One of the items of interest that came up at Monday night’s board meeting was that Nancy Walsh offered her resignation to Dr. Williams if he would offer his own.
Again, this idea that all of this could be fixed if Dr. Williams just walked away amazes me. It goes back to the question of how someone could receive above average and superior marks on a review, receive a 3-year contract extension and a raise, which was fully approved by the entire 7-member board including Susan Adams and Rubie Alexander; then 3-months later be put on administrative leave for questionable behavior and management skills.
Granted, it’s not quite the same details, but the same concept applies. A professional athlete receives a contract to play for a team, does his job excellently and even makes it to the all-star games and receives MVP one year. He receives a contract extension and then a trade causes some new players and coaching staff to work with the team. The team dynamics just no longer work and he’s shipped off to another team. Does the player just walk away from the value of his remaining contract? Does his original team argue the fact that they owe him what they agreed to before the fall-out between coaches and new team members? The answers to both are an obvious “No”.
I’d like to ask Nancy a question. Will you give up the $8000 you’re getting paid over the next four years to be a board member? Granted, I’m sure you don’t need the money, but I’m sure you don’t have any arguments for being compensated for the work you’re doing in your position.
If this was such important news why are we getting it on thursday??
I think it was taken out of context.
You’ve had 4 days to wordsmith it.
Grasping for straws aren’t you???
Are you part of the problem or part of the solution?
I choose to be part of the solution.
Havoc,
I didn’t attribute any level of importance to the post, just stating the facts. I agree, I wish I could get posts out more frequently and quicker than I do. However, bills must be paid and it is the holidays. I’m trying to balance family life, professional life and my interest in being a part of the solution as you state. By the way, I recognize your IP address, seems you just like stirring the pot around here behind different email addresses and names. If you choose to be part of the solution, let’s hear some ideas from you. You could start by explaining how “Creating Havoc” in any sense of the word is considered part of the solution?
Give the guy a break. He’s a private citizen with a life of his own. This isn’t his job. If this were the indy star website and the “journalists” over there sat on this for a few days, you’d have more room to complain.
He’s absolutely right - the arrogance of this board is astounding. Williams deserves due process. Whether williams is right or wrong ISN’T the point of discussion. The real issue is that our board is arrogant, unprofessional, and doesn’t follow it’s own rules.
Just an FYI, Mrs. Walsh’s speech was put on the Indy Star website TODAY. http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2006612220302
Here’s another idea- if you are interested in knowing what is being said at Board Meetings, attend one. I didn’t have to read this to know she said it because I heard it for myself. I feel if you aren’t going to attend board meetings, you don’t have much to complain about in terms of not knowing what was said.
Regarding Mrs. Walsh’d speech:
I don’t know WHICH IS WORSE… Dr. Williams expressing concern about her son or Mrs. Walsh lying about her resignation offer.
When is the next board meeting?
Southport Dad ~ The next board meeting is on January 8th at 6:30 p.m. We don’t know yet if the board president will ALLOW this meeting to be held in the SHS auditorium or if we will be crowded into a small room in the administration building. Either way, please plan to attend the meeting, and encourage all of your friends and neighbors to join you. Also, be sure to call Dennis Nichols’ office (the acting superintendent) to request SHS as the meeting site. You really have to attend one of these exhibitions to understand how the citizens in this township are being oppressed and ignored by the 4 board members who are temporarily in charge. You won’t believe what is happening in Perry until you see it for yourself. See you there!
School Board meetings are the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month, with the exception of Dec., April, and May in which there is only one meeting in those months. For the dates of those months, they are posted on the Perry Township website under the School Board section.
The info on the school board meetings can be found here: http://www.msdpt.k12.in.us/
To Excuse me……
After listening to Mrs. Walsh’s speech I understood that she offered to give her resignation at the same time that Doug Williams was to give his?
Did I miss something along the way? If so please let me know…..I’m confused as to what you meant by “lying about her resignation offer”?
Please explain
Dear Admin,
There are four adults in my house, all of us with an opinion. Along with Computer literate students.
I don’t know how one goes about changing an IP address eveytime they sign on.
But most of us have our own e-mail address, Since we are doing this at home.
“I believe that it is in the best interest of this township to keep Dr. Williams on administrative leave until this issue is resolved.” - This is a quote out of Nancy’s speech - what’s the issue? That’s what we want to know!!! What’s the issue, what are you doing to resolve it and when will it be resolved?
Did anyone notice that the Indianapolis Star directly said that the delay in opening New Tech High to 2008 instead of 2007 was because of what the board has done by suspending Dr. Williams instead of focusing on township education business?
Havoc, I’m not doubting that there are multiple people in your household. I’m just stating a fact that there have been multiple comments, attributed from multiple people coming from a single IP address. You can’t reassign your IP address assigned to your computer, it’s assigned by your ISP and is refreshed randomly every now and then. I have no problem with you questionning a variety of events, that’s all we’re doing as well. I just found it interesting that you and or other individuals in your household say you’re interested in finding solutions while “Creating Havoc” and other creative usernames.
Thank you for the response.
Merry Christmas Mr. Admin.
Merry Christmas to all. I hope Santa brings everything you asked for.
PEACE on EARTH, IN PERRY TOWNSHIP and all corners that we have our SERVICEMEN and Women.
See you next year.
Come on Creating Havoc. What is your solution to 2 months of no answers from the majority of the PTSB?
The reason that speech was just posted on the Star’s site is because it looks like she’s submitted it as a letter to the editor. Besides, you have to remember that it’s the holidays and lots of people at the Star and other companies are off work — maybe the Star had other things more urgent than covering a township school board meeting.
Why is the Teacher’s Union so concerned about the Supt? Are they hiding something? Why are the “Save out Schools” followers so concerned? Are they going to be hurt finacially by William’s departure? I do not know about you, but this is not normal.
Stay tuned……..answer’s will be forth coming.
I would say PEA is in support of Dr. Williams because of where they came from with the previous superintendent. The previous supt. was literally at war with teachers before Dr. Williams came to the township. PEA is in support of Dr. Williams because he supports them and has since his first day on the job. Ask just about any teacher in the district that was teaching here more than 13 years ago the difference they’ve experienced. I know we have a number of teachers that are reading this, so I’d love to hear from you all in response to “William-ized”’s question.
To William-ized:
As a property owner in Perry Twp you better believe that buying out Williams’ contract and hiring a new superintendent will impact me financially through property taxes.
As a parent, the disruption of leadership — especially in the manner undertaken — absolutely impacts the educational programs, motivation of administrators and teachers, as well as the general continuity of my children’s education.
I strongly believe both of these concerns are held by many others who are similarly situated (taxpayers with school-aged children).
As for the question regarding the union — I don’t know. I am not a teacher or employee of the township. However as someone who has worked in a union environment, things ran much smoother and more productively when management and the union leadership worked with each other rather than when at odds with each other.
