feel free to write when the urge strikes.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
ANN'S GATE REPORT ~ On Tuesday, January 27th there was a meeting at the district office to discuss the GATE program. In attendance were Joel Shawn and Carol Kaylor representing the district and parent representatives from all Monrovia schools except Monrovia High. We were informed that two representatives from all schools were invited. I (Ann Hodgdon) am not a representative but I went anyway. [That's the spirit, Ann!] I initially sat in the audience away from the designated meeting table until Dr. Shawn politely asked me to join the group at the table (a nice start!).
Actually, we had two additional representatives from the district -- school board members Brian Wong and Clare Chesley. They were also present at the first GATE meeting prior to their election. I guess we know which board members care about this issue!
The atmosphere of the meeting was a change from the first GATE meeting, where there was more defense going on than you saw at the Superbowl (my opinion of course). Dr Shawn and Carol Kaylor initiated the meeting by expressing openness to change and said they want to start GATE discussions with a blank slate and initially without worrying about budget constraints (our GATE budget is $51,000 with some carry-over from last year). They admitted that they were aware of the stepchild perception of the GATE program in Monrovia and used a quote from Alex Zucco that it should be the crown jewel of our district.
The meat of the meeting consisted of Dr. Shawn and Carol Kaylor asking us to voice our interests as to what we would like to see happen in GATE. I was very exhausted and did not write down the names of the parents who spoke. Many did speak, however, and it seems we may have been heard. Without exception (at least from those who spoke up) it seems that parents would like to see GATE as an integrated part of the school day. This, of course, is what we should already be doing to be in compliance with AB2313. There was one comment though, that irks me every time I think of it. One parent rep suggested that due to budget constraints maybe GATE parents could be asked to contribute money to the program (not it). While several parents immediately said that they didn’t think that would be appropriate, Carol Kaylor made a comment (without thinking) that probably only Mayflower parents could afford it. I protested, but not loud enough, and the subject was quickly changed. This from the person heading up the GATE program.
Clare Chesley asked specifically how parents felt about the inconsistency of the GATE programs throughout the district. She also asked how parents felt about Astrocamp and other programs that benefit only a small fraction of the GATE students, yet comprise a significant fraction of the GATE budget. Jim Gauderman, from Mayflower, did comment on both of these topics (I remember this because I know Jim). He said the schools need some uniform direction from the school district in order for change to occur as teachers are already overwhelmed and may not willing to take on developing the significant changes a revised GATE program may entail. He also commented that he agreed with Clare that the Astrocamp and other summer programs comprise too much of the GATE budget and that the money could be more usefully spent on teachers and an integrated GATE program.
The meeting ended with a parent suggesting that we take a survey back to other GATE parents at each of our schools and schedule a meeting for some time in February to hand them out. We are to ask for input and suggestions so that all the GATE parents are represented. We then bring the info to another GATE meeting to be held at the district on Tuesday, March 23rd at 6 p.m. All are invited but don’t tell Joel Shawn I said that.
In addition, the school board and the superintendent will be holding a study session on GATE sometime in February. We don’t know the date yet but we should also have a few reps there I would think.
Well I guess that’s about it. I hope I did the meeting justice and that I didn’t offend anyone by leaving something out.
If you want to know more about GATE and AB 2313 go to www.cde.ca.gov/cilbranch/gate.
CLARE'S GATE COMMENTS ~ Clare wrote to ask me to encourage people to show up at the GATE study session. I think that's the one Ann mentioned above. The meeting should be mentioned in an upcoming agenda, and I'll try to send out a reminder a few days before to let you know it's coming up.
Also, Claire asked me to, "Please let parents/families know that they should contact their GATE representatives at their respective schools to share their input, especially if they cannot attend the GATE study session. At the last GATE meeting, the attendees decided that they needed to get broader input to avoid representing only their own opinions."
Also, she asked people to view the GATE program as a "clean slate," meaning she wants to hear everybody's ideas, regardless of what they cost. "Later," she said, "we can determine what we can provide within the budget."
BORED MEETING ~ June Richetts reports in with some comments on the last board meeting:
I attended most of the bored, oops, "board" meeting. The turn-out is pathetic and I'm not surprised. Board members really need to learn to focus on an issue they are presenting. Example: Bruce Carter spoke of his trip to Sacramento and about the slight financial increase per child that the state would be sending our way. After the Teachers Retirement fund takes their chuck (more about that later) and we pay back some of our obligations, the "increase" comes to $5 per child. I did some quick math and figured that Mayflower (I was sitting next to Mayflower Principal Jill Selak) would received an additional $3,000-$4,000 for this year. Cyrus Kemp did more math and figured that it was less than $30,000 for the entire District. I feel that Mr. Carter should have been more specific as to the impact on our district. $5 per child stinks, but $30,000, while not great, sounds like something that we could really put to use.
I agree with Claire about the condition of the middle schools and high school. Perhaps this is a good area for community involvement, ie: paint donations from Home Depot or something like that. I would like to add that it was great to see Al Clegg and Jill Selak stick the meeting out until the bitter end. It was also nice to see some staff from Santa Fe and the High School at the meeting to support their award winners. You'll have to find out from someone else about folks from Clifton, as I don't know anyone there.
Teachers Retirement... *sigh* Bruce said it's mandated how much they get out of the increase. Maybe I'm wierd about this but I don't begrudge a teacher retirement income as I am sure they don't complain about my employer's contributions to my retirement fund. I wish Mr. Carter had emphasized the bond repayment (which is what I understood that the majority of the funds will be going to) rather than mentioning the teachers retirement fund first.
OSCAR DESERVED BETTER ~ Rosemary Harrahill comments on high school counselor Oscar Ibarra being honored and on the board chatting when people are speaking:
The lady who announced Oscar Ibarra's accomplishments gets an F. It was the most blasse, boring delivery I've ever heard. That guy has done more to make that high school better than anyone I can think of by really going above and beyond the call of duty.
Cyrus [Kemp] is right -- they [the board members] talk among themselves when community members are speaking and DANG IT, it's rude as heck! KNOCK IT OFF!
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 73 ~ Jan. 28, 2004
Thanks to Sam Jacoby for attending the meeting and taking notes. I got a couple letters (feel free to write any time) from folks, which I've tacked on down at the bottom. Also, a couple good ideas from people (pictures of board members in the district office lobby, and having PTA presidents moderate community forums.)
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
THE BOARD REPORT ~ Sounds like Clare and Bryan had some rough things to say about the maintenance at the middle schools. Here's Sam's report:
The board presented awards to district employees for outstanding service. They were Cindy Jones of Santa Fe; Kathleen Giangregorio, also of Santa Fe; Oscar Ibarra of Monrovia High; and Jennifer Gates of Monrovia High.
