Update: here's the presentation that Dr. Herndon is giving at the Board meeting.
Early on at tomorrow night's School Board meeting there will be a "Levies 2016 Update" that starts off with this ludicrous statement:
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Testing Kindergarteners In Washington State?
From Diane Ravitch:
A reader shares this information with us. The state will administer
assessments to children in kindergarten but parents have the right to
opt out. Will the parents know? If you live in Washington, make sure you
inform parents of their right to opt out their children from this
unnecessary assessment. Let the children play.
Times Endorses Harris for Position 6
A little corner of hell froze over at about 5 pm today as the Seattle Times endorsed challenger, Leslie Harris, over incumbent, Marty McLaren saying:
They go on to say - in the first sentence - "Voters should oust incumbent Marty McLaren from Seattle School Board District 6 and bring in longtime parent advocate Leslie Harris."
They use words like "detail-oriented" and "analytical" and "transparency" to describe Harris.
They described McLaren as "complacent" and complained that she could not give a "substantive example" of her consensus building at their editorial board meeting.
They mention the third candidate in the race, Nick Esparza, as well.
Swinging back the other way, they chose the candidate other than Jill Geary in the District 3 race. I put it that way because the Times didn't even have the grace to name Geary as her opponent (nor mention Stephen Clayton who is also running).
Voters should chose (sic) Leslie Harris for Seattle School Board District 6
They go on to say - in the first sentence - "Voters should oust incumbent Marty McLaren from Seattle School Board District 6 and bring in longtime parent advocate Leslie Harris."
They use words like "detail-oriented" and "analytical" and "transparency" to describe Harris.
They described McLaren as "complacent" and complained that she could not give a "substantive example" of her consensus building at their editorial board meeting.
They mention the third candidate in the race, Nick Esparza, as well.
Swinging back the other way, they chose the candidate other than Jill Geary in the District 3 race. I put it that way because the Times didn't even have the grace to name Geary as her opponent (nor mention Stephen Clayton who is also running).
Tuesday Open Thread
Not on the district's homepage but of note:
The Enrollment Service Center will be closed to the public from July 13 through Aug. 7, 2015, allowing for necessary new school year system transitions. During this time, students and families will be unable to access or submit online choice or admission forms. Additionally, the Enrollment front counter, Enrollment Service and Customer Service mailboxes, faxes, and Enrollment phone lines will be closed.
These services are closed during the transition to reduce significant backlog, including incomplete documents received during this shutdown period, which would delay the timely enrollment of new students once the updated system is online. The Customer Service phone lines and receptionist desk will remain open to the public to serve those who need to contact other JSCEE internal personnel or departments. Enrollment will re-open its doors again on Aug. 10 at 8:30 a.m.
I'm a bit perplexed as to why Enrollment phone lines/counter/mailboxes have to be closed. I mean they can still answer basic questions on enrollment issues, no? Or is the website supposed to suffice (unless, of course, you don't have a computer)?
The Enrollment Service Center will be closed to the public from July 13 through Aug. 7, 2015, allowing for necessary new school year system transitions. During this time, students and families will be unable to access or submit online choice or admission forms. Additionally, the Enrollment front counter, Enrollment Service and Customer Service mailboxes, faxes, and Enrollment phone lines will be closed.
These services are closed during the transition to reduce significant backlog, including incomplete documents received during this shutdown period, which would delay the timely enrollment of new students once the updated system is online. The Customer Service phone lines and receptionist desk will remain open to the public to serve those who need to contact other JSCEE internal personnel or departments. Enrollment will re-open its doors again on Aug. 10 at 8:30 a.m.
I'm a bit perplexed as to why Enrollment phone lines/counter/mailboxes have to be closed. I mean they can still answer basic questions on enrollment issues, no? Or is the website supposed to suffice (unless, of course, you don't have a computer)?
Monday, June 29, 2015
Summer Food Service Program
From SPS Communications:
The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is a federally-funded child nutrition program that provides reimbursement to local organizations that provide free, nutritious meals to children and teens, 18 years and younger, when school meal programs are not available.
The Summer Meals Program can offer up to two meals per day: breakfast, lunch, dinner and/or snacks. Anyone under 18 is free to come and receive a meal; no documentation or proof of age is required. Meal sites are located all over King County. To find the site nearest to you, call 1-888-436-6392, text MEALS to 96859, or go to ParentHelp123.org.
The Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) is a federally-funded child nutrition program that provides reimbursement to local organizations that provide free, nutritious meals to children and teens, 18 years and younger, when school meal programs are not available.
The Summer Meals Program can offer up to two meals per day: breakfast, lunch, dinner and/or snacks. Anyone under 18 is free to come and receive a meal; no documentation or proof of age is required. Meal sites are located all over King County. To find the site nearest to you, call 1-888-436-6392, text MEALS to 96859, or go to ParentHelp123.org.
SE Region Meeting Tonight
I have learned that an informal meeting on issues in the SE region is to be held tonight.
Betty Patu's meeting to hear from SE Seattle families about their
educational experiences, and for her to share information about work
being done on the strategic plan.
Monday, June 29, 5 - 7 p.m.
Rainier Beach Library
9125 Rainier Ave. S.
Washington State History Lessons will Now Include Tribal History
Update: the Stranger followed up its story with another story about the 29 legislators who voted against this bill. Some of the names may surprise you.
end of update.
In the "what took so long" category, a great story from The Stranger on the signing of legislation by Governor Inslee that mandates the teaching of tribal histories of the state's 29 recognized tribes. The curriculum is called "Since Time Immemorial: Tribal Sovereignty Curriculum."
According to The Stranger, it goes in effect on July 24th which naturally means it needs to start by the beginning of the school year (or so you would hope).
end of update.
In the "what took so long" category, a great story from The Stranger on the signing of legislation by Governor Inslee that mandates the teaching of tribal histories of the state's 29 recognized tribes. The curriculum is called "Since Time Immemorial: Tribal Sovereignty Curriculum."
According to The Stranger, it goes in effect on July 24th which naturally means it needs to start by the beginning of the school year (or so you would hope).
Saturday, June 27, 2015
Times Says Washington State Budget Agreement "in principle" Reached
From the Times.
Apparently this WILL prevent a shutdown of the state government on July 1. No details have yet been provided. The Governor's office has apparently been instrumental in getting both sides to the table.
"They're definitely forcing closure, which is a great thing, (Ross) Hunger said, referring to the Governor's office.
I would be willing to bet that the teachers don't get much of a raise that that I-1351 is mostly on-hold (something like I-728).
From the Mike Klonsky's SmallTalk blog, Class Size: The Common Sense Bus doesn't stop on School Reform Blvd.
Apparently this WILL prevent a shutdown of the state government on July 1. No details have yet been provided. The Governor's office has apparently been instrumental in getting both sides to the table.
"They're definitely forcing closure, which is a great thing, (Ross) Hunger said, referring to the Governor's office.
I would be willing to bet that the teachers don't get much of a raise that that I-1351 is mostly on-hold (something like I-728).
From the Mike Klonsky's SmallTalk blog, Class Size: The Common Sense Bus doesn't stop on School Reform Blvd.
Kindergarteners - C'mon Kids, Get with the Program
Latest articles about kindergarten.
Washington Post's Answer Sheet - A Very Scary Headline about Kindergarten
Washington Post's Answer Sheet - Report Debunks "Earlier is Better" Academic Instruction for Young Children
Boston Globe - Is the Common Core Killing Kindergarten?
“When we require specific skills to be learned by every child at the same time, that misses a basic idea in early childhood education,” she says, “which is that there’s a wide range to learning everything in the early years.”
Follow-Up on WaKIDS assessment story
I asked the district about the WaKIDS issue where half of the incoming kindergarteners don't start school on September 9th but on September 14th in order for parents and students to meet with their kindergarten teacher.
This idea is not in itself a bad idea. It has been done for several years. But I have to believe it is a hardship for some parents to not have their child in school for three days, especially if they have other children also starting school.
Here's what the district said (with my comments):
Washington Post's Answer Sheet - A Very Scary Headline about Kindergarten
Washington Post's Answer Sheet - Report Debunks "Earlier is Better" Academic Instruction for Young Children
Boston Globe - Is the Common Core Killing Kindergarten?
“When we require specific skills to be learned by every child at the same time, that misses a basic idea in early childhood education,” she says, “which is that there’s a wide range to learning everything in the early years.”
Given the wide
developmental variation in young learners and the evidence that early
reader advantages fade, the report concludes that a kindergarten
literacy standard will simply crush the spirits of the late bloomers,
linking school with “feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and confusion.”
Follow-Up on WaKIDS assessment story
I asked the district about the WaKIDS issue where half of the incoming kindergarteners don't start school on September 9th but on September 14th in order for parents and students to meet with their kindergarten teacher.
This idea is not in itself a bad idea. It has been done for several years. But I have to believe it is a hardship for some parents to not have their child in school for three days, especially if they have other children also starting school.
Here's what the district said (with my comments):
Friday, June 26, 2015
Bell Times EIS Update
From reader Eric B:
I was the only person at the Bell Times Environmental Impact Statement scoping public meeting last night (Thursday, June 25th). Somehow, the meeting did not make it on to the District calendar, and the beautiful weather certainly didn't help attendance. There were a couple of interesting takeaways:
* Any alternative that doesn't fall within the range of alternatives covered in the final EIS will take a supplemental EIS. Fat chance of that.
* The consultant and Pegi McEvoy did not seem real eager to add additional alternatives to the list considered.
* The draft EIS is expected to be released sometime in late July for a 30-day comment period.
* McEvoy said that state funding is pushing everyone to a 3-tier busing system, and any districts not on that type of system are getting dinged by the state. I'd appreciate anyone who knows about this weighing in.
* The consultant said that they would look at positive impacts of changes (eg later start times reducing traffic accidents). They did not seem eager to address positive social issues (eg a friend in public health told me that teen pregnancy happens between 3 and 5 on weekdays).
* Part of the reason for including the extended day option is to cover a 7-period day when the state goes to a 24-credit graduation requirement, allowing students to make up time. Equivocation on whether that means that students who are not trying to make up credits could take 7 credits too.
That last one raises an interesting equity issue. If disadvantaged students are more likely to be missing credits, is it fair that they are also required to jack up their sleep schedule to make up? I'm not sure where I fall on this as opposed to summer school, but it's something to think about.
You can give feedback on the EIS scoping until July 6 at arrivaltimes@seattleschools.org. Full project page about the EIS is here.
I was the only person at the Bell Times Environmental Impact Statement scoping public meeting last night (Thursday, June 25th). Somehow, the meeting did not make it on to the District calendar, and the beautiful weather certainly didn't help attendance. There were a couple of interesting takeaways:
* Any alternative that doesn't fall within the range of alternatives covered in the final EIS will take a supplemental EIS. Fat chance of that.
* The consultant and Pegi McEvoy did not seem real eager to add additional alternatives to the list considered.
* The draft EIS is expected to be released sometime in late July for a 30-day comment period.
* McEvoy said that state funding is pushing everyone to a 3-tier busing system, and any districts not on that type of system are getting dinged by the state. I'd appreciate anyone who knows about this weighing in.
* The consultant said that they would look at positive impacts of changes (eg later start times reducing traffic accidents). They did not seem eager to address positive social issues (eg a friend in public health told me that teen pregnancy happens between 3 and 5 on weekdays).
* Part of the reason for including the extended day option is to cover a 7-period day when the state goes to a 24-credit graduation requirement, allowing students to make up time. Equivocation on whether that means that students who are not trying to make up credits could take 7 credits too.
That last one raises an interesting equity issue. If disadvantaged students are more likely to be missing credits, is it fair that they are also required to jack up their sleep schedule to make up? I'm not sure where I fall on this as opposed to summer school, but it's something to think about.
You can give feedback on the EIS scoping until July 6 at arrivaltimes@seattleschools.org. Full project page about the EIS is here.
