District 107 is very lucky to have a candidate like Karen O'Halloran for their school district. I have been a School Board member for the past 17 years in School District 98 with 12 of those years as Board President. Before deciding to seek office, Karen sought my council along with other Board members from various school districts on Board issues, policies and procedures. Gathering information to make sound decisions is one of the base criteria for becoming a School Board Member. Keeping oneself informed on school issues as well as community needs is what Karen O'Halloran is about.
I have known Karen for over 20 years and have always found her to be a person of integrity and strong morale convictions. Just give her a mission and watch her results.
I sincerely hope that District 107 will allow Karen to be a voice for the children and the school community by electing her to the Board of Education.
Tony Laureto
School Board President
District 98
Editor's Note:
Anonymous said, "You have posted an endorsement from a man who has been on the school board for roughly 17 years, but you bring up the fact that some of our board members will not have students in our school next year. Don't they bring experience and want the best for the kids of our district as your endorsement does?"
Dear Anonymous,
As far as the endorsement from the School Board President in District 98 serving well after his children have left the district...
I went to Tony for advice several months ago, as I have deep respect for him and his board for all of their accomplishments.
He is in a District with 3,300 students (we have 837), his Superintendent makes $174,393 (ours superintendent makes over $187,234), 79% of the students are low income (we have 5%), 10% are white, 77% are Hispanic (English is the second language for most and not spoken at home).
They have a balanced budget. Their instructional expenses are $3,937 (ours are $6,974); operational expenses are $6,934 (ours are $12,943).
Overall, they meet or exceed State Standards 71.6%. Pleasantdale meets or exceeds State Standards 95.1%.
Tony said that he could only dream about having a budget like ours or about having a group of dedicated community servants willing to step up to the job.
I mention this because I think you will all agree that we have a lot to be thankful for in our district. And, while we are doing a great job, let's put it into perspective... don't you think we can do better? I do!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Busy Day!
Today has been the busiest day our blog has seen!
We have had over 1,000 visitors and almost 3,000 page views since we started!!
We'd like to thank our supporters for keeping the blog at the forefront of our campaign.
We'd also like to thank the folks on the Illinois Century Network for their unparalleled attention to our blog. You know who you are!!
We have had over 1,000 visitors and almost 3,000 page views since we started!!
We'd like to thank our supporters for keeping the blog at the forefront of our campaign.
We'd also like to thank the folks on the Illinois Century Network for their unparalleled attention to our blog. You know who you are!!
Candidate: Lauri Valentin
Please tell us about yourself and your life.
I was born and raised in a northwest suburb of Detroit to college-educated parents who were involved in my education and demanded the very best from my school system. I hold a Bachelor of Music Degree from The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and a Master of Music Education Degree from Northern Illinois University. I ran a school music program for 9 years and have taught privately for over 20 years. I have worked with individuals from 5 years old to 89 and through music have found a true universal language that all ages can share, enjoy and explore their own potentials through. I believe that there is no greater reward or responsibility than the opportunity to teach others. I am also currently a volunteer with a non-profit organization that is dedicated to giving kids a voice on issues that matter to them and the future of their world. The vision here is “to engage the personal and creative energies of students, families and communities in a collaborative process, and help them develop the skills necessary to become socially responsible leaders.” Ironically, this mission is very similar to my vision for a wonderfully successful school system. I am married with three children ages 13, 11 and 4 years. I am a 10-year cancer survivor who believes that life is truly a gift to be treasured and that it is far too short to waste not making the most of every opportunity to be the best that we can.
What prompted you to run for the board?
I am running for the board of education because I believe that education needs to be about children first. A school district that doesn’t continually consider how their decisions will affect the students is not serving its community and is indeed hurting its students. A board of education that doesn’t continually watch over the school system and question things for the best interest of all is not doing its job. I believe that our board of education could do its job better and needs people who are not afraid to ask the difficult questions and demand accountability from our administrators.
What experience and qualifications do you feel you have that will make you an effective board member?
I earned summa cum laude in completing my Masters of Education Degree because I worked hard to apply myself to my greatest potential. I then taught in the public schools for 9 years and had a great deal of interaction with students, parents, teachers, principals and superintendents. Most importantly, I have three children in district 107 and want their experiences to the best possible in order to prepare them for their futures, academically and otherwise. I believe that all of these experiences together with my passion for quality education and providing every child with opportunities to succeed will make me a very effective and caring board member.
As a band director I was in a role far different than that of a regular classroom teacher. Among my teaching duties I also created and oversaw Band Parent Organizations at two school different districts. Included in those responsibilities were working with administrators and parents to establish programs which supported the music program and enhanced the curriculum for the students. I oversaw 5 different budget accounts, negotiating costs and services from different vendors and service companies. I proposed and carried out curriculum additions and changes including adding a technology program and a music exploratory program for deaf and hard of hearing children. I worked with the DHH faculty and administrators to modify that program for the individual needs of the children within it including developing teaching material. I worked with the community to organize music participation in community events including participation in parades, farmers markets, and fundraisers.
As a parent, there is nothing more important to me than the quality of education my children receive. I respect the job teachers do everyday and believe that there is no more righteous occupation, except raising your own children, than that of being a teacher. That is why I chose to become a teacher and why I aspired to be the very best that I could. I believe that all children deserve to have opportunity to learn and grow in positive, nurturing environments. This is only possible with the combined dedication of the entire school system.
What do you feel are the key issues facing the district?
I feel that there is the need, from the top down, for a renewed commitment to the kids and the district mission statement. There is too much emphasis on bottom line and not enough emphasis on children. I feel that our teachers deserve better and that our district stands to benefit greatly from improved teacher morale. I feel that we currently place too much emphasis on standardized test scores and not enough emphasis on teaching kids how to study and problem solve. I also feel that as a district we do not listen enough to, or utilize the abundance of resources we have within our, teachers, parents and students.
What would you like to accomplish as a board member?
I would like to help restore an educational community that works together, toward the best interests of all.
What is your vision for the future of the district?
My vision is a school system that values the opinions of everyone and continually considers every opportunity to improve the quality of its service to the community.
I was born and raised in a northwest suburb of Detroit to college-educated parents who were involved in my education and demanded the very best from my school system. I hold a Bachelor of Music Degree from The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and a Master of Music Education Degree from Northern Illinois University. I ran a school music program for 9 years and have taught privately for over 20 years. I have worked with individuals from 5 years old to 89 and through music have found a true universal language that all ages can share, enjoy and explore their own potentials through. I believe that there is no greater reward or responsibility than the opportunity to teach others. I am also currently a volunteer with a non-profit organization that is dedicated to giving kids a voice on issues that matter to them and the future of their world. The vision here is “to engage the personal and creative energies of students, families and communities in a collaborative process, and help them develop the skills necessary to become socially responsible leaders.” Ironically, this mission is very similar to my vision for a wonderfully successful school system. I am married with three children ages 13, 11 and 4 years. I am a 10-year cancer survivor who believes that life is truly a gift to be treasured and that it is far too short to waste not making the most of every opportunity to be the best that we can.
What prompted you to run for the board?
I am running for the board of education because I believe that education needs to be about children first. A school district that doesn’t continually consider how their decisions will affect the students is not serving its community and is indeed hurting its students. A board of education that doesn’t continually watch over the school system and question things for the best interest of all is not doing its job. I believe that our board of education could do its job better and needs people who are not afraid to ask the difficult questions and demand accountability from our administrators.
What experience and qualifications do you feel you have that will make you an effective board member?
I earned summa cum laude in completing my Masters of Education Degree because I worked hard to apply myself to my greatest potential. I then taught in the public schools for 9 years and had a great deal of interaction with students, parents, teachers, principals and superintendents. Most importantly, I have three children in district 107 and want their experiences to the best possible in order to prepare them for their futures, academically and otherwise. I believe that all of these experiences together with my passion for quality education and providing every child with opportunities to succeed will make me a very effective and caring board member.
As a band director I was in a role far different than that of a regular classroom teacher. Among my teaching duties I also created and oversaw Band Parent Organizations at two school different districts. Included in those responsibilities were working with administrators and parents to establish programs which supported the music program and enhanced the curriculum for the students. I oversaw 5 different budget accounts, negotiating costs and services from different vendors and service companies. I proposed and carried out curriculum additions and changes including adding a technology program and a music exploratory program for deaf and hard of hearing children. I worked with the DHH faculty and administrators to modify that program for the individual needs of the children within it including developing teaching material. I worked with the community to organize music participation in community events including participation in parades, farmers markets, and fundraisers.
As a parent, there is nothing more important to me than the quality of education my children receive. I respect the job teachers do everyday and believe that there is no more righteous occupation, except raising your own children, than that of being a teacher. That is why I chose to become a teacher and why I aspired to be the very best that I could. I believe that all children deserve to have opportunity to learn and grow in positive, nurturing environments. This is only possible with the combined dedication of the entire school system.
What do you feel are the key issues facing the district?
