Devouring
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Devouring
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View The Letters View The Teamsters View some of the Blogs that Magically Disappeared View SACS View More Interesting Reading View Websites and Articles of Interest View the LATEST from Tenn-NEW INFO This webpage was created only as an archive for some
of my research and letters. I never expected anyone outside my circle to look at
it. It has since gained quite a bit of traffic. If you are a jounalist or parent
and need additional information please contact me through a comment on
Background: After reading a report that was used in the ultimate firing of a 36 year veteran of the Collier County Public schools and current Superintendent, I became curious. The report, created by an out of State law firm, only interviewed a handful of people at one school in a district with over 40,000 students. Meanwhile I saw another report. A report from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It was far more credible. After posting this letter on my site, I began receiving crank phone calls. And so the story goes... August 10, 2007 While the faces change and the scandals vary, the power struggles remain. When you forget about the alliances, when you put away the conspiracy theories, when you cease trying to place blame, you are left with the students and how it will affect them. In April a review team completed a report for the Quality Assurance Review of the Collier County Schools. The report was completed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI.) This report was presented to the School Board in May. Their comments were mostly positive regarding the District except for the School Board. In that report the SACS CASI Review Team states, “However, there is a challenge, which exists and herein is acknowledged, and must be acted upon to sustain the district’s school improvement accomplishments. It is to pursue the district’s vision and mission and model the district’s beliefs, given the current condition of school board governance. District leadership is commended for striving to maintain a committed focus on achieving the district’s vision and goals within this environment.” They go on to say, “It became evident that some board policies need review, updating and revision, not only to meet the needs of a dynamically growing and changing school district and community, but also to more specifically clarify roles. In conjunction with such policy examination and to sustain the district’s effective operation, it is important that board members’ responsibilities regarding interactions with staff at all levels within the district be examined.” The review team recommended a “comprehensive and thorough review of its policies and operations” of the School Board. The ability of the School Board to meet those recommendations will determine our SACS District Accreditation as a Quality School System. This is a much esteemed honor. Many college scholarships, federal and private grants/loans and military appointments require regional accreditation. Loss of accreditation could have a significant impact on many young lives. Mark Elgart, President/CEO of AdvancEd - the parent company for NCA CASI, SACS CASI and the National Study of School Evaluation - has stated, “With respect to Collier County it is conceivable that the school district could lose its accreditation but it will not happen immediately upon our follow-up visit in the fall. If the district fails to respond adequately and effectively to our recommendations it could result in a loss of accreditation after the 2007-08 school year.” It is a time we should be celebrating, but instead we are left with our mouths agape at the behavior of our School Board. The School Board has hired a company called Neola, Inc. from , Ohio http://www.neola.com. While they appear to have sold services to a few smaller school districts there have been many complaints concerning their “broiler-plate” solutions that have resulted in litigation. Citizens of Collier County should be very concerned about Florida’s Public Records Act, State Statute 119. A quick comparison of other large “urban” school districts shows several grave disparities among the Collier County School Board and the rest of the country. One of the most striking is the number of members. Another is the financial compensation and retirement benefits. I started on my journey through this event with the reading of the Hinshaw Report. After reviewing the methodology I immediately became intrigued. How could a law firm, which by the way represented Rockford Board of Education in one of the longest running desegregation cases in US history, make such a big statement about only a handful of students? What about the recent SACS report? Why isn’t anybody addressing that? I’m inquisitive by nature and I smelled a rat. The more I dug into this the smellier it got. Without going into detail and adding fuel to the fire the parents and community should be very concerned, particularly Out of Zone students. Dr. Thompson should be questioned on his philosophical stance on School Choice and per student funding (his dissertation) as well as expulsion policies. Approximately 44% of our student population is categorized as “Economically Needy” – they qualify for the free or reduced lunch. Many parents are unable to speak for their children and need a voice from the community. 41.7% of our students live in non-English homes, where English is not the first language and sometimes isn’t spoken. And the percentage increases to 47.7% in grades PreK through 3, where learning to read is so critical. Rockford is Dr. Thompson’s first Superintendent position. The jury is still out on his accomplishments. The town of Rockford was split on his performance just like Naples was split on Ray Baker. Today they are decidedly against him. His refusal to make any statements to the Rockford public has incensed them. The School Board in Rockford requested his presence at a special meeting to discuss the situation. He did not attend opting to pack his office instead. The School Board voted 7-0 to place him on “indefinite paid administrative leave.” According to the Rockford Register Star, “School Board member Alice Saudargas said it would be all but impossible for Thompson to continue as the superintendent of Rockford schools after recent events. Traditionally one of Thompson’s allies on the School Board, Saudargas said the superintendent’s flirtation with the Florida board has diminished support for him, even among those board members who approve of his administration.” The School Board in Rockford is a 7 member volunteer organization and receives ongoing training from the Illinois Association of School Boards and other resources. Dr. Thompson does not support “Site Based Management” in schools. Dr. Thompson has been criticized in Rockford for firing of all maintenance staff and replacing them with outside contracts. Much of the dollar savings Dr. Thompson has brought to Rockford is from this and the deferred maintenance on school buildings. While Dr. Thompson is interviewing with Naples, the town of Rockford is cleaning up from a major flood. Damage to school buildings is estimated at $150k. Which may not seem much to Naples, but for a school district faced with extreme State budget cuts, it is enormous. Collier County District Staff should take note the School District and Dr. Thompson are in negotiations with six labor unions. The Attorney who presented the Hinshaw report to the Board is Lori Hoadley. She is on the Illinois Bar and not licensed to practice law in Florida. The website lists her practice focus to be, “public and private sector employers in all areas of labor and employment law, including employment litigation and union-related matters. She regularly counsels clients and litigates issues relating to the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Family Medical Leave Act, Title VII, and traditional union matters, such as unfair labor practice claims and collective bargaining issues.” In the end, the Collier