Ms Allman-What this individual has done has very little or nothing to do with property taxes. Their raises they have asked for the past 4 years has been enough to cover any tax hike. The Edison school contract they just signed would amaze you over the next 5 years. Edison schools, with higher pay to staff, longer hours, did not meet the results the township wanted. In fact, again this is public record, the Edison schools rank less than the “regular” elementary schools in the township. Southport Elementary, god love the principle has out performed all township schools. Edison schools are costly, too costly for what we receive from them.
Your township is in great hands. We have great administrators who fear the Supt. The out cry that is happeing is based on Union personel, cronies, and the people who would be hurt more by the demise of the Supt.
Yes this board has made some mistakes. This was not an issue to replace the Supt after the election. All this was created by the Supt who did not get the people he wanted or worked for to get elected. AND they was a lot of misteps during the election that was blaitenly effective against the one’s he didn’t want elected. From what I can see this will all come out soon. From what I hear, he is being investigated by the Federal Government in regards to his treatment of our Northern community. A basketball slush fund from last year that was hidden from the board and township, to a contract with the Union over health issue’s that was not brought before the board. Not to mention a Coke Township Fund that has never been reported to the public or the board.
Things in this township was great until 4 years ago when some on the board did not agree with some of the Supt views when it came to Edison, Winchester being moved to Southport, sell of Perry Park to the church next door, to blaitant disregard of policies of the township.
I wish the board would at least let us know their viewpoint and end this endless “worshipping”of the Supt. All is not what you see. Until 4 years ago, 2 members of the board now never voted against the Supt. It was always 7-0. It hasn’t changed. We now have board members who think differently that the Supt, it whats best for Perry Township.
Sorry for rambling.
William-ized:
I don’t agree with your claim that buying out a $500,000 contract might not lead to a property tax increase. Mix this with the recent hiring of an attorney for more then twice the hourly rate of the former attorney and the prospect of an independent audit that could easily cost $75,000 and you have a recipe for tax increases OR significant cuts in current programs.
As for all of the other issues you raised (except the Edison contract) — how many of these were known on or before June 2006? That is a critical date based on the behaviors of 2 of the 4 board members that form the moajority deciding to remove Dr. Williams.
I do not oppose the Edison contract renewal. I really like the concept and design of the curricula and programs. Additionally, in talking with others in the township - I know that many of the favorite tools and/or concepts are rolled out to the schools as much as possible. I do not base my decisions about success of the Edison concept solely on IStep scores. That is certainly one factor - but I have enough friends in the education field in PT and IPS that I know how various factors can impact scores without giving a clear picture of a school’s programs.
William-ized,
You are correct, what this individual (Dr. Williams) has done has very little to do with property taxes. However, if the board attempts to buy out his contract and there is not sufficient funds to make the pay out, I would like to know where you think the money will come from?? Does the board have a special fund that the public is not aware of? I continue to approach this issue from a financial standpoint and could care less about “who started it or “who created the issue”. At the last board meeting, a board member made a proposal for an independent audit but clearly did not understand the financial impact or ramifications of such a proposal. Fortunately for the taxpayers of the township, the proposal did not pass.
If we all follow procedure and act like adults, we could achieve a mutually beneficial end. Mediation was a great idea and would have brought out issues on BOTH sides; there was no downside. From a financial standpoint, this would have been a much more financially responsible decision. Unfortunately, that proposal was voted down in a heartbeat.
As I continued to read your comments I became increasingly disappointed. You seem to be very willing to share a host of accusations but fail to provide facts to support those accusations. The site is dedicated to finding out the facts. The people of Perry Township keep hearing the same old thing….. “just wait and you will see”, “everything will come out soon”. WE HAVE BEEN WAITING. No better time than the present and by present I mean about 3 or 4 board meetings ago.
While I support Dr. Williams, his staff, and the teachers of Perry Township, regardless of their Edison affiliation, I see the “silent majority” flinging all types accusations. These people seem very willing to serve the potatoes, but not the meat. The meal is incomplete without both and that is why we find ourselves still waiting for a complete entrée.
william-ized = Mark Thompson
The style is unmistakable.
I think it is clear that William-ized failed to pay attention at the board meetings concerning renewal of the Edison contract as did some of the board members. Mr. Oldham very clearly broke down the expenditures and the whole “$1.6 million” figure that was brought up time and again. In fact, our cost per student is lower than 3 other township schools.
In addition, all non-Edison schools pay their bills directly. Edison schools send their portion of the township budget to Edison and they “cut the checks” to pay the bills. As a matter of fact, our budget is watched very closely, and we have won awards for being “fiscally responsible.” That $1.6 million goes directly to paying the bills with a very small part going to Edison. To add to that, when our schools perform at the levels they have, our schools are compensated when they award some of that money back to the schools, which we in turn use to improve education.
Also, Edison teachers are not paid “more” than other township employees. We work 9 more days than other schools, and are paid accordingly. We also have longer school days, but our daily pay is not increased for that.
As for the fact the Edison schools do not perform at the level of some other schools, I would also like you to keep in mind a few other factors. First, our gains from year to year are in line with or higher than the other township schools. As much as I hate to say this, we also cater to a different clientele. Many of our students have come to us because they have been failing in other schools. Their parents see us as a solution to a problem. We meet those challenges head on, and are successful with those students. It doesn’t always happen in the first or second year. In fact, I can think of a couple of students that I have had who were not successful until after they left us and moved onto middle school.
As my uncle so astutely stated this weekend, “Figures lie, and liars figure.” Strictly looking at ISTEP scores does not a true picture paint.
As for all of your accusations against Dr. Williams. I’ve heard more than one teacher say that they would be more than happy to back down if information had been given to us and/or all of the board members before the paid leave was put into effect. Due process was overlooked. That is the biggest issue.
I would also ask, William-ized, when was the last time you stepped foot into the various elementary schools, especially Edison, to see what, in fact, goes on, as opposed to what you think goes on. We’ve made numerous contributions to the township, all of which have greatly benefitted the students.
As for the union working with the superintendent, I would point out a story told to my sister by a parent in another school district. He offered free financial advising and retirement planning to the entire township. Because the plan was presented by the superintendent (who no one liked and with whom the union did not work well), the deal was turned down. The animosity between the teachers and administration cost the entire school district much more money. Do I agree with the decision of the teachers and the union? No, because I do not believe that was not a fiscally sound decision, which in turn is not in the best interest of the students. But, it illustrates how detrimental a poor relationship can be.
And, sorry for my rambling. Ok, not really.
Edison Teacher,
Thank you for your insight and information. I am glad to see that you, armed with facts and data, have stepped up to the plate and addressed those who wish to fling accusations and draw conclusions with little or no facts. Data is a good thing, but asking questions to better understand the data (or the conclusion it draws) is a great thing. Thank you for addressing William-ized accusations.
I am posting this email that I wrote the day that Dr. Williams was put on leave. Due to the fear of retailiation by the Four Ladies I have had this in my draft box. I find that since there are several public outlets to use now, it is time to put it out there. Since it can be seen by everyone and I can not be accused of being threating, or it being intercepted and responded to by Mr. Thompson! Wow—Talk about breaking Federal Privacy Laws — and this guy wanted to uphold the law as our Constable !
