Sunday, January 30, 2005
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 104 ~ January 30, 2005
Many thanks to Brian Johnson for covering the January 26 board meeting. Take special note of Brian's comment that the budget will be on the agenda for the February 9 meeting. Considering what we heard last time about how tight money is, if you have thoughts on how it should be spent, I guess that's the meeting to attend. Also, I'm going to be interested to hear more about the block scheduling program MHS is thinking about. Also, I had a chat with Duke Freyermuth, head of the Pro-Active Tutoring program. I'll get something out to you about that next week.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
Board of Education meeting minutes for Wednesday, January 26th, 2004.
By Brian Johnson,
Mayflower and Clifton parent.
An unusually large audience waited patiently for the meeting to finally be called to order 15 minutes late, apparently delayed by the board's closed session held at 6:30 to consider three expulsion hearing cases. Of the 40 or so people in attendance, most unfortunately were not there to hear the board's business, but instead to support the four district employees that were to be awarded outstanding service awards.
Superintendent Louise Taylor was the only missing member, being excused to attend a conference for school superintendents. Assistant Super Joel Shawn pinch-hit for her in her absence.
The board passed without discussion a sizable list of routine business. This included 19 pages of personnel changes, promotions, stipends, hirings, assignments, and such, as well as the usual bills and purchase orders. In addition, the board approved the annual school Site Plan revisions for the elementary and middle schools. Also in the consent agenda was the grateful acknowledgement of $4,900 in gifts given to district schools. Of special note was the $1,400 received from 5th grade GATE parents to go toward the cost of Astrocamp.
Next came the part most of the audience was there for, the presenting of recognition awards. Awards were given to Sheila Weaver, Santa Fe School office manager; Suzette Williams, Santa Fe teacher; Sherrill Clapsaddle, Bradoaks clerical assistant; and Erin Grycel, Bradoaks teacher. After much praise, handshakes, and hugs from the board members, the awardees and nearly all the audience filed out.
The public hearing portion was lively for a change. A small but enthusiastic group of parents from the Monrovia High PTSA was on hand to address the board to show their strong support for idea of "4 x 4 Block Scheduling" at MHS. This apparently is an idea brought to MHS by new principal Frank Zepeda, and it involves students taking four classes per semester with 90-minute periods, and the lunch period would be shortened. No doubt regular readers of the School Link are familiar with the idea. A group of MHS parents paid a visit recently to Norwalk HS, from where Mr. Zepeda came, and were quite impressed to see Block Scheduling in action, and with the overall quality of the program at Norwalk. In addition to the seven parents who attended the meeting, they brought along a petition signed by 50 other parents who also support the idea. Kudos to this group of parents to take the opportunity to take their views to the board! After speaking out, this group also left the meeting.
Board Member Reports: Clare Chesley had words of praise for the gifts that were given to the schools. Bruce Carter reported on a conference he attended, and gave an analysis of the state budget as to education funding. He said that though direct funding for education is increased, when you factor in property tax money that the state will withhold from local governments and pension costs the state will no longer fund, the real increase is only two percent, which doesn't even keep pace with the cost of living. Bryan Wong and Monina Diaz both heaped praise on the MHS parents that came to address the board. Diaz called it "a breath of fresh air." Diaz also praised the recent performance of the Princeton Roaring 20s Singers at MHS. A Princeton grad herself, Diaz said she was pleased that the MHS students spoke to the college kids after the performance about life at Princeton, chances of acceptance, etc. Student Representative Ryann Blackshere will apparently be attending Stanford next year. Way to go, Ryann!
Of special note - on the agenda for the February 9 meeting is slated to be next year's budget! This might be the one meeting of the year we all should attend.
The District's auditing firm was on hand to present the audit report for the 2003 financials. In a nutshell, they found no significant problems with the district's accounting procedures and reporting. The auditors had some praise for the board in that the board had "addressed and responded properly to the past budget shortfalls," which I guess means that the board stopped spending money they didn't have. The report raised a few concerns. One was no surprise - the district needs to continue to adjust its spending to reflect the impact of declining enrollment and reduced state funding. Another was more interesting. Apparently 22 of the district's long-time employees have between them amassed over $300,000 in accrued unused vacation time. This represents money that will have to be paid out to these employees when they resign or retire. Considerable discussion ensued over the tradeoff of asking these people to take more vacation time versus having these - likely - key people not at their desks. The board asked Linda Dempsey and Debbie Collins to develop a plan to bring down the banked vacation time.
As a follow-on to their earlier closed session, the board voted on three student expulsion cases. By unanimous vote, two unnamed MHS students and one unnamed Clifton student were expelled for the remainder of the school year. The violations they committed were of sections 48900C, 48900K, and 48900A1/A2 of the education code, in case anybody wants to look them up.