County School Board can vote to hire Dr. Thompson regardless of the suspected legal issues and without public comment. In addition to drafting iron clan contracts for superintendents they have written one for themselves. Current Board Level Policies give them unprecedented access and control of our schools. This is/has LONG been a complaint among professional educators in Collier County. A comparison of the two reports reveals bruised egos and an attempt to sensationalize minor issues. Personally, I’m most upset with the Naples Daily News. As the only major newspaper in town it is their civic responsibility to inform the public. They actively participated in the “spin” and subsequent “hurricane” that followed. They should be held as much responsible as the School Board, former Superintendent Ray Baker, and the only candidate for future Superintendent Dr. Dennis Thompson. All have played a role in an event that will be yet another black eye for Collier County embedded in our colorful history. After nearly 20 years, it’s really time to move out of Collier County. My house is for sale at a bargain price and it’s in Linda Abbott’s district. Sincerely, Proud Parent of a full-time Florida Virtual School Student. Background: I was moved to write this letter after a local student was suspended for wearing a coat and tie to school. The newspaper declined to publish it although I received a very nasty email from the opinion editor. He is a good friend of a school board member.. http://naplesnews.com/news/2007/aug/23/golden_gate_high_school_student_gets_school_suspen/ September 1, 2007 Another Editorial You Won't be Reading in the Naples Daily News Now that the Baker vs. Thompson feud has been settled by the School Board, it’s time to look forward toward improvement. What a wonderful time it would be to involve the students in the process by giving them representation on the School Board. After all, with the number of AP tests they are passing, many have more college education then some sitting School Board members earning $36,000 a year for the privilege. The School Board is preparing for Board Policy workshops. The ability of the School Board to complete a “comprehensive and thorough review of its policies and operations” will determine the prestigious District Accreditation as a Quality School System from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS CASI.) The accreditation team will be returning in the Fall to see if the School Board responded “adequately and effectively” to their recommendations. The School Board has contracted Neola, Inc. to facilitate these workshops. They have come under scrutiny from various organizations including the Student Press Law Center and many open record law advocates. Their broiler plate templates are often contested in court. These workshops will set the tone for Collier schools in the future. Maybe it’s time for the students to Save Our Schools, since the adults haven’t done such a good job over the last decade. They’ve already proven they know more about the AP issues and can exceed at dress codes. I would sign their petition. As Thomas Jefferson said, “Every generation needs a new revolution.” Note: The Attorney representing NEOLA for the State of Florida is local attorney Jean Rawson. Background: I just had to do this for fun. It came about as the Collier School Board debated for the millionth time...prayer before a school board meeting. This debate took considerable time when the board faced numerous urgent issues. http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2007/nov/15/school_board_continue_allowing_outsiders_give_meet/ November 18, 2007 Dear Mr. Donovan; It is commendable you have worked so hard to ensure
the invocation for the Collier County School Board is not divisive. After
reading your comments in the Naples Daily News regarding bringing different
faiths to the podium, I’m confident you will be all inclusive and not deny any
religious preferences from participating. That in mind,
I respectively request an invocation representing the Church of the Flying
Spaghetti Monster. Worshipers, also
known as Pastafarians, were blessed with the Prophet Bobby in 2005 whose wisdom
brought Flying Spaghetti Monsterism
out from the shadows and into the mainstream. Two short years later the
religious movement has experienced unprecedented growth. Flying
Spaghetti Monsterism has been featured in many National publications and
news programs including the New York Times and CNN.
Just recently Flying Spaghetti Monterism was included on the agenda at
the American Academy of Religion’s annual meeting. I was so pleased to read you would never deny a rabbi from saying “Yahweh.” You see, the invocation by a Pastafarian Preacher must be performed while wearing His chosen outfit. It is considered very disrespectful to teach their beliefs without the outfit of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, which is full pirate regalia. The Flying Spaghetti Monster is capable of amazing feats. According to followers He created the universe and can change it at any time. He is invisible and can pass through normal matter with ease. By permitting the blessing of the Flying Spaghetti Monster at a School Board Meeting you can have faith His Noodly Appendage will help to further any cause you wish to advance. While there are never any guarantees for a miracle, a
prayer by a Pastafarian Preacher representing Flying Spaghetti Monsterism might
just turn out to be the divine intervention needed to secure the prestigious Southern
Association of Colleges and Schools accreditation
as a Should you
have any questions regarding the legitimacy of this religion I encourage you to
Google it…over 2 million results have been returned.
For additional information - http://www.venganza.org/ Background: The local "newspaper" ACTUALLY PUBLISHED THIS ONE!!! The infamous Hinshaw and Culbertson report stated several inaccuracies involving Florida Virtual School that I knew to be untrue. In fact, anyone checking the FLVS.net website would see they were not true. I still can't understand why the law firm didn't. http://www.naplesnews.com/news/2007/jul/27/letters_editor_july_28_2007/ The
recent report to the District School Board emphasizes serious infractions against State
Education Code. As a Florida Virtual School (FLVS) parent I feel compelled to
comment on statements made regarding FLVS. FLVS
maintains strict policies to ensure academic integrity. FLVS uses a variety of
technologies to check student work, including
but not limited to the upload of student work to TurnItIn.com. Instructors
may choose to give random oral assessments and/or face to face exams at any
time. In addition, Guidance
Counselors have available to them numerous resources including student
progression plans and a complete video training guide. FLVS is part
of the FLVS provides over
30,000 students across the State of For additional
information contact FLVS.net For those
parents/students who are really fed up - please join us at the SWFL Homeschool
Families Orientation Night, Friday August 17th , Background: I sent this one off when I thought Dr. Thompson could be an innocent pawn...I'm so naive sometimes. Published in the Rockford Register Dear Editor; I am a resident of Our school district has been embroiled in scandals for years. We’ve had four Superintendents in eight years. Our community is split on the “latest firing.” Our newspaper, the Naples Daily News (naplesnews.com,) currently gives the former Superintendent the lead with 55% of the citizens not supporting the Boards decision to terminate him. Many citizens are calling for an investigation by the State
Department of Education and the Attorney Generals Office of
both the former Superintendent and the School Board. Many vocal citizens
are calling for resignations of all School Board members. Many are questioning
whether Mr. Calabrese broke If I were Dr. Thompson I wouldn’t be packing up the house and making life\career altering plans just yet. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side. UPDATE: SACS
is asking the Collier County community what they think.