Friday Open Thread
I have much to say but it's a busy morning.
Threads to come:
- Ron English, where are we?
- City still trying to inflitrate District?
And, of course, the big news of the day - oh happy day - from the Supremes (via the Beatles), all you need is love.
Threads to come:
- Ron English, where are we?
- City still trying to inflitrate District?
And, of course, the big news of the day - oh happy day - from the Supremes (via the Beatles), all you need is love.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Six Days to a Washington State Government Shutdown
From the Washington Democratic Party:
ACTION ALERT: We're 6 days from a govt shutdown. Call these Republicans and tell them<
Steve Litzow (855) 981-2702
Joe Fain (855) 981-2703
ACTION ALERT: We're 6 days from a govt shutdown. Call these Republicans and tell them<
Andy Hill (855) 981-2701"It's time to compromise on the budget."
Steve Litzow (855) 981-2702
Joe Fain (855) 981-2703
"Disruptive" Good When Ed Reformers Use It; Bad When Teachers Use It
In what can only be called an "We told you so, just a matter of time" event, charter teachers disrupted the National Charter School Conference in New Orleans over their ability to form a union. (You just can't make this stuff up.) From one of my favorite ed bloggers, EduShuyster:
When is *disruption* not just a super cool buzz word but something that’s actually, well, *disruptive*?
That would be when teachers at the National Charter Schools Conference in New Orleans ask the CEO of an Ohio charter management organization about firing teachers for trying to organizing a union at his schools—and using taxpayer money to pay the fine when he got caught.
This went about as well as you might expect. And when security arrived, combing through the crowd for disruptors, that’s when things got really disruptive…
When is *disruption* not just a super cool buzz word but something that’s actually, well, *disruptive*?
That would be when teachers at the National Charter Schools Conference in New Orleans ask the CEO of an Ohio charter management organization about firing teachers for trying to organizing a union at his schools—and using taxpayer money to pay the fine when he got caught.
This went about as well as you might expect. And when security arrived, combing through the crowd for disruptors, that’s when things got really disruptive…
So Long, SBAC
From Save Maine Schools' Emily Talmage, I'm reprinting this in its entirety because of its clarity and brilliance. I highlighted what I believe are the most important lines.
New York Times Op-Ed on Special Education
I'm not going to say much to start here but I feel this op-ed by two professors of education, Paul L. Morgan of Penn State and George Farkas of UC, Irvine, is a more nuanced look at the issue than many other articles I've read.
Read it and give me your impressions.
Also, from NBC, a beautiful and touching story about a deaf boy, Zeke Ortiz, who has become part of a very competitive hearing basketball team.
Read it and give me your impressions.
Also, from NBC, a beautiful and touching story about a deaf boy, Zeke Ortiz, who has become part of a very competitive hearing basketball team.
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
City Puts Back Families&Education Levy Funding
Update 2: I'll have some analysis of why the City may have put the money back (it's not normally their way) but if you have some thoughts, please let us know. (Also, a huge shout-out to PTA President Chandra Hampson and the Sand Point Elementary community who were fairly relentless on this issue.)
I'm putting the Mayor's letter to Sand Point at the end of this thread; Emerson received a similar one. The letter had some language that confused me so I wrote to the DEEL office and here are the Q&As:
I'm putting the Mayor's letter to Sand Point at the end of this thread; Emerson received a similar one. The letter had some language that confused me so I wrote to the DEEL office and here are the Q&As:
Some Seattle Schools Kindergarteners Will Start School Later Than Others
The District sent out letters to some kindergarten parents to tell welcome them and given them info on kindergarten readiness as well as a "transition camp" this summer. The letter is dated May 31st but somehow is just making it to parents' mailboxes.
Oh, and that their kindergartener won't start school until September 14th (not the 9th like everyone else).
Schools listed below will delay the start of school for Kindergarten students until Monday, September 14th to hold "Family Connections" visits for Kindergarten teachers and families. All other students will start school on Wednesday, September 9th.
Oh, and that their kindergartener won't start school until September 14th (not the 9th like everyone else).
Schools listed below will delay the start of school for Kindergarten students until Monday, September 14th to hold "Family Connections" visits for Kindergarten teachers and families. All other students will start school on Wednesday, September 9th.
Got It Wrong - These SPS Meetings are Today, Wednesday, June 24th
- Public Hearing: Budget (4:30-4:45 PM)
- Oversight Work Session: Legal (4:45-5:30 PM)
- Executive Committee of the Whole (5:30-7:00 PM)
Washington Charter Commission Announces Forum for Summit
The Washington State Charter School Commission (Commission) will be hosting two (2) public forums in July. These public forums are a chance for the parents, community members, local residents, and school district board members and staff to learn about and provide input on the proposed charter school.
Commission representatives will be in attendance. Below are the dates, times and locations for each public forum:
Summit Public School: Seattle #2
6:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2015
9601 35th Ave SW
Seattle, WA 98126
Commission representatives will be in attendance. Below are the dates, times and locations for each public forum:
Summit Public School: Seattle #2
6:00 p.m. Tuesday, July 21, 2015
9601 35th Ave SW
Seattle, WA 98126
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Grading the Common Core Graders
The New York Times' Motoko Rich today explains who is scoring the PARCC assessment.
So the standardized tests given in most states this year required fewer multiple choice questions and far more writing on topics like this one posed to elementary school students: Read a passage from a novel written in the first person, and a poem written in the third person, and describe how the poem might change if it were written in the first person.
So the standardized tests given in most states this year required fewer multiple choice questions and far more writing on topics like this one posed to elementary school students: Read a passage from a novel written in the first person, and a poem written in the third person, and describe how the poem might change if it were written in the first person.
But the results are not necessarily judged by teachers.
Some are retired teachers with extensive classroom experience, but one
scorer in San Antonio, for example, had one year of teaching experience,
45 years ago.
Oregon's Governor Signs Parent& Student Opt-Out Bill
Kind of a ying/yang reaction from Opt-Out Oregon:
Today, Oregon Governor Kate Brown sent out a media release announcing she has signed House Bill 2655 into law. This is welcome news, and expands the rights of students & parents to opt-out of high-stakes testing. Some elements here have us concerned, though. The statement wrings its hand over the possible loss of federal funding if the opt-out rate gets too high. Additionally, there are elements that point to an ongoing effort to intimidate parents & students from opting out.
Frankly, if educators and administrators don't have a good case to make that parents understand and believe, all the talking in the world on the subject of assessments will mean nothing.
Today, Oregon Governor Kate Brown sent out a media release announcing she has signed House Bill 2655 into law. This is welcome news, and expands the rights of students & parents to opt-out of high-stakes testing. Some elements here have us concerned, though. The statement wrings its hand over the possible loss of federal funding if the opt-out rate gets too high. Additionally, there are elements that point to an ongoing effort to intimidate parents & students from opting out.
Frankly, if educators and administrators don't have a good case to make that parents understand and believe, all the talking in the world on the subject of assessments will mean nothing.
Garfield New Orleans Field Trip Report
I am troubled by my dilemma of putting a link to the Investigation report and/or naming the chaperones and their statements to the investigator. I know these are public documents but it does give me pause. However, someone already put a link to the report so I will as well. Report document. If you do read it, understand that "identifier" means the private school - which we all believe to be Blanchet High School - "student 1" is the male student in question and students 8 and 9 are the girls who were groped. None of the students nor the male student's mother is named. All of the chaperones are named.
Tuesday Open Thread
Another week and no budget from the Legislature. Disgraceful. (I'm marching in the Pride Parade on Sunday in support of Leslie Harris and Jill Geary for School Board and if I see any legislators there, I'm going to give them a cheerful earful.)
If the state shuts down - even partially - it will have real effects on the population. For one, the state parks will close and that will be terrible for those planning their 4th of July. Naturally, the bigger issue, especially for school districts, is the inability to clearly plan spending without knowing how many dollars are coming in.
At the last Board meeting, the Board voted to name the two new buildings at the Wilson-Pacific site. The middle school will be the Robert Eagle Staff Middle School and the elementary school will be named Cascadia Elementary. (It was explained at the Board meeting that the spelling of Eagle Staff's name was corrected by the family and this is the correct spelling.)
There is a scoping meeting for an EIS on the three options on the Bell Time issue on Thursday, June 25th from 6-7:30 pm at JSCEE.
If the state shuts down - even partially - it will have real effects on the population. For one, the state parks will close and that will be terrible for those planning their 4th of July. Naturally, the bigger issue, especially for school districts, is the inability to clearly plan spending without knowing how many dollars are coming in.
At the last Board meeting, the Board voted to name the two new buildings at the Wilson-Pacific site. The middle school will be the Robert Eagle Staff Middle School and the elementary school will be named Cascadia Elementary. (It was explained at the Board meeting that the spelling of Eagle Staff's name was corrected by the family and this is the correct spelling.)
There is a scoping meeting for an EIS on the three options on the Bell Time issue on Thursday, June 25th from 6-7:30 pm at JSCEE.
Monday, June 22, 2015
Maine Ed Committee Votes to Drop SBAC
The members of their legislative education committee took that vote because 74% of students opted out. From WMTW:
Garfield New Orleans Field Trip Report
I will be doing a lot of reading over the next several hours as I received both the report and the exhibits. I have to say - just scanning the exhibits - that there are many contradictions from what I have heard from several directions. It's going to be interesting cross-referencing both.
What I can say is that there are two connecting issues that could be problematic for the district.
One is that it is not clear if the district made an effort to find out the past history of the male student involved. The "admissions form" for SPS does ask two questions about past discipline issues and the parents are supposed to "certify" that these are "true and accurate." What is problematic is that the attorney for the teacher could not get access to this student's admission form.
Did the district know this student had issues (and, in particular, had been in trouble for nearly the same behavior at another field trip)? I have heard that someone at JSCEE did know this but again, did anyone tell Principal Howard or any of the GHS staff?
Two, is Ms. Burton's lawyer's claim that the male student might not have been able to go on the trip and if he had been able, Ms. Burton would have supervised him differently. Ms. Burton has taken students on many field trips during her career. If she can prove that she has indeed handled students differently, based on past behaviors, on some field trips, she bolsters her case.
The lawyer also claims that the small amount of drinking done by the chaperones had no direct effect on the two sexual incidents that occurred.
More to come.
What I can say is that there are two connecting issues that could be problematic for the district.
One is that it is not clear if the district made an effort to find out the past history of the male student involved. The "admissions form" for SPS does ask two questions about past discipline issues and the parents are supposed to "certify" that these are "true and accurate." What is problematic is that the attorney for the teacher could not get access to this student's admission form.
Did the district know this student had issues (and, in particular, had been in trouble for nearly the same behavior at another field trip)? I have heard that someone at JSCEE did know this but again, did anyone tell Principal Howard or any of the GHS staff?
Two, is Ms. Burton's lawyer's claim that the male student might not have been able to go on the trip and if he had been able, Ms. Burton would have supervised him differently. Ms. Burton has taken students on many field trips during her career. If she can prove that she has indeed handled students differently, based on past behaviors, on some field trips, she bolsters her case.
The lawyer also claims that the small amount of drinking done by the chaperones had no direct effect on the two sexual incidents that occurred.
More to come.
Sunday, June 21, 2015
Questions about Friday Memo
The superintendent's Friday memos to the Board are still online - even if they are very hard to find. And they still make for interesting reading. The most recent one is no exception. Very interesting.
Happy Father's Day
To all the Dads, Daddys, Papas, Pops, Old Man and even "Fathers" - thank you for being there for your children.
I always say that if parents send your children out into the world as thoughtful, kind human beings who obey the law and support themselves, you've done your job as a parent (and society thanks you).
It is a difficult day at my home as it's the first Father's Day my sons will have without their loving papa; it would also have been my husband's 57th birthday.
He was a wonderful father and we were so lucky to have him in our lives.