Monina Diaz brought up to the board members the possibility of having a Dependant Charter School in Monrovia. Basically, the discussion was to decide if the board wanted to gather more information on the topic. Clare Chesley seems to be a major supporter of the idea, having heard about it from Caprice Young, president of the California Charter Schools Association. After considerable discussion, the board decided that the idea deserves further exploration, and Joel Shawn volunteered staff support to gather info and arrange "experts" to make presentations to the board. Possible speakers include Caprice Young, as well as Steve Barr of Green Dot Charter Schools. Bruce Carter and Bryan Wong seemed less enthused, but were willing to at least learn more, but they wanted to see a cost-benefit discussion early on. Monina Diaz was "intrigued by the potential, and possibility for getting away from bureaucratic constraints to accomplish more." Bryan Wong said that the idea should be explored not just for financial reasons, but also for the "achievement gaps" that might be addressed. Deeper down, though, the board seems to think that a charter school might help to arrest the District's enrollment slide by wooing back students who have gone to private schools, as well as possibly attracting students from neighboring districts. Look for this to reappear on the agenda for board meetings in March or April.
The final piece of business was the third-time discussion of the District's proposed regulations governing volunteers who assist at our schools. The policy will create three classes of volunteers, Visitor, Volunteer Level 1, and Volunteer Level 2. Volunteers in levels 1 or 2 will be required to submit an application to be a volunteer. Level 1 volunteers will be checked against the "Megan's Law" database, and Level 2 volunteers will also be fingerprinted for a criminal background check. This means that schools will have to recruit volunteers well in advance of need, since it may take up to a month to screen and approve the applications. The board expressed its concern about the need to encourage parent involvement, but also recognized the need to protect our children. As a parent who volunteers, I see the dilemma. The proposed regulation will come back to the board for final approval at the next board meeting.
The meeting adjourned (finally!) at 9:25.
The next meeting will be Wednesday, February 9 at 7 p.m.
(0) comments
Many thanks to Brian Johnson for covering the January 26 board meeting. Take special note of Brian's comment that the budget will be on the agenda for the February 9 meeting. Considering what we heard last time about how tight money is, if you have thoughts on how it should be spent, I guess that's the meeting to attend. Also, I'm going to be interested to hear more about the block scheduling program MHS is thinking about. Also, I had a chat with Duke Freyermuth, head of the Pro-Active Tutoring program. I'll get something out to you about that next week.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
Board of Education meeting minutes for Wednesday, January 26th, 2004.
By Brian Johnson,
Mayflower and Clifton parent.
An unusually large audience waited patiently for the meeting to finally be called to order 15 minutes late, apparently delayed by the board's closed session held at 6:30 to consider three expulsion hearing cases. Of the 40 or so people in attendance, most unfortunately were not there to hear the board's business, but instead to support the four district employees that were to be awarded outstanding service awards.
Superintendent Louise Taylor was the only missing member, being excused to attend a conference for school superintendents. Assistant Super Joel Shawn pinch-hit for her in her absence.
The board passed without discussion a sizable list of routine business. This included 19 pages of personnel changes, promotions, stipends, hirings, assignments, and such, as well as the usual bills and purchase orders. In addition, the board approved the annual school Site Plan revisions for the elementary and middle schools. Also in the consent agenda was the grateful acknowledgement of $4,900 in gifts given to district schools. Of special note was the $1,400 received from 5th grade GATE parents to go toward the cost of Astrocamp.
Next came the part most of the audience was there for, the presenting of recognition awards. Awards were given to Sheila Weaver, Santa Fe School office manager; Suzette Williams, Santa Fe teacher; Sherrill Clapsaddle, Bradoaks clerical assistant; and Erin Grycel, Bradoaks teacher. After much praise, handshakes, and hugs from the board members, the awardees and nearly all the audience filed out.
The public hearing portion was lively for a change. A small but enthusiastic group of parents from the Monrovia High PTSA was on hand to address the board to show their strong support for idea of "4 x 4 Block Scheduling" at MHS. This apparently is an idea brought to MHS by new principal Frank Zepeda, and it involves students taking four classes per semester with 90-minute periods, and the lunch period would be shortened. No doubt regular readers of the School Link are familiar with the idea. A group of MHS parents paid a visit recently to Norwalk HS, from where Mr. Zepeda came, and were quite impressed to see Block Scheduling in action, and with the overall quality of the program at Norwalk. In addition to the seven parents who attended the meeting, they brought along a petition signed by 50 other parents who also support the idea. Kudos to this group of parents to take the opportunity to take their views to the board! After speaking out, this group also left the meeting.