In advance of the June 3-4 visit,
the team is asking for written statements from community stakeholders regarding
progress made by the School Board regarding governance. To be considered by the
visiting accreditation team, the written statement must: include the author’s
complete name, address, daytime phone number and Collier County School Board
voting district; and be mailed to the Accreditation Team, c/o Traci Dami, the
School District of Collier County, 5775 Osceola Trail, ... You may want to send a copy to SACS as well!!! Dr.
Lucy Hayden
This first of what will surely be a firestorm of National press...Collier County makes the pages of EdWeek in an article about losing accreditation due to school board dysfunction. There is a district in GA facing a similar circumstance. i http://www.edweek.org/ew/articles/2008/06/04/39clayton.h27.html?tmp=341181152 It is amazing that both the Naples Daily News and Dr. Thompson have yet to address the real issue with non-instructional contractors. They DO NOT have to be fingerprinted. This is the reason why "undesirables" were hired by GCA Services. Employees of the school system DO have to be fingerprinted. This is what parent groups in other states and in Florida are concerned about. Had fingerprinting been done the true identities of these people would have been found out. Senate Bill 988 revises the Jessica Lunsford Act to provide for these exemptions. www.fldoe.org/GR/Bill_Summary/2007/SB0988.pdf GCA Services Group was founded in 2003 by investors and private equity firms. They have revenues exceeding $450 million. Their quick rise was do in part to purchasing many local companies, including one in Tennessee. The former owner of that company is now the President of the Education Division. Janitors walk out over pay - GCA Employees Strike http://www.siliconvalley.com/thevalley/ci_9331274 Speaking of Tennessee...NEW INFO You might be interested in hearing the latest from Dr. Thompsons' first administration job in TN... Seems the Superintendent who hired Thompson (and the story reads very similar to ours) is in hot water... He resigned earlier this year after a study found a "Climate of Fear.". Dave Shearon - a well respected blogger on education issues - just did a piece on it in March... http://daveshearon.typepad.com/daveshearon/2008/03/public-schools.html*** Be sure to click on "Climate of Fear" to get the story. *** http://www.FLVS.net - Our Families' "salvation" from CCPS Florida Virtual School is fully accredited by two major agencies: The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and The Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation. SACS Report http://www.abc-7.com/Articles/readnews.asp?articleid=15793&z=2&p= http://www.abc-7.com/Articles/readnews.asp?articleid=15818&z=2&p= http://www.naplesnews.com/media/pdf/2007/07/ccps-final.pdf District response to Hinshaw & Culbertson Report http://collier.k12.fl.us/TClarification.pdf The Lawfirm of Hinshaw & Culbertson Northern Illinois University Regional History Center Background: The Lawfirm of Hinshaw and Culbertson was involved in one of the longest running fights against desegregation in US history. After years of fighting, the suit was finally settled and the firm built very expensive waterfront offices in Rockford, IL with the money they earned. http://www.niulib.niu.edu/reghist/RC%20271.htm Neola, Inc. Background: Collier County public schools has hired this company, at considerable expense, to assist in the re-writing of by-laws. A quick phone call to Neola revealed the attorney representing them in the State of Florida is a local attorney, Jean Rawson. She has previously been involved in several controversial Collier County Public School issues. http://www.cfac.org/Attachments/ohio_open_records.html http://www.splc.org/report_detail.asp?id=1286&edition=40 http://www.jea.org/workshops/spring06/minutes06.html http://www.sunnews.com/news/2002/part1/0328/SZERO.htm The Rockford Public School System Background: This is the former home of our new Superintendent, several new administrators, principals, teachers, and soon - maintenance staff who now call Naples, Florida home at considerable expense to long-time residents. The Rockford Star Newspaper Background: Many of the links to the Rockford Star no longer work. Shortly after this controversy heated up, The Rockford Register changed formats and went to a service. You can order, for a fee, archives of the articles. They are available - coincidently - from a Naples, FL company - Newsbank http://rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/frontpage http://www.rrstar.com/news/schools/x1226454943 http://www.rrstar.com/news/schools/x1699205326 http://www.rrstar.com/archive/x875778529 Here's some I happen to copy to a word doc. Rockford
School Board accepts chief's farewell
By Jeff
Kolkey RRSTAR.COM Rockford
School Board members made it official Tuesday: Superintendent Dennis Thompson no
longer works here. The board
accepted Thompson’s resignation during a special Tuesday meeting. It comes a day
after he had accepted a job as superintendent of the Naples, Fla.-based
Thompson will earn a base salary of $240,000 a year in After a
lengthy closed session Tuesday in which board members were said to have
discussed labor union negotiations that are reaching a critical juncture, the
open session lasted only a few minutes. Board member Mike Williams said the
board may consider naming an interim superintendent at its next meeting. It may
make a decision on whether to conduct a national superintendent search part of a
rescheduled board retreat. Board
member Alice Saudargas said she is hurt by Thompson’s decision to leave the
http://www.rrstar.com/opinions/x1649069542
We might actually have a contest for state’s attorney
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Miscellaneous
Blog Entries that magically disappeared
On Meetings
are today, Tuesday with Collier superintendent candidate Posted on
August 13 at 1:32 p.m. I wonder how many people
actually READ the Henshaw report? I wonder what Dr.