I feel that there is the need, from the top down, for a renewed commitment to the kids and the district mission statement. There is too much emphasis on bottom line and not enough emphasis on children. I feel that our teachers deserve better and that our district stands to benefit greatly from improved teacher morale. I feel that we currently place too much emphasis on standardized test scores and not enough emphasis on teaching kids how to study and problem solve. I also feel that as a district we do not listen enough to, or utilize the abundance of resources we have within our, teachers, parents and students.
What would you like to accomplish as a board member?
I would like to help restore an educational community that works together, toward the best interests of all.
What is your vision for the future of the district?
My vision is a school system that values the opinions of everyone and continually considers every opportunity to improve the quality of its service to the community.
Candidate: Karen O'Halloran
Please tell us about your life:
My name is Karen O’Halloran. I live in Willow Springs with my husband and 6th grade daughter. I grew up in Berwyn and for fifteen years sold real estate in the western suburbs. While in sales, I liked to refer to Willow Springs as the “diamond in the rough” – it’s a small village in the forest. It’s in a great location with a solid school system. I was thrilled when my husband and I were able to purchase our property here 15 years ago. I am passionate about education and appreciate the value a quality school district adds to the community as well as home values.
I have an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Concordia University and currently work full-time as a Merchandising Assistant in the Commodities Department of Corn Products International. Prior to Corn Products I worked as a federally appointed Shakman Monitor, for Brennan & Monti. As a monitor, I investigated the hiring practices for the City of Chicago. Prior to this I worked for MacNeal Hospital in Berwyn for over seventeen years. There I held various positions in accounting, human resources and sales.
I have been actively involved in the Pleasantdale PTA for six years, and am currently the Vice President. I also teach religious education to fifth graders at my church. When I am not busy volunteering I love spending time with my family, reading and being outdoors.
What prompted you to run for the board?
I have been attending BOE meetings for over six years and have seen many wonderful improvements to our school. I refer to myself as a “school board junkie”. While I have seen many positive changes I feel that in recent years the voice of the public has been lost. I feel that it is the responsibility of the board to listen and consider all concerns presented to the board. Unfortunately this has not been happening.
Several years ago concerned parents presented a petition signed by many parents requesting recess to be restored at the middle school. This was a decision made solely by the school administration without input from the parents. The board did not consider the community’s petition and would not over turn the recommendation of the Superintendent.
Last year concerned parents asked the board to reduce the 44% increase of the preschool and full day kindergarten tuition. The board again did not consider the community’s request and did not over turn the Superintendent’s recommendation.
When I personally expressed a dissatisfaction of the removal of art from the sixth grade curriculum I was told by the Superintendent that I was free to voice my concern to the Board. I was also told by the Superintendent that the Board never went against his recommendation (and they didn’t). This is when I knew that I needed to run.
I do not feel that the board should be a rubber stamp for the Superintendent. When parents lose a voice in their child’s education and when we as tax payers do not have a voice in how our tax dollars are being spent then democracy is lost.
What experience and qualifications do you feel you have that will make you an effective board member?
I feel that the knowledge that I have gained while attending meetings for the past six years has given me insight and background to be an excellent board member. I also believe that my experience in accounting and sales will assist me in my quest. I have always taken the “win win” approach in sales and feel that I am a qualified negotiator.
I also pride myself in my attention to detail. I am dedicated and passionate about our children and our school and I fully understand and appreciate the time and dedication required of a board member.
What do you feel are key issues facing the district?
I feel that the lack of communication on the part of the school fosters a lack of community in our district. What is the purpose of having a “Town Hall Meeting” when parents/tax payers are not free to express their concerns?
During my research for this position it has come to my attention that our school is lagging in technology. We are behind neighboring schools in the Lyons Township District. I have learned that all students at the Highlands Middle School are issued Mac Notebooks in sixth grade. They use their notebooks instead of textbooks. I believe that we need to strengthen our commitment to technology throughout the curriculum.
I also feel that the District currently measures it’s success by it’s test scores. While tests are an important tool and our test scores have improved, I do not believe that it is an accurate measurement for success.
What would you like to accomplish as a board member?
I would like to build the bridge of communication between the school administration and the community. I would welcome open dialogue at school board meetings. I would see that concerns and questions presented during open forum are reviewed, considered and responded to in a timely manner. I would encourage parental involvement in curriculum decisions. I would also promote Town Hall meetings were the community is free to express their concerns and their voice is heard.
I would like to ensure that all children in our district have access to an exemplary preschool/kindergarten education regardless of their financial situation.
I would like to further strengthen our technology program and ensure that our technology teachers are given the tools they need to meet and/or exceed National Education Technology Standards.
I would like to see an increase in teacher morale.
I want to provide oversight and accountability without micro-managing.
What is your vision for the future of the district?
I am passionate about children and I want to ensure that our school offers every child the opportunity to receive a world class education. I want them to have the tools needed to be successful, not only in high school and college, but in life. I want to help guide our children to achieve their passions and not classify them based on test scores alone.
My name is Karen O’Halloran. I live in Willow Springs with my husband and 6th grade daughter. I grew up in Berwyn and for fifteen years sold real estate in the western suburbs. While in sales, I liked to refer to Willow Springs as the “diamond in the rough” – it’s a small village in the forest. It’s in a great location with a solid school system. I was thrilled when my husband and I were able to purchase our property here 15 years ago. I am passionate about education and appreciate the value a quality school district adds to the community as well as home values.
I have an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Concordia University and currently work full-time as a Merchandising Assistant in the Commodities Department of Corn Products International. Prior to Corn Products I worked as a federally appointed Shakman Monitor, for Brennan & Monti. As a monitor, I investigated the hiring practices for the City of Chicago. Prior to this I worked for MacNeal Hospital in Berwyn for over seventeen years. There I held various positions in accounting, human resources and sales.
I have been actively involved in the Pleasantdale PTA for six years, and am currently the Vice President. I also teach religious education to fifth graders at my church. When I am not busy volunteering I love spending time with my family, reading and being outdoors.
What prompted you to run for the board?
I have been attending BOE meetings for over six years and have seen many wonderful improvements to our school. I refer to myself as a “school board junkie”. While I have seen many positive changes I feel that in recent years the voice of the public has been lost. I feel that it is the responsibility of the board to listen and consider all concerns presented to the board. Unfortunately this has not been happening.
Several years ago concerned parents presented a petition signed by many parents requesting recess to be restored at the middle school. This was a decision made solely by the school administration without input from the parents. The board did not consider the community’s petition and would not over turn the recommendation of the Superintendent.
Last year concerned parents asked the board to reduce the 44% increase of the preschool and full day kindergarten tuition. The board again did not consider the community’s request and did not over turn the Superintendent’s recommendation.
When I personally expressed a dissatisfaction of the removal of art from the sixth grade curriculum I was told by the Superintendent that I was free to voice my concern to the Board. I was also told by the Superintendent that the Board never went against his recommendation (and they didn’t). This is when I knew that I needed to run.
I do not feel that the board should be a rubber stamp for the Superintendent. When parents lose a voice in their child’s education and when we as tax payers do not have a voice in how our tax dollars are being spent then democracy is lost.
What experience and qualifications do you feel you have that will make you an effective board member?
I feel that the knowledge that I have gained while attending meetings for the past six years has given me insight and background to be an excellent board member. I also believe that my experience in accounting and sales will assist me in my quest. I have always taken the “win win” approach in sales and feel that I am a qualified negotiator.
I also pride myself in my attention to detail. I am dedicated and passionate about our children and our school and I fully understand and appreciate the time and dedication required of a board member.
What do you feel are key issues facing the district?
I feel that the lack of communication on the part of the school fosters a lack of community in our district. What is the purpose of having a “Town Hall Meeting” when parents/tax payers are not free to express their concerns?
During my research for this position it has come to my attention that our school is lagging in technology. We are behind neighboring schools in the Lyons Township District. I have learned that all students at the Highlands Middle School are issued Mac Notebooks in sixth grade. They use their notebooks instead of textbooks. I believe that we need to strengthen our commitment to technology throughout the curriculum.
I also feel that the District currently measures it’s success by it’s test scores. While tests are an important tool and our test scores have improved, I do not believe that it is an accurate measurement for success.
What would you like to accomplish as a board member?
I would like to build the bridge of communication between the school administration and the community. I would welcome open dialogue at school board meetings. I would see that concerns and questions presented during open forum are reviewed, considered and responded to in a timely manner. I would encourage parental involvement in curriculum decisions. I would also promote Town Hall meetings were the community is free to express their concerns and their voice is heard.
I would like to ensure that all children in our district have access to an exemplary preschool/kindergarten education regardless of their financial situation.
I would like to further strengthen our technology program and ensure that our technology teachers are given the tools they need to meet and/or exceed National Education Technology Standards.
I would like to see an increase in teacher morale.
I want to provide oversight and accountability without micro-managing.
What is your vision for the future of the district?
I am passionate about children and I want to ensure that our school offers every child the opportunity to receive a world class education. I want them to have the tools needed to be successful, not only in high school and college, but in life. I want to help guide our children to achieve their passions and not classify them based on test scores alone.