Email to all Board Member of Perry Township Schools.
’sadams@msdpt.k12.in.us’; ‘nwalsh@msdpt.k12.in.us’; ‘bjthompson@msdpt.k12.in.us’; ‘ralex4806@aol.com”jbuffie@aol.com’; ‘gayle-h@sbcglobal.net’; ’smaple@uindy.edu’
I would like to begin by saying I write this in great anguish and I am sorry that Perry Township has a black eye due to four individuals.
I have watched over the past few weeks; Ms Adams, Ms. Walsh, Ms. Thompson and Ms. Alexander blatantly abuse their positions as elected school board officials. It has become very apparent that certain new board members ran with hidden agenda’s unbeknown by their constituents. Not only have each of the above named abused your elected position, you have not listened to the general public who voted you in office, and have acted with malice; quite frankly possibly malpractice.
As an elected official you have a responsibility to your employer, the residents of Perry Township. During the past few months you have failed to adequately perform. Your abrupt decision to put Dr. Williams on leave, demonstrates inability to make sound decisions that are in the best interest of the students and residents of Perry Township, likewise this abrupt decision demonstrates a great lack of fiscal responsibility by Ms. Adams, Ms. Walsh, Ms. Thompson and Ms. Alexander.
You too are accountable, just as you have demanded Dr. Williams be accountable. As you have expressed, Dr. Williams has been uncooperative, and hostile towards the board, each of you fit the same bill. You have not listened to the majority, in fact, Ms Adams you denied the right to public opinion regarding Dr. Williams being placed on leave, “DING DING” I believe this to be uncooperative. As well, to keep the meeting agenda under cover prior to the meeting seems to be hostile, towards your employers, Perry Township Residents. To abuse your position and “hush” the attendees’ and not listen to the opinions of your employers is gross neglect of your duties. To call the Police and Fire Marshall to keep people away from the meeting shows you have something to hide and that the four of you have hidden agendas.
Ms. Thompson, you seem to be the one who is spearheading this agenda, filing police reports and all, shame on you. This is your agenda for some unknown reason, and you should be ashamed of yourself. Until you became a board member, there was little tension between the board and the Administration. You certainly seem to be the fuel on this fire!
During my 14 years as a Perry Township resident, I have not agreed with or even liked everything that Dr. Williams has done; however, under his leadership (not the four above mentioned) the district has provided many children with innovative educational opportunities, personal direction and quality of life opportunity which many of these students would not get else where. The district has continually been among the top 100 school districts in the nation, under Dr. Williams’ leadership, not those who wish him to be fired.
As a matter of fact, your lack of leadership ability is in the midst of tearing a district apart. By the way, when was it that the four above mentioned received the Superintendent of the Year award? Can you believe it, merely a couple of years ago, he is the best in the state, and we vote a couple new board members in to office and he is unable to do his job. Wake up ladies, it is you who are not performing your job well and should resign or be fired.
Ms. Adams, here is a copy of your Statement of Purpose, please read it and see that you have failed to uphold your own statement to the stakeholders and children of Perry Township please note the red sections.
Statement of Purpose:
My Mission as a School Board member is to make our schools the heart of our community. Educating everyone should be our vision. Education is a community responsibility and everyone should have a voice. All stakeholders should be included in the decision making process. The issues facing us in education are daunting. It will take the “village” to provide our students with the necessary educational skills to become productive and successful citizens of the community.
As you can see, your actions not only go against your whole Statement of Purpose, you were neglectful in not allowing everyone to have a voice and you did not include all stakeholders in the decision making process. This clearly demonstrates a lack of leadership on your part, and that you do not believe in upholding your own beliefs. What else to you have to hide? Obviously you are not a leader, but a follower. You should resign and concentrate your efforts on your job in Decatur Township. Move to the district run for their board and tear their district apart not ours.
Ms. Alexander, here is a copy of your Statement of Purpose, please read it and see that you have failed to uphold your own statement to the shareholders and children of Perry Township as well.
“Students are our Priority” is a part of the mission statement for the Metropolitan School District of Perry Township. I am committed to making students a priority to all stakeholders in our community. I believe that education is a community affair, and that we must not only collaborate but also form alliances to address the needs of all children. As we pool our resources, we must make sure that every policy we make, every practice we follow, and every goal we set is geared toward making sure that every child’s fullest potential is realized.
Your inability to act rationally and listen to the stakeholders demonstrates that you do not believe that education is a community affair and that the only collaboration should be from Ms. Adam, Ms. Thompson and Ms. Walsh. You do not wish to form alliances or pool resources to successfully meet goals of making sure every child’s fullest potential is realized. Resign your seat and retire.
Ms. Thompson and Ms. Walsh, wisely you have not had your information uploaded to the school site. You might think real careful as to the content of your information prior to posting it, as you can see by your counterparts statement, they are not accurate. But I am sure you would sugar coat it to look like your counterparts. If you have a chance to post them prior to your resignations, please be sure to be honest with what you state unlike the two statements above.
Again, your actions at tonight’s board meeting show that you do not care about children or the well being of our school district. You should have reinstated Dr. Williams and began mediation. Mr. Maple, I suggest an emergency meeting to readdress this issue to save our district and our children’s futures.
At the very least each of you should resign your position. I along with a majority of the stakeholders in Perry Township are prepared to call for your resignations should you not begin to represent our best interest and stop acting on your hidden agenda.
One last item, ladies you are wasting the “stakeholders” money with a second atty. again, you acted without the best interest of the township in spending money that was unnecessary. Two Attorneys’, please, that is an insult and a slap in the face to all stakeholders. That is not a wise use of stakeholders money and not very responsible on your part. When you have to hire an attorney to protect your doings, there is something going on ladies. It will come out sooner or later.
Ms. Adams and Ms. Alexander, I am sure that you are great educators, however, please take a long look at your Statements of Purpose and examine them closely and see if your actions really uphold your Statements. Then re-examine the statement and ask yourself, “have I acted responsible and in the best interest of the students and stakeholders?”
Mr. Maple, Ms. Buffie and Ms. Houchin, I applaud each of you and the stance you have taken which is in the best interest of the students and stakeholders. Keep up the great work and lets immediately put this situation to rest.
No, not Mark Thompson. Guess again.
I would expect Edison school to be two of the best in the township when it comes to the money we taxpayers have spent. You cost us more and we want better results. Tell me about the bonus’s that Edison has dished out? Who received them? Public Record - go search.
This board we have is a good board. They were all elected by the voters in Perry Township and they have our kids and taxpayers at heart. The hiring of an attorney instead of using the Township Attorney, has many implications that he can not be trusted, along with the assistant supt’s. Plural! Patience is a virtue, and these board memeber’s are doing things by the book to save Perry Township more embarrassment. All this name calling and assumptions will cease once the lawyer has done his job. This runs deeper than one might imagine. And yes, there will be much fallout after all is known. Unfortunately, like most things, it will take time, but only after the Supt. is gone. Why do you think there is such an outrage? Why do you think the union hates this move? Why do you think email’s and audits are being performed? Some people are scared of what is found. Check the record, it is public information instead of going off on accusations and hear-say. Some are waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Willim-ized,
Again, accusation without facts.