Thompsons' comment will be 12-15 months from now when kids in Collier
are losing Military appointments and college scholarships because of the
Boards actions (or inactions) regarding SACS CASI? I wonder if they will
use this as an excuse to fire Dr. Thompson in the future? On Community
organizations show support for investigation of School Board
Posted on
August 12, 2007 at 5:46 p.m. Thanks. I saw the
youtube early on. There actually is a few of them. I've been trying to
stay away from the inflamatory stuff regarding Dennis
Thompson...although there is a ton of it! It's in my humble
opinion this is a done deal. Thompson will be hired...CC School Board
will try and fool SACS, but they aren't that stupid. About the same time
SACS is pulling accreditation the FLDOE will complete their
investigation and Ray Bakers' suit will be heating up (2008/09 School
year.) Facts will start emerging. There will be a marathon School Board
meeting. They will create a spin...Blame will be place on the Super...he
will be fired...and so on and so on and so on. At this point I have no
sympathy for the Collier community. They didn't do their
"homework" and now they have "failed the class."
It's unfortuate that it will also cost them their "diploma" in
the long run. And to think, if they
only had 7 members on the School Board none of this might have happened. Over and Out. On Chest
pains hospitalize Calabrese Posted on
August 8 at 12:09 p.m. The Inspector General
for the Department of Education has jurisdiction over this. He may be reached
directly by emailing Collier County is using
NEOLA, Inc. to facilitate it's Board Policy Workshop. http://collier.k12.fl.us/board/meetings/... http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll... More than half of
surveyed school districts denied access to public records "She said the board
adopted the policy on the advice of NEOLA Inc., a company based in Stow
that is paid to assist school districts in developing bylaws and
policies. On Superintendent
candidate Thompson placed on administrative leave in Rockford Posted on
August 8 at 11:48 a.m. scottlepore - I have a
different memory of that event. I remember the School Board standing
behind Nelson F. when parents and teachers complained to them. At that
time, the board refused to act on "teacher" complaints. I
believe the School Board was even named in the lawsuit. Isn't that why
they had to hire an attorney for the District to begin with? On Chest
pains hospitalize Calabrese NDN really should add
these to the Links above...READ... District response to
Hinshaw & Culbertson Report SACS Report On Superintendent
candidate Thompson placed on administrative leave in Rockford Posted on
August 8 at 8:50 a.m. The Hinshaw report was
only "sensational" because of the NDN. If you actually read
the two reports you may have a different opinion. When a report was
released with negative comments about our School Board, nobody said a
word. There was no public outcry. No intense media coverage. Nothing. I
would like to know what, in detail, the School Board is doing to come
into compliance with this report? For those of you who
feel it's not important...SACS accreditation provides greater
accessibility for students to federal loans, scholarships, post
secondary education, and military programs that REQUIRE regional
accreditation. All 43,000 students are affected by this - not just a
handful. SACS Report Hinshaw & Culbertson
Report District response to
Hinshaw & Culbertson Report School Board response to
the SACS Report "Board Chair Steve
Donovan said Thursday the Collier County School Board would get the
governance training it needs. 'I am going to get the training for the
School Board. This is about us,' he said. 'It should not affect the
training we have done in the classrooms or the work we are doing in the
schools. I refuse to let us lose accreditation.' Donovan said all school
boards need governance training. 'This is not about getting along,' he
said. 'It is about working for the betterment of the students and the
district. We will meet (SACS CASI’s) requirement.'" SACS response to this
nightmare..."With respect to Collier County it is conceivable that
the school district could lose its accreditation but it will not happen
immediately upon our follow-up visit in the fall. If the district fails
to respond adequately and effectively to our recommendations it could
result in a loss of accreditation after the 2007-08 school year." On Community
responds to superintendent's firing Posted on
August 8 at 8:23 a.m. By a vote of 7-0 http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti... Here's what they
actually said, "School Board member Alice Saudargas said it would
be all but impossible for Thompson to continue as the superintendent of
Rockford schools after recent events. Traditionally one of Thompson’s
allies on the School Board, Saudargas said the superintendent’s
flirtation with the Florida board has diminished support for him, even
among those board members who approve of his administration." On Superintendent
candidate Thompson placed on administrative leave in Rockford On Editorial:
Collier County public schools Posted on
August 7 at 11:54 p.m. Yeah, I guess it's time
to pack up the "I survived Barbara Hattimer" T-Shirts and head
NORTH. On the upside, all those
Rockford people he is bringing with him will need to buy houses.