Board Member Reports: Clare Chesley had words of praise for the gifts that were given to the schools. Bruce Carter reported on a conference he attended, and gave an analysis of the state budget as to education funding. He said that though direct funding for education is increased, when you factor in property tax money that the state will withhold from local governments and pension costs the state will no longer fund, the real increase is only two percent, which doesn't even keep pace with the cost of living. Bryan Wong and Monina Diaz both heaped praise on the MHS parents that came to address the board. Diaz called it "a breath of fresh air." Diaz also praised the recent performance of the Princeton Roaring 20s Singers at MHS. A Princeton grad herself, Diaz said she was pleased that the MHS students spoke to the college kids after the performance about life at Princeton, chances of acceptance, etc. Student Representative Ryann Blackshere will apparently be attending Stanford next year. Way to go, Ryann!
Of special note - on the agenda for the February 9 meeting is slated to be next year's budget! This might be the one meeting of the year we all should attend.
The District's auditing firm was on hand to present the audit report for the 2003 financials. In a nutshell, they found no significant problems with the district's accounting procedures and reporting. The auditors had some praise for the board in that the board had "addressed and responded properly to the past budget shortfalls," which I guess means that the board stopped spending money they didn't have. The report raised a few concerns. One was no surprise - the district needs to continue to adjust its spending to reflect the impact of declining enrollment and reduced state funding. Another was more interesting. Apparently 22 of the district's long-time employees have between them amassed over $300,000 in accrued unused vacation time. This represents money that will have to be paid out to these employees when they resign or retire. Considerable discussion ensued over the tradeoff of asking these people to take more vacation time versus having these - likely - key people not at their desks. The board asked Linda Dempsey and Debbie Collins to develop a plan to bring down the banked vacation time.
As a follow-on to their earlier closed session, the board voted on three student expulsion cases. By unanimous vote, two unnamed MHS students and one unnamed Clifton student were expelled for the remainder of the school year. The violations they committed were of sections 48900C, 48900K, and 48900A1/A2 of the education code, in case anybody wants to look them up.
Monina Diaz brought up to the board members the possibility of having a Dependant Charter School in Monrovia. Basically, the discussion was to decide if the board wanted to gather more information on the topic. Clare Chesley seems to be a major supporter of the idea, having heard about it from Caprice Young, president of the California Charter Schools Association. After considerable discussion, the board decided that the idea deserves further exploration, and Joel Shawn volunteered staff support to gather info and arrange "experts" to make presentations to the board. Possible speakers include Caprice Young, as well as Steve Barr of Green Dot Charter Schools. Bruce Carter and Bryan Wong seemed less enthused, but were willing to at least learn more, but they wanted to see a cost-benefit discussion early on. Monina Diaz was "intrigued by the potential, and possibility for getting away from bureaucratic constraints to accomplish more." Bryan Wong said that the idea should be explored not just for financial reasons, but also for the "achievement gaps" that might be addressed. Deeper down, though, the board seems to think that a charter school might help to arrest the District's enrollment slide by wooing back students who have gone to private schools, as well as possibly attracting students from neighboring districts. Look for this to reappear on the agenda for board meetings in March or April.
The final piece of business was the third-time discussion of the District's proposed regulations governing volunteers who assist at our schools. The policy will create three classes of volunteers, Visitor, Volunteer Level 1, and Volunteer Level 2. Volunteers in levels 1 or 2 will be required to submit an application to be a volunteer. Level 1 volunteers will be checked against the "Megan's Law" database, and Level 2 volunteers will also be fingerprinted for a criminal background check. This means that schools will have to recruit volunteers well in advance of need, since it may take up to a month to screen and approve the applications. The board expressed its concern about the need to encourage parent involvement, but also recognized the need to protect our children. As a parent who volunteers, I see the dilemma. The proposed regulation will come back to the board for final approval at the next board meeting.
The meeting adjourned (finally!) at 9:25.
The next meeting will be Wednesday, February 9 at 7 p.m.
Monday, January 17, 2005
Monrovia School Link ~ Number 103 ~ January 17, 2005
Yikes! From this report on the January 13 board meeting, it appears the board is facing some pretty tough decisions. Tight money from Sacramento and declining enrollment, which means even less money from the state. Does this mean closing a school? Losing teachers? Ouch. Hope it doesn't come to that. Thanks to Rosemary Harrahill for this report, and I think she's right about getting involved. These are crucial matters. If you have kids in the district, you may want to attend the meetings and speak up.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
By Rosemary Harrahill
Well, this report is very late, due to a major "Dory" moment of yours truly, but I got a tape of the meeting and will give a Reader's Digest report on the meeting. This meeting made the front page of the Star-News on Jan. 16, so listen up, folks!
First, a closed session: Someone got fired. The board unanimously agreed.
Then, there was a presentation by Dr. Viera, of Citrus College, who spoke about collaboration between Citrus and Monrovia students. Wow, are they helping our students big time! Joanne Montgomery, volunteer extraordinnaire and always a class act, also spoke about Citrus College's many offerings and opportunities for our kids. Citrus students help with tutoring, put in thousands of hours tutoring at nearly all campuses, and now a liason has been appointed to the high school from CC to help the students transition to college level work. It's great! Sam Lee is the liason from CC to MHS. CC is also offering summer classes at MHS -- open to everyone interested! CC is also offering spring assessments in math, reading and English for those interested. Nice! It's clear they want to help our students succeed and have put their money where their mouth is on this one. Impressive!