The floor was then turned over for public forum, and a Mrs. Ostry spoke for about 10 minutes, patting the board on the back. Another gentleman, who's granddaughter attends Bradoaks Elementary, expressed serious concerns about safety and handicapped access for his granddaughter at Bradoaks.
Then Cyrus Kemp expressed his disgust at a $2,700 expenditure for importing snow for a school function. He also said that the district office's lobby is not friendly; that the receptionist needs to be more welcoming and also that board members should have their photos up in the lobby. [Good idea, Cyrus! These little things make a difference. - Brad]
Then a producer from some cable TV station got up and talked about how great her station was. Bla bla bla bla.
Clare Chesley spoke next about how she and Bryan toured the middle schools and how she was disgusted at the maintenance. She also spoke of the high school exit exams that she and Bryan attended.
Bruce Carter spoke next of his exciting trip to Sacramento. He talked about the Star program, the no child left behind program and also Prop 98. Bryan Wong concurred with Clare's presentation of their tours of the middle schools. Bla bla bla.
Monina Diaz congratulated award recipients and spoke of her attendance at Chamber of Commerce board meetings.
Betty Sanford passed out MUSD reports to the rest of the board and said that the reports should be in people's mail boxes next week. She also spoke of the CSBA forecast meeting she attended in Sacramento. She said the theme was, "Improving student health improves their ability to learn." Tiffany Ross, the student representative, spoke about the high school's Winter formal and the school's celebration of Chinese New Year.
Cyrus Kemp returned and thanked Clare for ripping on the maintenance issues at the Middle School and offered some suggestions. He then ripped on the board for being so rude as to be talking amongst themselves while he was addressing them.
Joel Shawn gave his report on the exit exams. He thanked board members for attending the exams, and said there was 49% attendance at the exams and the staff was pleased that those attending represented all ethnic groups evenly. He also thanked parents for attending, and then discussed homework policies.
The board then ratified the contract with the teachers union and briefly discussed a class size report.
COMMUNITY OPINION ~ In the last newsletter I mentioned Monina Diaz would like to get a broad range of community viewpoints, and she suggested using focus groups. Sharon Weiser wrote in to comment:
In response to community opinions and ways in which to get them: How about having site focus groups led by the PTA president (moderator). A board member would be required at each group meeting. Meetings could be held in homes or at the school. Obviously, more parents could hear other's opinions if it was held at the school. Usually, PTA presidents possess fine communication and public relation skills. Each school has its own culture and flavor so it should represent the community as a whole. These opinions would then be shared at the board meetings and expressed in a public hearing.
I disagree with her [Monina's] statement that visual learners are in the minority. Usually instruction is presented visually, auditorally and kinesthetically (if the lesson lends itself to that). Teachers are skilled in knowing how to reach all modalities. They learn this in their univerity courses. And, it is not difficult to accomplish.
What is more difficult, and teachers are less prepared in this area, is teaching to the ability level of all students. Usually, RSP students receive additional support. It is the gifted learner that gets short changed. Some districts do a better job than others in this area. Many districts are cutting the GATE full day classes where students receive differentiated instruction (above and beyond and challenging and engaging work, not just more of the same {50 problems instead of 20}). The regular classroom teacher needs support in providing challenging and engaging instruction to ALL students. Just saying the words "challenging" and "engaging" does not make it happen in a classroom. That's where staff development comes in. Before I went into administration, I taught regular ed and GATE classes (full day). From my experience, teachers need examples and resources to create the kinds of mind-work that is challenging and engaging.
IBARRA AND AVID ~ In the SchoolLink Preview I mentioned that Counselor Oscar Ibarra would be honored, and commented that that was cool, because "he is pretty much responsible for boosting the number of MHS students who apply for college." Gail LaBau wrote to say that, "Although Oscar has done a great job, you might be interested to know that additional students came from the AVID program, which had its first graduating class finish last June. All 21 were accepted into college and 19 of them into four-year colleges. This boosted the numbers!."
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Thanks to Sam Jacoby for attending the meeting and taking notes. I got a couple letters (feel free to write any time) from folks, which I've tacked on down at the bottom. Also, a couple good ideas from people (pictures of board members in the district office lobby, and having PTA presidents moderate community forums.)
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
THE BOARD REPORT ~ Sounds like Clare and Bryan had some rough things to say about the maintenance at the middle schools. Here's Sam's report:
The board presented awards to district employees for outstanding service. They were Cindy Jones of Santa Fe; Kathleen Giangregorio, also of Santa Fe; Oscar Ibarra of Monrovia High; and Jennifer Gates of Monrovia High.
The floor was then turned over for public forum, and a Mrs. Ostry spoke for about 10 minutes, patting the board on the back. Another gentleman, who's granddaughter attends Bradoaks Elementary, expressed serious concerns about safety and handicapped access for his granddaughter at Bradoaks.
Then Cyrus Kemp expressed his disgust at a $2,700 expenditure for importing snow for a school function. He also said that the district office's lobby is not friendly; that the receptionist needs to be more welcoming and also that board members should have their photos up in the lobby. [Good idea, Cyrus! These little things make a difference. - Brad]
Then a producer from some cable TV station got up and talked about how great her station was. Bla bla bla bla.
Clare Chesley spoke next about how she and Bryan toured the middle schools and how she was disgusted at the maintenance. She also spoke of the high school exit exams that she and Bryan attended.
Bruce Carter spoke next of his exciting trip to Sacramento. He talked about the Star program, the no child left behind program and also Prop 98. Bryan Wong concurred with Clare's presentation of their tours of the middle schools. Bla bla bla.
Monina Diaz congratulated award recipients and spoke of her attendance at Chamber of Commerce board meetings.
Betty Sanford passed out MUSD reports to the rest of the board and said that the reports should be in people's mail boxes next week. She also spoke of the CSBA forecast meeting she attended in Sacramento. She said the theme was, "Improving student health improves their ability to learn." Tiffany Ross, the student representative, spoke about the high school's Winter formal and the school's celebration of Chinese New Year.
Cyrus Kemp returned and thanked Clare for ripping on the maintenance issues at the Middle School and offered some suggestions. He then ripped on the board for being so rude as to be talking amongst themselves while he was addressing them.
Joel Shawn gave his report on the exit exams. He thanked board members for attending the exams, and said there was 49% attendance at the exams and the staff was pleased that those attending represented all ethnic groups evenly. He also thanked parents for attending, and then discussed homework policies.
The board then ratified the contract with the teachers union and briefly discussed a class size report.