RUMOR CENTRAL
Have you heard? These 4 candidates, if elected, are going to fire district teachers?
When faced with a shock-value rumor like that, it’s always good to take a deep breath and then check the rumor against reality. Here’s the facts –
- Before these people were candidates they put their reputations on the line to fight to make Pre-school and Full-day K available to MORE students. If successful – this would mean more teaching positions. Actions should speak louder than rumors.
- 2 of the 4 candidates did or currently do derive their family income from teaching. 3 of the 4 are or have pursued degrees in education. Career choices should speak louder than rumors.
- I personally had a discussion with one candidate on the value of tenure to the teaching profession. First words out of their mouth were – “don’t you think it’s necessary [to retain teachers]?” (Though after the discussion, they did promise to think about my points.) Honest initial reactions ought to speak louder than rumors.
- According to the Illinois Association of School Boards, “The Board employs and evaluates one person - the Superintendent - and holds that person accountable for district performance and compliance with written Board policy.” State-wide policy ought to speak louder than rumors.
Seems to me the only way teachers are going to get fired (or reassigned) is because these candidates don’t win and certain teachers supported them. Shouldn’t be; isn’t legal. But if someone’s not above spreading shock-value rumors in an election who knows what level they might sink to in order to get their way. Could even be someone like that might ask others in their employ how they were going to vote in the next election. Sounds like more intimidation tactics to me. Let’s all hope that story is just a rumor, too.
When faced with a shock-value rumor like that, it’s always good to take a deep breath and then check the rumor against reality. Here’s the facts –
- Before these people were candidates they put their reputations on the line to fight to make Pre-school and Full-day K available to MORE students. If successful – this would mean more teaching positions. Actions should speak louder than rumors.
- 2 of the 4 candidates did or currently do derive their family income from teaching. 3 of the 4 are or have pursued degrees in education. Career choices should speak louder than rumors.
- I personally had a discussion with one candidate on the value of tenure to the teaching profession. First words out of their mouth were – “don’t you think it’s necessary [to retain teachers]?” (Though after the discussion, they did promise to think about my points.) Honest initial reactions ought to speak louder than rumors.
- According to the Illinois Association of School Boards, “The Board employs and evaluates one person - the Superintendent - and holds that person accountable for district performance and compliance with written Board policy.” State-wide policy ought to speak louder than rumors.
Seems to me the only way teachers are going to get fired (or reassigned) is because these candidates don’t win and certain teachers supported them. Shouldn’t be; isn’t legal. But if someone’s not above spreading shock-value rumors in an election who knows what level they might sink to in order to get their way. Could even be someone like that might ask others in their employ how they were going to vote in the next election. Sounds like more intimidation tactics to me. Let’s all hope that story is just a rumor, too.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Candidate: Michael Rak
PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR LIFE.
My name is Michael Rak and I am currently enrolled in the School Business Management Program at Northern Illinois University. I will graduate in May 2009 with a Master of Science in Education in School Business Management. After graduation I will meet the educational requirements for the chief school business official endorsement for the Type 75 Illinois Administrative Certificate.
I moved to Willow Springs five years ago with my wife and two children partly because of the educational reputation of Pleasantdale School District 107. My wife is a college math professor, my daughter is in kindergarten and my son is in 4th grade.
I earned a B.S. in Finance from the University of Illinois in 1987 and have worked at the Chicago Board of Trade for over 20 years. I also possess an Illinois Realtor license and
I am currently the Treasurer for Cub Scout Pack 69.
WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO RUN FOR THE BOARD?
Education is very important to me and after attending several school board meetings in various school districts, including Pleasantdale, I realized that the school board plays a very important role in the educational and financial decision making process that impacts our children, their parents and our community.
In addition, I was compelled to run for the school board after observing that one of my son’s textbooks was ten years old. As a school board member, I can work with the superintendent, school staff and parents to ensure that our limited revenues are spent wisely to achieve the needs of our students.
Finally, I feel that I would be a valuable asset at improving communications, effectively listening to the concerns of parents and promoting transparency for school initiatives.
WHAT EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU FEEL YOU HAVE THAT WILL MAKE YOU AN EFFECTIVE BOARD MEMBER?
While earning my Master of Science in Education, I have learned a new skill set that can be readily applied to the responsibilities of a board member. This includes developing creative solutions, value propositions, risk mitigation options, business cases and sourcing strategies to achieve the desired results for targeted tasks and/or activities.
As a husband and father I have learned patience and listening skills which are necessary qualifications to be an effective board member.
My experience at the Chicago Board of Trade and as a real estate agent has taught me how to develop excellent working relationships that are founded in communication and trust. In order to succeed at the Board and as a real estate agent, one must work hard and earn the trust and respect of their peers and clients. I have also learned how to focus on managing and aligning numerous strategic initiatives by working with people.
WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE KEY ISSUES FACING THE DISTRICT?
· Updating instructional materials to continue the trend of increasing test scores.
· Monitoring and advancing technology on an annual basis to ensure the future success of our students.
· Balancing the educational needs with the financial constraints.
· Listening to the concerns of the students and parents and communicating the steps necessary to resolve these concerns.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH AS A BOARD MEMBER?
As a board member, I would work openly and diligently with the superintendent and the parents to improve the education of our children by prioritizing and gaining alignment on educational and financial initiatives.
Ensure more technology is introduced into the everyday curriculum and know that our students will be prepared for life in the 21st century. Work together with the high school and align our curriculum with that of the high school. Compare our school to the other schools that feed into LT and see where we stand in terms of preparing our children for high school and beyond.
I would also like the district to further explore a full day kindergarten program because the majority of districts in Illinois currently offer one. School District 107 currently only offers a free half day program with an optional tuition extended day program. Research shows that if you are not at grade level by end of second grade, 98% of those children will never catch up. This is why I feel dollars spent on early education are the best dollars spent.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE DISTRICT?
· Keeping our children’s education as the number one goal of the district.
· Continue to see increased test results as a result of updated instructional materials and rigorous curriculum.
· Have a sense of increased community involvement and participation with full and timely communication on all levels.
· See technology usage increase in everyday curriculum.
· Stronger partnerships between board, administrators, teachers, parents, students, and the community.
My name is Michael Rak and I am currently enrolled in the School Business Management Program at Northern Illinois University. I will graduate in May 2009 with a Master of Science in Education in School Business Management. After graduation I will meet the educational requirements for the chief school business official endorsement for the Type 75 Illinois Administrative Certificate.
I moved to Willow Springs five years ago with my wife and two children partly because of the educational reputation of Pleasantdale School District 107. My wife is a college math professor, my daughter is in kindergarten and my son is in 4th grade.
I earned a B.S. in Finance from the University of Illinois in 1987 and have worked at the Chicago Board of Trade for over 20 years. I also possess an Illinois Realtor license and
I am currently the Treasurer for Cub Scout Pack 69.
WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO RUN FOR THE BOARD?
Education is very important to me and after attending several school board meetings in various school districts, including Pleasantdale, I realized that the school board plays a very important role in the educational and financial decision making process that impacts our children, their parents and our community.
In addition, I was compelled to run for the school board after observing that one of my son’s textbooks was ten years old. As a school board member, I can work with the superintendent, school staff and parents to ensure that our limited revenues are spent wisely to achieve the needs of our students.
Finally, I feel that I would be a valuable asset at improving communications, effectively listening to the concerns of parents and promoting transparency for school initiatives.
WHAT EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU FEEL YOU HAVE THAT WILL MAKE YOU AN EFFECTIVE BOARD MEMBER?
While earning my Master of Science in Education, I have learned a new skill set that can be readily applied to the responsibilities of a board member. This includes developing creative solutions, value propositions, risk mitigation options, business cases and sourcing strategies to achieve the desired results for targeted tasks and/or activities.
As a husband and father I have learned patience and listening skills which are necessary qualifications to be an effective board member.
My experience at the Chicago Board of Trade and as a real estate agent has taught me how to develop excellent working relationships that are founded in communication and trust. In order to succeed at the Board and as a real estate agent, one must work hard and earn the trust and respect of their peers and clients. I have also learned how to focus on managing and aligning numerous strategic initiatives by working with people.
WHAT DO YOU FEEL ARE THE KEY ISSUES FACING THE DISTRICT?
· Updating instructional materials to continue the trend of increasing test scores.
· Monitoring and advancing technology on an annual basis to ensure the future success of our students.
· Balancing the educational needs with the financial constraints.
· Listening to the concerns of the students and parents and communicating the steps necessary to resolve these concerns.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH AS A BOARD MEMBER?
As a board member, I would work openly and diligently with the superintendent and the parents to improve the education of our children by prioritizing and gaining alignment on educational and financial initiatives.
Ensure more technology is introduced into the everyday curriculum and know that our students will be prepared for life in the 21st century. Work together with the high school and align our curriculum with that of the high school. Compare our school to the other schools that feed into LT and see where we stand in terms of preparing our children for high school and beyond.