Recognitions: Classified employees with 15 years. experience each were recognized -- Tito, Yvonne and Gary... They are the backbone of every school and unsung heroes who keep the wheels turning. They deserve this recognition.
Next, several people involved in Pro Active Tutoring, and all the groups working in sync, were recognized for their work and dedication. Even two Citrus students who tutor were there! Monrovia Library, Monrovia Reads, Boys and Girls Club and Village programs, LE Grant and Cal Poly Workstudy all contribute funds and manpower to Monrovia's students. Wow! A full court press! They gave more than 10,000 hours in tutoring. My only question is: What's going on from bell to bell? I mean, that's a lot of tutoring and after 7 hours at school, some kids are just brain fried and need a break before hitting the books again. I know this isn't "the good old days," but I wonder if some "tightening up" or more efficient means of teaching could be employed to better utilize time bell to bell.
Several community members were recognized here, all well deserved...
4.2 Public Hearing: This is where we, Joe and Jane Public, can speak on anything this side of salmon poaching on the Colorado River and no one was there! NOT GOOD! Parents, where are we? We gotta look alive here!! (yes, I mean me, too)
So, the board moved on to board reports:
Betty spoke about the Parent Ed program and how successful it's been. So successful that it's expanded to the elementary schools. Plymouth and Wildrose are set to get the Institute and Betty was asking for public's help with this.
Also, a fundraiser for the schools was announced: a neat book titled "Schools in Our Town", which contains pictures and writings of Monrovia's students, is on sale for $25. Not bad... I'll bet you can purchase them at the district, the library or perhaps the public schools, I wasn't sure. All proceeds will go -- right back into the tutoring programs? Or maybe the general fund? I wasn't sure..
Monina congratulated a Monrovia student on acceptance to Stanford, Ryan Blacksheer.
then, Superintendent Louise Taylor congratulated an MHS senior for getting accepted to West Point -- Daniel Serrano. That is awesome!
Dr. Shawn gave an update on the high school exit exam which is coming up. He announced two meetings for parents: Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. at the high school and Jan 29 at 10 a.m. at the high school. They are calling every junior year parent to inform them of this meeting. It will explain this exam and what's expected. Wow, another full court press. 85% of students taking this exam last year passed on first round; those who didn't are in intervention programs and may take it again twice a year till they pass.
Mr. Zepeda, MHS principal, talked about block scheduling as a way to improve student achievement. Students would do four classes per semester. Downside for kids is -- no more open campus! Yep, there goes McDonald's and Wendy's and In 'N Out ... maybe not Tom's Burgers and the Teriyaki Hut, but definitely for lunch escapes further away. Lunch would be only 30 minutes in block scheduling. Hmmm....
Mr. Carter was concerned about teacher training for 90 minute blocks, which sounds like an excellent idea - that means teacher's have to mix it up a bit to keep it interesting and maximize productivity, hopefully so sooo many kids won't need tutoring!
Linda Dempsey updated the board on redevelopment funds and what they're used for. They must be used for capital projects, which means really big things that our maintenance workers don't handle, like new heating for the gym, upgrading gym windows, etc. The biggest need is to update the pool, as both community and high school kids use it. Sounds like that's first on the list to be fixed.
Clare Chesley was hoping some funds could be used for the snack bar that Mr. Gillilland is working so hard to complete. It got a green light as long as city and school agree to it, as far as I could see.
OK, more business thangs, then: the grand finale -- The Budget Information Report
Here's where things got interesting -- lots of ideas tossed about, lots of brainstorming, and in public! It was great to see everyone pulling together to look for solutions to avoid what Mr. Wong rightly called, "worst case scenario," which is cutting more. He is into revenue generating, and so the ideas began...
In light of Ahhhnold's back pedaling and reneging on promises to the education world of California, everyone's gotta cut even more. Our district must cut between $500,000 and $1 MILLION dollars! Now, keep in mind this is after already shaving off every last piece and then some from last year's school budget! So, the question is: How do we squeeze blood from a turnip? And which turnip is going to have to bleed.. not a pretty picture..
So, Linda Dempsey did a great PowerPoint outlining the problem, the unknowns, the pots we can pick from, the pots we can't, where we stand right now and potential options.
Kudos to Mr. Wong for wanting a thorough check on refunding our 1997 bonds ($15 million to refinance, so to speak) -- he wants us to shop around for the best interest rate to meet our needs over the next few years. He also asked about redevelopment funds -- He noted compensation to employees. Should we cut pay? He noted funds from city. Should we ask for an increase in builder fees?