COMMUNITY OPINION ~ In the last newsletter I mentioned Monina Diaz would like to get a broad range of community viewpoints, and she suggested using focus groups. Sharon Weiser wrote in to comment:
In response to community opinions and ways in which to get them: How about having site focus groups led by the PTA president (moderator). A board member would be required at each group meeting. Meetings could be held in homes or at the school. Obviously, more parents could hear other's opinions if it was held at the school. Usually, PTA presidents possess fine communication and public relation skills. Each school has its own culture and flavor so it should represent the community as a whole. These opinions would then be shared at the board meetings and expressed in a public hearing.
I disagree with her [Monina's] statement that visual learners are in the minority. Usually instruction is presented visually, auditorally and kinesthetically (if the lesson lends itself to that). Teachers are skilled in knowing how to reach all modalities. They learn this in their univerity courses. And, it is not difficult to accomplish.
What is more difficult, and teachers are less prepared in this area, is teaching to the ability level of all students. Usually, RSP students receive additional support. It is the gifted learner that gets short changed. Some districts do a better job than others in this area. Many districts are cutting the GATE full day classes where students receive differentiated instruction (above and beyond and challenging and engaging work, not just more of the same {50 problems instead of 20}). The regular classroom teacher needs support in providing challenging and engaging instruction to ALL students. Just saying the words "challenging" and "engaging" does not make it happen in a classroom. That's where staff development comes in. Before I went into administration, I taught regular ed and GATE classes (full day). From my experience, teachers need examples and resources to create the kinds of mind-work that is challenging and engaging.
IBARRA AND AVID ~ In the SchoolLink Preview I mentioned that Counselor Oscar Ibarra would be honored, and commented that that was cool, because "he is pretty much responsible for boosting the number of MHS students who apply for college." Gail LaBau wrote to say that, "Although Oscar has done a great job, you might be interested to know that additional students came from the AVID program, which had its first graduating class finish last June. All 21 were accepted into college and 19 of them into four-year colleges. This boosted the numbers!."
Monrovia SchoolLink PREVIEW for Jan. 28
Homework policy status report, report on class size, and more. For a full agenda, go to www.monroviaschools.net/BOEMinutes.htm. Hopefully the agenda will be there by Monday.
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Here are a few items on the board meeting agenda this coming Wednesday, Jan. 28:
~ Board of Education Regular Meeting - 7:30 p.m. - Board Room
Item 4.1 The Monrovia Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Education will recognize Monrovia these district employees for outstanding service:
- Cindy Jones, Health Assistant, Santa Fe Middle School
- Kathleen Giangregorio, Teacher, Santa Fe Middle School
- Oscar Ibarra, Counselor Technician, Monrovia High School (Cool! He is pretty much responsible for boosting the number of MHS students who apply for college.)
- Jennifer Gates, Teacher, Monrovia High School
Item 4.2 Public hearing for items not on the agenda. Free-for-all time. Get up and say anytning you please.
Item 4.5.1 Report from the Superintendent on Homework Policy Status Report. I wonder what this is.
Item 8.3 The district and its employee groups have apparently reached a tentative contract agreement. The board will probably make it official.
Item 8.4 The board will listen to a report on class size.
~ Dates for Upcoming Board Meetings:
Wednesday, February 11, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 24, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, April 28, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
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Homework policy status report, report on class size, and more. For a full agenda, go to www.monroviaschools.net/BOEMinutes.htm. Hopefully the agenda will be there by Monday.
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Here are a few items on the board meeting agenda this coming Wednesday, Jan. 28:
~ Board of Education Regular Meeting - 7:30 p.m. - Board Room
Item 4.1 The Monrovia Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Education will recognize Monrovia these district employees for outstanding service:
- Cindy Jones, Health Assistant, Santa Fe Middle School
- Kathleen Giangregorio, Teacher, Santa Fe Middle School
- Oscar Ibarra, Counselor Technician, Monrovia High School (Cool! He is pretty much responsible for boosting the number of MHS students who apply for college.)
- Jennifer Gates, Teacher, Monrovia High School
Item 4.2 Public hearing for items not on the agenda. Free-for-all time. Get up and say anytning you please.
Item 4.5.1 Report from the Superintendent on Homework Policy Status Report. I wonder what this is.
Item 8.3 The district and its employee groups have apparently reached a tentative contract agreement. The board will probably make it official.
Item 8.4 The board will listen to a report on class size.
~ Dates for Upcoming Board Meetings:
Wednesday, February 11, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 24, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, April 28, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 72 ~ Jan. 22, 2004
This newsletter is rather different from any of the previous ones. Hopefully I'll be able to do something like this every once in a while. This time, Monina Diaz. If you have any good ideas for topics, let me know.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Since I've stopped going to the school board meetings regularly (Thank you, volunteers!), I decided I can slack off on my rule against speaking to board members. I had this rule because I was afraid if I spoke to them I'd like them, and then I'd find it difficult to say hard things when I felt it was necessary. But now I'm free!
So, having chucked my rule out the window, I decided to talk to board member Monina Diaz, who has intrigued me for some time. She was initially appointed, more than two years ago, to fill out a term when a board member moved out of town, then she won reelection. She was only about 25 when she was appointed - she's 27 now - and when she first came on the board I thought she seemed bright but I wondered if she had enough life experience. But since then I've seen these occasional sparks of creativity and initiative that interest me and made me curious about who she is. So she and I met at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf last Saturday to chat.
Monina works as an intern at "a capital management company" and works part time at her mother's business. She drinks hot vanilla latte thingies through a straw (we all have our besetting sins) and takes her faith seriously (I infer this from her comments about praying and that she drives all the way into downtown LA to attend - and teach Sunday School at - a little church she likes.) She is thinking of going on to business school and is a big fan of management guru Peter Drucker's books, though now she tells me she's excited about a book called "Lincoln on Leadership." Also, based on her educational background and my chat with her, I'd say she's sharp as a razor.
Monina grew up in Monrovia, attended the private Foothill Preschool, where, she said, unlike some preschools, she actually learned things. For elementary school she went to Wild Rose Elementary, where she was plunked into the GATE program. In about third or fourth grade classmates were talking about going to college and she thought that sounded fun, so she decided to go to college. (A good example of positive peer influence, she said.)
From preschool on, she said, she has loved reading. Though she watched her mother read - and thought it looked like fun - she said her parents seldom read to her and never really pushed her to do her homework. She just did it. (I wonder if they didn't push because she didn't need pushing.) Anyway, she said she always figured school was the place where you caught the idea and home was where you really learned it.
Then, at Clifton Middle School, where she was again in GATE classes, she served as ASB president. At Monrovia High she was freshman and sophomore ASB president, president of the French Club, a member of the National Honors Society, and a cheerleader.
From Monrovia High she went to Princeton. One reason she choose it was because at Clifton she missed a class trip to the East Coast because her parents weren't excited about her taking such a long trip and besides, they couldn't afford to send her, not with seven kids to support. So when it came time to pick a college, she was attracted to Princeton. That would be her big trip to the East Coast.
