thatwoman.files.wordpress.com … · Web viewMost buildings are high with the little ones, ... ” In Lorain City Schools, ... use fake names that cannot be traced

1. on 06 Sep 2007 at 12:52 pm 176.Kyle Gaskell said …

P.S. To all all of you mothers with young children, I have enjoyed reading about your get togethers and how much work it is at home! Do you hear that guys! For reasons I won’t get in to, I stayed home the first 14 yrs of my children’s lives. Had been a career girl with two large corporations. Found out the more I made, the more we spent.

Enjoy this time with the little ones. I would not change a thing regarding my desision. But do stay busy and volunteer if you can. The problem only arose AFTER all those years home and then trying to compete for work in business.

Good luck to all–I REALLY miss those days.

2. on 06 Sep 2007 at 1:05 pm 177.Little Dudz said …

It has been funny, My hubby and I used to have everything 50/50, he would cook-me the dishes, he cleaned floors-i dusted, all chores were split in half, but now i am doing it all!! His hours of work each day haven’t changed that much, but here i am big and pregnant “playing house.” I wonder how moms do it that teach and do it all at home. I can’t imagine. I am tired!!!! However, the conditions at the elementary schools don’t seem appealing either. The no-break for planning in the middle of the day is crazy!


HI! I have a question for anyone that can answer this one. I was looking at the treasurer’s forecast, and the Employee benefits-retirement/insureance did not go down significantly for the upcoming school year. You would think with the drastic amount of cuts that have occurred, that number would be lower for the next few years, but it is not. Anyone know what is up with that?

4. on 06 Sep 2007 at 2:17 pm 179.Devastated said …

I wondered that myself Dudz…

5. on 06 Sep 2007 at 3:41 pm 180.stressed out said …

It is horrible working all day with no break. I know I should be thankful that I have a job, but today I was totally frustrated with being twith the kids all day. Dealing with 25 kindergartners all day with only 30 min lunch stinks.

6. on 06 Sep 2007 at 3:49 pm 181.Loraine Ritchey said …

Re 166 R and B .I hope everything that was said was falttering Big and Kelly answered the imhohopefully the wom has transferred servers now and we can get back to “normal????” Loraine

7. on 06 Sep 2007 at 3:50 pm 182.Toodles said …

Yes, this situation is ridiculus!!!! I feel bad complaining because I do have a job, however, if we stop complaining, then the community will think everything is great. This is far from fair. Our days are not what our contract states, and many class sizes are overloaded. The only way to solve this problem is to bring back itinerants and at least 30 elementary teachers to cover the elementary schools and middle schools. If TPTB claim we have no money, then find some!! Little Dudz-I was also looking over that report and it really makes no sense at all. My brother is an accountant and I have printed it off for him to look over. I find many things on that report interesting. Plus, I would like to know where all of the money is going with the recent cuts that have been made-building closures, Data job, etc.


Thanks Toodles-It is nice to know that veteran teachers are watching out for us.

9. on 06 Sep 2007 at 4:22 pm 184.tired and sad said …

We are only into the 8th day of school. I’m exhausted, irritable, cranky and mad…..and my ankle hurts from being changed to my desk all day!!! Can’t even get to a microwave to warm up my lunch that i eat at my desk while dealing with students, phones, sick and injured kids, parents and anything else you can think of.


Should be chained. See my mind is gone!!!


You elementary teachers who have no breaks must be saints. At least in middle school and high school you can go in between classes. My bladder hurts just thinking of you.


So get this one, a friend of mine was reprimanded for not checking her mailbox before the end of the day to send home a notice. And when was she supposed to do this? Maybe those notices should have been in the boxes prior to the start of the day, since teachers have NO TIME between the start of the day and dismissal time. Heaven forbid she work in her classroom grading papers while eating lunch so that she can get stuff done, now she is expected to check her mailbox during that time too? GET A CLUE, THERE IS NO TIME!!!! This horrible situation needs to change soon. This is more than UNFAIR LABOR PRACTICE, this is torture!!! It is almost as if they are trying to burn us out on purpose. Why isn’t TPTB doing anything to fix this, FIND THE MONEY!!! There does not need to be a 5 million dollar plus at the end of 2010. I am not an accountant, so I am also confused by this spreadsheet, but I am having my brother look into this stuff. I am

not quite understanding that at all. Let’s bring back some TEACHERS/NURSES/CUSTODIANS, we need to staff these buildings properly!


How are the elem schools handling the copier situation? They obviously have no $ to purchase more, so I am assuming there is a loooooooong line iether before or after school. It is unproductive for poor teachers to have to stand in line to use the copier.