If you have the factual information, publish it or tell us where you found it. All who visit this site are waiting….the ball is in your court
William-ized,
Please tell me how you are privy to so much information or at least so confident of what will ultimately come out of the new attorney’s work?
You are either a Board Member or a citizen like me, except you must talk with 1 or more of the 4 that voted Williams out.
Why is it OK for you to know but not me?
“Board Members doing things by the book” How do you know what they are doing and if it is by the book?
“Name calling and assumptions will cease once the lawyer has done his job. This runs deeper than one might imagine. And yes, there will be much fallout after all is known”
What is the lawyer’s job? How deep does it run and how do you know that? How can or do you know how much fallout there will be?
I sincerely want to know your answers and I look forward to reading your reply.
Ken - Confused -
I do not have the answers to your questions. The statements I have said are facts, I can assure you. No I am not a member of ANY school board nor work the township. I am a concerned citizen, voter, taxpayer just like you. There are no accuations Public record, it is there.
All these disgruntled people. It must be easier to complain and accuse that to look for the facts. The board members, all of them are in charge of this. They are the ones who must sort through this mess. I am counting on them.
William-ized, are you saying what you’re saying is fact, but you don’t have the answers we’re asking for, which is to see your source of information for the facts? If you don’t have the answers, then how do you have the facts? I’m confused about your statement “…are no accuations Public record, it is there.” Are there no public accusations? If there are not, how are they “there”. If they are “there”, how are there “no accusations”. I can assure you, there are numerous individuals looking for the facts, but why are you telling me to look for the facts, then asking me to stop asking the people who have the facts to share them?
It is very obvious that William-ized does not know or have anything to share. Read all of his posts, just alot of nothing coming out of them. William-ized says and refers to fact and all but then always ends post with criticism and sarcasm. William-ized continues to say Public Record, well yes it is, and I would wager that the record has been looked at by many of those who are posting here, and it has yet to turn up any thing. Thus, William-ized, instead of blowing hot air and wasting good post time get a clue and go away, or put the facts on the table.
Then they need to look harder. I am not your fact finder here. I found out what is going on the way any normal person who has interest in this type of situation. The board, newspapers, TV News are investigating just as I did.
Just for thought, with some it will make no difference.
William-ized,
You “have the facts” but are not our fact finder. Sounds like playground antics……I have the info and you can’t have it….I won’t share????
You seem to operate just like the current board. I have all of the info, but I won’t share it???? If you are really in this for the good of the township, taxpayers, residents, and more importantly the STUDENTS you would share your info with anyone who asked.
If your “facts” really support your claims, you would not be hiding them!
And you say you found your info from the “Board” you mean the Group of Four! The newspaper has been vague because we hear the same thingas the Group of Four has said………NOTHING! TV Well hardly covered this. Radio, well as you know one of your Group of Four stated her husband had been fired because of this, so again, only hearing from the Group of Four. No Facts given as requested. OH and by the way, the husband was not fired he was reasigned! Just another lie from “your sources”. You might think twice about believing what they say.
Another one of the few people William-ized might be is Larry Hicks, husband of Marsha Hicks. Marsha was a former board member who was voted out in the last election. He says there are no accusations, just public record and facts. Larry (or Mark), with all of your so called “facts”, why are you hiding behind a false name? Afraid of being sued for slander?? If you were sure of what you were saying, you would not be hiding. This is all smoke and mirrors designed to detract from the issue at hand…the total incompetence of this board!
Speaking of being sued for slander, How are you feeling about now Jason Bean? After what you have written and accusing Mark Thompson of doing and saying? Have you found out yet that it was NOT him? Are you worried about getting sued now? How about your group? TBPS are they worried about being sued for slander? Just Wondering. Have a Happy New Year!!!!
oh yeah, this is NOT Mark Thompson either!
Joe Mamma, welcome back to the boards. I’m really not worried about it. If you’ll read my post I stated I could only imagine it was Mark Thompson, not that it actually was him on the IndyStar site.
Can’t a private citizen, voter, taxpayer respond to all you narrow minded people? Keep wondering. You all are helpless in this matter. Public record is public record. I can not help it if you can not think for yourselves. Why should I share my hard work with you? emails- agenda’s- video tapes-Federal Justice websites….. get a life people.
This you can count on, the voter’s of Perry Township voted in everyone on the board. The fact’s will be brought forward. The township will heal. Two years you can change three members of the board, should the voter’s choose so. Those who are followers and those of those who are hanging on to the Supt. coattails will know right away where they stand. (It is in the school board hands now. All of them - 7 count-em.
William-ized out
If you are not worried about it then WHY did you change:
Here are a couple of Mark’s comments:
to:
Here are a couple of the comments: ???
Just to let you know we have already copied them so you might as well change it back, we already have the proof.
I thought that this site was suppose to be about TRUTH.
How can you put things out there that are NOT true and CLAIM that they are? JUST because it’s what you’d LIKE for them to be.
You are NO different than what YOU CLAIM the EVIL 4 are.
After reading the comments that followed your claim, (that it was Mark Thompson) Couldn’t you be also sued for defamation of character? Seems to me that you wrote this information out of Anger. (Like you have ALL CLAIMED the 4 women have done.)
A wise old man told me one time that: 9 out of 10 times the “accuser” is usually the “DOer”.
I have read a lot of accusations on this web-site.
Some people MIGHT want to be SURE that what “FACTS” they are putting out there ARE Really “FACTS”.
claim that the 4 women have done)
A wise old man told me one time that: 9 out of 10 times the “accuser” is usually the “DOer”.
I have read a lot of accusations on this web-site.
Some people MIGHT want to be SURE that what “FACTS” they are putting out there ARE Really “FACTS”.
Joe Mamma, the reason I changed that single word is because I am concerned about the truth. After reviewing your first comment and reading what I typed, I did realize that I stated as fact that Mark said those things, which was incorrect. My wanting to get my “facts” straight and being worried about slander are two separate things. Prior to your comment, I’ve had numerous other people contact me out of concern for my comments. I have no desire to retract what I said, in stating I believe it was Mark Thompson that did those things. That belief doesn’t make it so. To make it more accurate, we’re talking about libel, not slander. One of the core components in a case of being accused of libel is that there needs to be “intention of malice”. I have no intention of malice towards Mark, I purely wish he would refrain from his bullying behaviour and verbal attacks that are clearly fact as I’ve seen copies of his e-mails, and have refused to publish on this site up to this point. If I were purely interested in malice towards Mark, I would have published everything I’ve received so far.
Publish them!
Is this not the medium for information on this matter. From where I sit all the talk about emails etc… is just rumors, about the same as what everyone says the fab 4 have done.
I have not seen any emails or facts that Mark has done anything. Put it out there or stop saying you have it. The Williams’ supporters continue the practice of doing exactly what they say bothers them about the board members.