I asked, "You didn't have enough money for a trip back east but you had enough to attend Princeton?"
"I had this childlike faith," she said. "I knew someone was going to pay for it; not me and not my parents. $120,000 didn't seem like a lot of money." She made it through with scholarships, financial aid and a few small loans.
"And what did your parents think of you going to school a continent away?"
"I was very independent. Mom was not enthusiastic, but what were they going to do? I kind of told her." But her father has relatives in New York, she said, so that softened the blow.
At Princeton Monina was accepted to The Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, which, she said, is an elite program that accepts only about 80 students and which tries to solve "impossible problems." She tackled a couple impossible problems: terrorism and the intelligence community, and later, the problems of U.S. education, particularly as it involves educating immigrants. This problem, she said, has kept her fascinated ever since.
Back home in Monrovia, she met with her friend Bruce Carter, also on the board. She said, "I vented my frustrations with him." She told him she believed students are capable of doing much more. "Why can't students do real research in history or science?" she asked. "Why can't they write real novels?" She said one problem is that students are just bored. She said Carter told her she had great ideas and when a school board position opened up he asked her to run. She thought she should be older, but he disagreed. "He kept hounding me," she said. So, at the last minute she turned in her application, and the board appointed her to finish the term of Yolanda Gallardo, who had moved out of town.
And she thinks she's a pretty good fit on the board, because, she said, she represents a cross-section of the community. She's a long time resident, her father is Hispanic and her mother is black. And through her mother, she knows the history of the district. Her mother, she said, grew up in Monrovia at a time when elementary age black children weren't taught, but were just given crayons to play with.
But her voyage from low income roots, where her family didn't even prompt her to do her homework, to being a fairly prominent member of the community suggests something else to me. I've heard low income used as an explanation of why some schools don't do as well as others, and I do accept that there is some connection (after all, it is likely higher income parents got where they're at by education and therefore push their kids to get educated), but still, I have this nagging feeling that sometimes this is used as an excuse. So, I ask her if she thinks this is a legitimate reason for poor test results.
"No," she said, "Our test scores can be as high as anyone else's." But, she said, a lot of education goes on - or should go on - at home with the family (At first I think that by "family" she means "parents," but she includes big bothers and sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins). The home front, she says, is especially important.
True enough, I think, but you play the cards you're dealt. The school district doesn't control the parents, but it does control the schools, regardless of whether the parents are helping. So what I'm trying to figure out is how she thinks the district can do a better job with what it has under its control. I press a bit harder.
She replied that instruction needs to be tailored to the student. She said she's a visual learner and fit in easily in the classroom, but, she said, "I'm not the norm," and others learn differently. As a school board member, she said, when she walks into a classroom, she wants to see every child engaged in learning, whatever form that may take. And, she said, the district needs to provide the resources so the teachers can make this happen.
Further, she said, "I want good people paid well, but I want good people. I want to pay for quality." She said teachers should get real coaching and support, and if, despite that, there are still problems, "we need to let them go before tenure sets in."
To develop excellence, she said, the district needs to define what is meant by a "great classroom, great teacher and great principal." Those definitions, she said, can't just be the board's decision, but also need to involve the teachers and the community. In this, she said, members Betty Sandford and Bruce Carter (the members with whom she has worked longest) are in agreement.
I ask about public hearings. Will there be public hearings to help determine what defines a "great classroom, great teacher and great principal?"
She said she's not sure. The matter isn't on the agenda yet, she added. But somehow she didn't seem too enthusiastic about public hearings. She explained that this is because she doesn't think public hearings represent a cross-section of the community. They represent the vocal people.
Then how do you get a good cross section? I ask.
She suggests focus groups.
Can't focus groups be skewed?
Yes, she agrees they can, and she mentions some other possibilities, such as polling, or even walking door to door, maybe using students to make phone calls, or do an Internet survey.
She adds that Bruce Carter told her that before her time on the board (or my time watching, I might add) the board had "Town Hall meetings" at various schools, but Carter (she said) told her that people would get up and ask questions like (I think this was just an off-the-cuff example), "Why is there no stadium at my school?"
I'm sorry, but on this point I am completely without sympathy. I kinda figure that's the price of being a public official. You gotta listen to people's thoughts, wise, foolish, and - my pet peeve - repetitive. In short, "You knew the job was dangerous when you took it," to quote Super Chicken, I think it was.
I press a bit harder about public hearings and Monina agrees, that yes, they might be part of the mix.
As I think about this following the interview, I agree with Monina's basic point about the value of getting a cross section of opinion, but a few things concern me. First, focus groups can be as utterly skewed as public hearings. Board members invite their buddies to a focus group and, Bingo! Instant skewed focus group. Also, it takes a skilled focus group moderator to avoid "leading the witness," so to speak. Also, while I agree that public hearings bring out the vocal few, occasionally the vocal few are vocal because they've given the matter a bit of thought and want to express their views, and public hearings (I mean ones to which the public is actually invited) give them a good opportunity to do that. Yes, people say dumb things at public hearings, but they also say dumb things at focus groups. I remember being behind the "soundproof" glass at one focus group and hearing something so dumb that we all busted up laughing. We were so loud that the focus group people looked over at the glass.
Now on to an area in which I believe Monina shines.
When she first got on the board she was excited about a book she had just read by Peter Drucker on management, and based on Drucker's theories she felt it should be the board's responsibilities to connect with the community. This belief, if I understand correctly, was the impetus for the board's "community campaign," which sponsored a parent institute to help parents better assist their children in school.
But, she said, that campaign was just the beginning of connecting with the community. She has visions of Monrovians being far more deeply involved. She'd like to see students doing internships at local companies; she'd like to see musicians and graphic designers and JPL rocket scientists and other professionals brought in to speak to students; she'd like to keep an alumni list and keep people actively involved, perhaps by using the Internet.
For example, she said she has seen Joel Shawn, who is in charge of curriculum, opening boxes. "I don't want him to do that," she said. "I know what we pay him." But if the district had a database of volunteers, she said, it could contact people who could help with opening boxes, or whatever the task might be. People could come to the Web site and see what is available. Community members and volunteers could communicate with each other through the Web site. People could even donate on-line.
Whether or not this all pans out, she's thinking creatively, and I appreciate that. I wish her well in tackling these projects.
But she doesn't think her efforts alone are enough.
"I pray a lot," she said. "God has to be at work in this."
(0) comments
This newsletter is rather different from any of the previous ones. Hopefully I'll be able to do something like this every once in a while. This time, Monina Diaz. If you have any good ideas for topics, let me know.