Clare Chesley asked about transportation fees. Should we charge for bus transportation? Should we look at compensation to all employees? Should we look at charter schools (well-funded right now and having lots of support in Sacramento and from Ahhhnold).
Ms. Chesley asked if a 3 percent cut in pay might have to happen. This would be tough, and have to be brought to the bargaining table, according to Ms. Dempsey. But it looks like every stone will be turned over before a decision is made, as it should be. I can hear the unions groaning already. Our teachers haven't had a raise in three years.
Ms. Chesley asked to put it on the agenda for next meeting to vote on whether a presentation should be asked for from the California Commission on Charter Schools, but it looks like Monina wants some literature first, then talk, then put it on the calendar for the meeting after that, if need be. This is really innovative, as charter schools are funded well and Monrovia is not limited by city boundaries, which means we could draw students from basically any other city for our charter school. More students means more funds. And/or, should we convert one of our schools to a charter school? Really interesting questions!
However, the item that made me really perk up was: Might we have to close a site? Now that's a really big deal! That's the $64,000 question. This is a big wow! Due to declining enrollment, which was well-researched and explained to the board, we just may have to do that. But the painful question -- who goes?
Soooo, the questions began: can we sell a site that's been improved with state funds? Will the state want its money back? At what point do we close a site? And which site? Who's gonna bleed here?
It was a great discussion and one that, honestly, should have us all out at the next board meeting to weigh in with. (Yes, I know I shouldn't end a sentence with a preposition, but I'm rushing)!
I think the board has a list of all our programs, I didn't, but it would be interesting to see what programs we are currently funding. Yet 87 percent of our public monies go to salary, benefits and personnel, so it seems logical to put that on the table as a possible area to cut. Bottom line is: no one wants to lose a teacher, and Mr. Wong was leading the charge in looking for revenue generating options before ever losing a teacher -- good for him!
Well, the board must have a definite budget in place by July, which means between now and then, lots and lots and lots of discussion, debate and a exchange of ideas should occur, and we ALL should be a part of it! Don't forget, any parent may speak at any board meeting about anything that's on their mind. You have at least three minutes to voice your opinion, and I say -- let's get out there and let them know what we're thinking!
Next board meeting is January 26 at 7 pm....See you there!
A LETTER ~ In a recent issue, a letter writer commented that tutors at Clifton Middle School need to be better supervised. Jessica Bauer responded. She is a Cal Poly tutor for the past four years with the AVID program at Clifton Middle School, who last year started the after school-tutoring program, which is open for 6th thru 8th graders in all subjects.
Here is an excerpt of her letter:
"This year we have two additional Citrus College tutors who come in on a regular basis to help me. They are both dependable and the students respect them. But when it comes time for a student to ask questions of the homework they don't understand, the students tend to be shy and say they do not need help when asked. I understand this parent is frustrated, but this parent, along with many others, have no idea what kind of stuff I have been through to keep this FREE after school tutoring program going.
"When after-school tutoring starts and ends, each student is required to sign in and out. If a parent wants proof that their child was there, there is a slip that the tutors fill out and sign. These students have so many resources to take advantage of. There are always three tutors present, students have access to the Internet, and there are books available if they need those. The tutors would be more than happy to discuss any students' situation with their parent. We are always open and available.
"Before this remark was made, we critiqued ourselves and said that upon coming back from Christmas break we needed to be more pro-active and decided to find better ways to approach students, rephrasing our questions, which would possibly be more helpful. In addition, I would like to note that we were never approached; our supervisor had not heard one word and neither had the principal been notified of this parent's concern. It might be better to start with the tutors themselves or our supervisor before alarming others. I just thought it was interesting that this parent would take the time to write a letter but not contact the school or person in charge. In fact, no parent has ever made any effort to contact me or others tutors.
"It has been a struggle because there are always bugs to work out in any new program. I have worked very hard to pull in responsible and dependable tutors and am constantly working on refining this program to make it effective.
"I have poured my heart and soul into this program and am a determined and dedicated tutor. There have been many times where students have moved on to the next grade level because they attended after school tutoring, which in my eyes is rewarding."
Also on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
(1) comments
Yikes! From this report on the January 13 board meeting, it appears the board is facing some pretty tough decisions. Tight money from Sacramento and declining enrollment, which means even less money from the state. Does this mean closing a school? Losing teachers? Ouch. Hope it doesn't come to that. Thanks to Rosemary Harrahill for this report, and I think she's right about getting involved. These are crucial matters. If you have kids in the district, you may want to attend the meetings and speak up.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
By Rosemary Harrahill
Well, this report is very late, due to a major "Dory" moment of yours truly, but I got a tape of the meeting and will give a Reader's Digest report on the meeting. This meeting made the front page of the Star-News on Jan. 16, so listen up, folks!
First, a closed session: Someone got fired. The board unanimously agreed.