I would also like the district to further explore a full day kindergarten program because the majority of districts in Illinois currently offer one. School District 107 currently only offers a free half day program with an optional tuition extended day program. Research shows that if you are not at grade level by end of second grade, 98% of those children will never catch up. This is why I feel dollars spent on early education are the best dollars spent.
WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE DISTRICT?
· Keeping our children’s education as the number one goal of the district.
· Continue to see increased test results as a result of updated instructional materials and rigorous curriculum.
· Have a sense of increased community involvement and participation with full and timely communication on all levels.
· See technology usage increase in everyday curriculum.
· Stronger partnerships between board, administrators, teachers, parents, students, and the community.
Candidate: Gina Scaletta-Nelson
Please tell us about yourself and your life.
I am a married mother of two girls, ages 6 and 4, and a lifelong resident of Willow Springs. I went to Pleasantdale School as a child and graduated from Lyons Township High School. I began college at Moraine Valley earning an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts. From there I went to Illinois State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Science. Two years after college, I began working for the Cook County State’s Attorney Office in the homicide and sexual assault divisions of the Victim/Witness Unit. After nine years with the SAO, I returned to school to pursue a teaching career and received a Master’s Degree in Teaching from National-Louis University. Before I began teaching, I travelled around the country as a transportation consultant in the special events industry. Two events I am most proud of were managing airport operations for the 1997 Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C. and for the U.S. State Department during the G8 Summit of World Leaders at the Denver International Airport. In the fall of 1997, I began teaching school and taught for several years before my oldest child was born. I am currently working part time as an administrative assistant for the Village of Willow Springs and recently wrote a grant to benefit the students of Pleasantdale Elementary School called the Safe Routes to School Grant. The purpose of this grant is to build sidewalks and install traffic calming measures on the streets leading to the elementary school to ensure safe passage of neighboring students that chose to walk to school.
What prompted you to run for the board?
I decided to run for the school board for many reasons. First of all, I want to keep the focus of educating all children a top priority. There is more to educating our children than what can be measured on a standardized test. Success is not a test score. I am also running in order to build a more transparent and open form of government. We need to engage the community so they know their involvement and opinions count and decisions concerning the district will be based on a wide range of views rather than the opinion of one. Residents that attend board meetings should be welcomed, their voices heard and they should leave with the knowledge that their concerns will be looked into and considered. Another reason I am running is to make sure that the district is responsible and prudent with each and every tax dollar that this community pays to the district. We have to remember that our community is much, much larger than the 500 or so families that go to Pleasantdale. It also encompasses empty nesters, senior citizens, families that attend private schools and young people just starting out. We have to do what is right for the entire community, not just a few hundred families. If it weren’t for the generous support of all the residents in our district, our school would not be what it is today. Finally, I am running to give back to the school and community that gave so much to me while growing up. I have very fond memories of my years at Pleasantdale and I hope this will continue for future generations.
What experiences and qualifications do you feel you have that will make you an effective board member?
Having attended every board meeting for the past 12 months, I have gained plenty of insight and knowledge on what it takes to be an effective board member and not just a rubber stamp. I am currently serving on Pleasantdale’s Communication Action Team so I understand what it takes to work together as a team to create an action plan. I have been on both sides of the aisle so to speak, as a teacher and as a parent. I know the difficult job teachers face, but even more so in our district. I understand the concerns and needs of the residents of this district because I listen to them, I am mindful of their concerns and issues and I care about doing what is right. It is far better to do what is right than what is popular. Finally, I am a taxpayer in this district. In these tough economic times I want to make sure that every dollar taken in is spent wisely because, after all, it is my money too.
What do you feel are the key issues facing the district?
Some of the key issues facing the district are early education, lack of technology in the classrooms, low teacher morale and a school board and administration that gives rise to hopelessness and apathy throughout the community it serves.
When you have a preschool and extended day care program that has been losing several hundred thousand dollars a year for the last several years, it is time for the district to re-evaluate that program to figure out what they are doing wrong. This program, which is not accessible to those that need it most, benefits a very small percentage of families, yet the entire district is paying for it and its losses.
The technology program in our school district is seriously lacking. Our middle school computer lab is staffed with a teacher that has no expertise in the subject of modular technology. It was a poor decision of the administration to make this staff change that put our students at a disadvantage. While surrounding school districts are forging ahead in the area of technology using things like Smart Technology and Mimio Interactive Boards, our district has remained stagnant. The future lies in technology and it is time for our school to get on board and keep pace with the advances in technology that will in turn benefit our students.
We have wonderful teachers and staff working with our children but we must work to re-establish morale throughout the district. Teachers need to be able to make their own decisions and allow for creativity and critical thinking in the classrooms. When a teacher’s main focus is preparing students for the next standardized test their passion for education goes out the window. A school district cannot move forward with so much discontent among its students, administration and staff members.
Finally, our school board must work to build trust, understanding, support and participation throughout the community. We need a school board that will be responsive and receptive to parents, staff, students and the community by encouraging an open dialog. An effective school board takes input from all groups and weighs the facts before making a decision. Our school board must place a higher priority on community involvement. It must be welcoming and accessible to the community it serves. Our district hosts a town hall meeting once a year with topics that do not appeal to or apply to the majority of its residents. A town hall meeting should offer school board members a chance to hear from the public and to engage in conversation with those in attendance. Unfortunately, the format of our town hall meeting discourages questions and comments from the general public unless they are specifically related to the topic at hand. We should be encouraging and engaging rather than discouraging and alienating. When you have a school district made up of approximately 2,890 families, and only 22 people show up at your town hall meeting, you have to ask yourself some serious questions about the involvement of not only the district residents, but also about the families of the students that attend that school.
What would you like to accomplish as a board member?
I would like to bring a fresh perspective to the board and help to establish greater board independence. It is time to get back to the business of democracy where the school board provides checks and balances to the superintendent. Decisions should be based on a majority vote following public deliberation rather than on the executive order of one person. I want to build community involvement and pride in our school system. The school board represents the community’s voice in education, providing citizen governance for what the public schools need and what the community wants. A school board member is a trustee to the community that elects him or her. They have a responsibility to the community to not only be accessible, but to work together with all parties involved to achieve the best possible education for the children entrusted to them. I fully support a free full day kindergarten program and a more accessible preschool program so that all children have an equal opportunity to a quality education. I want to equip our students and staff with the latest technology has to offer. There is no reason a district like ours should be falling so far behind in the area of technology. I support a district wide homework policy that aligns itself with the current research. I support and encourage creativity and critical thinking in the classrooms. I believe we should be seeking out all available monetary sources and researching and applying for each and every grant that is available to us. I want to work toward improving staff morale because I believe teachers are the cornerstone of a solid education for the children of the district. Finally, I support and encourage open and transparent government. I would like to see our school board meetings taped and broadcast to those unable to make it to the meetings. I want community members to become more engaged with the school district and know they can approach the school board with their concerns and leave with the knowledge that their concerns will be considered.
What is your vision for the future of the district?
My vision for the future is to take our school district to the next level. I want to see the usage of technology in our district more than double. I want to see our teachers passionate about educating students and harmony returned to the district. I want to empower students with a solid education so they can actively pursue a college degree or a career of their choice.
I am a married mother of two girls, ages 6 and 4, and a lifelong resident of Willow Springs. I went to Pleasantdale School as a child and graduated from Lyons Township High School. I began college at Moraine Valley earning an Associate’s Degree in Liberal Arts. From there I went to Illinois State University and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Science. Two years after college, I began working for the Cook County State’s Attorney Office in the homicide and sexual assault divisions of the Victim/Witness Unit. After nine years with the SAO, I returned to school to pursue a teaching career and received a Master’s Degree in Teaching from National-Louis University. Before I began teaching, I travelled around the country as a transportation consultant in the special events industry. Two events I am most proud of were managing airport operations for the 1997 Presidential Inauguration in Washington D.C. and for the U.S. State Department during the G8 Summit of World Leaders at the Denver International Airport. In the fall of 1997, I began teaching school and taught for several years before my oldest child was born. I am currently working part time as an administrative assistant for the Village of Willow Springs and recently wrote a grant to benefit the students of Pleasantdale Elementary School called the Safe Routes to School Grant. The purpose of this grant is to build sidewalks and install traffic calming measures on the streets leading to the elementary school to ensure safe passage of neighboring students that chose to walk to school.
What prompted you to run for the board?
I decided to run for the school board for many reasons. First of all, I want to keep the focus of educating all children a top priority. There is more to educating our children than what can be measured on a standardized test. Success is not a test score. I am also running in order to build a more transparent and open form of government. We need to engage the community so they know their involvement and opinions count and decisions concerning the district will be based on a wide range of views rather than the opinion of one. Residents that attend board meetings should be welcomed, their voices heard and they should leave with the knowledge that their concerns will be looked into and considered. Another reason I am running is to make sure that the district is responsible and prudent with each and every tax dollar that this community pays to the district. We have to remember that our community is much, much larger than the 500 or so families that go to Pleasantdale. It also encompasses empty nesters, senior citizens, families that attend private schools and young people just starting out. We have to do what is right for the entire community, not just a few hundred families. If it weren’t for the generous support of all the residents in our district, our school would not be what it is today. Finally, I am running to give back to the school and community that gave so much to me while growing up. I have very fond memories of my years at Pleasantdale and I hope this will continue for future generations.