Posted on
August 7 at 11 p.m. "Collier County
School Board Chairman Steve Donovan said officials in Florida also are
eager for an answer. The Naples Daily News
reported that at least one Collier board member called for an interview
delay to allow for more public input, but Donovan said it was more
because a board member could not be there this week. “I want to put
this to bed,” said Donovan. SEE THEY DON'T WANT
PUBLIC INPUT...DONOVAN EVEN SAYS SO. This is so wrong on so
many levels. On Guest
commentary: Collier School Board, administration need overhaul Posted on
August 7 at 10:46 p.m. Too late...Dr. Thompson
lost his job in Rockford tonight by a 7-0 vote. Note: 7-0 that's SEVEN
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS. http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti... On Editorial:
Collier County public schools Posted on
August 7 at 10:20 p.m. Rockford says...Naples
can HAVE HIM!!! ROCKFORD —
Superintendent Dennis Thompson was placed on indefinite administrative
leave tonight by the Rockford School Board on a unanimous 7-0 vote. School Board member
Alice Saudargas said it would be all but impossible for Thompson to
continue as the superintendent of Rockford schools after recent events. Traditionally one of
Thompson’s allies on the school board, Saudargas said the
superintendent’s flirtation with the Collier County (Fla.) School
Board has diminished support for him, even among those board members who
approve of his administration. “It would be a very
impossible situation if he were to stay,” Saudargas said. “You can
imagine how much trust there would be in whatever he says and wants to
do. We are going to look at him with a jaundiced eye and wonder how
responsible this man is. Is he really telling us what he really believes
and what he intends to do? Is he for real? It would be very
difficult.” Thompson told
Kalchbrenner in late July that he would seriously consider a job offer
from the Naples, Fla.-based school district with an enrollment of about
47,000 students. Kalchbrenner said he
told her about a phone call he had received from a Collier County School
Board member who predicted the firing of Collier County Superintendent
Raymond Baker. Baker was fired July 31
after the Collier board got a report on curriculum irregularities from
the national law firm Hinshaw and Culbertson that has offices in Florida
and Rockford. Hinshaw provides legal services to the Rockford School
District. Thompson is expected to
interview in Naples on Aug. 13 and 14. On Editorial:
Collier County public schools Posted on
August 7 at 10:17 p.m. Next question???? Who is NELOA, Inc.? Why that's the company
Collier School Board hired to run the Board Policy Workshop...Here's
what the State of OH has to say about them.... http://www.toledoblade.com/apps/pbcs.dll... More than half of
surveyed school districts denied access to public records But I guess Open Records
and Sunshine Laws mean nothing in Collier. On Collier
School Board meetings on TV next week Posted on
August 7 at 10:08 p.m. CONGRATS Collier the
Rockford School Board JUS http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti... On Collier
School Board meetings on TV next week Posted on
August 7 at 9:48 p.m. breaking news.... http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti... On Collier
School Board meetings on TV next week Posted on
August 7 at 7:26 p.m. There are TWO reports
and when placed side by side and compared it looks really bad for our
School Board. The School Board got their BAD report card in MAY. The other report
interviewed "276 stakeholders." Has the School Board
started working on a "comprehensive external review of its
policies?" This review team says
this, "it became evident that some board policies need review,
updating and revision, not only to meet the needs of a dynamically
growing and changing school district and community, but also to more
specifically clarify roles." They go on to say
"it is important that board members' responsibilities regarding
interactions with staff at all levels within the district be
examined." The Henshaw report
resulted in a marathon Board meeting and the firing of Mr. Baker. The other report could
result in loss of accreditation which in turn WILL mean lost funding.
The second report could jepordize college scholarships, federal loans
and other programs that require regional accreditation for ALL of the
Collier youth and not just a select few. SACS CASI accredits over
13,000 schools and school systems throughout the United States and
overseas. Henshaw has an office in Miami. See for yourself... Posted on
August 5 at 8:09 a.m. citizenk Now you are getting
closer. If only someone would
READ the SACS report. This IS their issue...BOARD POLICY AND PROCEEDURE!!!!! Follow the bouncing ball
folks... On Brent
Batten: Decisions, decisions. Mostly bad Posted on
August 5 at 7:38 a.m. BlueTonguedVole I'm just trying to
provide links to where this story is covered so people can make their
own INFORMED decision. Yes, the education
system is messed up for a variety of reasons all across the country. I would love to move -
if only I could sell my house. Are you making an offer? On Jeff
Lytle: 'Must-see TV' in Collier had it all: drama, comedy ... and
tragedy Posted on
August 4 at 9:43 p.m. Rockford is Dr.
Thompson's First Job as a Superintendent. Key dates: The good, bad
and ugly from the Thompson era http://www.rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti... Out of zone parents and
parents participating in school choice programs should take note. On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 7:40 p.m. NHS81777 Collier County Public
Schools 43,000 On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 7:29 p.m. I have to keep checking
this link because it truncates...here it is again the SACS Report SACS Report On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 7:05 p.m. When a report was
released with negative comments about our School Board, nobody said a
word. There was no public outcry. No intense media coverage. Nothing - I
feel so alone. I would like to know what, in detail, the School Board is
doing to come into compliance with this report? Just think of the
funding we will lose without accreditation. For those of you who
feel it's not important...SACS accreditation provides greater
accessibility for students to federal loans, scholarships, post
secondary education, and military programs that REQUIRE regional
accreditation. All 43,000 students are affected by this not just a
handful. On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 6:51 p.m. SACS Accreditation is
required for many federal loans, scholarships, post secondary education
and military programs, not to mention for many college admission
officers. What if we lose this
because of the School Board? On Brent
Batten: Decisions, decisions. Mostly bad Posted on
August 4 at 4:58 p.m. SACS Report Hinshaw & Culbertson
Report District response to
Hinshaw & Culbertson Report "In a conversation
with Lori Hoadley from Hinshaw & Culbertson last Friday, she stated,
'This is a large system. When it's scrutinized, you will find flaws. It
is typical." She also indicated to me that based on media reports,
it was being misinterpreted and misused." School Board response to
the SACS Report "Board Chair Steve
Donovan said Thursday the Collier County School Board would get the
governance training it needs. 'I am going to get the training for the
School Board. This is about us,' he said. 'It should not affect the
training we have done in the classrooms or the work we are doing in the
schools. I refuse to let us lose accreditation.' Donovan said all school
boards need governance training. 'This is not about getting along,' he
said. 'It is about working for the betterment of the students and the
district. We will meet (SACS CASI’s) requirement.'" Additional References CCPS Parent Guide Sunshine Law
clarification The Southern Association
of Colleges and Universities The Lawfirm of Hinshaw
& Culbertson The Rockford Public
School System The Rockford Star
Newspaper On Do
you agree with the Collier School Board decision to fire Ray Baker? Posted on
August 4 at 2:41 p.m. Rainman - I can
sympathize. We had the same issue. The CCPS counselors and
teachers were extremely helpful in finding a solution. My daughter is
now enrolled in FLVS full-time and is THRIVING. She has a certified FL
Teacher for every class and her curriculum and grades reflect her level
of intelligence. It is considered a