I looked up the definitions. You are correct. It is libel and Defamation of character.
slander
noun
1. words falsely spoken that damage the reputation of another
2. an abusive attack on a person’s character or good name [syn: aspersion]
slan·der /ˈslændər/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[slan-der] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation
–noun 1. defamation; calumny: rumors full of slander.
2. a malicious, false, and defamatory statement or report: a slander against his good name.
3. Law. defamation by oral utterance rather than by writing, pictures, etc.
–verb (used with object) 4. to utter slander against; defame.
–verb (used without object) 5. to utter or circulate slander.
Slander and libel - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
In law, defamation is the communication of a statement that makes an express …
of a man’s character, while it protected him from needless insult and pain. …
en.wikipedia.org
Your Rights Discussion: Defamation of character, libel and slander
Defamation of characater comes into play when false information is presented to
a second or third party resulting in one character being injured. …
www.yourrights.org.uk
li·bel (lī’bəl) Pronunciation Key
n.
A false publication, as in writing, print, signs, or pictures, that damages a person’s reputation.
The act of presenting such material to the public.
The written claims presented by a plaintiff in an action at admiralty law or to an ecclesiastical court.
MY POINT!
A final comment from me, since this entire situation is very upsetting because of the time and effort I put into doing everything I can to make my students more successful.
William-ized, your comment, “You cost us more and we want better results” is a slap in the face to myself, and all of the other teachers and administrators within the Edison schools. Unless you are “in the trenches” so to speak, you have no room to make such a comment. We spend countless hours working both inside and outside of school to adjust and adapt instruction to meet the needs of every student. If you are so set on investigating and looking into public record, then surely, you can investigate to see where we started with our students, and the amazing gains they have made. If not, then you are missing the opportunity to see what an amazing group of educators the Edison Schools (and the rest of the Perry Township schools, for that matter, because we never claim to be better, just different) have been fortunate enough to have working for them. That would indicate that you are just as close-minded as you accuse those in support of Dr. Williams to be.
It is also clear to me that you have failed to grasp the point on two of my comments. Our $1.6 million annual budget is no more than that of the other elementary schools. We spend less than 3 other elementary schools per student. Go search those public records to find out that that is the truth. It’s very easy to find, and I will share where I found my information. First, the information came directly from Max Oldham in his presentation to the board the night the Edison contract was brought up for a vote. Second, on the Indiana DOE website, http://mustang.doe.state.in.us/SEARCH/s3.cfm, you can click on any of the schools and see how much they spend per student.
Finally, I was very clear in my post that more than a few teachers have publicly stated that they want to know the facts because we do not want to blindly supporting a superintendent who is not doing what is best for the township if that is the case. We are asking for the facts. Unfortunately, our time is generally taken doing things for school, often even to the detriment of our own families, so we don’t have the time we would like to devote to doing extensive research to find all of the information. That is why we so fervently ask for help in finding the facts. If you have it, please pass it on so that we can end this division in the township. It is not what we want either, but we refuse to back down from asking for the truth. We have seen many new programs and additions which have helped the students, so it’s difficult for us to see what he could possibly be doing. That is why we ask for the facts.
Thanks for taking the time to read.
Follow-up for Joe Mamma,
A better resource for your research into libel is:
http://www.in.gov/judiciary/pubs/media-guide/libel.html
This webpage will actually express how libel is defined in Indiana (the place where we live - not England or Wales), provide some case law that sets “stare decisis” (Google this term for a definition - yea you can do this), and even the Indiana Code that a court in Indiana would use to adjudicate legal proceedings in regard to libel (as well as slander and defamation) in Indiana.
I have no problems with anyone contributing to the public discourse in matters involving current issues facing our school district; however, one should at the very least make a knowledgeable contribution and not just fill up space with words.
By the way it is hard to take an individual seriously when their pseudonym is as amateurish as yours.
Well I am pushed to the edge now. I really didn’t want to respond until next year. But, I am forced to.
First off, I am a Rosa PARKS EDISON PARENT.
I want to thank Claire Taylor, and Gary Robison. But, First off let me tell you this. I have friends that knew Mr. Robison, when he was at Center Grove, when he was given the position of principal at Sugar Grove Elementary in Center Grove they wanted to move 1 mile to get back in his school.
There IS maybe a handful of people that are more committed to public education than Mr. Robison in the world, MAYBE.
Unfortunately, we are on opposite sides of this battle. And I fully respect his opinion, although, I do not agree.
That is what this site is lacking. RESPECT.
For gods sake stop with all the name dropping or trying to guess who is posting what messages. Post your comments.
For those of you out there supporting Dr. Williams, spend your money on signs and the new limited edition T-shirts, the owner of the store shows his confidence in your group, ordering a shipment of 15 whole shirts. Which I am sure he still has since none of you received your money from the district this month. I am sure that the RING LEADER spent all her Christmas money on signs and Bandanas, expecting the school check. It’s too late but, she could have called the United Christmas fund.
I am a voter. I voted. I wanted change. Maybe not to the extent and speed that it happened, but that is what my electorate has decided to do. So as an AMERICAN, I am forced to live with it until the next election.
It amazes me that so many people are surprised by what happened. During the election, CONCERNED citizens were having small get togethers to “MEET Lee Robbins”, because they were afraid that Dr. Williams, might leave, that was the wording on the invitation.
I went to one of these get togethers, and was NOT impressed by the candidate. Although, I think that Mr. Robbins is probably a great dad, excellent attorney and respected citizen. I could not give him my vote.
I went to the school board meeting where he was placed on leave.
These were the accusations I heard.
Threating remarks about fire and guns.(Get the video of the meeting. Dr. Williams NEVER denied saying those things. His response was” You can ask anyone at that meeting if they thought a threat had been made?”) Obviously, someone at the meeting thought a threat had been made, or we wouldn’t know about it.
Tampering with your employers mail. I dare anyone to tamper with the mail of a superior and not get reprimanded for it.
I don’t agree with the board on the Room service or the $5 cokes, $5 for coke in Chicago is a bargain, but was room service ordered during the time that this employee of Dr. Williams was suppose to be in the convention? I don’t know.
Dr. Williams has at best kept, the ship from sinking. I am not sure that he is or was on the right course.
I respect the decisions he made, because he had to make them. There are no east decisions, no matter what.
I am offended by the past school board members and citizens that attempted to run for school board and not make it.
It amazes me that you choose to move on and pursue other adventures, but now want to be a Monday morning quarterback.
Willsey, Stumpf and Eskew have worked harder than they ever did when they were on the board. These are 3 men that supposedly love this TOWNSHIP, yet they are willing to tear it apart. Where does this make sense?
Dr. Williams is an employee of the School Board.
Not the other way around(Contrary to Ms. Houchins).
As hard as it is to do sometimes you have to replace a loyal employee that has grown to comfortable in his position. I had to fire a friend of almost 40 years, because he felt he was entitled to different rules, because he was my friend.
The school district is a BUSINESS, it is not a FRATERNITY of good old boys.
Now, let the Board get back to business.