What experiences and qualifications do you feel you have that will make you an effective board member?
Having attended every board meeting for the past 12 months, I have gained plenty of insight and knowledge on what it takes to be an effective board member and not just a rubber stamp. I am currently serving on Pleasantdale’s Communication Action Team so I understand what it takes to work together as a team to create an action plan. I have been on both sides of the aisle so to speak, as a teacher and as a parent. I know the difficult job teachers face, but even more so in our district. I understand the concerns and needs of the residents of this district because I listen to them, I am mindful of their concerns and issues and I care about doing what is right. It is far better to do what is right than what is popular. Finally, I am a taxpayer in this district. In these tough economic times I want to make sure that every dollar taken in is spent wisely because, after all, it is my money too.
What do you feel are the key issues facing the district?
Some of the key issues facing the district are early education, lack of technology in the classrooms, low teacher morale and a school board and administration that gives rise to hopelessness and apathy throughout the community it serves.
When you have a preschool and extended day care program that has been losing several hundred thousand dollars a year for the last several years, it is time for the district to re-evaluate that program to figure out what they are doing wrong. This program, which is not accessible to those that need it most, benefits a very small percentage of families, yet the entire district is paying for it and its losses.
The technology program in our school district is seriously lacking. Our middle school computer lab is staffed with a teacher that has no expertise in the subject of modular technology. It was a poor decision of the administration to make this staff change that put our students at a disadvantage. While surrounding school districts are forging ahead in the area of technology using things like Smart Technology and Mimio Interactive Boards, our district has remained stagnant. The future lies in technology and it is time for our school to get on board and keep pace with the advances in technology that will in turn benefit our students.
We have wonderful teachers and staff working with our children but we must work to re-establish morale throughout the district. Teachers need to be able to make their own decisions and allow for creativity and critical thinking in the classrooms. When a teacher’s main focus is preparing students for the next standardized test their passion for education goes out the window. A school district cannot move forward with so much discontent among its students, administration and staff members.
Finally, our school board must work to build trust, understanding, support and participation throughout the community. We need a school board that will be responsive and receptive to parents, staff, students and the community by encouraging an open dialog. An effective school board takes input from all groups and weighs the facts before making a decision. Our school board must place a higher priority on community involvement. It must be welcoming and accessible to the community it serves. Our district hosts a town hall meeting once a year with topics that do not appeal to or apply to the majority of its residents. A town hall meeting should offer school board members a chance to hear from the public and to engage in conversation with those in attendance. Unfortunately, the format of our town hall meeting discourages questions and comments from the general public unless they are specifically related to the topic at hand. We should be encouraging and engaging rather than discouraging and alienating. When you have a school district made up of approximately 2,890 families, and only 22 people show up at your town hall meeting, you have to ask yourself some serious questions about the involvement of not only the district residents, but also about the families of the students that attend that school.
What would you like to accomplish as a board member?
I would like to bring a fresh perspective to the board and help to establish greater board independence. It is time to get back to the business of democracy where the school board provides checks and balances to the superintendent. Decisions should be based on a majority vote following public deliberation rather than on the executive order of one person. I want to build community involvement and pride in our school system. The school board represents the community’s voice in education, providing citizen governance for what the public schools need and what the community wants. A school board member is a trustee to the community that elects him or her. They have a responsibility to the community to not only be accessible, but to work together with all parties involved to achieve the best possible education for the children entrusted to them. I fully support a free full day kindergarten program and a more accessible preschool program so that all children have an equal opportunity to a quality education. I want to equip our students and staff with the latest technology has to offer. There is no reason a district like ours should be falling so far behind in the area of technology. I support a district wide homework policy that aligns itself with the current research. I support and encourage creativity and critical thinking in the classrooms. I believe we should be seeking out all available monetary sources and researching and applying for each and every grant that is available to us. I want to work toward improving staff morale because I believe teachers are the cornerstone of a solid education for the children of the district. Finally, I support and encourage open and transparent government. I would like to see our school board meetings taped and broadcast to those unable to make it to the meetings. I want community members to become more engaged with the school district and know they can approach the school board with their concerns and leave with the knowledge that their concerns will be considered.
What is your vision for the future of the district?
My vision for the future is to take our school district to the next level. I want to see the usage of technology in our district more than double. I want to see our teachers passionate about educating students and harmony returned to the district. I want to empower students with a solid education so they can actively pursue a college degree or a career of their choice.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Summer Construction?
Below you will see the timelines that the Pleasantdale adminstration set for the summer construction projects.
If you'll notice, the Board of Education was supposed to approve the bids at the March 18th board meeting.
Now look at the agenda for the March 18th board meeting below.
Do you see the bid approvals on the March agenda for these projects?
Neither do we.
We're wondering why the board of education tabled these projects.
Is it because people are taking notice of this waste of taxpayer dollars?
Or, have they taken the costly construction projects out of the public eye until after the election?
Hmmm....
Stay tuned.
Quote for the day
"The important thing is not so much that every child should be taught, as that every child should be given the wish to learn." John Lubbock
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Safe Routes to School
School board candidates Gina Scaletta-Nelson, Karen O'Halloran, Michael Rak and Lauri Valentin have worked hard on and are dedicated to the Safe Routes to School Program.
Is our current school board aware of and involved with this initiative? Ask them!
Better yet, ask the superintendent about it!
Is our current school board aware of and involved with this initiative? Ask them!
Better yet, ask the superintendent about it!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Anonymous Asked...
An anonymous commenter asked, “Of the four candidates on this slate, how many of you have/or had children in high school and/or college?”
All four candidates have an undergraduate college degree from a four year institution, three have gone on to earn graduate degrees and one has a spouse that teaches college, but none of us have children currently enrolled in high school or college.
If you have information that would enlighten us as to how Pleasantdale grads are doing in high school or college, we would certainly like to hear it. Information on how our students are doing at LT has not been made available. We are interested in learning how many Pleasantdale grads are placed in accelerated level, honors, on level or below level classes. Through community canvassing, we have learned that although Pleasantdale graduates are great test takers, they are not as prepared as students from surrounding districts for high school level curriculum.
If the current board members are re-elected, we will have three of seven board members without any children enrolled at Pleasantdale School. Despite their experience – what incentive will they have to do the hard work it takes to keep a school district growing and moving forward? How motivated will they be when faced with issues that won't even affect or have impact on their own children?
All four candidates have an undergraduate college degree from a four year institution, three have gone on to earn graduate degrees and one has a spouse that teaches college, but none of us have children currently enrolled in high school or college.
If you have information that would enlighten us as to how Pleasantdale grads are doing in high school or college, we would certainly like to hear it. Information on how our students are doing at LT has not been made available. We are interested in learning how many Pleasantdale grads are placed in accelerated level, honors, on level or below level classes. Through community canvassing, we have learned that although Pleasantdale graduates are great test takers, they are not as prepared as students from surrounding districts for high school level curriculum.
If the current board members are re-elected, we will have three of seven board members without any children enrolled at Pleasantdale School. Despite their experience – what incentive will they have to do the hard work it takes to keep a school district growing and moving forward? How motivated will they be when faced with issues that won't even affect or have impact on their own children?
Monday, March 23, 2009
District 107 candidates divided on priorities
The Doings
March 20, 2009
By JENNIFER ZIMMERMAN
The priorities emphasized by candidates running for the Pleasantdale Elementary District 107 Board are different: One side wants to see through implementation of the new strategic plan and the other stresses the need to improve morale among teaching staff and in the community.
Incumbents Mark Mirabile, Leandra Sedlack and Patti Essig touched on the strategic plan's implementation, to increase academic performance and improve the district as a whole. Essig said she has very much been part of the planning process since it began in 2003. She is seeking her third term on the board.
“I feel I still have more information to give,” she said. “I'm still a benefit to the district.”
The plan is now moving into phase two, which Essig said doesn't include any major changes, but supports what has already been modified such as the curriculum. However, the changes made so far need be measured and all three agree a new tool is needed to analyze the success of the Social Emotional Learning Program.
Lauri Valentin, who is running on a slate with Karen O'Halloran, Gina Scaletta-Nelson and Michael Rak, argues that measuring success should include community input. This isn't being accomplished through the current board, that she says is largely controlled by Superintendent Mark Fredisdorf.
“I think we tend to agree the system is broken,” Valentin said.
Valentin pointed to the remodeling of the elementary school front office as a situation where public input was ignored. The district expects to spend about $200,000 on the construction, which board members argue is necessary to address safety concerns and to control the level of access people are given when buzzed in.