Then, there was a presentation by Dr. Viera, of Citrus College, who spoke about collaboration between Citrus and Monrovia students. Wow, are they helping our students big time! Joanne Montgomery, volunteer extraordinnaire and always a class act, also spoke about Citrus College's many offerings and opportunities for our kids. Citrus students help with tutoring, put in thousands of hours tutoring at nearly all campuses, and now a liason has been appointed to the high school from CC to help the students transition to college level work. It's great! Sam Lee is the liason from CC to MHS. CC is also offering summer classes at MHS -- open to everyone interested! CC is also offering spring assessments in math, reading and English for those interested. Nice! It's clear they want to help our students succeed and have put their money where their mouth is on this one. Impressive!
Recognitions: Classified employees with 15 years. experience each were recognized -- Tito, Yvonne and Gary... They are the backbone of every school and unsung heroes who keep the wheels turning. They deserve this recognition.
Next, several people involved in Pro Active Tutoring, and all the groups working in sync, were recognized for their work and dedication. Even two Citrus students who tutor were there! Monrovia Library, Monrovia Reads, Boys and Girls Club and Village programs, LE Grant and Cal Poly Workstudy all contribute funds and manpower to Monrovia's students. Wow! A full court press! They gave more than 10,000 hours in tutoring. My only question is: What's going on from bell to bell? I mean, that's a lot of tutoring and after 7 hours at school, some kids are just brain fried and need a break before hitting the books again. I know this isn't "the good old days," but I wonder if some "tightening up" or more efficient means of teaching could be employed to better utilize time bell to bell.
Several community members were recognized here, all well deserved...
4.2 Public Hearing: This is where we, Joe and Jane Public, can speak on anything this side of salmon poaching on the Colorado River and no one was there! NOT GOOD! Parents, where are we? We gotta look alive here!! (yes, I mean me, too)
So, the board moved on to board reports:
Betty spoke about the Parent Ed program and how successful it's been. So successful that it's expanded to the elementary schools. Plymouth and Wildrose are set to get the Institute and Betty was asking for public's help with this.
Also, a fundraiser for the schools was announced: a neat book titled "Schools in Our Town", which contains pictures and writings of Monrovia's students, is on sale for $25. Not bad... I'll bet you can purchase them at the district, the library or perhaps the public schools, I wasn't sure. All proceeds will go -- right back into the tutoring programs? Or maybe the general fund? I wasn't sure..
Monina congratulated a Monrovia student on acceptance to Stanford, Ryan Blacksheer.
then, Superintendent Louise Taylor congratulated an MHS senior for getting accepted to West Point -- Daniel Serrano. That is awesome!
Dr. Shawn gave an update on the high school exit exam which is coming up. He announced two meetings for parents: Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. at the high school and Jan 29 at 10 a.m. at the high school. They are calling every junior year parent to inform them of this meeting. It will explain this exam and what's expected. Wow, another full court press. 85% of students taking this exam last year passed on first round; those who didn't are in intervention programs and may take it again twice a year till they pass.
Mr. Zepeda, MHS principal, talked about block scheduling as a way to improve student achievement. Students would do four classes per semester. Downside for kids is -- no more open campus! Yep, there goes McDonald's and Wendy's and In 'N Out ... maybe not Tom's Burgers and the Teriyaki Hut, but definitely for lunch escapes further away. Lunch would be only 30 minutes in block scheduling. Hmmm....
Mr. Carter was concerned about teacher training for 90 minute blocks, which sounds like an excellent idea - that means teacher's have to mix it up a bit to keep it interesting and maximize productivity, hopefully so sooo many kids won't need tutoring!
Linda Dempsey updated the board on redevelopment funds and what they're used for. They must be used for capital projects, which means really big things that our maintenance workers don't handle, like new heating for the gym, upgrading gym windows, etc. The biggest need is to update the pool, as both community and high school kids use it. Sounds like that's first on the list to be fixed.
Clare Chesley was hoping some funds could be used for the snack bar that Mr. Gillilland is working so hard to complete. It got a green light as long as city and school agree to it, as far as I could see.
OK, more business thangs, then: the grand finale -- The Budget Information Report
Here's where things got interesting -- lots of ideas tossed about, lots of brainstorming, and in public! It was great to see everyone pulling together to look for solutions to avoid what Mr. Wong rightly called, "worst case scenario," which is cutting more. He is into revenue generating, and so the ideas began...
In light of Ahhhnold's back pedaling and reneging on promises to the education world of California, everyone's gotta cut even more. Our district must cut between $500,000 and $1 MILLION dollars! Now, keep in mind this is after already shaving off every last piece and then some from last year's school budget! So, the question is: How do we squeeze blood from a turnip? And which turnip is going to have to bleed.. not a pretty picture..
So, Linda Dempsey did a great PowerPoint outlining the problem, the unknowns, the pots we can pick from, the pots we can't, where we stand right now and potential options.