I always say that if parents send your children out into the world as thoughtful, kind human beings who obey the law and support themselves, you've done your job as a parent (and society thanks you).
It is a difficult day at my home as it's the first Father's Day my sons will have without their loving papa; it would also have been my husband's 57th birthday.
He was a wonderful father and we were so lucky to have him in our lives.
Common Core Algebra Test
This was posted at Diane Ravitch's blog and it's the NY State test (PARCC) for Algebra I using Common Core standards.
Guns and Kids: A New Yorker Take
A very well-written piece by Adam Gopnik in The New Yorker called The Simple Truth about Gun Control.
Those who fight against gun control, actively or passively, with a shrug of helplessness, are dooming more kids to horrible deaths and more parents to unspeakable grief just as surely as are those who fight against pediatric medicine or childhood vaccination. It’s really, and inarguably, just as simple as that.
Those who fight against gun control, actively or passively, with a shrug of helplessness, are dooming more kids to horrible deaths and more parents to unspeakable grief just as surely as are those who fight against pediatric medicine or childhood vaccination. It’s really, and inarguably, just as simple as that.
Saturday, June 20, 2015
Calling All Kids - What Did You Think of "Inside Out?"
I went to see it because I do like Pixar films (most of the time).
I'd like to know what kids thought so if yours saw this film, have them write a paragraph or two comment on what they thought - was it funny, what did they understand it to be about, would they recommend it, etc.
I'd like to know what kids thought so if yours saw this film, have them write a paragraph or two comment on what they thought - was it funny, what did they understand it to be about, would they recommend it, etc.
Summer Activities A 'Plenty for Kids
Update: lots of happenings in July at city parks throughout the city.
Let's start with the Seattle Public Library and their Summer of Learning program, Wild Science.
Let's start with the Seattle Public Library and their Summer of Learning program, Wild Science.
Seattle Schools Updates
View Ridge Teacher Takes Plea Deal
The Times is reporting the outcome of a case of a View Ridge teacher who sent "sexually-suggestive text messages" to a high school girl who had volunteered in his second-grade class. The male teacher was sentenced to two months in jail.
He also surrendered his teaching certificate as part of his plea deal but will not have to register as a sex offender. He will also not make an attempt to get his teaching certificate back and cannot have any kind of supervision of children except his own.
Lowell Loses Its Principal
It was reported to me Thursday night that Lowell's principal, Marion Smith, Jr., quit Wednesday withno little notice to the school community. I have asked the district if they knew sooner than that and, of course, how the principal replacement process will be handled. Obviously, leaving at the end of the year makes it harder for the district to easily find a replacement.
The Times is reporting the outcome of a case of a View Ridge teacher who sent "sexually-suggestive text messages" to a high school girl who had volunteered in his second-grade class. The male teacher was sentenced to two months in jail.
He also surrendered his teaching certificate as part of his plea deal but will not have to register as a sex offender. He will also not make an attempt to get his teaching certificate back and cannot have any kind of supervision of children except his own.
Lowell Loses Its Principal
It was reported to me Thursday night that Lowell's principal, Marion Smith, Jr., quit Wednesday with
Friday, June 19, 2015
District Appears to be Following Thru on Closing Middle College at High Point
From teacher Alonzo Ybarra:
We're ordered to pack boxes today, but the struggle will continue. Thank you to everyone that took the time to write, show up at meetings and stand for social justice education. It takes courage for our disenfranchised youth to speak truth to power. Yet they have remained active in the struggle. I will continue to fight for justice and help grow this movement and I ask for your ongoing support until we achieve victory.
We're ordered to pack boxes today, but the struggle will continue. Thank you to everyone that took the time to write, show up at meetings and stand for social justice education. It takes courage for our disenfranchised youth to speak truth to power. Yet they have remained active in the struggle. I will continue to fight for justice and help grow this movement and I ask for your ongoing support until we achieve victory.
Garfield Choir Students Rally Today
Update: according to a comment in this thread, this rally is timed for when Ms. Burton is meeting with Dr. Nyland today.
I have requested the District's investigation report and was told I could have it on June 22nd.
The District put out a press release on the report right as the Garfield students and Friend of Garfield Choir were rising up to support Ms. Burton. A tease of a press release is NOT the full report and to act as though everyone should go "oh well, never mind, move along, nothing to see here" is a wrong assumption on the part of the District.
I have requested the District's investigation report and was told I could have it on June 22nd.
The District put out a press release on the report right as the Garfield students and Friend of Garfield Choir were rising up to support Ms. Burton. A tease of a press release is NOT the full report and to act as though everyone should go "oh well, never mind, move along, nothing to see here" is a wrong assumption on the part of the District.
Friday Open Thread
The month of Ramadan started this week; best wishes to those who are part of the Islamic faith. I remember when my husband and I visited Egypt in the early '80s on a TWA tour during Ramadan. TWA told us nothing about Ramadan and we could not believe how all these people - in May in such hot weather - could be so patient and calm about not eating and drinking. It's a testament to faith.
Interesting story from Good Morning America about a preschool in an elder center in Seattle. This is a great idea and one that Seattle Schools used to do in several schools. They used art/music rooms for elders to come and visit with younger students. The elders would read to the kids and show them how to knit or tell them stories. But the space was needed for other things so it went away.
Interesting story from Good Morning America about a preschool in an elder center in Seattle. This is a great idea and one that Seattle Schools used to do in several schools. They used art/music rooms for elders to come and visit with younger students. The elders would read to the kids and show them how to knit or tell them stories. But the space was needed for other things so it went away.
From the HuffPost Parents section, "10 Reasons Why Handheld Devices Should Be Banned for Children Under the Age of 12."
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Washington Charter Commission Gives First Place Scholars More Time
The Charter Commission - at the end of almost five hours of presentations and discussions - took a vote to revoke the charter of First Place Scholars and the vote lost, 4-3. And at least two of those yes votes are very tenuous.
Main takeaways:
Main takeaways:
Operations Committee Meeting Today
I cannot attend the Operations Committee meeting today but wanted to alert you to a couple of things that appear on the Agenda.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Will First Place Scholars Survive?
The Charter Commission meeting tomorrow morning will let us know if First Place Scholars charter school has met the requirements laid out for them. I do not believe there will be any more chances for this scrappy little charter if the requirements are not met.
Tonight's School Board Meeting
Update: Packed auditorium with SEA members with lobby nearly filled as well.
Kudos to Washington Middle School volunteers - big applause.
Following by big tension after Bernardo Ruiz finished his presentation on the annual Education and Racial Equity. A man stood up and shouted at Bernardo to tell the truth about Middle College. He wouldn't stop and President Carr said she would clear the room if need be. He shouted, "*** you!" to the Board and left in a fury.
As for the transfers of money, I note that the presentation on the movement of money from the Capital Budget to Operations budget changed and asked Ken Gotsch about him. He knew nothing and seemed confused.
I am VERY suspicious of what is going on with these dollars for the Interfund loan and the Operations and Capital budgets.
end of update
Tonight's School Board meeting looks to have one of the longest agendas I have ever seen (and therefore, possibly one of the longest meetings ever seen). There are 17 items on the Consent agenda (which means they will all be voted on at once, whew).
Kudos to Washington Middle School volunteers - big applause.
Following by big tension after Bernardo Ruiz finished his presentation on the annual Education and Racial Equity. A man stood up and shouted at Bernardo to tell the truth about Middle College. He wouldn't stop and President Carr said she would clear the room if need be. He shouted, "*** you!" to the Board and left in a fury.
As for the transfers of money, I note that the presentation on the movement of money from the Capital Budget to Operations budget changed and asked Ken Gotsch about him. He knew nothing and seemed confused.
I am VERY suspicious of what is going on with these dollars for the Interfund loan and the Operations and Capital budgets.
end of update
Tonight's School Board meeting looks to have one of the longest agendas I have ever seen (and therefore, possibly one of the longest meetings ever seen). There are 17 items on the Consent agenda (which means they will all be voted on at once, whew).
Whoops! Error in SAT Booklets means Two Sections are Out
From NPR:
There was a discrepancy between the time allotted in the student test booklet for one of the sections, 25 minutes, and the proctor's instructions, just 20 minutes.
A version of this stressful situation played out across the United States on June 6. Scores will be thrown out on two of the 10 sections of the SATs taken that day. And late Monday night the College Board announced that fees will be waived on the next testing date for students who report having a bad experience this time. That's because a printing error in the student instruction booklet stated the wrong time limit, leading to widespread confusion. A reported 487,000 students were registered for the test, the last SATs of the school year.
There was a discrepancy between the time allotted in the student test booklet for one of the sections, 25 minutes, and the proctor's instructions, just 20 minutes.
A version of this stressful situation played out across the United States on June 6. Scores will be thrown out on two of the 10 sections of the SATs taken that day. And late Monday night the College Board announced that fees will be waived on the next testing date for students who report having a bad experience this time. That's because a printing error in the student instruction booklet stated the wrong time limit, leading to widespread confusion. A reported 487,000 students were registered for the test, the last SATs of the school year.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Last Day of School and Some Good News
The Seattle World School had its first graduating class of students who finished the four-year program. Thirteen students from five different countries were the graduates. The 4-year program has 175 students overall. Congratulation graduates!
(World School, in a day, raised $8,000 to pay for the funeral of Cuong Uong, a student who drown in Lake Washington on June 7th.)
The Times had a great story about the fabulous Ballard High film program that continues to roll on to more awards. And one name - and you better remember it because this kid will win an Emmy or Oscar someday, Leo Pfeifer - was involved in every single film that won an award.
The program won five awards the films they entered into the competition, some documentaries and drama. The awards were given at the NW Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences festival.
As well, two documentaries won awards at the Dominique Dunne Film Competition (you'll remember Ms. Dunne as the older sister in the original Poltergeist). Another documentary won a jury prize at the recent Seattle International Film Festival.
Oh that last day of school - such fun memories. (With apologies to the lyrics being out of order -
To Sir With Love.)
(World School, in a day, raised $8,000 to pay for the funeral of Cuong Uong, a student who drown in Lake Washington on June 7th.)
The Times had a great story about the fabulous Ballard High film program that continues to roll on to more awards. And one name - and you better remember it because this kid will win an Emmy or Oscar someday, Leo Pfeifer - was involved in every single film that won an award.
The program won five awards the films they entered into the competition, some documentaries and drama. The awards were given at the NW Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences festival.
As well, two documentaries won awards at the Dominique Dunne Film Competition (you'll remember Ms. Dunne as the older sister in the original Poltergeist). Another documentary won a jury prize at the recent Seattle International Film Festival.
Oh that last day of school - such fun memories. (With apologies to the lyrics being out of order -
To Sir With Love.)
Seattle School Board Races Info
District 1
Scott Pinkham; so far, no campaign website or campaign Facebook page
Michael Christophersen; so far, no campaign website or campaign Facebook page
To note, I spoke with the PDC because, in reviewing the school board races, I see that neither Pinkham nor Christophersen has registered with them.
According to PDC rules, once you do one of several things - including announce your candidacy - you have to register with the PDC. They said letters are going out this week to candidates in all races where the candidate has announced but not registered with the PDC. The PDC is not an enforcement agency but said that if there is no reply to the letter, then a hearing is scheduled in late July and if no reply there, those names are turned over to the county auditor. They don't know if candidates who don't register with the PDC would be kicked off the ballot but they would be subject to fines.
Scott Pinkham; so far, no campaign website or campaign Facebook page
Michael Christophersen; so far, no campaign website or campaign Facebook page
To note, I spoke with the PDC because, in reviewing the school board races, I see that neither Pinkham nor Christophersen has registered with them.
According to PDC rules, once you do one of several things - including announce your candidacy - you have to register with the PDC. They said letters are going out this week to candidates in all races where the candidate has announced but not registered with the PDC. The PDC is not an enforcement agency but said that if there is no reply to the letter, then a hearing is scheduled in late July and if no reply there, those names are turned over to the county auditor. They don't know if candidates who don't register with the PDC would be kicked off the ballot but they would be subject to fines.