Sorry, meant either. That one poster ALWAYS gets on us for misspelled words. I am just not a good keyborder or is it key boarder????!!!??


Kyle.. Stop worrying about misspellings.. We are all human beings and not perfect. This is not a formal paper and we shouldn’t be criticized by our peers in this way… I would like to think we are all adults here.


Yes, the copier situation is a WASTE OF TIME. We are all trying to copy at the same time, before or after school. You can not stagger it throughout the day the way we used to, which was more productive of our time. This district is simply not being managed properly, of course maybe they will spend 120 thousand and higher a “manager” just like they did the “energy czar” which obviuously did not help us out much!


Sorry hire not higher, I am just so furious about everything lately I am typing with such PASSION!


Higher, that is my laugh for the day! At Washington we got little notices if we forgot to shut our computer down, and yet they jacked up the air conditioning soooo high, I needed to wear sweaters in the summer or go outside for a minute to warm up.


Can’t we do something to change/help this entire fiasco. I know we can file grievences, but we all know that won’t help and least not now. Some of us are working so outside of our contract….even though we have been working without one since June 06. Not getting any answers or return calls from my union. How long do we work under these conditions before something is done. There is not enough time in a day to complete most jobs that

need to be. I am really sick and tired of all of it. I am all for picking up the slack for the kids, believe me or I wouldn’t still be there. I really hate to complain, because I consider myself lucky to have a job. But we can only do so much with what were given. Which isn’t much!

20. on 06 Sep 2007 at 8:19 pm 195.boat mama said …

DevastatedDid you get the email that you requested/ I forwarded it yesterday.


Boat Mama… How rude of me.. Yes, and I appreciate it so much.. I apologize for not responding… Thanks so much… Keep in touch..


I thought that was quite rude, butt I’m letting it go.


that is becasue you are such a great friend… hahaha


Your right, I am nice. We may be needing a K. We will be over by 5 pumpkins on Mon. I’ll let them know you are interested…It’s fun all day long, no break, 1/2 hour lunch, little people poking and following you around.


Most buildings are high with the little ones, I could not imagine 36 1st graders or 30 kindergarteners, NO THANK YOU! The uppers are much more managable, (however still difficult with no breaks-trust me- oh and they have bigger bodies so they are all shoving eachother around in these rooms) but hey, let’s cram in the little ones so that they won’t get the reading skills they NEED, and then blame the teachers when the test scores stink. Sooooo typical. If anyone points a finger at us, I will LOSE IT!

26. on 06 Sep 2007 at 9:08 pm 201.Bob said …

I heard screaming today…coming from down the hall. All students stopped because it was really intense (you know how they respond to others being yelled at). Soon after…a teacher asked for the principal to come to the room and remove two students (apparently they were fighting). The request sat out there on the walkie-talkie unanswered for a long time. The teacher kept calling and calling. It was obviously a cry for help and noone was available. Later I found out that they were having an emergency in the clinic and there

was no nurse (this emergency definately required one). At the same time the principal had lunch room duty. This is the situation that we have all been anticipating. Not enough hands to handle the situations as they arise. I am putting it out there because I want TPTB to read this and see what is happening inside the buildings. Obviously noone died or continued to beat the crap out of each other…oh and everyone got to finish lunch…but this is life in the buildings. Does someone need to get hurt before they see what is wrong with their plan to cut 15 million in one year. What the he%$ are they thinking?


Why don’t all you overworked and under appreciated teachers call off sick on the same day. Sort of as a “protest” for your working conditions. Could you get in trouble or are you entitled to a personal day of “rest”.????

28. on 06 Sep 2007 at 9:32 pm 203.Bob said …

I reread my posting and wanted it to be clear that all of these things happened at once. I want all readers to know that the principal and all staff involved did all they could. But we were understaffed for the situation. So on day 8 of school we have simultanious emergencies. Interesting that it did not take long and I am sure mine is not the only building that has had this sort of situation.


Can you EVEN imagine what will happen during stressful times, like testing, or Holidays, OR Full Moons, OR SPRING when the kids always get wound up????

This is the time of year children are typically still on better behavior because everything is still new and fresh.. wait until they get bored… This is so unbelievable to me that this is being allowed to happen..

30. on 06 Sep 2007 at 9:48 pm 205.Ruffled and Baffled said …

Here’s one for you Kyle-I happen to know one counselor at the elementary is being used for lunch duty. I know you know that grant. What’s up with this?