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Since I've stopped going to the school board meetings regularly (Thank you, volunteers!), I decided I can slack off on my rule against speaking to board members. I had this rule because I was afraid if I spoke to them I'd like them, and then I'd find it difficult to say hard things when I felt it was necessary. But now I'm free!
So, having chucked my rule out the window, I decided to talk to board member Monina Diaz, who has intrigued me for some time. She was initially appointed, more than two years ago, to fill out a term when a board member moved out of town, then she won reelection. She was only about 25 when she was appointed - she's 27 now - and when she first came on the board I thought she seemed bright but I wondered if she had enough life experience. But since then I've seen these occasional sparks of creativity and initiative that interest me and made me curious about who she is. So she and I met at Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf last Saturday to chat.
Monina works as an intern at "a capital management company" and works part time at her mother's business. She drinks hot vanilla latte thingies through a straw (we all have our besetting sins) and takes her faith seriously (I infer this from her comments about praying and that she drives all the way into downtown LA to attend - and teach Sunday School at - a little church she likes.) She is thinking of going on to business school and is a big fan of management guru Peter Drucker's books, though now she tells me she's excited about a book called "Lincoln on Leadership." Also, based on her educational background and my chat with her, I'd say she's sharp as a razor.
Monina grew up in Monrovia, attended the private Foothill Preschool, where, she said, unlike some preschools, she actually learned things. For elementary school she went to Wild Rose Elementary, where she was plunked into the GATE program. In about third or fourth grade classmates were talking about going to college and she thought that sounded fun, so she decided to go to college. (A good example of positive peer influence, she said.)
From preschool on, she said, she has loved reading. Though she watched her mother read - and thought it looked like fun - she said her parents seldom read to her and never really pushed her to do her homework. She just did it. (I wonder if they didn't push because she didn't need pushing.) Anyway, she said she always figured school was the place where you caught the idea and home was where you really learned it.
Then, at Clifton Middle School, where she was again in GATE classes, she served as ASB president. At Monrovia High she was freshman and sophomore ASB president, president of the French Club, a member of the National Honors Society, and a cheerleader.
From Monrovia High she went to Princeton. One reason she choose it was because at Clifton she missed a class trip to the East Coast because her parents weren't excited about her taking such a long trip and besides, they couldn't afford to send her, not with seven kids to support. So when it came time to pick a college, she was attracted to Princeton. That would be her big trip to the East Coast.
I asked, "You didn't have enough money for a trip back east but you had enough to attend Princeton?"
"I had this childlike faith," she said. "I knew someone was going to pay for it; not me and not my parents. $120,000 didn't seem like a lot of money." She made it through with scholarships, financial aid and a few small loans.
"And what did your parents think of you going to school a continent away?"
"I was very independent. Mom was not enthusiastic, but what were they going to do? I kind of told her." But her father has relatives in New York, she said, so that softened the blow.
At Princeton Monina was accepted to The Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, which, she said, is an elite program that accepts only about 80 students and which tries to solve "impossible problems." She tackled a couple impossible problems: terrorism and the intelligence community, and later, the problems of U.S. education, particularly as it involves educating immigrants. This problem, she said, has kept her fascinated ever since.
Back home in Monrovia, she met with her friend Bruce Carter, also on the board. She said, "I vented my frustrations with him." She told him she believed students are capable of doing much more. "Why can't students do real research in history or science?" she asked. "Why can't they write real novels?" She said one problem is that students are just bored. She said Carter told her she had great ideas and when a school board position opened up he asked her to run. She thought she should be older, but he disagreed. "He kept hounding me," she said. So, at the last minute she turned in her application, and the board appointed her to finish the term of Yolanda Gallardo, who had moved out of town.
And she thinks she's a pretty good fit on the board, because, she said, she represents a cross-section of the community. She's a long time resident, her father is Hispanic and her mother is black. And through her mother, she knows the history of the district. Her mother, she said, grew up in Monrovia at a time when elementary age black children weren't taught, but were just given crayons to play with.
But her voyage from low income roots, where her family didn't even prompt her to do her homework, to being a fairly prominent member of the community suggests something else to me. I've heard low income used as an explanation of why some schools don't do as well as others, and I do accept that there is some connection (after all, it is likely higher income parents got where they're at by education and therefore push their kids to get educated), but still, I have this nagging feeling that sometimes this is used as an excuse. So, I ask her if she thinks this is a legitimate reason for poor test results.
"No," she said, "Our test scores can be as high as anyone else's." But, she said, a lot of education goes on - or should go on - at home with the family (At first I think that by "family" she means "parents," but she includes big bothers and sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins). The home front, she says, is especially important.
True enough, I think, but you play the cards you're dealt. The school district doesn't control the parents, but it does control the schools, regardless of whether the parents are helping. So what I'm trying to figure out is how she thinks the district can do a better job with what it has under its control. I press a bit harder.
She replied that instruction needs to be tailored to the student. She said she's a visual learner and fit in easily in the classroom, but, she said, "I'm not the norm," and others learn differently. As a school board member, she said, when she walks into a classroom, she wants to see every child engaged in learning, whatever form that may take. And, she said, the district needs to provide the resources so the teachers can make this happen.
Further, she said, "I want good people paid well, but I want good people. I want to pay for quality." She said teachers should get real coaching and support, and if, despite that, there are still problems, "we need to let them go before tenure sets in."
To develop excellence, she said, the district needs to define what is meant by a "great classroom, great teacher and great principal." Those definitions, she said, can't just be the board's decision, but also need to involve the teachers and the community. In this, she said, members Betty Sandford and Bruce Carter (the members with whom she has worked longest) are in agreement.
I ask about public hearings. Will there be public hearings to help determine what defines a "great classroom, great teacher and great principal?"
She said she's not sure. The matter isn't on the agenda yet, she added. But somehow she didn't seem too enthusiastic about public hearings. She explained that this is because she doesn't think public hearings represent a cross-section of the community. They represent the vocal people.
Then how do you get a good cross section? I ask.
She suggests focus groups.
Can't focus groups be skewed?
Yes, she agrees they can, and she mentions some other possibilities, such as polling, or even walking door to door, maybe using students to make phone calls, or do an Internet survey.
She adds that Bruce Carter told her that before her time on the board (or my time watching, I might add) the board had "Town Hall meetings" at various schools, but Carter (she said) told her that people would get up and ask questions like (I think this was just an off-the-cuff example), "Why is there no stadium at my school?"
I'm sorry, but on this point I am completely without sympathy. I kinda figure that's the price of being a public official. You gotta listen to people's thoughts, wise, foolish, and - my pet peeve - repetitive. In short, "You knew the job was dangerous when you took it," to quote Super Chicken, I think it was.
I press a bit harder about public hearings and Monina agrees, that yes, they might be part of the mix.