Tuesday Open Thread
Have you read thru the District's budgets?
One funny thing is the cover with "Three Goals - 50,000 Journeys." Last I looked the District was near 53,000 students. What about the other 3,000? Also, page 54, where they show the broad breakdown of "Expenditures" - it adds up to 99%, not 100%. Must be that Common Core Math. And guess who's spending is going up the most within SPS? Central at 16.4% (but they still like to contend they are only 5.8% of the budget with 800 people working at JSCEE).
Important new ruling from the State Supreme court on sealing juvenile records. Story from Crosscut.
One funny thing is the cover with "Three Goals - 50,000 Journeys." Last I looked the District was near 53,000 students. What about the other 3,000? Also, page 54, where they show the broad breakdown of "Expenditures" - it adds up to 99%, not 100%. Must be that Common Core Math. And guess who's spending is going up the most within SPS? Central at 16.4% (but they still like to contend they are only 5.8% of the budget with 800 people working at JSCEE).
Important new ruling from the State Supreme court on sealing juvenile records. Story from Crosscut.
Sunday, June 14, 2015
More Nonsense about the City's Preschool Program and SPS
Despite the fact that most Board committees only meet once a month, here's another meeting of the Executive Committee for June. With just a single item on the agenda. What's that? Why the next City/SPS Preschool agreement, of course.
The odd thing here is that the Executive Committee meeting of the Whole, which was two weeks ago, saw this particular partnership agreement rejected by the Committee to even move it forward for consideration by the Board.
Now the Executive Committee meeting of the Whole two weeks ago never had this preschool agreement attached to their agenda so I can't compare what has changed from that one to the new one.
From the BAR:
Space/Facilities: Seattle Public Schools is experiencing significant enrollment growthand does not have adequate capacity to meet it. Given the opportunity that exists with SPP, the City will be leading conversations to identify space.
I almost do not have to write one more single word on this subject because that statement above should scare every single SPS parent. The City thinks that THEY have the best "opportunity" in the world for SPS and THEY will lead the conversations on how to find space.
I have one word for them on that subject - NO.
This district has so little space that it is insulting to current school communities to believe that the City is going to sweep in and tell SPS where the space is. (I also have no idea what Charles Wright does except work on this project. I mean, he was telling the Operations Committee just weeks ago that he needed $1M for consultant to help him with his job.)
PLEASE - write the Board (schoolboard@seattleschools.org) and tell them NO to this newest pre-K partnership with the City.
The odd thing here is that the Executive Committee meeting of the Whole, which was two weeks ago, saw this particular partnership agreement rejected by the Committee to even move it forward for consideration by the Board.
Now the Executive Committee meeting of the Whole two weeks ago never had this preschool agreement attached to their agenda so I can't compare what has changed from that one to the new one.
From the BAR:
Space/Facilities: Seattle Public Schools is experiencing significant enrollment growthand does not have adequate capacity to meet it. Given the opportunity that exists with SPP, the City will be leading conversations to identify space.
I almost do not have to write one more single word on this subject because that statement above should scare every single SPS parent. The City thinks that THEY have the best "opportunity" in the world for SPS and THEY will lead the conversations on how to find space.
I have one word for them on that subject - NO.
This district has so little space that it is insulting to current school communities to believe that the City is going to sweep in and tell SPS where the space is. (I also have no idea what Charles Wright does except work on this project. I mean, he was telling the Operations Committee just weeks ago that he needed $1M for consultant to help him with his job.)
PLEASE - write the Board (schoolboard@seattleschools.org) and tell them NO to this newest pre-K partnership with the City.
Let's Review Those SBAC Promises from OSPI
Thanks to Ann Donovan for this.
In the "who says" category - #1
Washington’s new state learning standards in English language arts and math (Common Core) are designed to prepare students for career, college, and life.
In the "what the heck does this mean" category - #3
The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium took advantage of each member state’s technical, practical, and political expertise to ensure a blend of everyone.
In the "liar, liar" category - #4
Quicker results - Individual scores will be available within three weeks of a student completing the summative tests.
From OSPI's Smarter Balanced Top 10 Reasons Why Washington is Making the Switch
In the "who says" category - #1
Washington’s new state learning standards in English language arts and math (Common Core) are designed to prepare students for career, college, and life.
In the "what the heck does this mean" category - #3
The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium took advantage of each member state’s technical, practical, and political expertise to ensure a blend of everyone.
In the "liar, liar" category - #4
Quicker results - Individual scores will be available within three weeks of a student completing the summative tests.
Parenting: What Do You Think?
A couple of interesting articles about parenting have come across my desk in recent weeks.
One hits on the topic of "overparenting" or "helicopter" parenting (in all its forms). I'm sure teachers could give us an earful.
From KQED, What Overparenting Looks Like From a Stanford Dean’s Perspective
One hits on the topic of "overparenting" or "helicopter" parenting (in all its forms). I'm sure teachers could give us an earful.
From KQED, What Overparenting Looks Like From a Stanford Dean’s Perspective
Take the Seattle 2035 Draft EIS Survey
They are taking input until Thursday, June 18th (why not Friday?). Here's the one question on Seattle Schools - see anything missing? Here's the survey.
Friday, June 12, 2015
Garfield Student Press Conference on Latest Field Trip Incident
The Garfield student protest over the possible loss of their beloved choir/musical director was held on Wednesday. There were about 100 students, many with signs that read, "Bring Back Burton" and "Hurtin' for Burton." Their statements are included at the end of this thread (these were supplied to me by them). Here's their ask:
We are calling on Seattle Schools, especially Superintendent Dr. Larry Nyland to take into consideration the legacy Ms. Burton has built and her day to day performance as a devoted, caring, and invaluable teacher. We encourage friends, former students, colleagues, and the public to send letters in support of Ms. Burton and her positive impact to the email: superintendent@seattleschools.
We are calling on Seattle Schools, especially Superintendent Dr. Larry Nyland to take into consideration the legacy Ms. Burton has built and her day to day performance as a devoted, caring, and invaluable teacher. We encourage friends, former students, colleagues, and the public to send letters in support of Ms. Burton and her positive impact to the email: superintendent@seattleschools.
BTA IV Updates
I'm going to go from most recent news to later news.
At yesterday's Audit and Finance Committee meeting, there were a few particulars.
One was that Dr. Herndon said there will be a July work session where the Board will see the first project list. He said that nominations can continue to come into the District.
BTA I was $150M. BTA II was $178M, a modest 19% jump. However, BTA III was $270M which was a huge 52% leap. What the notation was on the handout about BTA IV was this:
If $350M, then 30%
If $400M, then 48%
Keep in mind two things.
At yesterday's Audit and Finance Committee meeting, there were a few particulars.
One was that Dr. Herndon said there will be a July work session where the Board will see the first project list. He said that nominations can continue to come into the District.
BTA I was $150M. BTA II was $178M, a modest 19% jump. However, BTA III was $270M which was a huge 52% leap. What the notation was on the handout about BTA IV was this:
If $350M, then 30%
If $400M, then 48%
Keep in mind two things.
Friday Open Thread
The Times has a great story about a student with Asperger's at Marysville Arts and Technology High School becoming valedictorian of his 50 student graduating class. Chance Mair never told most classmates. Good with math ("I can count better than I can talk sometimes") and loving bowling, he went from special education classes in his beginning years in school to regular classes. He will be attending WSU on a full-ride scholarship.
In his speech to his classmates he said, "We choose whether we sink or swim, stand up or lay down, fight or fall, succeed or fail."
The Olympian is reporting that Governor Inslee will be signing a new state law to expand computer science in high schools by creating standards for teachers and students. No word on where the money would come from to create these classes.
By popular demand, at least five people have sent me this article from the NY Times on kids and kindergarten. I absolutely agree with the article and believe that the City's premise of a "6-hour academic day" for their pre-K program may be too much for early childhood education.
Concerned that kindergarten has become overly academic in recent years, this suburban school district south of Baltimore is introducing a new curriculum in the fall for 5-year-olds. Chief among its features is a most old-fashioned concept: play.
Another recommended article is this one about artwork created by students based on their vision of standardized testing.
Director Blanford has a Community meeting tomorrow from 10 am to noon at the Douglass-Truth Library.
Upcoming threads - Garfield student press conference, BTA IV updates, School Board race updates.
What's on your mind?
In his speech to his classmates he said, "We choose whether we sink or swim, stand up or lay down, fight or fall, succeed or fail."
The Olympian is reporting that Governor Inslee will be signing a new state law to expand computer science in high schools by creating standards for teachers and students. No word on where the money would come from to create these classes.
By popular demand, at least five people have sent me this article from the NY Times on kids and kindergarten. I absolutely agree with the article and believe that the City's premise of a "6-hour academic day" for their pre-K program may be too much for early childhood education.
Concerned that kindergarten has become overly academic in recent years, this suburban school district south of Baltimore is introducing a new curriculum in the fall for 5-year-olds. Chief among its features is a most old-fashioned concept: play.
Another recommended article is this one about artwork created by students based on their vision of standardized testing.
Director Blanford has a Community meeting tomorrow from 10 am to noon at the Douglass-Truth Library.
Upcoming threads - Garfield student press conference, BTA IV updates, School Board race updates.
What's on your mind?
Thursday, June 11, 2015
Seattle Schools Has Reversed its Plan to Change Middle School Assignments for Kimball-Area Kids
From Beacon Hill parents:
On Monday, June 8th, Lester "Flip" Herndon from Seattle Public Schools came to Kimball to let us know that SPS staff will now recommend to the School Board that Kimball-area kids stay assigned to Mercer Middle School for the foreseeable future, instead of Washington Middle School.
On Monday, June 8th, Lester "Flip" Herndon from Seattle Public Schools came to Kimball to let us know that SPS staff will now recommend to the School Board that Kimball-area kids stay assigned to Mercer Middle School for the foreseeable future, instead of Washington Middle School.
The District Wants to "Borrow" Capital Money
Hard to know if this is just sloppiness on the part of staff or if they think Board policies really don't mean all they say (just what staff says they say) or if they just think the Board is very dumb.
As I say to my readers, I will say to staff, "Words have meaning."
My letter to the Board:
Dear Directors:
Today's A&F meeting sees the district staff wanting this:
As I say to my readers, I will say to staff, "Words have meaning."
My letter to the Board:
Dear Directors:
Today's A&F meeting sees the district staff wanting this:
President's Education Awards Program
I have no idea if SPS schools are handing these out federally-based awards but, just in case, here's info about them.
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Hug Your Child Tonight
Deepest sympathies to the students, staff and community of Windward High School near Ferndale.
Today, walking back from PE class along a raised sidewalk, four boys were hit from behind by an SUV. Two were killed, the other seriously injured. The driver is suspected of being impaired by drugs.
Please send prayers and good thoughts to this graduating class, school and community at this terrible and sad time.
Today, walking back from PE class along a raised sidewalk, four boys were hit from behind by an SUV. Two were killed, the other seriously injured. The driver is suspected of being impaired by drugs.
Please send prayers and good thoughts to this graduating class, school and community at this terrible and sad time.
Bell Times - Never Mind
Update:
From SPS Communications about the EIS:
This This is a state requirement for large programmatic changes within the District. Legal advised us to conduct the EIS for the bell time change as part of the feasibility study (as they would do for any such possible change that the state could deemed impactful to the environment).
They reviewed the language, consulted our SEPA attorney and determined that this is required under the statute.
We will be speaking to this at the Task Force meeting.is a state requirement for large programmatic changes within the District. Legal advised us to conduct the EIS for the bell time change as part of the feasibility study (as they would do for any such possible change that the state could deemed impactful to the environment).
They reviewed the language, consulted our SEPA attorney and determined that this is required under the statute.