Kudos to Mr. Wong for wanting a thorough check on refunding our 1997 bonds ($15 million to refinance, so to speak) -- he wants us to shop around for the best interest rate to meet our needs over the next few years. He also asked about redevelopment funds -- He noted compensation to employees. Should we cut pay? He noted funds from city. Should we ask for an increase in builder fees?
Clare Chesley asked about transportation fees. Should we charge for bus transportation? Should we look at compensation to all employees? Should we look at charter schools (well-funded right now and having lots of support in Sacramento and from Ahhhnold).
Ms. Chesley asked if a 3 percent cut in pay might have to happen. This would be tough, and have to be brought to the bargaining table, according to Ms. Dempsey. But it looks like every stone will be turned over before a decision is made, as it should be. I can hear the unions groaning already. Our teachers haven't had a raise in three years.
Ms. Chesley asked to put it on the agenda for next meeting to vote on whether a presentation should be asked for from the California Commission on Charter Schools, but it looks like Monina wants some literature first, then talk, then put it on the calendar for the meeting after that, if need be. This is really innovative, as charter schools are funded well and Monrovia is not limited by city boundaries, which means we could draw students from basically any other city for our charter school. More students means more funds. And/or, should we convert one of our schools to a charter school? Really interesting questions!
However, the item that made me really perk up was: Might we have to close a site? Now that's a really big deal! That's the $64,000 question. This is a big wow! Due to declining enrollment, which was well-researched and explained to the board, we just may have to do that. But the painful question -- who goes?
Soooo, the questions began: can we sell a site that's been improved with state funds? Will the state want its money back? At what point do we close a site? And which site? Who's gonna bleed here?
It was a great discussion and one that, honestly, should have us all out at the next board meeting to weigh in with. (Yes, I know I shouldn't end a sentence with a preposition, but I'm rushing)!
I think the board has a list of all our programs, I didn't, but it would be interesting to see what programs we are currently funding. Yet 87 percent of our public monies go to salary, benefits and personnel, so it seems logical to put that on the table as a possible area to cut. Bottom line is: no one wants to lose a teacher, and Mr. Wong was leading the charge in looking for revenue generating options before ever losing a teacher -- good for him!
Well, the board must have a definite budget in place by July, which means between now and then, lots and lots and lots of discussion, debate and a exchange of ideas should occur, and we ALL should be a part of it! Don't forget, any parent may speak at any board meeting about anything that's on their mind. You have at least three minutes to voice your opinion, and I say -- let's get out there and let them know what we're thinking!
Next board meeting is January 26 at 7 pm....See you there!
A LETTER ~ In a recent issue, a letter writer commented that tutors at Clifton Middle School need to be better supervised. Jessica Bauer responded. She is a Cal Poly tutor for the past four years with the AVID program at Clifton Middle School, who last year started the after school-tutoring program, which is open for 6th thru 8th graders in all subjects.
Here is an excerpt of her letter:
"This year we have two additional Citrus College tutors who come in on a regular basis to help me. They are both dependable and the students respect them. But when it comes time for a student to ask questions of the homework they don't understand, the students tend to be shy and say they do not need help when asked. I understand this parent is frustrated, but this parent, along with many others, have no idea what kind of stuff I have been through to keep this FREE after school tutoring program going.
"When after-school tutoring starts and ends, each student is required to sign in and out. If a parent wants proof that their child was there, there is a slip that the tutors fill out and sign. These students have so many resources to take advantage of. There are always three tutors present, students have access to the Internet, and there are books available if they need those. The tutors would be more than happy to discuss any students' situation with their parent. We are always open and available.
"Before this remark was made, we critiqued ourselves and said that upon coming back from Christmas break we needed to be more pro-active and decided to find better ways to approach students, rephrasing our questions, which would possibly be more helpful. In addition, I would like to note that we were never approached; our supervisor had not heard one word and neither had the principal been notified of this parent's concern. It might be better to start with the tutors themselves or our supervisor before alarming others. I just thought it was interesting that this parent would take the time to write a letter but not contact the school or person in charge. In fact, no parent has ever made any effort to contact me or others tutors.
"It has been a struggle because there are always bugs to work out in any new program. I have worked very hard to pull in responsible and dependable tutors and am constantly working on refining this program to make it effective.
"I have poured my heart and soul into this program and am a determined and dedicated tutor. There have been many times where students have moved on to the next grade level because they attended after school tutoring, which in my eyes is rewarding."
Also on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
Sunday, January 09, 2005
Monrovia School Link Preview ~ Number 102 ~ January 9, 2005
Well, it's a new year and back to work for the school board. At the coming meeting a report on the high school exit exam, what Principal Frank Zepeda is planning at Monrovia High School, and something about bonds. Refinancing them? I don't know, but watch Board Member Bryan Wong. I think he's pretty knowledgable about bonds.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
The board is going to have a closed session this Wednesday (Jan. 12) in the Superintendent's office at 6:30 p.m. regarding "Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release." Sounds pretty serious. I hope it's not about me. But, anyway, you're not invited, so you can come a little later for the regular meeting at 7 p.m. in the board room.