“The plans they are proposing are not going to make that much of a difference,” said O'Halloran. Scaletta-Nelson said the project is unnecessary and the school is safe. She and Valentin agree spending $200,000 is fiscally irresponsible, considering the expected effect of the state tax cap on property taxes and the poor state of the economy.
The slate would like to restructure the way public comment is held at board meetings and host more town hall meetings. They would also like to see an upgrade to technology similar to that used in other feeder districts, such as LaGrange Highlands District 106, where students get laptops, starting in middle school.
Scaletta-Nelson would also like to see more staff with an expertise in technology brought into classrooms.
Mirabile agrees lines of communication need to be opened. This can be accomplished by interacting in different ways, such as e-mail, phone and the Internet. As for being fiscally responsible, Mirabile defended the board's work that put the district in a stable financial condition.
“We don't face a lot of problems other schools do,” he said.
Two or three years ago a cost analysis was put together to help the district's fiscal planning. Funding for new programs may have to be adjusted, and expenditures will be carefully monitored, but he sees Pleasantdale holding steady for at least the next five years. However, a new union contract for teachers is to be negotiated this year and will have to be carefully considered when it comes to salary increases, he said.
March 20, 2009
By JENNIFER ZIMMERMAN
The priorities emphasized by candidates running for the Pleasantdale Elementary District 107 Board are different: One side wants to see through implementation of the new strategic plan and the other stresses the need to improve morale among teaching staff and in the community.
Incumbents Mark Mirabile, Leandra Sedlack and Patti Essig touched on the strategic plan's implementation, to increase academic performance and improve the district as a whole. Essig said she has very much been part of the planning process since it began in 2003. She is seeking her third term on the board.
“I feel I still have more information to give,” she said. “I'm still a benefit to the district.”
The plan is now moving into phase two, which Essig said doesn't include any major changes, but supports what has already been modified such as the curriculum. However, the changes made so far need be measured and all three agree a new tool is needed to analyze the success of the Social Emotional Learning Program.
Lauri Valentin, who is running on a slate with Karen O'Halloran, Gina Scaletta-Nelson and Michael Rak, argues that measuring success should include community input. This isn't being accomplished through the current board, that she says is largely controlled by Superintendent Mark Fredisdorf.
“I think we tend to agree the system is broken,” Valentin said.
Valentin pointed to the remodeling of the elementary school front office as a situation where public input was ignored. The district expects to spend about $200,000 on the construction, which board members argue is necessary to address safety concerns and to control the level of access people are given when buzzed in.
“The plans they are proposing are not going to make that much of a difference,” said O'Halloran. Scaletta-Nelson said the project is unnecessary and the school is safe. She and Valentin agree spending $200,000 is fiscally irresponsible, considering the expected effect of the state tax cap on property taxes and the poor state of the economy.
The slate would like to restructure the way public comment is held at board meetings and host more town hall meetings. They would also like to see an upgrade to technology similar to that used in other feeder districts, such as LaGrange Highlands District 106, where students get laptops, starting in middle school.
Scaletta-Nelson would also like to see more staff with an expertise in technology brought into classrooms.
Mirabile agrees lines of communication need to be opened. This can be accomplished by interacting in different ways, such as e-mail, phone and the Internet. As for being fiscally responsible, Mirabile defended the board's work that put the district in a stable financial condition.
“We don't face a lot of problems other schools do,” he said.
Two or three years ago a cost analysis was put together to help the district's fiscal planning. Funding for new programs may have to be adjusted, and expenditures will be carefully monitored, but he sees Pleasantdale holding steady for at least the next five years. However, a new union contract for teachers is to be negotiated this year and will have to be carefully considered when it comes to salary increases, he said.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Dear Anonymous
Anonymous said...
"My Goodness People! Quit moaning and groaning! If you don't like what the district is doing with the preschool program, go elsewhere. There are plenty of outstanding independant preschools out there available to your child. Do some research! Maybe the school needs to pick their battles with grants and such. I would be thoroughly embarrassed if I were making $88,000 a year and accepted assistance thru grant money for preschool!!! This money should go to the folks who are below, at or slightly above poverty level (the folks who really can't afford it and need it)or the kids in our district with special needs. Grant money should not to the general public. Just because it's free money doesn't mean we should use it. I would support a grant for a huge expenditure such as laptops for all middle school students and/or technology education upgrades..."
Dear Anonymous,
Thank you for your comments. To set the record straight, grant money does not go to the general public or to individuals. Grant money is distributed only to qualifying preschool programs. The goal of the Preschool for All (PFA) grant program is to provide educational services to all 3- to 5-year old children whose families choose to participate. The Preschool for All program focuses on providing high-quality educational programs for children who are determined to be at risk of academic failure. It also provides funding for programs serving families of low to moderate income whose children are not considered to be at risk academically and other families that choose to participate. Currently, the following local districts have preschool programs that are funded with grant money through the PFA program: La Grange School Districts 102 and 105, LaGrange Highlands School District 106 and Gower District 62.
Yes, there are other programs that children can attend, but since the community’s tax dollars already support Pleasantdale’s Bright Beginnings Preschool Program, why should community members have to go somewhere else? According to the preschool report that was released in Feb. by our school district, our preschool/ED program lost approx. $234,000 this year. Who do you think pays for this loss? The taxpayers do!
A recent survey letter was administered to parents of the children in the three year old preschool program to gather information in regard to the PFA grant. We applaud the district for taking this small step. However, our district is much larger than the 25 families in the three year old program that received the letter; and criteria that determines eligibility goes much farther than family income. A larger and more appropriate step would have been to survey the entire community to gather all the data needed. Children that already attend our preschool program most likely have the financial resources to do so and thus will not help the district qualify for grant assistance. Our district needs to reach out to the entire community in order to gain an accurate picture of eligibility.
Finally, I couldn’t agree more about seeking out grant money for technology program upgrades. We have fallen behind the surrounding districts in the area of technology. It is sad when not only our neighboring districts, but districts such as Markham and Joliet (that spend considerably less money per student), have more advanced technology programs than that of our school district in Burr Ridge.
"My Goodness People! Quit moaning and groaning! If you don't like what the district is doing with the preschool program, go elsewhere. There are plenty of outstanding independant preschools out there available to your child. Do some research! Maybe the school needs to pick their battles with grants and such. I would be thoroughly embarrassed if I were making $88,000 a year and accepted assistance thru grant money for preschool!!! This money should go to the folks who are below, at or slightly above poverty level (the folks who really can't afford it and need it)or the kids in our district with special needs. Grant money should not to the general public. Just because it's free money doesn't mean we should use it. I would support a grant for a huge expenditure such as laptops for all middle school students and/or technology education upgrades..."
Dear Anonymous,
Thank you for your comments. To set the record straight, grant money does not go to the general public or to individuals. Grant money is distributed only to qualifying preschool programs. The goal of the Preschool for All (PFA) grant program is to provide educational services to all 3- to 5-year old children whose families choose to participate. The Preschool for All program focuses on providing high-quality educational programs for children who are determined to be at risk of academic failure. It also provides funding for programs serving families of low to moderate income whose children are not considered to be at risk academically and other families that choose to participate. Currently, the following local districts have preschool programs that are funded with grant money through the PFA program: La Grange School Districts 102 and 105, LaGrange Highlands School District 106 and Gower District 62.
Yes, there are other programs that children can attend, but since the community’s tax dollars already support Pleasantdale’s Bright Beginnings Preschool Program, why should community members have to go somewhere else? According to the preschool report that was released in Feb. by our school district, our preschool/ED program lost approx. $234,000 this year. Who do you think pays for this loss? The taxpayers do!
A recent survey letter was administered to parents of the children in the three year old preschool program to gather information in regard to the PFA grant. We applaud the district for taking this small step. However, our district is much larger than the 25 families in the three year old program that received the letter; and criteria that determines eligibility goes much farther than family income. A larger and more appropriate step would have been to survey the entire community to gather all the data needed. Children that already attend our preschool program most likely have the financial resources to do so and thus will not help the district qualify for grant assistance. Our district needs to reach out to the entire community in order to gain an accurate picture of eligibility.
Finally, I couldn’t agree more about seeking out grant money for technology program upgrades. We have fallen behind the surrounding districts in the area of technology. It is sad when not only our neighboring districts, but districts such as Markham and Joliet (that spend considerably less money per student), have more advanced technology programs than that of our school district in Burr Ridge.
Quotes of the Day
"The reputation of a thousand years may be determined by the conduct of one hour." Japanese Proverb
"Rudeness is the weak man's imitation of strength." Eric Hoffer
"Rudeness is the weak man's imitation of strength." Eric Hoffer
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
LOOK OUT! YOUR BELIEF SYSTEM IS SHOWING.
There IS a placebo effect. When you believe the outcome will be a certain way, very often that belief is self-reinforcing…
BELIEF #1
It appears that the top brass in this district see the fact that Pleasantdale is more socio-economically diverse than neighboring districts (e.g. 7.4% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch or needing LEP, Limited English Proficiency, services) as a problem instead of an opportunity. Indeed it’s been used as a reason why Pleasantdale can never expect to perform quite as well as say, Western Springs or Highlands.