We will be speaking to this at the Task Force meeting.
I could not find the next Task Force meeting date and have asked for it. The meeting is today.
From SPS Communications about the EIS:
This This is a state requirement for large programmatic changes within the District. Legal advised us to conduct the EIS for the bell time change as part of the feasibility study (as they would do for any such possible change that the state could deemed impactful to the environment).
They reviewed the language, consulted our SEPA attorney and determined that this is required under the statute.
We will be speaking to this at the Task Force meeting.is a state requirement for large programmatic changes within the District. Legal advised us to conduct the EIS for the bell time change as part of the feasibility study (as they would do for any such possible change that the state could deemed impactful to the environment).
They reviewed the language, consulted our SEPA attorney and determined that this is required under the statute.
We will be speaking to this at the Task Force meeting.
Olympic View Kids Get Tag Back
News from Olympic View Elementary:
Third graders at OV organized to bring back tag at recess---and won. They collected signatures, held lunch meetings, and negotiated with the Principal. One of the agreed upon conditions was the negotiating team would make posters explaining the new tag rules for the school community.
Principals and Curriculum and Programs and Their Schools
Two items have come up that only solidify my belief that the district has a very odd relationship with principals. I say odd because there is no real way of knowing what the district will tighten the screws on and what they will completely look the other way on.
One key issue is WHY principals make some of the decisions that they do and where they get the stated support for some decisions. Principals say "their community" wants something and yet sometimes the PTA doesn't even know what is happening.
I have found that principals are people with their own philosophies and beliefs about education. The problem is that a school can have a district program in them as well as a stated focus for the school. I find it vexing that a new principal can come in and almost sweep all that away.
You can have parents, on the ground at their schools, telling Ex. Directors and others, "this is happening at my school" and the district will ignore it or shrug.
It leaves parents baffled about what they read on-line about a school, enroll in it and then find it has changed, seemingly with very little public discussion.
Again, parents - if you don't want to be treated this way, you have two choices. One, vote in School Board members who will not back down from issues and questions. Two, refuse to test your child beyond the minimum. (You could also refuse to fund your PTA which - at some level will also hurt the district - but then you hurt your school.)
The three case studies here are from Stevens Elementary, Pathfinder K-3 and Washington Middle School.
One key issue is WHY principals make some of the decisions that they do and where they get the stated support for some decisions. Principals say "their community" wants something and yet sometimes the PTA doesn't even know what is happening.
I have found that principals are people with their own philosophies and beliefs about education. The problem is that a school can have a district program in them as well as a stated focus for the school. I find it vexing that a new principal can come in and almost sweep all that away.
You can have parents, on the ground at their schools, telling Ex. Directors and others, "this is happening at my school" and the district will ignore it or shrug.
It leaves parents baffled about what they read on-line about a school, enroll in it and then find it has changed, seemingly with very little public discussion.
Again, parents - if you don't want to be treated this way, you have two choices. One, vote in School Board members who will not back down from issues and questions. Two, refuse to test your child beyond the minimum. (You could also refuse to fund your PTA which - at some level will also hurt the district - but then you hurt your school.)
The three case studies here are from Stevens Elementary, Pathfinder K-3 and Washington Middle School.
Garfield New Orleans Field Trip Issue Heats Up
Just back from student press conference - I'll report on that later. I so appreciate their caring for their teacher who sounds like a wonderful teacher and mentor. But they clearly do not understand the issues for other SPS parents and taxpayers. They don't believe that what happened rises to the issue of dismissal.
One of the students' main issues is the "outdated" rules about same sex students in the room. They said the boy in question was gay and did not/was not wanted in his assigned room.
One mom at the press conference, not a parent of a current GHS student, said it was a "witchhunt" against the teacher. When I mentioned that it is alleged there was drinking going on among the chaperones, she said, "We're all human, aren't we?"
I'm not sure that some parents and students understand the ramifications of looking the other way. That's a pretty slippery slope.
The district has put out a press release (see below) and there is a media event at SPS at 2 pm that I will attend.
I am disabling comments for now.
One of the students' main issues is the "outdated" rules about same sex students in the room. They said the boy in question was gay and did not/was not wanted in his assigned room.
One mom at the press conference, not a parent of a current GHS student, said it was a "witchhunt" against the teacher. When I mentioned that it is alleged there was drinking going on among the chaperones, she said, "We're all human, aren't we?"
I'm not sure that some parents and students understand the ramifications of looking the other way. That's a pretty slippery slope.
The district has put out a press release (see below) and there is a media event at SPS at 2 pm that I will attend.
I am disabling comments for now.
Heads Up on Traffic Around Memorial Stadium Graduations
From SPS:
It’s graduation week and with it come a few transportation logistics we want to make sure you’re aware of in advance.
It’s graduation week and with it come a few transportation logistics we want to make sure you’re aware of in advance.
Screenshots are Your Friends
Below is good advice on ANY SPS page that you believe relates to your child's academic career or is important information.
Po3 said...
If you have a student who has previously met a state requirement via the HSPE or EOC. I recommend taking a screenshot of their assessment page just in case there is a bait and switch this fall and they try to tell us our students have not met the requirement(s) and remove the assessment from the Source.
Po3 said...
If you have a student who has previously met a state requirement via the HSPE or EOC. I recommend taking a screenshot of their assessment page just in case there is a bait and switch this fall and they try to tell us our students have not met the requirement(s) and remove the assessment from the Source.
Tuesday, June 09, 2015
Garfield Faces Another Alleged Sexual Assault Incident
Tears of frustration, anger and sadness filled my eyes when I finally learned why the choir teacher at Garfield had been put on administrative leave. ( I knew the teacher had been put on leave a month ago but did not know why.)
There was a Garfield choir field trip to New Orleans earlier this year and there was some kind of incident involving an alleged sexual assault on two girls.
There was a Garfield choir field trip to New Orleans earlier this year and there was some kind of incident involving an alleged sexual assault on two girls.
Why Are There No SBAC Scores Available?
Remember when you got the message from SPS that said:
The timing of the state assessment score reports has changed from June to September.
SPS went on to say:
Due to unanticipated delays at the state level, the district will now send score reports home in September.
September is the typical timing for state assessment score reports, but the district this year had initially anticipated they would be ready earlier.
That "earlier" was never June so why they said that I don't know. How do I know it was never June?
I asked OPSI.
The timing of the state assessment score reports has changed from June to September.
SPS went on to say:
Due to unanticipated delays at the state level, the district will now send score reports home in September.
September is the typical timing for state assessment score reports, but the district this year had initially anticipated they would be ready earlier.
That "earlier" was never June so why they said that I don't know. How do I know it was never June?
I asked OPSI.
Shelter-in-Place for Schools near Rainier Avenue South
From SPS Twitter feed:
Shelter in place: Aki Kurose MS & Graham Hill Elem. to due@SeattlePD activity in 4600 blk of S. Rainier Pl. No students injured/involved.
Shelter in place: Aki Kurose MS & Graham Hill Elem. to due
Tuesday Open Thread
Thread to come: the Washington Middle School meeting on Spectrum. Pretty interesting stuff but again, what does it all mean?From the Washington Post, doing some building work on an Oklahoma high school, contractors uncovered chalkboards - intact with lessons - from almost 100 years ago. What is truly fascinating is one board has a technique to teach multiplication tables that was new to the principal (it's some kind of circle table).
From King5, Renton High votes transgendered teen as their prom queen. There was also a good story on KUOW on the issue of transgendered children.
Legislative News:
Monday, June 08, 2015
Seatle World School Student Drowns in Lake Washington on Sunday
Update: please, if you are new to our area - whether from elsewhere in the country or another country - or if you know someone is new to the area, let them know the waters in the Puget Sound, whether it's the Sound or lakes are very, very cold even on the hottest of days. Even good swimmers can have problems.
Sad news from the World School:
Dear Seattle World School community,
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I share the tragic news that one of our students, Cuong Uong, drowned yesterday evening while swimming in Lake Washington. He was a junior.
Sad news from the World School:
Dear Seattle World School community,
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I share the tragic news that one of our students, Cuong Uong, drowned yesterday evening while swimming in Lake Washington. He was a junior.
Seattle’s Families and Education Levy May Minutes
Following up on the op-ed by Robert Crunkshank and me, here the the Families& Education Levy minutes/Mid-Year report from May 15, 2015.
There are several statements made that tie with what Robert and I are seeing.
It's a little funny because there are more staff there than actual committee members. Superintendent Nyland is on the committee as is Marty McLaren ( I didn't know McLaren was on the committee.) SPS staff include Pegi McEvoy and Charles Wright along with Jonathan Knapp of SEA.
There are several statements made that tie with what Robert and I are seeing.
It's a little funny because there are more staff there than actual committee members. Superintendent Nyland is on the committee as is Marty McLaren ( I didn't know McLaren was on the committee.) SPS staff include Pegi McEvoy and Charles Wright along with Jonathan Knapp of SEA.
Sunday, June 07, 2015
Seattle’s Families and Education Levy is losing its way
Remember that Big Picture that I am trying to build about Seattle Public Schools? This is one more set of pixels for that picture. Say what you will but someday - probably soon - you will see all these pixels from a distance and understand the big picture. This is co-written with Robert Cruickshank who served as a Senior Advisor to Seattle Mayor Mike
McGinn.
Last month, parents at Sand Point Elementary School learned that the City of Seattle had decided to slash a $318,000 Families and Education Levy grant they had worked hard to earn. When parents and staff learned about the sudden cut, they rose to challenge that decision. The dramatic reduction to the grant puts at risk teachers' jobs, instructional supplies, a family support worker, and a school counselor.
What was the reason given by the City for taking away the grant funds? It's because the school's principal is leaving for another job. Since this news broke, we’ve learned that the City is also making a big cut to the Levy grant at Emerson Elementary School. For the City to require staffers to stay in place for a grant to be fulfilled is neither feasible nor fair, as no public entity can guarantee anyone stay in any job. What is even more strange is that one school, South Shore Pre-K-8, isn’t going to lose its Levy grant even though it is losing its principal.
This absurd tale is just the latest example of how the City is losing its way with the $235 million Families and Education Levy. The Levy was originally intended as a way for Seattle taxpayers to provide important services that the schools couldn't offer. Now, under the leadership of Council President Tim Burgess and Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) Director Holly Miller, the City has begun to use the Levy to impose education reforms that voters were never told about and to insert the City into school district operations in ways the voters never intended. These changes have jeopardized the very services that the Levy was created to support.
Seattle’s Families and Education Levy is losing its way
Last month, parents at Sand Point Elementary School learned that the City of Seattle had decided to slash a $318,000 Families and Education Levy grant they had worked hard to earn. When parents and staff learned about the sudden cut, they rose to challenge that decision. The dramatic reduction to the grant puts at risk teachers' jobs, instructional supplies, a family support worker, and a school counselor.
What was the reason given by the City for taking away the grant funds? It's because the school's principal is leaving for another job. Since this news broke, we’ve learned that the City is also making a big cut to the Levy grant at Emerson Elementary School. For the City to require staffers to stay in place for a grant to be fulfilled is neither feasible nor fair, as no public entity can guarantee anyone stay in any job. What is even more strange is that one school, South Shore Pre-K-8, isn’t going to lose its Levy grant even though it is losing its principal.
This absurd tale is just the latest example of how the City is losing its way with the $235 million Families and Education Levy. The Levy was originally intended as a way for Seattle taxpayers to provide important services that the schools couldn't offer. Now, under the leadership of Council President Tim Burgess and Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) Director Holly Miller, the City has begun to use the Levy to impose education reforms that voters were never told about and to insert the City into school district operations in ways the voters never intended. These changes have jeopardized the very services that the Levy was created to support.
Middle School Social Studies Adoption
Social Studies Adoption Committee wants, needs, your input: please
inspect the candidate text books and supporting materials and provide
your feedback and preferences.