As an American, it is your duty to question those that you elected when they fail to do their jobs in any manner that is professional or ethical. This board is no exception. And it is not a business, it is government. If it were a businees we would have the choice of using another competitor to get the satisfaction we deserve, that being answers to our concerns. You assume that because you “voted for change” that everyone else that voted had the same motives. School board elections are hardly a priority for the majority of voters or more would have shown up and participated in the last election. The current board has now given us incentive to show up next time(after the damage is done). I do not know any school board member or any that were running because quite frankly I just didn’t care as everything has been going good with my children’s education and still is. Superintendents and school board members do not impact the classroom. I never heard of my own superintendent going through school and could have cared less who he or she was. From what I have seen, Doug Williams has made himself visible at the schools quite often participating in many events. I have not met Doug Williams and I would opine that he does carry himself a bit arrogantly from observation only. Arrogance is not a crime or violation of his contract.
To Creating Havoc:
I don’t really understand what “pushed you to the edge” or who “forced you to respond” before you desired.
I do agree with and embrace your call to stop all the name dropping/calling and to show respect. However, you then proceeded to drop a minimum of six different names of people who have no direct connection to any of the accusations you ascribe to the board majority as supporting their actions concerning Dr. Williams being put on an immediate leave.
However, I completely disagree with your statement that as an AMERICAN you are forced to live with the decisions of elected officials until the next election. One of the most cherished rights of being an American is one’s right to free speech – including protest. In fact, it is precisely because I vote that I feel I have a right to express agreement and/or disagreement with elected representatives.
That being said, I do concur that it should be CIVIL discourse in which we engage. Thomas Mann said, “Democracy is a means of living together despite our differences. Democratic deliberation is an alternative to physical violence. It is predicated on the assumption that it’s possible to disagree agreeably, that it’s better to laugh than cry, that one can vigorously contest the positions of one’s adversary without questioning his or her personal integrity or motivation, and that parties to a debate are entitled to the presumption that their views are legitimate if not correct.”
Finally, if the board majority based their decisions on the following accusations concerning Dr. Williams:
1. He made threatening remarks about fire and guns;
2. He tampered with his employer’s mail; and
3. He ordered room service and paid $5 for a coke while in Chicago on business;
I feel more strongly than ever that their actions and their unwillingness to provide follow-up information/details are inexcusable. That does not mean I condone the type of behavior described in items 1 and 2. I mean that neither supports the extreme actions taken – especially if they are only accusations and have not been fully investigated prior to taking action. Such severe measures should only be employed only if there are facts (not accusations) to support them minimally by a preponderance of evidence gathered.
In the end, being provided the facts/evidence that support the board majority’s actions is what most of us in the township are asking/begging to be provided. The longer it takes to get this information – the more it appears there is nothing to support the actions.
To Kim Allman
I am not namedropping, I know that these former members are a big part of the TERRORIST GROUP known as TAKE BACK PERRY SCHOOLS.
I am talking about alledging this is MARK T. or this is Mr. HICKS.
This site is not the place to create lies and innuendos.
But, again you must be a perry Teacher hopefully not math as I only Called out 4 people that I am critical of NOT 6.
To Naum:
I am sorry that you thought it has been everybody elses job to elect the school board, and not yours as a parent. You have some of the same problems as some of the board members, let everyone else do the dirty work.
Now you get involved, let’s face the facts here. I know why you are involved, just as I know why a majority of other residents have joined your “CELL” they are worried that they are going to have to pay with higher taxes.
It’s just more PROPOGANDA that the Terrorists are spouting. There is money your taxes won’t go up, just because of this. But, that’s what they will tell you.
I feel every election is important, I am sorry that you did not learn this in 11th or 12th grade government class. My children learned this early on as I would take them to vote with me. I am sure you worked hard for your military title as most who serve are country do, and yet you don’t or didn’t think that an election is important, if they weren’t important why do they have them.
Young men and women are dying everyday in far off countries to allow the right to vote for their leadership.
This is a problem that faces our township our state and our nation, we take for granted things others die for.
I have had enough of all the ignorance and lies posted to this site.
No need to reply to me, as I will not be back to read your future posts. But feel free to write your nonsense for every other robot here.
Happy New Years to all.
With regard to the mediation issue: mediation itself was not voted down. Mediation accompanied by multiple DEMANDS that Dr. Williams be reinstated as Superintendent is what was voted down. The impression I got from what Terry Rice, et. al., (and yes, I was in attendance at the board meeting) said is that they would only support mediation if Dr. Williams was reinstated in the meantime. At least one board member (Mrs. Walsh, I believe) stated they would agree to mediation but not with the condition that Dr. Williams be reinstated. As I recall no one was interested in that option.
I personally don’t see why his being reinstated should have been demanded as a condition. Could not mediation have taken place without his being reinstated?
As a soldier, school board members do not impact my career and like I stated before: they do not impact my chidren’s education. Just because they hold elections for such positions does not make them critical to the everyday life of the typical American citizen. Your reasoning does not support the unprofessional conduct of this board. And I have more education under my belt than most professional educators so don’t try to attempt to educate me on high school government.
My understanding of the motion was for Dr Williams to be allowed to participate in the mediation. The end result of which could have still resulted in his removal. It was not my understanding that he would actively function as the Superintendent during the mediation - but I could be wrong.
To “Creating Havoc”:
I stand be my count of at least 6 names. I did not say that all of them were critical of the board majority’s actions.
Additionally, I am not a Perry Twp teacher. I am a voter, parent and taxpayer.
Sorry, that should have been …. stand by
To Let’s Think About This,
What is the purpose of the mediation that you are supporting?
Response to William-ized’s post on 12/28/06 You stated that assistant superintendents (plural) could not be trusted. Just to clarify that the only assistant superintendent in the district prior to November 13th is now the current acting superintendent. Judging from the tone of your post, it could be assumed that you don’t trust HIM!
Just the other two Susan. Robots. Yes men, call them what you may. The editorial editor of the Star should draw a cartoon with the supt with strings, handling all the rest of the puppets.
The robots, yes men and puppets have done an excellent job of running the school district over the past decade. The Gang of Four has done an excellent job of ruining the school district over the past 6 months. Give me the robots, yes men and puppets. They did a much better job than the divisive, deceitful, vindictive Gang of Four.
Up with the puppets, yea for the yes men; let’s hear it for the robots. We had unity and sanity. The community (other than the lunatic fringe), the teachers union and the administration were on the same page working together.
Now we have a mess; a mess that will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to clean up. A mess that the Gang of Four and their supports actually think is good for our community.
Perhaps the cure is worse than the infection.
I for one want to kknow all the things the former superintendent is being accused of doing or is being investigated for doing. I think if the citizens of Perry Township knew all the facts it might help to reunite the board with the community. I do not believe Dr.Willisms is “snow white” as many have suggested. So if someone could just let us know what he is accused of doing it would be nice to know. And dont write in that its all a personality thing. I will not believe this. I have had personal interactiosn with Dr. Willianms and I already have my personal opinion of the jerk. but we dont have all the facts about his job performance in the past 3 months before his firing.(yes firing..permanent leave is only a politically correct statement). Many implications have been made. I want to know the facts before i form an opinion about buying out his contract.. Has anyone thought that maybe he has done something criminal and should be in jail..then we wouldnt have to pay the SOB a penny.