Public School and available for FREE to all Public, Private and
Homeschooled children in the State of Florida. FLVS.net Without the guidance of
some very dedicated people in the Collier County Public School system
this would not have happened. That is why I'm standing behind them now. On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 2:23 p.m. SACS Report - http://www.collier.k12.fl.us/board/meeti... District Response to
Hinshaw report http://collier.k12.fl.us/TClarification.... For additional
information on the Southern Assoc. of Colleges and Universities please
see... http://collier.k12.fl.us/TClarification.... On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 1:20 p.m. http://myfloridalegal.com/sunshine "Attorney General
Bill McCollum is a champion of Florida’s open government laws and
firmly believes in the principle that government must be accountable to
the people. As such, he has launched the Government Accountability
Project (GAP) whose objective is to encourage state and local government
entities to be proactive in providing Florida’s citizens the
information and records they need to hold government accountable." On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 1:14 p.m. CCPS Parent Guide and
Checklist. http://collier.k12.fl.us/parents/index.a... On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 1:11 p.m. The histories of the
Commission on Colleges and the Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools are rich and long. Founded in 1895, the Southern Association of
Colleges and Schools is currently comprised of the Council on
Accreditation and School Improvement (CASI) and the Commission on
Colleges (COC). The Commission on Colleges was founded in 1912 and was
organized to develop standards and a process for accrediting colleges
and universities in the South. "SACS" where
Students Are Central to Success On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 12:51 p.m. Naplesregular "it is clear to
even the most casual observer" You're right. Casual
observation is the problem. It's only when you do your homework do you
see the big picture. The citizens of Collier have resigned themselves to
becoming like the teachers..."shut the door, do your job, and let
the chaos go on around you." I'm out on this subject,
but don't say I didn't warn you Collier. On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 10:36 a.m. Naplesregular I have no vested
interest in the CCPS. After 6 years we now ... are you ready folks...HOMESCHOOLING. I did learn. I know the
FACTS. It's about $$$ and egos. Anyone want to buy a house real cheap? On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 10:27 a.m. BTW - If the Board did
adhere to the recommendations of the SAC committee - the Board WOULD
review their governing policies and it WOULD result in an END to the
Nelson era ONCE AND FOR ALL! On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 10:15 a.m. CCPS gets paid by the
State for these classes. Could it be the Board
pushes this for the sake of additional $$ in their budget? Could it be
the Board had something to do with pushing all these Honors and AP
classes? I've actually been suspect of this for TWO YEARS! I do believe FLVS pays
around $1,000 for each student who takes and passes the AP exam and they
provide everything for the course, including a certified teacher. FLVS HAS ACCREDIATION -
AS WELL AS ALL 10 OF THEIR AP CLASSES!!! THEY PASSED THE AUDIT. What is
standing in CCPS's way - the Board!!!! This is what the SACS report I've
been pushing is about for Collier. From where I stand - CCPS WAS working
on this issue - with the STATE DEPT OF ED. FYI - The AP Course
Audit was created at the request of secondary school and college members
of the College Board who sought a means for the College Board to: In my "humble"
opinion - this is the reason for the look on some board faces. Once again - no
conspiracy theory...it just boils down to $$$$ - just like it always
does in this town :~( On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 10:03 a.m. "A student can take
excessive virtual school courses throughout the summer to gain
additional 'Honors' credits. " This can happen ONLY
with both Parent approval and Counselor approval, not just any counselor
approval either. Kids are taking all
these classes for a variety of reasons; parents pushing for it, saving
on college costs, competing for slots in the ivy leagues, to get the !
out of CCPS, and imagine this... some ACTUAL ENJOY taking FLVS classes. Again - if these parents
who complained so loudly had DONE THEIR HOMEWORK - they would KNOW THE
FACTS. On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 9:45 a.m. Thanks teacher123, it's
good to know someone understands. I think I'm going to print this report
myself and start handing it out. Here's how I see it.
Board is happy pulling Bakers strings and micro-managing the
district...gives him raise...SACS issues report praising Baker and
slamming the Board...Board gets mad and blames Baker...floods media with
inflammatory report to support their mission...fires Baker...enter new
guy and time to pull more strings and micro-manage...I see into the
future...Board gets mad at new Super..fires him...etc., etc., etc. On Were
Collier parents the first to contact If the Dept of Education
puts the two reports side by side which one do YOU think they would deem
more credible? http://www.collier.k12.fl.us/board/meeti... I'm determined to get
someone...anyone, to read THIS report. It took me forever to find on the
internet. The findings were presented to the board in MAY! On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 9:23 a.m. BE RESPONSIBLE NDN and
give the citizens a link to the Southern Association of Colleges and
Universities accrediation report. It's WAY more credible than this
Hinshaw nonsense. It was presented to the board in MAY. http://www.collier.k12.fl.us/board/meeti... Give the citizens of
Collier a chance to see ALL the facts. It is very sad that I read about
Parents contacting Thompson YESTERDAY in the Rockford paper. On Were
Collier parents the first to contact Rockford superintendent? Posted on
August 4 at 8:02 a.m. It takes awhile to load,
but this is the never talked about and seldom reported SACS CASI report
for those interested in learning about the issues. http://www.collier.k12.fl.us/board/meeti...... SACS CASI accredits over
13,000 schools and school systems throughout the United States and
overseas. Today, SACS CASI is the global leader in helping schools
improve student learning through accreditation. Never have I seen a
School Board with so much control over the day-to-day and policy issues
of a school system. It is the School Board who needs the education the
most. It is time to send them back to school. Many of the missteps in
this fiasco happened because the Board did not do their homework. The School Board in
Collier is paid well above their counterparts Nationally. After two
terms they have the benefit of a Retirement Plan. One reoccuring complaint
since the Nelson F. days has been school board involvement - remember
the letters to the editor when Nelson F. started entering schools and
removing students from class. There is a fundamental
problem with the way the school board governs itself. This is the common
thread over the years. This is what needs to change so that we can move
forward. On Collier
schools face possible budget shortfall Posted on
August 3 at 12:58 a.m. It takes awhile to load,
but this is the much talked about SACS CASI report for those interested
in learning about the issues. http://www.collier.k12.fl.us/board/meeti...... SACS CASI accredits over
13,000 schools and school systems throughout the United States and
overseas. Today, SACS CASI is the global leader in helping schools
improve student learning through accreditation. On District
accreditation won't be affected by Baker's firing On Baker
to sue School Board members I really don't think
it's an orchestrated attempt. I think it's simply citizens doing their
homework. I think the rest speaks for itself. I too read the Rockford
paper, the NY Times, blogs from newspaper readers, blogs from parents,
articles in professional journals, blogs from teachers, statements from
victim advocate groups, youtube (that was just for fun) and more. The
more I read the more I became concerned. It was never my
intention to participate in a "smear" campaign...I would just
like everyone to do their homework. While I can appreciate Dr.