These are the social studies text books
middle school students will have for many, many years. So, even if your
student is in early primary grades, they will still be affected. Now is
the time to speak up!
Viewing continues until June 18th 2015. All instructional materials are available for viewing at the John Stanford Center for Educational Excellent AND at 5 middle school libraries:
Hamilton Int'l
Washington
Madison
Aki Kurose
Washington
Madison
Aki Kurose
Eckstein
If your students happen to be at those middle school, urge
them to pop by the library and check out the texts and leave feedback.
Their input matters! If you visit the school, be sure to stop in at the
office first to register as a visitor. They can direct you to the
library.
(Note: 6th graders study ancient civilizations, 7th graders study world history, and 8th study US history to 1900)
Poke at Common Core Math on Kids Jeopardy
Alex Trebek doesn't explain it but there was a category on Kids Week called "Non-Common Core Math." The young man who took it on didn't do so well but I think the lack of parens may have made it harder for him to do in his head.
Another Denny Carnival Bullying Story
From Diane Ravitch's column (this is a parent who wrote to Seattle Opt Out:
This spring the SBA was rolled out in grades 3-8, 10 and 11. We were delighted to learn that there were many opt outs across the Seattle School District, as well as in every corner of the State. We formed the Seattle Opt Out Group in Dec. 2014 and have worked tirelessly in the first half of 2015 to inform parents about opting out and the problems that high stakes standardized tests bring with them. We plan to continue our efforts in earnest over the summer and into the next school year.
Yesterday, however, we learned of an event that has us quite alarmed, and we want to proceed in as informed a manner as possible.
Apparently at a Seattle middle school the principal forbade students who opted out of the SBA to attend a year-end school carnival last Friday.
A parent reached out to us and sent us this note:
Here is my daughter’s experience with being excluded from the Denny Carnival last Friday.
This spring the SBA was rolled out in grades 3-8, 10 and 11. We were delighted to learn that there were many opt outs across the Seattle School District, as well as in every corner of the State. We formed the Seattle Opt Out Group in Dec. 2014 and have worked tirelessly in the first half of 2015 to inform parents about opting out and the problems that high stakes standardized tests bring with them. We plan to continue our efforts in earnest over the summer and into the next school year.
Yesterday, however, we learned of an event that has us quite alarmed, and we want to proceed in as informed a manner as possible.
Apparently at a Seattle middle school the principal forbade students who opted out of the SBA to attend a year-end school carnival last Friday.
A parent reached out to us and sent us this note:
Here is my daughter’s experience with being excluded from the Denny Carnival last Friday.
Saturday, June 06, 2015
Highline's Outdoor School
The Waskowitz Outdoor School and the WELS program in Highline School District sound really great. I had never heard of this before.
Friday, June 05, 2015
Washington Middle School Meeting on Spectrum
Washington Middle School principal, Susan Follmer, will be holding a parent meeting about Spectrum La/SS on Monday, June 8th from 4:30-5:30 pm at WMS. It does not seem that AL staff will be there.
Safe Walk Routes for Schools/City's 2035 Comprehensive Plan Update
Good coverage by Publicola over the Mayor's huge Transportation levy and safe walk/bike routes for students.
The group (Seattle Greenways) believes that upgrading walk sheds around the city’s 97 schools with bike and ped safety amenities will transform Seattle into a perambulatory paradise—not just for kids, but, by planning for kids’ safety, the strategy would simultaneously benefit everyone. Disappointed in the plan’s $7 million line item for Safe Routes to School, they called for $40 million.
Mayor Ed Murray spokesman Jason Kelly tells me that despite the $7 million line item listed in the presentation to council, the mayor’s plan actually spends $47 million on Safe Routes to School programs. Kelly says there’s $7 million in the levy, plus $33 million from school zone cameras and $7 million in grants that would complete one Safe Routes to School project at every Seattle public school.
Greenways director Cathy Tuttle says she’s well aware of the $47 million figure, but she says much of that—the $33 million from cameras—is already part of SDOT’s ongoing Safe Routes to School budget, levy or no levy. Tuttle says Seattle Greenways wants an additional $40 million in the levy proper, on top of the money that’s part of the regular budget.
Specifically, Seattle Greenways wants the $40 million to fund a series of pedestrian upgrades—a $250,000 sidewalk reconfiguration at Eighth Avenue South near Concord Elementary, rapid flashing beacons for arterial crossings near Dearborn Park Elementary, and $350,000 worth of sidewalk blocks near Northgate Elementary, for example—in the mile walk sheds around 28 elementary schools where 75 percent or more of the students meet the free and reduced lunch standards. (Seattle Greenways has published a list of $21.4 million worth in projects at 10 specific low-income schools.)
However, Seattle Greenways’s $4.7 million to-do list for Northgate Elementary includes several other projects, including stop signs, speed bumps, sharrows, and flashing lights at arterial crossings. Seattle Greenways has a bigger project list than SDOT because, while Seattle Greenways is scoping out the mile walk shed around each school, SDOT is (literally) zooming in on fixes in the immediate vicinity of the schools.
Any thoughts?
Also, the City wants YOUR thoughts on their 2035 Comprehensive Plan Update.
One HUGE thing to note is that the City may be under the mistaken impression that BEX IV is covering SPS' need for space. (Cue laughter from parents and SPS school staff.)
The group (Seattle Greenways) believes that upgrading walk sheds around the city’s 97 schools with bike and ped safety amenities will transform Seattle into a perambulatory paradise—not just for kids, but, by planning for kids’ safety, the strategy would simultaneously benefit everyone. Disappointed in the plan’s $7 million line item for Safe Routes to School, they called for $40 million.
Mayor Ed Murray spokesman Jason Kelly tells me that despite the $7 million line item listed in the presentation to council, the mayor’s plan actually spends $47 million on Safe Routes to School programs. Kelly says there’s $7 million in the levy, plus $33 million from school zone cameras and $7 million in grants that would complete one Safe Routes to School project at every Seattle public school.
Greenways director Cathy Tuttle says she’s well aware of the $47 million figure, but she says much of that—the $33 million from cameras—is already part of SDOT’s ongoing Safe Routes to School budget, levy or no levy. Tuttle says Seattle Greenways wants an additional $40 million in the levy proper, on top of the money that’s part of the regular budget.
Specifically, Seattle Greenways wants the $40 million to fund a series of pedestrian upgrades—a $250,000 sidewalk reconfiguration at Eighth Avenue South near Concord Elementary, rapid flashing beacons for arterial crossings near Dearborn Park Elementary, and $350,000 worth of sidewalk blocks near Northgate Elementary, for example—in the mile walk sheds around 28 elementary schools where 75 percent or more of the students meet the free and reduced lunch standards. (Seattle Greenways has published a list of $21.4 million worth in projects at 10 specific low-income schools.)
However, Seattle Greenways’s $4.7 million to-do list for Northgate Elementary includes several other projects, including stop signs, speed bumps, sharrows, and flashing lights at arterial crossings. Seattle Greenways has a bigger project list than SDOT because, while Seattle Greenways is scoping out the mile walk shed around each school, SDOT is (literally) zooming in on fixes in the immediate vicinity of the schools.
The levy’s prioritization of Safe Routes to School projects will be based on the following criteria: percent of children eligible for free/reduced lunches, project scoring from the Pedestrian Master Plan, and collision data.SDOT’s list, by the way, also includes middle schools and high schools; Seattle Greenways’ does not.
Any thoughts?
Also, the City wants YOUR thoughts on their 2035 Comprehensive Plan Update.
One HUGE thing to note is that the City may be under the mistaken impression that BEX IV is covering SPS' need for space. (Cue laughter from parents and SPS school staff.)
"This is the power of an informed public."
So says Edward Snowden in an op-ed in today's NY Times.
I'm not Ed Snowden, nor will I ever be, but as I have stated in the past, sometimes you have to be the cheese who stands alone if you are trying to shine a light in the darkest of corners.
Our school district is not corrupt nor is it run by venal people. But I do believe some in senior leadership are listening more to outside influences than to parents, teachers and administrators. I think they may even be trying to be helpful to those outside forces to allow them to seep into and then, take root in the workings of our district.
I think we are back to the old "need to know" basis at SPS - they'll tell you what they think you need to know.
I even think that perhaps the powers that be - given who is running for School Board - have given up on trying to control the Board - they will get control of this district in other ways.
I received an e-mail yesterday from an education writers group about finding stories for the summer months. I never, ever am at a loss for stories. And summer is the time when parents and the public look away and get distracted from what may be happening in the district. The district leadership counts on this inattention.
But with what is happening now, I think I have a lot of work ahead of me.
I'm not Ed Snowden, nor will I ever be, but as I have stated in the past, sometimes you have to be the cheese who stands alone if you are trying to shine a light in the darkest of corners.
Our school district is not corrupt nor is it run by venal people. But I do believe some in senior leadership are listening more to outside influences than to parents, teachers and administrators. I think they may even be trying to be helpful to those outside forces to allow them to seep into and then, take root in the workings of our district.
I think we are back to the old "need to know" basis at SPS - they'll tell you what they think you need to know.
I even think that perhaps the powers that be - given who is running for School Board - have given up on trying to control the Board - they will get control of this district in other ways.
I received an e-mail yesterday from an education writers group about finding stories for the summer months. I never, ever am at a loss for stories. And summer is the time when parents and the public look away and get distracted from what may be happening in the district. The district leadership counts on this inattention.
But with what is happening now, I think I have a lot of work ahead of me.
Sympathies to the Garfield Community
One of the Americans (among thousands of Nepalese) who was killed in April's earthquake in Nepal is Sydney Jo Schumacher. Sydney was a 2014 graduate of Garfield where she was on the swim team and active in the outdoor education club, POST, where she was a mentor to many students. Here's her obituary in the Times.
Also to note, Directors Peters and Patu sent out good wishes to the Cleveland students hurt in an car accident earlier this week. Patu said two of the boys were still in the hospital and two had gone home.
There
will be a memorial service at the Garfield High School's Quincy Jones
Performing Arts Center, on June 7th at 1:00. This will be followed by a
reception in celebration of Sydney's life at the Seattle Tennis Club
from 3:00 to 6:00.
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
There will be a memorial service at Garfield's Quincy Jones Performing Arts Center on June 7th at 1:00 pm. Deepest sympathies to her family, friends and Garfield community who knew her. Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
Also to note, Directors Peters and Patu sent out good wishes to the Cleveland students hurt in an car accident earlier this week. Patu said two of the boys were still in the hospital and two had gone home.
There
will be a memorial service at the Garfield High School's Quincy Jones
Performing Arts Center, on June 7th at 1:00. This will be followed by a
reception in celebration of Sydney's life at the Seattle Tennis Club
from 3:00 to 6:00.
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
There
will be a memorial service at the Garfield High School's Quincy Jones
Performing Arts Center, on June 7th at 1:00. This will be followed by a
reception in celebration of Sydney's life at the Seattle Tennis Club
from 3:00 to 6:00.
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
There
will be a memorial service at the Garfield High School's Quincy Jones
Performing Arts Center, on June 7th at 1:00. This will be followed by a
reception in celebration of Sydney's life at the Seattle Tennis Club
from 3:00 to 6:00.
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
There
will be a memorial service at the Garfield High School's Quincy Jones
Performing Arts Center, on June 7th at 1:00. This will be followed by a
reception in celebration of Sydney's life at the Seattle Tennis Club
from 3:00 to 6:00.
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
Please consider donating to one of the following:POST, P.O. Box 22911, Seattle, WA, 98122.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/seattletimes/obituary.aspx?n=sydney-jo-schumacher&pid=174978953#sthash.YUHqao3J.dpuf
Thursday, June 04, 2015
SBAC Scores Not Available Until September
From the SchoolBeat Newsletter just sent - SBAC scores not available until Sept:
"Expect state test scores in September.