I’m working on putting together a list of all the accusations and concerns I’ve read over the last few months. I believe if he had done something criminal he wouldn’t be on “paid administrative leave”. He’d have been terminated immediately. I’m sure there’s stipulation in his contract for that type of thing. We haven’t received any official accusations like you request, which is the foundation for all of our frustrations with the board. If they’ve got facts, then use them and end this for better or worse. Just stop stringing it all along.
I would like to make sure all who visit this site understand that Dr. Williams was placed on paid administrative leave by 4 members of the board. Since that decision, the board has made no further decisions regarding his employment. Perry Township residents are currently paying Dr. Williams without the benefit of his expertise
Of course it was bliss Michael, but procedures and protocol were not followed. Thank goodness we have thinking board members now who make decisions based on what’s best for the children and not what’s best to make the superintendant happy. Unfortunately the mess started a long time ago. It snowballed, and now it will take a while to sort through and straighten out. You can’t blame the current board members. Just think, if it weren’t for them, the state might have had to come in and take over once the infection became worse. I’ll take the cure any day. By the way, my nose looks fine, how about yours? And no I’m not cutting my nose off to spite my face. A similar threat was made by the former superintendant to me in regards to my son being discriminated against. He stated “if you pursue this, it will just make it harder on your son in high school”. Who’s it hard on now? And Ken, what expertise are you referring to? Is it the expertise of not knowing that Cerebral Palsy is a disability and not a disease (as Williams referred it was at a meeting I had with him 4 years ago)? Or how about the expertise he shared with the 8th grade Honors Night at PMMS a few years ago when he stated to them, “Look to your left and then look to your right. You won’t see those students at your senior graduation.” What a great motivational speech to give young people prior to heading into high school. That speech showed poor leadership. He should have been offering words of encouragement and hope not words of despair. Enlighten me on what expertise you are talking about because I don’t see it. Good leadership starts with caring about the people. The building and the money part can be left to the trusted professionals.To me, that part is simple.
I would like to say that last Friday Nancy Walsh took the time to sit down with me and answer a lot of my questions. She knew going into the meeting that I had a different opinion that she did but she was willing to talk. I learned a lot. I will try to summarize some of the information that she gave me so we call all have more.
I am in no way defending her or her opinions but I will tell you that there is a lot of information to digest and I believe it would be very difficult to present that information in a public forum. I spoke with her for three hours one on one and I still thought of more questions later. The problem with the whole situation so far has been lack of communication of the facts and information. I personally do not have an answer for how to fix that problem.
That has been the problem all along, no communication from the Administration. Unfortunately it had to come to this to removing the Supt. to find out more. Should be an interesting, short board meeting tonight.
Renee–
I attended the PMMS meeting you are referring to where Dr. Williams spoke. You have twisted his words and taken the statement completely out of context. His speech was, in fact, motivational, and he was trying to encourage the students to stay in school. I am sorry that you did not understand what he was trying to say. My daughter was a recipient of an award that afternoon and heard the speech. She also read your post and felt that you manipulated Dr. William’s words.
In addition, I regret that you are bitter regarding your interactions with Dr. Williams regarding your son. However, Dr. Williams is an education administrator, not a physician. It is unfortunate that he mixed up his words and said “disease” rather than “disability”. I’m quite certain that you have educated yourself well about CP, as I have also done regarding my children’s disabilities and diseases. I would not expect another individual to be as knowledgeable regarding my sons’ issues, though, unless of course, the individual was my child’s specialty physician. There are even many healthcare providers who are not as knowledgeable regarding certain diseases/disabilities/disorders as the child’s parents because parents often do extensive research. I also would not expect a pulmonologist (lung specialist) to be an expert about a neurological condition any more than I would expect a school administrator (Dr. Williams) to be. The “Dr.” in his name does not stand for “MD”.
I’ve had little interaction with Dr. Williams myself, but it is obvious that he is well-educated. Regardless of whether or not I support Dr. Williams, it is unfair to mock his educational expertise based on mixing up words that do not pertain to education. You admitted on your post regarding the yard signs that you, too, mixed up your words.
In addition, Dr. Williams is still the superintendent, not the “former” superintendent. He is on paid administrative leave. Mr. Nichols is the “acting” superintendent. Frankly, I feel sorry for him being trapped in the middle of this mess. I’m sure he’s afraid to say much of anything. I know I would be.
Renee, Kelly and I all have a few things in common:
1) We each have a child with special needs;
2) We each attended the 8th grade awards ceremony in May of 2005 with our child (I seem to have had an experience similar to Kelly and quite different than Renee);
3) We have become experts in understanding the needs of our special needs child;
4) We love our children very much, but know that others do not understand their needs to the degree that we desire.
I have no joy in seeing children with special needs struggle in school. Regardless of whether that struggle is social, academic or athletic, it is painful to the family. I wish all education professionals took more time to learn more about the needs of each child they serve.
The reality is that it is not possible for all of my child’s teachers to know about his disability; however, it is possible for me to establish a relationship with each of his teachers so that they see my wife and I as a resource; a resource in meeting our child’s needs. Every year we work at establishing this relationship. The interaction includes voicemail, email, notes and personal contact. In the 7 years that my child has attended school here, with one notable exception (a teacher in 8th grade), the educational professionals of MSD Perry Township have never failed to exceed my rather high expectations. This includes regular classroom teachers, resource teachers, therapists, aides and administrators at the building and district level. We have totally awesome dedicated faculty and staff in our schools. No doubt.
It would be wrong of me to presume that every family has a similar experience in our schools. It would also be wrong of me to espouse the process that my wife and I use to interact with teachers. Believing somehow that this means of interaction were a panacea for all families with special needs children would be ludicrous.
What I can say with some confidence is that the negative experience of a few families should not be considered to be the rule in MSD Perry Township. Additionally, I do not consider legitimate the allegations that poor treatment of special needs children is pervasive in our schools or that there is a planful purposeful coordinated effort to ensure that families with special needs children in our schools are under-served.
The percentage of students in our schools with identified special needs is just over 16%. This is comparable to the state average. Given that we have over 14,000 students in the district our number of special education students is over 2,200 (this does not count the RISE students from Beech Grove, Decatur Township or Franklin Township). Taking the experience of two, three or even fifty of these students, though valid and worthy of discussion, should not by considered as proof that the superintendent needs to be replaced.
Regardless of whether you agree or disagree with how Dr. Williams has led the school district, you cannot get warm fuzzies from how selected members of this school board have gone about business these past few months.