Thompson's heavy handed management style, I do not think it is a good
fit for Collier at this time. He is only starting his career. Rockford is Dr.
Thompsons' first superintendent position. On Editorial:
Collier County School Board Posted on
August 2 at 3:16 p.m. Well said. On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 2:46 p.m. Thank you ex31539er,
you're exactly right - it's just after 20 years it's all a little "Deja
Vu." Having "potential
alternatives" is responsible. Who else are they
considering? On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 1:38 p.m. No they don't, I
apologize they say... “Collier County has
been really after him since we hired him,” “It wasn’t a different
conversation than before, but it seemed more serious.” http://rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?... Once again, focus
now...THE COMMUNITY DESERVES A CHANCE TO REVIEW AND COMMENT ON A NEW
SUPERINTENDENT. WE CAN NO LONGER TRUST OUR SCHOOL BOARD TO CHOOSE OR
NEGOTIATE A CONTRACT. On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 1:18 p.m. Yes it is
sad...according the the Rockford paper he has been in negotiations with
our School Board for quite some time. He may be using this as a
negotiation tatic for a higher salary in Rockford or a chance to 'get
while the getting is good.' http://rrstar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?... On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 1:02 p.m. Rockford is the first
school district Dr. Thompson has been superintendent. Here is some
information to get everyone started on researching him. Profile: Dennis Thompson On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 12:48 p.m. Dr. Thompson has made no
excuses for his stong handed leadership style. He is a Retired Lieutnant
Colonel after all. He has even been quoted in the NY Times regarding the
firing of a well respected teacher, "Great leaders have to be great
followers first." Regardless of whether
you agree with his management style it's important for the community to
have a say. At this point the Board is planning on offering him a job on
Tues according to the Rockford Paper. This is wrong. The people of Collier
need to do their own research. It is only my opinion, after much
reading, that he is too strong armed and will not be able to mobilize
the community. Plus, he just doesn't have the experience. He has only
been in the public schools system for 6 years total. Here is his
background... My two biggest concerns
specifically are... Cuts to the school
budget he is credited for were largely obtained by firing the
maintenance staff and outsourcing it. Many buildings have deferred
maintenance so long they are unsafe. Explusion rates have
quadrupled under his strong arm policy of no tolerance (remember Nick -
he would have been kicked out completely.) The sharp increase in
explusions resulted in a teen crime wave in Rockford. I encourage everyone to
do their own research, but please look beyond the letters to the editor.
Digg a little deeper and you will see a pattern emerging here. On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 12:42 p.m. ex31539er - We will be doing more of
the same on Tuesday when Dr. Thompson is hired. I honestly believe,
after much research, Dr. Thompson will be more of the same. His
management style reflects this. On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 12:08 p.m. Once again - everyone
has their head in the sand here...whatever happened or happens with
Baker is water under the bridge. Please Collier - MOVE FORWARD! THIS IS
IMPORTANT... The issue NOW is Dr.
Thompson. Do you really think a
militaristic leadership style is what Collier needs right now? Do you really believe
Dr. Thompson will be the communicator and negotiator needed to bring
this county together on the numerous policy issues we are facing? Do you? Whatever your opinion -
make in KNOWN by contacting the School Board Members. Include a copy to
the Department of Education and the Inspector Generals office. curatoka@collier.k12.fl.us Do your homework and
MOVE for REAL change in Collier County Public Schools - SPEAKOUT while
you still have the chance. Do it now, by Tuesday it could be too late. I would submit this as a
letter to the ed - but my two weeks aren't up yet...so if anyone out
there would like to - please - be my guest. On Baker
to sue School Board members Posted on
August 2 at 11:56 a.m. Great column. It's important to note,
not everyone is behind Thompson in Rockford. You will need to dig a
little deeper to see the true story. While he does list some
success...he is inexperienced, leading only two school districts for a
total of 6 years. His militaristic management style is well known and
documented. He is quick to replace employees who challenge him.