As I think about this following the interview, I agree with Monina's basic point about the value of getting a cross section of opinion, but a few things concern me. First, focus groups can be as utterly skewed as public hearings. Board members invite their buddies to a focus group and, Bingo! Instant skewed focus group. Also, it takes a skilled focus group moderator to avoid "leading the witness," so to speak. Also, while I agree that public hearings bring out the vocal few, occasionally the vocal few are vocal because they've given the matter a bit of thought and want to express their views, and public hearings (I mean ones to which the public is actually invited) give them a good opportunity to do that. Yes, people say dumb things at public hearings, but they also say dumb things at focus groups. I remember being behind the "soundproof" glass at one focus group and hearing something so dumb that we all busted up laughing. We were so loud that the focus group people looked over at the glass.
Now on to an area in which I believe Monina shines.
When she first got on the board she was excited about a book she had just read by Peter Drucker on management, and based on Drucker's theories she felt it should be the board's responsibilities to connect with the community. This belief, if I understand correctly, was the impetus for the board's "community campaign," which sponsored a parent institute to help parents better assist their children in school.
But, she said, that campaign was just the beginning of connecting with the community. She has visions of Monrovians being far more deeply involved. She'd like to see students doing internships at local companies; she'd like to see musicians and graphic designers and JPL rocket scientists and other professionals brought in to speak to students; she'd like to keep an alumni list and keep people actively involved, perhaps by using the Internet.
For example, she said she has seen Joel Shawn, who is in charge of curriculum, opening boxes. "I don't want him to do that," she said. "I know what we pay him." But if the district had a database of volunteers, she said, it could contact people who could help with opening boxes, or whatever the task might be. People could come to the Web site and see what is available. Community members and volunteers could communicate with each other through the Web site. People could even donate on-line.
Whether or not this all pans out, she's thinking creatively, and I appreciate that. I wish her well in tackling these projects.
But she doesn't think her efforts alone are enough.
"I pray a lot," she said. "God has to be at work in this."
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 71 ~ Jan. 15, 2004
This is the first issue for which someone other than myself has done the newsletter! I'm very appreciative of those of you who are helping out, and particularly of Rosemary Harrahill, who is taking the first shot at it. Thanks Rosemary! By the way, I hope to have a special article out to you all maybe next week -- stay tuned!
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Monrovia School Board Meeting January 14, 2004 Reported by a parent, Rosemary Harrahill, with a teaching background who is also opinionated....
First, apologies for not being at the study session at 5:30 -- I just thought the meeting began at 7:30 -- fortunately, the spouse of a board member informed me I'm missing the meat of what's going on so I ran out the door with my daughter's history notebook to record this....
STUDY SESSION:
I arrived late -- Budget Development Process Proposal and Board Organizational Discussion were on study session agenda.
BUDGET DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Well, I missed the 1st hour, but the gist of it this was: They've got to tackle another round of potential budget cuts/increases/yadda yadda due to the lousy state of affairs of the state budget mess in Sacramento. And it isn't going to be pretty. Anyway, they talked about their committees, their make-up, etc. They've changed acronyms from DAC to CORE.
Looks like they want to get input from parents in a meaningful way after the district's committee meets but before the board votes. This is a good thing -- requested by board member Clare Chesley. That made sense to me. Monina spoke up, too, and liked this idea. She's really behind getting parental input from what I saw. Yes!! Louise did ask if there was anything the board didn't want to touch, i.e. any sacred cows, when it came to potential budget cuts. Clare Chesley didn't want to see anything at the high school cut as she feels they need the most support. Mr. Carter recommended looking at everything, i.e. no sacred cows. Whatever happens, it's gonna be no fun....ugh...
BOARD ORGANIZATIONAL DISCUSSION
Discussion centered on the time it took to hand out awards -- should it be shortened? should it be streamlined? should they move study session table to main room? Sounded very positive to me. Sounds like they'll try out the study session table in the main room which, to me, is a great idea! Let everyone be able to walk in and see what's happening! As to cutting the time and procedure of handing out awards, I think this is as great PR thang to do: it's a big deal to get an award. People work so hard to reach that level. So what if it takes time? But let's be reasonable, I think, is their idea. Betty still is lobbying to move board meetings to 6:30. Mr. Carter pointed out that that puts study sessions at 5:30 -- a hard time for so many parents, and board members to get to chambers. Betty also can't hear when other board members vote, so she's asking Kris Mariconda to perhaps handle this. It's not clear why she can't look to her right and left and eyeball them.... To be continued...
NOW FOR THE MEETING
OK, parents, we get an F in attendance..This is the teacher in me, but WE GOTTA GET INVOLVED!! These people's actions directly affect our kids!!!
Kudos to Deb Rinder, principal at Clifton for coming. I've seen her there before. What a trooper! We need more principals like that!!! She CARES! and is willing to sit through admittedly boring stuff sometimes....
PUBLIC COMMENT
Cyrus Kemp spoke about having a line item veto on the spending decisions: pointed out we're spending $400 per month for Rich Hill to write a three paragraph blurb for Louise that goes in the Mountain Views--a paper that many use to line their birdcages (really, visit Pet's Delite)....that's 4 grand a school year. Can't someone in house do this? was his comment. Good point!!
Yours truly asked for an update on the Homework Policy -- FYI: it hasn't been updated since 1972 -- it will be discussed at next board meeting and parents -- PLEASE COME -- this directly affects your kids, and I don't think all your kid's hard work deserves to go in the trash can on Friday with no grade except for a check mark in some teachers grade book. Let's give some positive feedback to these kids!!! Please come January 28 and GIVE YOUR INPUT!
BOARD REPORTS
Carter had an enjoyable discussion with city members.
Chesley thanked everyone in district for donating to Unity Center Christmas drive, invited all schools to go on field trip to the Police Display at the Monrovia Historical Museum. She commended the SARB board for their professionalism, esp. Gail Grant for handling the meetings well. Chesley extends an invitation to PTA members to come to the board meetings and recommended board members go to the PTA meetings too. Great idea for keeping communication lines open and flowing!! Also, she wants to implement a 'family friendly' policy when parents visit schools. She'd like to see some friendly, helpful 'customer service' attitudes among the office staffs. I must admit I've been there... I've walked into an office and felt like an intruder. And some of the gals keep talking on the phone, not even looking up, keep shuffling paper, sipping their coffee or there'll be three gals behind a counter and they just stay seated and don't move until someone finishes whatever they're doing before walking up with a long face to see what I wanted. She feels parents should get friendly, immediate help when entering an office. What a concept!:-)
Monina Diaz plugged Financial Aid Nite -- tonite, Jan. 15, at the high school gym. Also invited MHS alumni to send their college banner to the high school to add to the gym. For college nite, I think... She and several others commented on the beautiful Celebration of Life service for Peter Becker, a MHS teacher who recently passed away.