Kelly -
Interpretation is a funny thing, isn’t it? My interpretation is my interpretation, just as your interpretation is your interpretation. My background says to me that his speech was inappropriate and non motivational. Your background says it was appropriate and motivational. We obviosly grew up on different sides of town and in different educational experiences. When a person is in education and deals with many children of many backgrounds and needs, it is that person’s responsibility to know as much about all children that they can in order to better serve those children. Someone in the capacity of a superintendant’s position should know these things if they are about all children. I’m sorry if you don’t agree, but a good administrator needs to be aware and educated in all areas that pertain to children. There is no bitterness, and I’m not mocking anyone’s expertise - I see no expertise. I’m just stating the facts through my experience. Disappointed in the “interaction”? Yes, because I expected better communication and answers, not threats and yes, they were threats. I’ve worked with administrators in his capacity and my expectations of the meeting were much higher. Our meeting was very disappointing to me. I expect better leadership and that’s what this issue is all about.
Michael-
We must have been at different awards ceremonies because I’m referring to the ceremony in 2004 for my oldest son. In 2005, Dr. Williams wasn’t at the PMMS honors ceremony. There wasn’t even a speech. Also, I beg to differ about teachers not being aware of a child’s disability. It is part of their job to know. That is why there are IEP’s and 504’s. I should know. I work with around 500 students and of those 500 students around 25-30 have IEP’s or 504’s. I am held accountable to know about each one’s special needs. Besides those 25-30 students, I also have students that I service that are on behavior plans that I am also held accountable for and need to follow through with plans. I was aware of special needs children long before I had my son. It was part of the job as an educator and no I’m not a special needs teacher. I am just like you Michael in that I too have contact with my son’s teachers. In fact, I am that way with all of my children’s teachers. When negative issues arise for any child, sweeping it under the rug is not the solution. How many other negative issues are swept under the rug that we don’t know about? Negative issues need to be looked at and investigated, not discarded and ignored by turning them over to insurance carriers and hiding the cost in insurance premiums as well as allowing the Superintendant to escape accountability for his unwillingness to address complaints and concerns. There should be an open door policy in the Superintendant’s office, yet the door was closed before we entered. Our case is more complex than can be discussed here. I hope you can understand this. I have been taught to fight for what I believe is right, and I believe I am right. Emphatically!
Renee,
I’m not quite sure what you mean by suggesting that we grew up “on different sides of town” or that we have “different educational experiences”. Considering that you don’t know me, it is judgemental to infer that my upbringing or values are inferior. I have no problem with you disagreeing with my opinion of Dr. Williams’ speech; however, you grossly misquoted what he said. It has been 5 1/2 years, so without a copy of the speech, it is unfair for anyone to quote Dr. Williams directly.
He did discuss with the children how important it is to stay in school. He talked about how many students do not complete their high school education, and that their education was vital for their futures. He asked the students to look to their right and to their left and then said that unfortunately, many of these students would not graduate with them if the dropout trends continued as they currently were. He encouraged the students to stay in school, work hard, and to encourage eachother to stay in school. I remember that his words were not in any way derogatory or mean, but instead they were quoted tenderly and compassionately. I left there feeling that he truly cared about the futures of these children and that he truly wanted them to graduate. In my opinion, he was motivating the students to stay in school.
I wholeheartedly agree with Michael Taylor, that as an advocate for my children, it is my responsibility to enlighten and educate my children’s educators regarding their conditions. A complicated multi-paged medical report does not adequately express what is best for my child, and there are far too many medical conditions for ANY educator to be familiar with them ALL. Frequent dialogue and emails with teachers, counselors, and principals have proven to be most successful for us. We have been blessed beyond measure with incredible support and compassion. Perfect? No…but if the glass is half full or half empty….I’ve always been a half full kind of girl.
In my profession, I have witnessed children endure pain and suffering on a daily basis. I truly don’t like to see your son or any other child hurting. One of my children, in particular, has fought for his life and has endured incredible struggles throughout his lifetime. I refuse to allow self-pity, though. There is ALWAYS someone who has it worse, and I stress to him that he is blessed to be who he is. If he points out what he cannot do, I praise him and remind him of what he can do… He may never be captain of the football team, valedictorian, or homecoming king; however, there are many “normal” children who won’t be either.
Kelly I’m not sure Renee was implying any type of inferiority. Just differences in each of your lifes that make your situations similar, yet different for either of you. I also believe that the same situation experienced by two different people can be a very different experience based on their history and the “glasses” they’re looking at life and their situation through. I believe both of you are right and heard it exactly as you each heard, regardless of the way it was meant.
I to believe that Dr. Williams has the interest of children in our schools at the center of his efforts for our township. I’m fully aware that it would be impossible for him to please everyone, it’s impossible for anyone to do that. Are the situations that have been experienced by Renee to be ignored? No, absolutely not. Should they have been addressed differently? Maybe. Could they have been addressed better? Probably. Yet, looking back on any of our lives, with enough patience and perception, I’m sure we could all make lists of short-falls and short-comings in our dealings with others.
I remember the quote from Dr. Williams when he asked students to look to the right and look to the left expressing the likelihood that one of those students would not graduate with them. I thought that this was for the 8th grade awards ceremony (separate from the 7th grade awards ceremony that year) which would have made it May of 2005. Perhaps it was the 7th grade awards ceremony in 2004. Regardless, the theme was staying in school and encouraging others to do the same. It was interpreted as appropriate by everyone (10 parents) that I spoke with that night. Most were unsettled by the reality of how many students would drop out and felt that the illustration forced others to think.
I do believe that there is a world of difference between knowing what is contained in an IEP and knowing the disability. I do expect my child’s teachers to know what is contained in his IEP. I do not expect them to know many specifics about his disability. It is one thing to individualize instruction for a child in a high school classroom with support from a resource teacher and special education aide. It is something entirely different to know the causal factors, therapeutic modalities and specific information in regard to a specific disability.
I expect the prior and support the teacher in arriving at the latter.
It is my opinion that in regard to handicapped students, many aspects of the Section 504 regulation concerning free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) parallel the requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). In those areas, by fulfilling responsibilities under the IDEA and state law via an IEP a district is also meeting the standards of the Section 504 regulations. Because section 504 has a broader definition of disability, there are some students who are not eligible for IDEA services but who nevertheless are deemed handicapped under Section 504, and to whom a district may therefore have responsibilities; however, if the child has an IEP they are eligible under the narrower definition of disability in IDEA and better protected.
Why would you use Section 504 as the basis for legal action when IDEA has bigger teeth and makes for a stronger case?
Kelly, I had no intentions of implying you were inferior. Thanks to Admin for stating this earlier. As Admin. states my intention was for you to understand that people think and react differently to things due to their background experiences. When I refer to being from different sides of town, maybe I should have said from different states or different parts of the country and then maybe you wouldn’t have been so offended. I didn’t mean to offend you I was just trying to convey we interpret things differently. That doesn’t mean you’re wrong and I’m right or you’re right and I’m wrong. We are both right due to our personal experiences. I respect your viewpoint on how you perceived the speech and I hope you respect my viewpoint on how I perceived the speech. It’s okay to disagree as long as it is done respectfully. Just the other day I was talking to my neighbor and we had different viewpoints on some things we were discussing. It was okay that we didn’t agree. We stated our opinions respectfully and we both knew how we felt about certain issues and it was okay. We are still good friends and neighbors.