So, what's on the agenda?
Well, Dr. Michael Viera, President of Citrus Community College is going to talk about opportunities at Citrus College for Monrovia students, and the board will recognize outgoing California School Employee Association officers: President Noberto "Tito" Moraga, Vice President Gary Young, and Secretary Lovaun Stuhlman, for their 15 years of dedicated service on behalf of the classified employees of Monrovia Unified School District.
Then the board'll recognize several community groups for supporting Monrovia’s Pro-Active Tutoring program (Sigh, I'm sure it's a nice program, but I *hate* that non-word "proactive"), including: Monrovia Public Library, Monrovia Reads, Monrovia Schools Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, The Boone and Fetter Families, and the Village After-School Program.
Then Item 4.2, your big opportunity: "Public hearing for items not on the agenda." Stand up and say your peace... or it is "piece?" Whatever. You can talk.
Then Associate Superintendent Joel Shawn is going to give an update on CAHSEE. Caw-see? Casey? Cause-e? It's one of those educational acronyms that proliferate like cockroaches, and stands for California High School Exit Exam. Ahhhh. Why didn't you say so in the first place? Shawn speaks straightforwardly, so it should be interesting.
Then new Monrovia High Principal Frank Zepeda is going to talk about the proposed Monrovia High School Block Schedule plan. This sounds like something I should know about, but I confess I don't. Maybe it has to do with his plans to rework how the high school runs.
Finally, and we still haven't gotten to anything the board gets to vote on, Chief Business Officer Linda Dempsey is going to give an update on the Redevelopment Fund.
Okay, now we're to the voting stuff. The board will vote on two memos of understanding with the Parent Institute to provide training courses for Plymouth and Wild Rose elementary schools, and it will vote on a resolution "authorizing issuance of Monrovia Unified School District 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds." I don't know for sure, but it sounds like maybe they can refinance some of their bonds at a better rate.
The board meetings are held at the district office at 325 E. Huntington Drive, right across the street from Smart and Final.
Also on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
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Well, it's a new year and back to work for the school board. At the coming meeting a report on the high school exit exam, what Principal Frank Zepeda is planning at Monrovia High School, and something about bonds. Refinancing them? I don't know, but watch Board Member Bryan Wong. I think he's pretty knowledgable about bonds.
~ brad@sacklunch.net
The board is going to have a closed session this Wednesday (Jan. 12) in the Superintendent's office at 6:30 p.m. regarding "Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release." Sounds pretty serious. I hope it's not about me. But, anyway, you're not invited, so you can come a little later for the regular meeting at 7 p.m. in the board room.
So, what's on the agenda?
Well, Dr. Michael Viera, President of Citrus Community College is going to talk about opportunities at Citrus College for Monrovia students, and the board will recognize outgoing California School Employee Association officers: President Noberto "Tito" Moraga, Vice President Gary Young, and Secretary Lovaun Stuhlman, for their 15 years of dedicated service on behalf of the classified employees of Monrovia Unified School District.
Then the board'll recognize several community groups for supporting Monrovia’s Pro-Active Tutoring program (Sigh, I'm sure it's a nice program, but I *hate* that non-word "proactive"), including: Monrovia Public Library, Monrovia Reads, Monrovia Schools Foundation, Boys and Girls Club, The Boone and Fetter Families, and the Village After-School Program.
Then Item 4.2, your big opportunity: "Public hearing for items not on the agenda." Stand up and say your peace... or it is "piece?" Whatever. You can talk.
Then Associate Superintendent Joel Shawn is going to give an update on CAHSEE. Caw-see? Casey? Cause-e? It's one of those educational acronyms that proliferate like cockroaches, and stands for California High School Exit Exam. Ahhhh. Why didn't you say so in the first place? Shawn speaks straightforwardly, so it should be interesting.
Then new Monrovia High Principal Frank Zepeda is going to talk about the proposed Monrovia High School Block Schedule plan. This sounds like something I should know about, but I confess I don't. Maybe it has to do with his plans to rework how the high school runs.
Finally, and we still haven't gotten to anything the board gets to vote on, Chief Business Officer Linda Dempsey is going to give an update on the Redevelopment Fund.
Okay, now we're to the voting stuff. The board will vote on two memos of understanding with the Parent Institute to provide training courses for Plymouth and Wild Rose elementary schools, and it will vote on a resolution "authorizing issuance of Monrovia Unified School District 2005 General Obligation Refunding Bonds." I don't know for sure, but it sounds like maybe they can refinance some of their bonds at a better rate.
The board meetings are held at the district office at 325 E. Huntington Drive, right across the street from Smart and Final.
Also on the Web at www.monroviaschoollink.com.