Betty resigned from Healthy Start to focus on board responsibilities. She loved the art facilities on her visit to Italy during her November trip -- wished we had the same... just takes money....
I appreciated student rep Tiffany Ross speaking so clearly and well. So many kids mumble today and she did a nice job!
Louise congratulated the auto teacher and his students for winning a huge award in L.A. which got them an all-expense paid trip to New York to compete in the finals. Star News, where are you? Rich Hill, will you get over there and write a huge pump piece on these guys?? This needs to get out to the community!!! Get crackin'!!!! And earn your $400!!!
Louise wants parents to attend a meeting re: the High School exit exam. She is urging families of sophomores to get over and hear this. Yes, this is important. All sophomores need to pass this to graduate. It's the law now. However, kids don't need help from their parents to pass this as much as they need their teachers to TEACH THEM THE MATERIAL!! I know for a fact the middle schools waste enormous amounts of academic time watching movies. How 'bout some writing instruction?? What a concept!!
AUDITOR'S REPORT
Monrovia got an "unqualified" report from the auditor: the best a school can get! Great! Yep, this was the boring part, talking finances, but Mrs. Chesley asked some very good qustions and Mr. Wong -- dang it, was gone. This is his field of expertise. Of all times to be absent... Congrats to Linda Dempsey for a great job on this! Her staff, too.
BROWN ACT
Well, I had to leave at this point -- home calling... Brown Act governs public comment at all public meetings. Let Brad know if you have any comments about this!
CLOSED SESSION
OK, why does this come right in the middle of a meeting? What is the public supposed to do? Go for a drink? Stare at each other till they're done? Hmm.. Well, some went to the lobby for a break, then Betty reconvened without calling anyone in! Kudos to Mrs. Chesley for at least asking where everyone went! Bottom line, Betty didn't send anyone out to check the lobby, and they closed the meeting without discussing a pulled item from the agenda that should have been covered... they need to keep working on their communication skills...
Next meeting is Feb. 28 at 7:30.Barring any study sessions...
(0) comments
This is the first issue for which someone other than myself has done the newsletter! I'm very appreciative of those of you who are helping out, and particularly of Rosemary Harrahill, who is taking the first shot at it. Thanks Rosemary! By the way, I hope to have a special article out to you all maybe next week -- stay tuned!
~ Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
Monrovia School Board Meeting January 14, 2004 Reported by a parent, Rosemary Harrahill, with a teaching background who is also opinionated....
First, apologies for not being at the study session at 5:30 -- I just thought the meeting began at 7:30 -- fortunately, the spouse of a board member informed me I'm missing the meat of what's going on so I ran out the door with my daughter's history notebook to record this....
STUDY SESSION:
I arrived late -- Budget Development Process Proposal and Board Organizational Discussion were on study session agenda.
BUDGET DEVELOPMENT PROCESS
Well, I missed the 1st hour, but the gist of it this was: They've got to tackle another round of potential budget cuts/increases/yadda yadda due to the lousy state of affairs of the state budget mess in Sacramento. And it isn't going to be pretty. Anyway, they talked about their committees, their make-up, etc. They've changed acronyms from DAC to CORE.
Looks like they want to get input from parents in a meaningful way after the district's committee meets but before the board votes. This is a good thing -- requested by board member Clare Chesley. That made sense to me. Monina spoke up, too, and liked this idea. She's really behind getting parental input from what I saw. Yes!! Louise did ask if there was anything the board didn't want to touch, i.e. any sacred cows, when it came to potential budget cuts. Clare Chesley didn't want to see anything at the high school cut as she feels they need the most support. Mr. Carter recommended looking at everything, i.e. no sacred cows. Whatever happens, it's gonna be no fun....ugh...
BOARD ORGANIZATIONAL DISCUSSION
Discussion centered on the time it took to hand out awards -- should it be shortened? should it be streamlined? should they move study session table to main room? Sounded very positive to me. Sounds like they'll try out the study session table in the main room which, to me, is a great idea! Let everyone be able to walk in and see what's happening! As to cutting the time and procedure of handing out awards, I think this is as great PR thang to do: it's a big deal to get an award. People work so hard to reach that level. So what if it takes time? But let's be reasonable, I think, is their idea. Betty still is lobbying to move board meetings to 6:30. Mr. Carter pointed out that that puts study sessions at 5:30 -- a hard time for so many parents, and board members to get to chambers. Betty also can't hear when other board members vote, so she's asking Kris Mariconda to perhaps handle this. It's not clear why she can't look to her right and left and eyeball them.... To be continued...
NOW FOR THE MEETING
OK, parents, we get an F in attendance..This is the teacher in me, but WE GOTTA GET INVOLVED!! These people's actions directly affect our kids!!!
Kudos to Deb Rinder, principal at Clifton for coming. I've seen her there before. What a trooper! We need more principals like that!!! She CARES! and is willing to sit through admittedly boring stuff sometimes....
PUBLIC COMMENT
Cyrus Kemp spoke about having a line item veto on the spending decisions: pointed out we're spending $400 per month for Rich Hill to write a three paragraph blurb for Louise that goes in the Mountain Views--a paper that many use to line their birdcages (really, visit Pet's Delite)....that's 4 grand a school year. Can't someone in house do this? was his comment. Good point!!
Yours truly asked for an update on the Homework Policy -- FYI: it hasn't been updated since 1972 -- it will be discussed at next board meeting and parents -- PLEASE COME -- this directly affects your kids, and I don't think all your kid's hard work deserves to go in the trash can on Friday with no grade except for a check mark in some teachers grade book. Let's give some positive feedback to these kids!!! Please come January 28 and GIVE YOUR INPUT!
BOARD REPORTS
Carter had an enjoyable discussion with city members.
Chesley thanked everyone in district for donating to Unity Center Christmas drive, invited all schools to go on field trip to the Police Display at the Monrovia Historical Museum. She commended the SARB board for their professionalism, esp. Gail Grant for handling the meetings well. Chesley extends an invitation to PTA members to come to the board meetings and recommended board members go to the PTA meetings too. Great idea for keeping communication lines open and flowing!! Also, she wants to implement a 'family friendly' policy when parents visit schools. She'd like to see some friendly, helpful 'customer service' attitudes among the office staffs. I must admit I've been there... I've walked into an office and felt like an intruder. And some of the gals keep talking on the phone, not even looking up, keep shuffling paper, sipping their coffee or there'll be three gals behind a counter and they just stay seated and don't move until someone finishes whatever they're doing before walking up with a long face to see what I wanted. She feels parents should get friendly, immediate help when entering an office. What a concept!:-)
Monina Diaz plugged Financial Aid Nite -- tonite, Jan. 15, at the high school gym. Also invited MHS alumni to send their college banner to the high school to add to the gym. For college nite, I think... She and several others commented on the beautiful Celebration of Life service for Peter Becker, a MHS teacher who recently passed away.