If you cling to that belief and want to continue to use that ‘problem’ as an excuse, then of course you are not going to wholeheartedly pursue changes that would disturb that belief system – such as Preschool for All and Full-day kindergarten. Over and over, early childhood education has proven to be the equalizer for this problem in other districts. In fact, districts with fewer eligible students (by percent of enrollment) like Highlands have applied for and received Preschool for All grants. But, here in Pleasantdale we like to cling to our crutch (oh, excuse me - beliefs).
Look folks, it’s true most people in this district can afford pre-school and full-day kindergarten for their children if that’s what they want. So why should we care? Let’s remember this is PUBLIC EDUCATION. Those children who did not receive the advantages of early childhood education are going to be learning in the same classroom as those who did. Every time a 1st grade teacher has to take time to help those that are behind is less time to teach and enrich all children. If we want high-quality rigorous educational outcomes for our children, then by the very nature of our PUBLIC EDUCATION system, we must care about those outcomes for all children in the district. And as a community we cannot simply pay lip service – we must take action. April 7th is a chance to take action – take the time to VOTE! Busy on April 7th? Vote now at early polling.
BELIEF #2
HEY, here’s another belief that, in my opinion, ought to go away…’when a child reaches fifth grade and is still not a proficient reader there’s not much the school can do about it’. Yes, a few years ago, right out in an open Board meeting that statement was made by district leadership.
Nevertheless, when pushed to do something about a problem that you believe ‘there’s not much the school can do about’, it makes an odd sort of sense that you would choose to implement a program like ‘Reading Workshop’. This program attempts to address comprehension without first addressing fluency. And thus, does not effectively help many of the non-proficient readers enrolled in it. SEE, ‘there’s not much the school can do about it’ – becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Let’s step away from beliefs for a minute…and look at the results by the numbers. Generally, a score of 35% indicates a child is a year behind his peers, a score of 50% is average. Let’s reasonably define the cut off for proficient readers in the middle of that percentage range or scoring at least 43%. Then check out page 6 of this report by the district: remembering that the scores are averages (some scored below and some students scored above the grade level score) of all students in reading workshop and many of these students have been in the workshop for more than a year.
(http://www.d107.org/media/Administration/Fall%20Testing%20Report-2008.pdf )
If you’d like a better handle on how many are not proficient – go to pages 18-27…. of the report link above. Now go up the 2008 scores (vertical scale or Y-axis) and count the dots (students) below the 43% percentile. While you’re at it – count the dots on the Math score pages, too.
If it doesn’t make feel like we’ve still got a long way to go - put a face of a student you know on each dot. Then go VOTE – vote for change.
BELIEF #1
It appears that the top brass in this district see the fact that Pleasantdale is more socio-economically diverse than neighboring districts (e.g. 7.4% of students qualifying for free or reduced lunch or needing LEP, Limited English Proficiency, services) as a problem instead of an opportunity. Indeed it’s been used as a reason why Pleasantdale can never expect to perform quite as well as say, Western Springs or Highlands.
If you cling to that belief and want to continue to use that ‘problem’ as an excuse, then of course you are not going to wholeheartedly pursue changes that would disturb that belief system – such as Preschool for All and Full-day kindergarten. Over and over, early childhood education has proven to be the equalizer for this problem in other districts. In fact, districts with fewer eligible students (by percent of enrollment) like Highlands have applied for and received Preschool for All grants. But, here in Pleasantdale we like to cling to our crutch (oh, excuse me - beliefs).
Look folks, it’s true most people in this district can afford pre-school and full-day kindergarten for their children if that’s what they want. So why should we care? Let’s remember this is PUBLIC EDUCATION. Those children who did not receive the advantages of early childhood education are going to be learning in the same classroom as those who did. Every time a 1st grade teacher has to take time to help those that are behind is less time to teach and enrich all children. If we want high-quality rigorous educational outcomes for our children, then by the very nature of our PUBLIC EDUCATION system, we must care about those outcomes for all children in the district. And as a community we cannot simply pay lip service – we must take action. April 7th is a chance to take action – take the time to VOTE! Busy on April 7th? Vote now at early polling.
BELIEF #2
HEY, here’s another belief that, in my opinion, ought to go away…’when a child reaches fifth grade and is still not a proficient reader there’s not much the school can do about it’. Yes, a few years ago, right out in an open Board meeting that statement was made by district leadership.
Nevertheless, when pushed to do something about a problem that you believe ‘there’s not much the school can do about’, it makes an odd sort of sense that you would choose to implement a program like ‘Reading Workshop’. This program attempts to address comprehension without first addressing fluency. And thus, does not effectively help many of the non-proficient readers enrolled in it. SEE, ‘there’s not much the school can do about it’ – becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Let’s step away from beliefs for a minute…and look at the results by the numbers. Generally, a score of 35% indicates a child is a year behind his peers, a score of 50% is average. Let’s reasonably define the cut off for proficient readers in the middle of that percentage range or scoring at least 43%. Then check out page 6 of this report by the district: remembering that the scores are averages (some scored below and some students scored above the grade level score) of all students in reading workshop and many of these students have been in the workshop for more than a year.
(http://www.d107.org/media/Administration/Fall%20Testing%20Report-2008.pdf )
If you’d like a better handle on how many are not proficient – go to pages 18-27…. of the report link above. Now go up the 2008 scores (vertical scale or Y-axis) and count the dots (students) below the 43% percentile. While you’re at it – count the dots on the Math score pages, too.
If it doesn’t make feel like we’ve still got a long way to go - put a face of a student you know on each dot. Then go VOTE – vote for change.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Pleasantdale Receives Award!
There is no doubt, that among public schools in Illinois, Pleasantdale is among the best. The District recently received an award from the Illinois School Board for having 90% or more of its students rated proficient or better on the STATE reading test. Let’s take a moment to congratulate ourselves on making progress. GREAT!
Let’s take another moment to put that award in a big-picture perspective. Among the 29 developed countries that comprise OECD (http://www.pisa.oecd.org/ ) the United States ranks 15th for reading performance – at the middle of the pack. Among the 50 states, the State of Illinois ranks 28th in reading as measured by the NAEP test (http://nces.ed.gov/) – again what I’d call middle of the road performance.
So, call me a ‘glass is half-empty’ type of person if you must, but doesn’t that perspective make it seem like the district was given an award for being at the top of the bottom-half of the heap? By the way, reading is our high-point, our international and national math and science comparison scores are even worse.
My point here is not to denigrate the progress the district has made over the last 5 years, it’s to point out that we cannot declare victory too soon. Much progress still needs to be made. This progress requires change – NOT STATUS QUO and not a rubber stamp school board.
Let’s take another moment to put that award in a big-picture perspective. Among the 29 developed countries that comprise OECD (http://www.pisa.oecd.org/ ) the United States ranks 15th for reading performance – at the middle of the pack. Among the 50 states, the State of Illinois ranks 28th in reading as measured by the NAEP test (http://nces.ed.gov/) – again what I’d call middle of the road performance.
So, call me a ‘glass is half-empty’ type of person if you must, but doesn’t that perspective make it seem like the district was given an award for being at the top of the bottom-half of the heap? By the way, reading is our high-point, our international and national math and science comparison scores are even worse.
My point here is not to denigrate the progress the district has made over the last 5 years, it’s to point out that we cannot declare victory too soon. Much progress still needs to be made. This progress requires change – NOT STATUS QUO and not a rubber stamp school board.
Monday, March 16, 2009
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Truth in Spending
I would like to clarify Dr. Fredisdorf's letter to the editor on March 5th stating that it would be irresponsible not to proceed with the $200,000 construction project slated for D107, due to safety and electrical hazards.
As noted in the letter to the editor on February 20th, the school is secure. The electrical hazards were not discovered until the Regional Office of Education inspection was conducted in late February, and it was found there were too many electrical devices and not enough outlets in the main office. The cost to remedy the electrical problem is under $15,000.
The average bid to remodel the 825 square foot office came in at $278,829, which is substantially higher than the $200,000 Dr. Fredisdorf has budgeted.
Dr. Fredisdorf also stated that "through prudent fiscal management, the funds necessary for the project are currently available without asking taxpayers for additional dollars." This prudent fiscal management consists of putting nearly one million dollars each year of the tax payers money into a "fund balance" so that public approval is not needed for "project" spending. While the public does not need to approve this remodeling project shouldn't the public be honestly informed?
Couldn't this money be better spent?
The Doings
March 5, 2009
BURR RIDGE --In a letter to the editor dated Feb. 26, Karen O'Halloran criticized Pleasantdale District 107 for a planned construction project to improve building safety. She asserted that the district is irresponsible for reconfiguring the main office entrance to achieve better security. The district utilized the services of Senior Risk Management Consultant Brian Lesiak to inspect our facilities who specifically recommended that the elementary school main office configuration be changed to improve security to the entire school. Furthermore, building inspectors from the Regional Office of Education recently reported that electrical wiring in the office is inadequate and a potential fire hazard. The regional officials advised that the office renovation needs to correct the problem.