The timing of the state assessment score reports has changed from June to September. These are the score sheets from your student's spring Smarter Balanced tests in reading, writing and math. Last month, the district told families that the score reports would likely be sent home with final report cards in June. Due to unanticipated delays at the state level, the district will now send score reports home in September. Scores also will be posted online to the Source in September.
September is the typical timing for state assessment score reports, but the district had initially anticipated they would be ready earlier. Thank you for your patience as we work with this new assessment system. To learn more, please see our Smarter Balanced web page."
Since I Got the Friday Open Thread Wrong, Free Doughnuts
Well, not from me.
But apparently tomorrow is National Doughnut Day.
- Dunkin Donuts - one free with beverage purchase
- Krispy Creme - one free
- Top Pot
Top Pot is also supporting Northwest Harvest by collecting non-perishable food donations at all 17 Puget Sound Cafes. Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win a trip for two to Hawaii! You can also win a dozen doughnuts a month for an entire year! See you Friday!
- Rodeo Donut (part of Cupcake Royale) - free Stumptown coffee with donut purchase (they are not cheap donuts, fyi)
But apparently tomorrow is National Doughnut Day.
- Dunkin Donuts - one free with beverage purchase
- Krispy Creme - one free
- Top Pot
Top Pot is also supporting Northwest Harvest by collecting non-perishable food donations at all 17 Puget Sound Cafes. Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win a trip for two to Hawaii! You can also win a dozen doughnuts a month for an entire year! See you Friday!
- Rodeo Donut (part of Cupcake Royale) - free Stumptown coffee with donut purchase (they are not cheap donuts, fyi)
Good Luck Grads of 2015!
It's graduation season. It's a time of great happiness and pride for both students and parents as well as school staff. (And some relief.) Congratulations to all our SPS graduates - you will probably never know how many good wishes follow you as you graduate. When we parents look out at all those beautiful, young, hopeful faces, we truly want you to seek your passion in life and then, make a plan and go out there and strive for it.
A couple of notable grad stories.
In Mississippi, several people, including students, received fines for cheering too loudly at a high school graduation. I myself have mixed feelings. While one person describes graduation as a "sacred event," (a description I don't agree with), there has to be some respect for ALL who attend. Cheering so loudly that you drown out the next student's name being called is not cool. (Also, bringing an air horn to an indoor graduation, is also not cool but it happened at one son's middle school graduation.)
(Also, as someone who has now graduated two sons from both high school and college, I have to smile at all the "rules" at the graduation ceremonies versus universities. Roosevelt wouldn't allow anything written on caps nor flowers. Meanwhile, you go to another SPS high graduation and find...messages on caps and flowers.)
Senior prank or just annoying and wrong? 72,000 ladybugs set loose in a high school.
Great senior comment from one young lady.
A couple of notable grad stories.
In Mississippi, several people, including students, received fines for cheering too loudly at a high school graduation. I myself have mixed feelings. While one person describes graduation as a "sacred event," (a description I don't agree with), there has to be some respect for ALL who attend. Cheering so loudly that you drown out the next student's name being called is not cool. (Also, bringing an air horn to an indoor graduation, is also not cool but it happened at one son's middle school graduation.)
Mutual respect at a happy event should be the order of the day.
(Also, as someone who has now graduated two sons from both high school and college, I have to smile at all the "rules" at the graduation ceremonies versus universities. Roosevelt wouldn't allow anything written on caps nor flowers. Meanwhile, you go to another SPS high graduation and find...messages on caps and flowers.)
Senior prank or just annoying and wrong? 72,000 ladybugs set loose in a high school.
Great senior comment from one young lady.
I need feminism because I intend on marrying rich and I can't do that if my wife and I are making .75 cent (sic) for every dollar a man makes.Finally, the seniors at Kahuku High in Oahu put on quite a show including Shake it Off and Uptown Funk and our hometown favorite, Macklemore (I don't recognize the graduation song they start with, anyone?) Naturally they end with a Hawaiian dance/chant. Good job, kids!
Friday Open Thread
Have you kept up with the steady stream of toddlers either shooting themselves, their sibs or their parents? We need some gun regulations with teeth for people who will not secure their guns (whether at home, in the car or at Walmart).
In New Jersey, Gov. Chris Christie doesn't like Common Core (where, previously, he did). Oddly, he doesn't want to get rid of the PARCC test that is used there. Someone must be running for President.
Speaking of Pearson (from the Washington Post), they just had to pay a $7.7M fine to NY State because the "nonprofit" arm of their business
had created Common Core products to generate “tens of millions of dollars” for its corporate sister.
“The law on this is clear: non-profit foundations cannot misuse charitable assets to benefit their affiliated for-profit corporations,” Schneiderman said in a statement Thursday.
According to the settlement, Pearson used its nonprofit foundation to develop Common Core products in order to win an endorsement from a “prominent foundation.”
The latter entity is the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which helped fund the creation of the Common Core standards and announced in 2011 that it would work with the Pearson Foundation to create reading and math courses aligned with the new standards.
Please join Safe Routes to Schools in creating better walking/biking for Seattle's child, both for school and play. More on this issue from Publicola.
Fun map overlay of countries on top of the continent of Africa. Show the kids.
What's on your mind?
In New Jersey, Gov. Chris Christie doesn't like Common Core (where, previously, he did). Oddly, he doesn't want to get rid of the PARCC test that is used there. Someone must be running for President.
Speaking of Pearson (from the Washington Post), they just had to pay a $7.7M fine to NY State because the "nonprofit" arm of their business
had created Common Core products to generate “tens of millions of dollars” for its corporate sister.
“The law on this is clear: non-profit foundations cannot misuse charitable assets to benefit their affiliated for-profit corporations,” Schneiderman said in a statement Thursday.
According to the settlement, Pearson used its nonprofit foundation to develop Common Core products in order to win an endorsement from a “prominent foundation.”
The latter entity is the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which helped fund the creation of the Common Core standards and announced in 2011 that it would work with the Pearson Foundation to create reading and math courses aligned with the new standards.
Please join Safe Routes to Schools in creating better walking/biking for Seattle's child, both for school and play. More on this issue from Publicola.
Fun map overlay of countries on top of the continent of Africa. Show the kids.
What's on your mind?
Wednesday, June 03, 2015
Meet Seattle Schools' Newest Partner - the City of Seattle
It's been a long day so I can only be brief here (but I'll write more another day).
Two fairly interesting things happened at the School Board meeting tonight.
One, there is considerable support for the Middle College High School program, both from community and some Board members. Speaker after speaker rose to support the program and ask that the Middle College High School at the High Point Neighborhood Center not be closed. Especially moving was testimony from a former student, Paul Campiche, who said that these were not "throwaway" students and "people who are the most disenfranchised need the most help." He had been thru the Middle College program, then went to Evergreen and is now in the Master's program at Antioch for counseling.
Peaslee, Peters and Patu (the Peter, Paul and Mary of the Board), in their Board comments, all said they want a second look at this decision (or at least more discussion). The other Board members were fairly silent on this issue. Oh wait, Director McLaren couldn't say enough about how good the program is but then said that she had been part of many discussions and it seemed like two different conversations but "that's all I can say." Very helpful.
One last oddity to this story is that it was noted that the Middle College program in West Seattle was no longer on the South Seattle CC campus and the program was started to align with community college. And yet, the Middle College at Northgate is in the Northgate Mall, not on the campus of North Seattle CC. Hmm.
Two, the Board voted, 5-1-1 (with Peters a "no" and Patu abstaining) to approve the agreement with the City of School for their preschool program.
Again, I'll go into more detail because the vote was baffling given what was said by nearly every single director about this agreement (namely, either just a "broad outline" or "too vague").
When this Board meeting is online, I urge you to go and listen. It was truly bizarre what was said and yet the majority of the Board said yes.
(Or not said, given that not a single Board member, despite misgivings, asked Legal counsel John Cerqui about the agreement). I checked with him before I left - the agreement, once agreed to by the Board and signed by the Superintendent, is a legally binding document.
The juxtaposition of the reality and need for a program like Middle College that saves lives today versus the City/District's unclear road forward for its preschool program was jarring.
Two fairly interesting things happened at the School Board meeting tonight.
One, there is considerable support for the Middle College High School program, both from community and some Board members. Speaker after speaker rose to support the program and ask that the Middle College High School at the High Point Neighborhood Center not be closed. Especially moving was testimony from a former student, Paul Campiche, who said that these were not "throwaway" students and "people who are the most disenfranchised need the most help." He had been thru the Middle College program, then went to Evergreen and is now in the Master's program at Antioch for counseling.
Peaslee, Peters and Patu (the Peter, Paul and Mary of the Board), in their Board comments, all said they want a second look at this decision (or at least more discussion). The other Board members were fairly silent on this issue. Oh wait, Director McLaren couldn't say enough about how good the program is but then said that she had been part of many discussions and it seemed like two different conversations but "that's all I can say." Very helpful.
One last oddity to this story is that it was noted that the Middle College program in West Seattle was no longer on the South Seattle CC campus and the program was started to align with community college. And yet, the Middle College at Northgate is in the Northgate Mall, not on the campus of North Seattle CC. Hmm.
Two, the Board voted, 5-1-1 (with Peters a "no" and Patu abstaining) to approve the agreement with the City of School for their preschool program.
Again, I'll go into more detail because the vote was baffling given what was said by nearly every single director about this agreement (namely, either just a "broad outline" or "too vague").
When this Board meeting is online, I urge you to go and listen. It was truly bizarre what was said and yet the majority of the Board said yes.
(Or not said, given that not a single Board member, despite misgivings, asked Legal counsel John Cerqui about the agreement). I checked with him before I left - the agreement, once agreed to by the Board and signed by the Superintendent, is a legally binding document.
The juxtaposition of the reality and need for a program like Middle College that saves lives today versus the City/District's unclear road forward for its preschool program was jarring.
Executive Meeting of the Whole
The Executive Committee of the Whole will meet tomorrow. The agenda includes this:
Plaintiff is a former student at Nathan Hale High School who alleges that on February 11, 2010,
he was weightlifting at school and sustained a significant back injury. He claims that the District
failed to properly supervise this activity.
This case is currently scheduled for trial in King County Superior Court in late June. The instructor and principal are also current defendants in the lawsuit. Based on all the relevant facts, it is the recommendation of the Acting General Counsel and the outside counsel defending the District that this lawsuit should be settled at this time for $325,000, rather than allowing this case to proceed to trial.
If the Superintendent is authorized to settle this case, a Settlement and Release will be drafted and Plaintiff will release all claims and dismiss the lawsuit against all defendants in exchange for the $325,000 payment.
- also, the Resolution about the SBAC is an agenda item but in a really rough form
- also, an "Alternative Calendar" is there and up for discussion. I don't know what that terms means.
This case is currently scheduled for trial in King County Superior Court in late June. The instructor and principal are also current defendants in the lawsuit. Based on all the relevant facts, it is the recommendation of the Acting General Counsel and the outside counsel defending the District that this lawsuit should be settled at this time for $325,000, rather than allowing this case to proceed to trial.
If the Superintendent is authorized to settle this case, a Settlement and Release will be drafted and Plaintiff will release all claims and dismiss the lawsuit against all defendants in exchange for the $325,000 payment.
- also, the Resolution about the SBAC is an agenda item but in a really rough form
- also, an "Alternative Calendar" is there and up for discussion. I don't know what that terms means.
Arson Fire at Nova High School This Morning
From SPD:
The Seattle Police Department has increased patrols around Nova High School this morning after suspicious chemicals were found outside a gender-neutral restroom shortly after an arson fire was set on campus.
Police responded to Nova High School this morning around 7:30 AM after receiving a report someone had set fire to the principal’s office door. The fire was extinguished before it spread.
School staff then found a chemical sprayed outside a gender-neutral restroom on campus, and SPD’s Arson/Bomb detectives are investigating whether it is the same substance used to ignite the principal’s office door.