Betty resigned from Healthy Start to focus on board responsibilities. She loved the art facilities on her visit to Italy during her November trip -- wished we had the same... just takes money....
I appreciated student rep Tiffany Ross speaking so clearly and well. So many kids mumble today and she did a nice job!
Louise congratulated the auto teacher and his students for winning a huge award in L.A. which got them an all-expense paid trip to New York to compete in the finals. Star News, where are you? Rich Hill, will you get over there and write a huge pump piece on these guys?? This needs to get out to the community!!! Get crackin'!!!! And earn your $400!!!
Louise wants parents to attend a meeting re: the High School exit exam. She is urging families of sophomores to get over and hear this. Yes, this is important. All sophomores need to pass this to graduate. It's the law now. However, kids don't need help from their parents to pass this as much as they need their teachers to TEACH THEM THE MATERIAL!! I know for a fact the middle schools waste enormous amounts of academic time watching movies. How 'bout some writing instruction?? What a concept!!
AUDITOR'S REPORT
Monrovia got an "unqualified" report from the auditor: the best a school can get! Great! Yep, this was the boring part, talking finances, but Mrs. Chesley asked some very good qustions and Mr. Wong -- dang it, was gone. This is his field of expertise. Of all times to be absent... Congrats to Linda Dempsey for a great job on this! Her staff, too.
BROWN ACT
Well, I had to leave at this point -- home calling... Brown Act governs public comment at all public meetings. Let Brad know if you have any comments about this!
CLOSED SESSION
OK, why does this come right in the middle of a meeting? What is the public supposed to do? Go for a drink? Stare at each other till they're done? Hmm.. Well, some went to the lobby for a break, then Betty reconvened without calling anyone in! Kudos to Mrs. Chesley for at least asking where everyone went! Bottom line, Betty didn't send anyone out to check the lobby, and they closed the meeting without discussing a pulled item from the agenda that should have been covered... they need to keep working on their communication skills...
Next meeting is Feb. 28 at 7:30.Barring any study sessions...
Monrovia SchoolLink Preview for Wednesday, Jan. 14, 2004 meeting
As I mentioned in the last newsletter, I will try to send out previews of the upcoming board meetings. That way, if you're interested, you can attend. The actual board meeting report will be courtesy of one of our volunteers (though I'll take a turn occasionally). One item that catches my eye in the next meeting is a review of the Brown Act. See item 9.2 below. Also, bear in mind this is just what catches *my* eye. There are other things on the agenda. I would tell you to go to www.monroviaschools.net/BOEMinutes.htm to get the full agenda, but it hasn't yet been posted. Maybe it will be posted on Monday. Hint, hint.
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
So, here's what's coming up this Wednesday, Jan. 14:
~ Board of Education Board Study Session - 6:00 p.m. - Conference Room
The agenda says the board is going to talk about "Budget Development Process Proposal" and "Board Organizational Issues." I dunno. I think a description like this is a bit too vague for someone to know what the heck is going on and to decide whether it is worthwhile to attend. This reminds me of the time my church advertised a "concert" in the newspaper. Classical? Pop? Reggae? Rock? No clue. The ad just said, "concert."
~ Board of Education Regular Meeting - 7:30 p.m. - Board Room
Item 4.1 Monrovia High School teacher Mary Lodolo will recieve the Seaver Award for 2003-04.
Item 4.2: "Public hearing for items not on the agenda." This wonderful little agenda item means you can get up and tell the board anything that your heart desires. Just walk up to the podium when they get to this item and start talking.
Items 4.5 and 4.7: Establish budget preparation calendar and recieve auditors report on the schools' financial statement. If Bryan Wong asks some questions, this may actually be interesting, especially if you're an accountant.
Item 7.6: "Public Disclosure of Collective Bargaining Agreement." The district will tell the world what it has agreed to with the various employee unions, and what the impact will be.
Item 9.2: Brown Act Review. The district's attorney is going to give an "overview of the Brown Act." The Brown Act is the state law that regulates meetings in closed session. It is basically designed to make governmental bodies conduct the public's business in public. Since this was a campaign issue in the latest election, I sense the influence of Clare Chesley and Bryan Wong in this one.
~ Dates for Upcoming Board Meetings:
Wednesday, January 28, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 11, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 24, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
(0) comments
As I mentioned in the last newsletter, I will try to send out previews of the upcoming board meetings. That way, if you're interested, you can attend. The actual board meeting report will be courtesy of one of our volunteers (though I'll take a turn occasionally). One item that catches my eye in the next meeting is a review of the Brown Act. See item 9.2 below. Also, bear in mind this is just what catches *my* eye. There are other things on the agenda. I would tell you to go to www.monroviaschools.net/BOEMinutes.htm to get the full agenda, but it hasn't yet been posted. Maybe it will be posted on Monday. Hint, hint.
- Brad Haugaard (brad@sacklunch.net)
So, here's what's coming up this Wednesday, Jan. 14:
~ Board of Education Board Study Session - 6:00 p.m. - Conference Room
The agenda says the board is going to talk about "Budget Development Process Proposal" and "Board Organizational Issues." I dunno. I think a description like this is a bit too vague for someone to know what the heck is going on and to decide whether it is worthwhile to attend. This reminds me of the time my church advertised a "concert" in the newspaper. Classical? Pop? Reggae? Rock? No clue. The ad just said, "concert."
~ Board of Education Regular Meeting - 7:30 p.m. - Board Room
Item 4.1 Monrovia High School teacher Mary Lodolo will recieve the Seaver Award for 2003-04.
Item 4.2: "Public hearing for items not on the agenda." This wonderful little agenda item means you can get up and tell the board anything that your heart desires. Just walk up to the podium when they get to this item and start talking.
Items 4.5 and 4.7: Establish budget preparation calendar and recieve auditors report on the schools' financial statement. If Bryan Wong asks some questions, this may actually be interesting, especially if you're an accountant.
Item 7.6: "Public Disclosure of Collective Bargaining Agreement." The district will tell the world what it has agreed to with the various employee unions, and what the impact will be.
Item 9.2: Brown Act Review. The district's attorney is going to give an "overview of the Brown Act." The Brown Act is the state law that regulates meetings in closed session. It is basically designed to make governmental bodies conduct the public's business in public. Since this was a campaign issue in the latest election, I sense the influence of Clare Chesley and Bryan Wong in this one.
~ Dates for Upcoming Board Meetings:
Wednesday, January 28, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 11, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, February 25, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 10, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, March 24, 2004, Regular Board Meeting, 7:30 p.m.