It would indeed be irresponsible for the district to disregard the recommendations of security consultants. Through prudent fiscal management, the funds necessary for the project are currently available without asking taxpayers for additional dollars. The project will be bid in a very competitive economic environment saving taxpayers in the long run. The entire project should come in under $200,000.
Furthermore, O'Halloran cited inconsistencies in the budgeted amount concerning a proposed Middle School garage construction project.
This project is currently under discussion by the School Board.
Various construction options are being discussed and associated prices investigated, with none having been determined or voted on.
It is not extravagant or irresponsible to spend money either to keep our children safe or to protect the district's assets.
Mark Fredisdorf, superintendent
As noted in the letter to the editor on February 20th, the school is secure. The electrical hazards were not discovered until the Regional Office of Education inspection was conducted in late February, and it was found there were too many electrical devices and not enough outlets in the main office. The cost to remedy the electrical problem is under $15,000.
The average bid to remodel the 825 square foot office came in at $278,829, which is substantially higher than the $200,000 Dr. Fredisdorf has budgeted.
Dr. Fredisdorf also stated that "through prudent fiscal management, the funds necessary for the project are currently available without asking taxpayers for additional dollars." This prudent fiscal management consists of putting nearly one million dollars each year of the tax payers money into a "fund balance" so that public approval is not needed for "project" spending. While the public does not need to approve this remodeling project shouldn't the public be honestly informed?
Couldn't this money be better spent?
The Doings
March 5, 2009
BURR RIDGE --In a letter to the editor dated Feb. 26, Karen O'Halloran criticized Pleasantdale District 107 for a planned construction project to improve building safety. She asserted that the district is irresponsible for reconfiguring the main office entrance to achieve better security. The district utilized the services of Senior Risk Management Consultant Brian Lesiak to inspect our facilities who specifically recommended that the elementary school main office configuration be changed to improve security to the entire school. Furthermore, building inspectors from the Regional Office of Education recently reported that electrical wiring in the office is inadequate and a potential fire hazard. The regional officials advised that the office renovation needs to correct the problem.
It would indeed be irresponsible for the district to disregard the recommendations of security consultants. Through prudent fiscal management, the funds necessary for the project are currently available without asking taxpayers for additional dollars. The project will be bid in a very competitive economic environment saving taxpayers in the long run. The entire project should come in under $200,000.
Furthermore, O'Halloran cited inconsistencies in the budgeted amount concerning a proposed Middle School garage construction project.
This project is currently under discussion by the School Board.
Various construction options are being discussed and associated prices investigated, with none having been determined or voted on.
It is not extravagant or irresponsible to spend money either to keep our children safe or to protect the district's assets.
Mark Fredisdorf, superintendent
Monday, March 9, 2009
Truth...
Honesty has a beautiful and refreshing simplicity about it. No ulterior motives. No hidden meanings. An absence of hypocrisy, duplicity, political games and verbal superficiality. As honesty and real integrity characterize our lives, there will be no need to manipulate others. Chuck Swindoll
Friday, March 6, 2009
Dignity important for school board
The Doings
HINSDALE -- My grandfather, a respected school board member, rolled over in his grave today, appalled by District 86 events. He understood districts had responsibility to help students learn life lessons. He recognized learning came through social interaction, collaboration, team building, and academics. He knew the board was accountable to the community for maintaining modern infrastructure, strong administrative leadership, relevant curriculum, talented mentors, and diverse extracurricular opportunities. He believed ignoring one aspect of education caused all to fail.
My grandfather's principles were simple. He was open and honest. He listened. He was thoughtful. He was respectful. He built on ideas. He did not hide behind words like "fiscal responsibility" with a bias on only one aspect of education. He was not an elitist who found shreds of information he could apply out of context to compromise ideas from peers. He did not seek out individuals with special interest and work in private to sabotage public board work done in good faith. He did not force his personal agenda on others to win at all cost.
My grandfather helped shape me. Thankfully he served many years with a board who knew education happened in and out of classrooms. I fear District 86 students will experience fewer life lessons than they deserve. In April's school board election I will not vote for certain board members whose behavior doesn't adhere to my grandfather's principles. I hope community members vote in a similar fashion. The future of our young adults depends on it.
Mike Halligan
Sounds familiar, doesn't it?
HINSDALE -- My grandfather, a respected school board member, rolled over in his grave today, appalled by District 86 events. He understood districts had responsibility to help students learn life lessons. He recognized learning came through social interaction, collaboration, team building, and academics. He knew the board was accountable to the community for maintaining modern infrastructure, strong administrative leadership, relevant curriculum, talented mentors, and diverse extracurricular opportunities. He believed ignoring one aspect of education caused all to fail.
My grandfather's principles were simple. He was open and honest. He listened. He was thoughtful. He was respectful. He built on ideas. He did not hide behind words like "fiscal responsibility" with a bias on only one aspect of education. He was not an elitist who found shreds of information he could apply out of context to compromise ideas from peers. He did not seek out individuals with special interest and work in private to sabotage public board work done in good faith. He did not force his personal agenda on others to win at all cost.
My grandfather helped shape me. Thankfully he served many years with a board who knew education happened in and out of classrooms. I fear District 86 students will experience fewer life lessons than they deserve. In April's school board election I will not vote for certain board members whose behavior doesn't adhere to my grandfather's principles. I hope community members vote in a similar fashion. The future of our young adults depends on it.
Mike Halligan
Sounds familiar, doesn't it?
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Preschool For All
Every child should have access to high-quality education. Research shows that children start learning long before formal schooling begins and that underachievement affects children from all communities and income groups - not just the lowest income households. Schools benefit greatly when children are prepared to enter Kindergarten ready to learn. However, working and middle-income families often have the most difficulty because they earn too much to qualify for assistance but cannot afford expensive, high quality programs on their own.
Once again, the State of Illinois is requesting proposals for the Preschool For All Grant.
The goal of the Preschool for All Children program is to provide educational services to all 3- to 5-year-old children whose families choose to participate. The Preschool for All Children program focuses on providing high-quality educational programs for children who are determined to be at risk of academic failure. It also provides funding for programs serving families of low to moderate income (middle-income families) whose children are not considered to be at risk academically and other families that choose to participate.
In awarding Preschool for All Children grants, the Illinois State Board of Education must address two legislatively mandated priorities. The first priority in awarding grants must be given to applicants that propose to serve primarily children who have been identified as being at risk of academic failure. The second priority in awarding grants must be given to applicants proposing to serve primarily children whose family’s income is less than four times the poverty guidelines.
According to the 2009 HHS Poverty Guidelines, the poverty level for a family of 4 is $22,050; four times the poverty level is $88,200.
If a family of four makes less than $88,200, they would qualify for this program.
Neighboring districts including LaGrange School Districts 102 and 105, LaGrange Highlands School District 106 and Gower School District 62 have successfully applied for and receive the Preschool For All grant and are providing a free high quality preschool program to qualifying children in their districts.
For two years in a row, Pleasantdale School District 107 has not applied for the Preschool For All Grant. Isn't it time for our school board to insist that Pleasantdale apply for this grant to assist the middle income families in our district?
The current scholarships our district provides are helpful to the lowest income families, but they completely leave out middle income families.
We are asking our current school board to seek out and apply for this grant for the middle income families in our district!
For more information on Preschool for All, go to http://www.isbe.net/earlychi/preschool/default.htm
Once again, the State of Illinois is requesting proposals for the Preschool For All Grant.
The goal of the Preschool for All Children program is to provide educational services to all 3- to 5-year-old children whose families choose to participate. The Preschool for All Children program focuses on providing high-quality educational programs for children who are determined to be at risk of academic failure. It also provides funding for programs serving families of low to moderate income (middle-income families) whose children are not considered to be at risk academically and other families that choose to participate.
In awarding Preschool for All Children grants, the Illinois State Board of Education must address two legislatively mandated priorities. The first priority in awarding grants must be given to applicants that propose to serve primarily children who have been identified as being at risk of academic failure. The second priority in awarding grants must be given to applicants proposing to serve primarily children whose family’s income is less than four times the poverty guidelines.
According to the 2009 HHS Poverty Guidelines, the poverty level for a family of 4 is $22,050; four times the poverty level is $88,200.
If a family of four makes less than $88,200, they would qualify for this program.
Neighboring districts including LaGrange School Districts 102 and 105, LaGrange Highlands School District 106 and Gower School District 62 have successfully applied for and receive the Preschool For All grant and are providing a free high quality preschool program to qualifying children in their districts.
For two years in a row, Pleasantdale School District 107 has not applied for the Preschool For All Grant. Isn't it time for our school board to insist that Pleasantdale apply for this grant to assist the middle income families in our district?
The current scholarships our district provides are helpful to the lowest income families, but they completely leave out middle income families.
We are asking our current school board to seek out and apply for this grant for the middle income families in our district!
For more information on Preschool for All, go to http://www.isbe.net/earlychi/preschool/default.htm
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