Bias Crimes detectives are also reviewing the incident because of the evidence found outside the gender-neutral bathroom.
School officials are continuing classes through the day and working closely with police to ensure the safety of students on campus.
Washington State Charter Commission Gives First Place until June 15th
Update: the process is the Charter Commission really bending over backwards to help First Place Scholars stay afloat. This is NOT the process for revocation of their charter. If these items are not completed to the satisfaction of the Commission, then the revocation process would probably start. (Both the Commissioners and the Director of the Commission have given FPS repeated chances to get their ducks in a row and apparently, the Commission has not seen enough progress on those stated issues.)
end of update
I'm listening into a special phone meeting of the Washington State Charter Commission. The top agenda item is First Place Scholars charter school.
The Commission is giving First Place until June 15, 2015 to finish corrections that the Commission needed to see to keep First Place as a charter school. It is quite a lengthy list of items. (This comes from a 5-2 vote of the Charter Commission whether to give FPS these corrections conditions (5) or not (2). It's not clear to me whether the two Commissioners who voted against the corrective conditions want to revoke FPS' charter.)
This is a draft that the Commission is wordsmithing today.
Since November 4, 2014, the Commission has been working with First Place in an effort to ensure that it is satisfying its obligations to its students and the citizens of Washington. This has resulted in probation, corrective action, notices of concern, and multiple meetings and requests for documentation. It has also resulted in the Commission identifying resources to help support First Place and providing First Place with assistance of a professional with expertise in the field of special education
Commissioners and staff have carefully reviewed your responses to the Commission’s inquiries regarding special education, English language learners and the academic program. Although key staff have been hired, special education policies and procedures have been put in place, and evidence of an English language learners program is beginning to emerge, we are still missing critical information in several key areas outlined below that the Commission requires in order for Commissioners to vote in favor of you maintaining your charter. Several deficiencies deliberated at length at our meeting included:
Let the Commission know that any charter school needs at least two years to demonstrate the school can be governed and operated with positive outcomes.
They also note:
end of update
I'm listening into a special phone meeting of the Washington State Charter Commission. The top agenda item is First Place Scholars charter school.
The Commission is giving First Place until June 15, 2015 to finish corrections that the Commission needed to see to keep First Place as a charter school. It is quite a lengthy list of items. (This comes from a 5-2 vote of the Charter Commission whether to give FPS these corrections conditions (5) or not (2). It's not clear to me whether the two Commissioners who voted against the corrective conditions want to revoke FPS' charter.)
This is a draft that the Commission is wordsmithing today.
Since November 4, 2014, the Commission has been working with First Place in an effort to ensure that it is satisfying its obligations to its students and the citizens of Washington. This has resulted in probation, corrective action, notices of concern, and multiple meetings and requests for documentation. It has also resulted in the Commission identifying resources to help support First Place and providing First Place with assistance of a professional with expertise in the field of special education
Commissioners and staff have carefully reviewed your responses to the Commission’s inquiries regarding special education, English language learners and the academic program. Although key staff have been hired, special education policies and procedures have been put in place, and evidence of an English language learners program is beginning to emerge, we are still missing critical information in several key areas outlined below that the Commission requires in order for Commissioners to vote in favor of you maintaining your charter. Several deficiencies deliberated at length at our meeting included:
- Lack of fidelity to key components of the Education Program under the charter contract including student level data regarding academic learning over the course of this school year;
- Lack of special education services as required by law including a lack of fidelity, and capacity, to implement the school’s general and compensatory services special education plans;
- Lack of evidence that First Place has satisfied legal requirements for serving English language learners (ELL), including a lack of an ELL programmatic plan and evidence that required assessments and services have been provided to students; and
- The financial viability of the school.
Let the Commission know that any charter school needs at least two years to demonstrate the school can be governed and operated with positive outcomes.
They also note:
- The Superintendent of Public Instruction has approved the Special Education Plan and First Place Scholars has had a Special Education teacher on staff since January.
- The U.S. Department of Education came for a two day site visit with three evaluators and found that First Place Scholars and released $200,000 in start up funds for charter schools educating special needs students.
Three Things You Never Thought You'd See Together
Rep. Reuven Carlyle on the ongoing budget issues during the Legislative Special Session:
I have been unrelentingly critical of the 2015 Senate budget that is predicated on an extraordinary level of marijuana revenues. Unfortunately, thanks in part to a quirk of timing, the non partisan Economic & Revenue Forecast Council is projecting marijuana tax collections that are astronomical and, in my view, based on faulty assumptions. This, in effect, implies that the state Senate’s heavy reliance on marijuana taxes is reasonable.
Regardless of the past, marijuana revenues are too new, too uncertain and too unpredictable to be a responsible basis of an education budget.
I find it ironic that on the issue of marijuana taxation it is Democrats–who generally supported I-502– who are more cautious and fiscally conservative and Republicans–who generally opposed I-502– who are acting more like big spending addicts
Carlyle has some compelling reasoning on some in the Senate are too quick to jump on a bong's revenues.
I have been unrelentingly critical of the 2015 Senate budget that is predicated on an extraordinary level of marijuana revenues. Unfortunately, thanks in part to a quirk of timing, the non partisan Economic & Revenue Forecast Council is projecting marijuana tax collections that are astronomical and, in my view, based on faulty assumptions. This, in effect, implies that the state Senate’s heavy reliance on marijuana taxes is reasonable.
Regardless of the past, marijuana revenues are too new, too uncertain and too unpredictable to be a responsible basis of an education budget.
I find it ironic that on the issue of marijuana taxation it is Democrats–who generally supported I-502– who are more cautious and fiscally conservative and Republicans–who generally opposed I-502– who are acting more like big spending addicts
Carlyle has some compelling reasoning on some in the Senate are too quick to jump on a bong's revenues.
High School Teachers on Administrative Leave
One teacher at Garfield was put on administrative leave after a school choir trip to New Orleans earlier this year.
Two teachers at Ballard are on administrative leave.
I normally might not put this up with so few details but there are a couple of concerns.
One, Garfield has had several issues around teacher supervision and school trips. The last one created upheaval around Title IX issues. And now there's another one. Hearing from a couple of parents, there is concern this teacher might not come back and apparently, is well-liked.
For Ballard, it seems odd that two teachers would be put on administrative leave at just about the same time.
But the district will say nothing as "it's a personnel" matter. Again, I get that but it does create confusion for students when teachers suddenly disappear.
Two teachers at Ballard are on administrative leave.
I normally might not put this up with so few details but there are a couple of concerns.
One, Garfield has had several issues around teacher supervision and school trips. The last one created upheaval around Title IX issues. And now there's another one. Hearing from a couple of parents, there is concern this teacher might not come back and apparently, is well-liked.
For Ballard, it seems odd that two teachers would be put on administrative leave at just about the same time.
But the district will say nothing as "it's a personnel" matter. Again, I get that but it does create confusion for students when teachers suddenly disappear.
Inclusion in Schools
Why, what it is, how to make it work and methods of implementing it. A reader requested this thread.
Two items to note. Most of the searches on inclusion and education are around Sped students. But yes, there is a whole subset of research on inclusion and gifted education. I found a very good article about inclusion and gifted education that could be a the blueprint for going forward in SPS. But SPS has not revealed what they are doing or why so it's hard to know if there is planned change for HC or just change.
Let's start the discussion .
Two items to note. Most of the searches on inclusion and education are around Sped students. But yes, there is a whole subset of research on inclusion and gifted education. I found a very good article about inclusion and gifted education that could be a the blueprint for going forward in SPS. But SPS has not revealed what they are doing or why so it's hard to know if there is planned change for HC or just change.
Let's start the discussion .
Tuesday, June 02, 2015
Seattle Schools Waitlist Whoops
As you may recall, a parent had written to me in confusion over how her daughter was on place on the kindergarten waitlist, only to move downward days later. She said something had to have changed.
An eagle-eyed reader, found this new page at the SPS website, Waitlist Order Update, and it confirms what many of you thought.
(Now I note - an issue of HUGE importance to parents throughout the district - and it's not even on the front page of the district's website.)
Following the completion of Open Enrollment, an error was discovered in the priority system for waitlisting students. The distance tiebreaker was inadvertently left out of the waitlist priorities.
As a result, the initial waitlist order was incorrect. We have since corrected the error and placed students on waitlists based on the correct tiebreaker set, including the distance tiebreaker.
An eagle-eyed reader, found this new page at the SPS website, Waitlist Order Update, and it confirms what many of you thought.
(Now I note - an issue of HUGE importance to parents throughout the district - and it's not even on the front page of the district's website.)
Following the completion of Open Enrollment, an error was discovered in the priority system for waitlisting students. The distance tiebreaker was inadvertently left out of the waitlist priorities.
As a result, the initial waitlist order was incorrect. We have since corrected the error and placed students on waitlists based on the correct tiebreaker set, including the distance tiebreaker.
Denny Issue over Opting Out
Sometimes you cannot believe what you read. Indeed that was my reaction to both Principal Clark's explanation of his not allowing any student who opted out of the SBAC to go to the school carnival last Friday. Below is the explanation I received from SPS Communications, along with an e-mail that Director McLaren sent to him and my reply.
Read my reply carefully because you will see why this - is - wrong. (bold mine)
Read my reply carefully because you will see why this - is - wrong. (bold mine)
The 2015 My Best Performance Carnival at Denny International Middle School
In addition to many special activities
throughout the year, for the past ten years, Denny has hosted a carnival
at the end of the state testing period for those scholars who have
given their best performance. The scholars’ effort is tracked
on a form called the “My Best Performance Rubric,” a copy of which is
located in their student planners. The rubric includes categories such
as:
·
positive attitude
·
time management
·
reading instructions carefully
·
making an attempt on every task and persevering
·
resourcefulness
·
using resources and tools
·
written presentation
After each testing session, scholars fill out their assessment of how they performed in all these areas.
The rubric is then turned into their teacher for
review. At the end of the testing period those rubrics are submitted to
administration that accumulates the results to establish the
eligibility list for the carnival.
For this activity, due to the way in which
eligibility is earned through self-reflection and teacher review every
day of testing, scholars who did not give their best performance and
those who opted not to participate for non-medical reasons
were not eligible.
Tuesday Open Thread
Tell your kids about this - those Instagram photos? They don't own them once they are on Instagram AND they can be publicly shown AND someone can make money off them. From the Washington Post:
The Internet is the place where nothing goes to die.
Those embarrassing photos of your high school dance you marked “private” on Facebook? The drunk Instagram posts? The NSFW snapchats? If you use social media, you’ve probably heard a warning akin to “don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your employer (or future employer) to see.”
We agree, and are adding this caveat: Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want hanging in an art gallery.
Safe Routes to Schools needs YOUR help. Here's 10 ways you can make getting to school safer for students.
Great info-map on the relative size of Africa - show the kids.
Congrats to West Seattle High School softball coach, Trevor Leopold as Metro Coach of the Year. His team is on their way to state finals. Good luck, Wildcats!
What's on your mind?
The Internet is the place where nothing goes to die.
Those embarrassing photos of your high school dance you marked “private” on Facebook? The drunk Instagram posts? The NSFW snapchats? If you use social media, you’ve probably heard a warning akin to “don’t post anything you wouldn’t want your employer (or future employer) to see.”
We agree, and are adding this caveat: Don’t post anything you wouldn’t want hanging in an art gallery.
Safe Routes to Schools needs YOUR help. Here's 10 ways you can make getting to school safer for students.
Great info-map on the relative size of Africa - show the kids.
Congrats to West Seattle High School softball coach, Trevor Leopold as Metro Coach of the Year. His team is on their way to state finals. Good luck, Wildcats!
What's on your mind?
 | |||
| Madison Middle School's trophies (first/second place) at Music in the Parks in Silverwood, Idaho.The hotel manager noted that this was the most polite and respectful group of young people they have ever had stay at the hotel. |
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