Expulsion rates have quadrupled during his watch resulting in a spike in
juvenile crime. There are even questions whether he has enough support
within the teachers union for upcoming contract negotiations. His management style is
simply not a good fit for Collier County at this time. On Brent
Batten: Superintendent had better be Superman Oh please, say it's not
so - no search for Baker replacement! This is the WORST thing that can
happen now. After last night does anyone really trust the School Board
to pick our new Superintendent? Rockford Register...rrstar.com On Do
you agree with the Collier School Board decision to fire Ray Baker? Posted on
August 1 at 7:46 p.m. Oh please, say it's not
so - no search for Baker replacement! This is the WORST thing that can
happen now. After last night does anyone really trust the School Board
to pick our new Superintendent? Rockford Register...rrstar.com "Collier County
board members do not plan on a search for a new superintendent after
firing Raymond Baker on Tuesday night on a 3-2 vote, Donovan said. Thompson is under
contract until June 2009. Thompson already has
spoken to Donovan about bringing along a team of administrators that is
likely to include Chief Instructional Officer Martha Hayes and Assistant
Superintendent for Human Resources Mary Ann Gemmill. Donovan said if a
contract can be negotiated, an offer will be made. “There is always the
chance something might fall through, but I have the hope that everything
will fall into place and we will be able to manage to have Dr. Thompson
come here,” Donovan said." On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
August 1 at 6:30 p.m. I hope your right...the
community gets input. Unfortunately that has not been the case with past
Superintendent choices. Dr. Thompson appears to
be more of the same. I've looked at several television reports and
newspapers including the Rockford Register and the NY Times. The comments are both
for and against him. Much like Ray Baker. Their Board is divided on
their support of him. Much like our Board was divided tonight. The story
of the Rockford school district reads so much like our own here in
Naples it's frightening. I'm tired of that story.
I'd really like to see a new one. On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
August 1 at 4:14 a.m. It's going to get worse
if Thompson is given control. Please don't let this happen. Protestors Picket
Outside School Board Meeting A large group upset with
the Rockford School District protests at the board meeting. They think
an Auburn High School senior who was murdered in April should get his
diploma. Bradley Berogan's family
says he had passing grades. The school board agreed he could get his
diploma if that was the case. But the family claims Superintendent
Dennis Thompson told Bradley's teachers to give him grades for the
assignments he missed after he died. Brad's mom Diane says, "It
should be the grades at the time of his death, not all the zeroes they
gave him after his death." Dr. Thompson gave
Bradley an "honorary diploma." His mom appealed, but Tuesday
night the school board voted to uphold Thompson's decision. Updated: June 12, 2007,
7:39 pm He was murdered just
days before graduation. His teachers all agreed his grades would have
been passing. Thompsons response...
“Dead people can’t graduate,” Thompson said. “I don’t mean to
sound cruel. It’s a fact of life. If we are going to say he qualified
for a diploma, we will be saying he qualified like every other student.
... He didn’t complete the requirements because he died, but he may
not have completed them anyway.” Sure glad VA Tech didn't
feel this way. Please...do not let the
Board usher this guy in through the back door. He is NOT the best choice
for Collier. As much as I dislike Baker, we'd be better off with him. On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
August 1 at 3:55 a.m. Here is a parent blog
from Rockford Register regarding the impending departure of Dr.
Thompson. "What is the main
goal of a superintendent? To raise test scores for all students so that
they can be better productive members of society. All other goals
surround this. Test scores have not risen under Dr. Thompson; high
school scores have not improved and elementary scores cannot be counted.
Students have been expelled at quadruple rates and they are now involved
in murder-related crime. Educated people understand the real facts about
test scores and community relations while stupid people do not. Dr.
Thompson is probably the worst superintendent in Rockford history." On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
August 1 at 2:06 a.m. Also from the Rockford
Register... "Thompson is quick
to replace administrators who challenge him. A Lewis Lemon principal was
removed when she and Thompson clashed over a reading curriculum that
many parents felt was effective. A chunk of the
district’s financial savings has come from Thompson’s plan to lay
off 174 custodians and outsource their positions to a private company. After Thompson’s first
year in Rockford, he noted how he was surprised by the deep wounds
festering in the city over a 1989 race-discrimination lawsuit. A court
ordered the district to desegregate by implementing controlled school
choice. But despite pleas from
some board members and parents to slow down, Thompson plowed ahead with
plans to rid the district of school choice. He said a neighborhood-based
boundary zone system would give the community and school system needed
predictability. Middle and high school
zones were approved on a 4-3 vote in January by a polarized School
Board. An April School Board
election was billed by some observers as a referendum on the job
Thompson is doing. If it was, the results
were mixed." DON'T LET THE SCHOOL
BOARD DO THIS TO COLLIER AGAIN. The search for a new superintendent MUST
include community input. On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
August 1 at 1:56 a.m. From Todays Rockford
Register... "The Rockford
School Board plans to meet in closed session Wednesday to discuss
Thompson’s job status." On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
August 1 at 1:23 a.m. When parents of a school
in Rockford protested to a reading program that had huge success being
cancelled here was the response as reported in the NY Times... To Superintendent
Thompson, Rockford cannot improve its overall performance without using
one reading method for the whole district, so that all teachers can be
trained in it. A retired Army lieutenant colonel, he also made it plain
that he could not tolerate Ms. Parker's disobeying orders. "This is not a
curriculum issue alone with her," he said. "It is a leadership
issue. Good leaders need to be good followers first." One more time...As
quoted from the NY Times... "Good leaders need
to be good followers first." So in other words...if
he is hired all you CCPS employees better not act up! Check out Rockfords
Letters to the Editor and you will see...it's not so much Thompson they
are happy with - they just want some stability in their schools after
problems with school board and several preceding
superintendents...sound familiar? On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
August 1 at 12:59 a.m. Not only do they get a
salary, but service of two terms gets you RETIREMENT pay as well. Some
former school board members earn more in retirement than salaried CCPS
employees. Many thanks to kneejerk...after
almost 20 years in Naples, I really needed a good laugh. On School
Board fires Ray Baker Posted on
July 31 at 11:48 p.m. How about that YouTube...while
looking for a posting for tonights meeting I found some great stuff on
Dennis Thompson and the Rockford IL School Board...he should get along
just fine here. This is too funny or do
I mean scary...talk about must see TV http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6pJtBWGP... |
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* A byte is a character of information - A kilobyte (KB) is 1,024 bytes of information, roughly the size of a business letter - A megabyte (MB) is a million bytes of information, an average length novel - A gigabyte (GB) is 1,024 megabytes of information, several dozen encyclopedias - A terabyte (TB) is roughly one trillion bytes
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