Those teachers who are stressed-quit saying you’re sorry and you’re greatful you have a job. It is an unrealistic and highly stressful situation you have been put into. And the WOM is a place to express your feelings. I know it has helped me through this time and I’ve had the chance to make new friends.Loraine #181-of course it was only flattering talk. We like your humor. You should join us at one of our lunches.

32. on 06 Sep 2007 at 9:53 pm 207.hopeful said …

Did that counselor agree to that? Or was she ordered to? WOW!


I know the principal-bullied or lied to to do it.


WTF with this accounting of paying for the 67 teachers brought back. First they were going to get the money because they closed Lorain Middle, Fairhome and all the benefits they no longer had to pay. Now benefit amount is changed much? Then they laid off 14 paraprofessional and tech. to help pay for the 67. Now they closed Homewood. Never said about that money. Got rid of accountability director and communicataions. What about those salaries? What about the million they said they cut from admin. over the summer? How is that a cut when all those people are doing different positions? Those teachers must be making more than the superintendent.


OOPS -meant to say Now benefit amount isn’t changed much

36. on 06 Sep 2007 at 10:21 pm 211.my head may explode said …

It’s not only the teachers who are stressed and pulling their hair out. It’s the principals, nurses, secretaries, ISS aides (who only have a few more days and then they are gone), and cleaners. Everyone in the building!! They even cut some from aramark. Most of the elementary schools closed the snack area. This is insane. We can’t operate the schools. It CANNOT be done! Can anyone hear me?


From what I know, the counselor doing lunch duty would have to be either Nancy Mowrey who is filling in for my replacement who is on maternity leave, or a fellow at Masson who came from another middle school counseling position.

It’s weird, but we are signed up with the same contract as a teacher, and that does NOT include lunch duty. Last year I would go in to lunch room to mingle with kids and them pull them out to my office for needed consultations and discussions.

This elementary counseling grant STIPULATES that the counselor meet with EACH and EVERY class at least once a month to give a lesson from the grant. However, with the lack of enough time for teachers as it is, and no library itinerents, I do not see how this grant can be carried out. That would be asking teachers to give up 45 minutes–it means a sacrifice in another important subject. The way Lorain does things, they will probably loose this Grant afer this year. Elain Banks failed last year to follow through with HER

part in bringing in community leaders to sit on its board–but she not only gets away with things–she seems to get rewarded.

I have an interview tomorrrow for an elementary position in Cuyahoga Co. I have to believe anything is better than the way we have been treated in Lorain.


206 thanks just a heads up apparently the recent comments may not transfer over when the server transfers everything up til Sept 5th has been transfered but whilst we are on the bubble .well who knows ……. so if there is anything you want to copy and save do so now …..the next 24 hours will be iffy ( but aren’t they always ) Loraine


You’re right Kyle-it is one of the two you mentioned. You know both principals involved. Hmm-which one bullies and isn’t forthright? I’m sure you figured it out by now.I’ll be thinking of you. Any students that get you will be lucky.


Good Luck tomorrow Kyle.. I will be thinking about you and wishing you luck…


Senor-I’ve read cover to cover and can’t find anything about that question, but I’m sure I read about that ten days somewhere. I’ll be seeing people tomorrow. I’ll keep on it.


Little Dudz read that to me today… She said it was under the section about Rif’s and the stipulations about being taken off the RIF list…


Thanks for your well wishes, but there is much competition. If this doesn’t pan out, I’m really going full ahead with that image consuting venture–already have my web domain. I think it could be a blast!

Well, night, night. Gotta be sharp 4 tomorrow.

Oh yea, the principal I worked for is a GEM!


question: Why does the School Website still boast 10,000 students in the district??? you would think they would update that at some point….


Kyle-knew you would figure it out.

Devastated, where did Dudz find it? Under the old or the new?

46. on 06 Sep 2007 at 10:49 pm 221.hopeful said …

Updating the website was probably a job belonging to one of the techs who were cut…


not sure…. Hopefully Dudz will read this and chime in…. I guess it wouldn’t matter right?? If there wasn’t a change in the old contract, there wouldn’t be an addendum change to the new one… right?? or am I totally off base??

48. on 06 Sep 2007 at 10:56 pm 223.Out of Work said …

What about 10 days are you trying to find in the contract?


No that is correct. I just asked old or new so I could find it easier. But I’m guessing old since I didn’t go through that one cover to cover. It’d be nice to hear from Dudz, but with any luck she’ll be getting some rest.Does she have a laptop for when she goes into labor? How will we know?

50. on 06 Sep 2007 at 11:27 pm 225.casey said …

#201 - BobI think this sort of thing should be sent as a letter to the Journal. In fact, I can’t believe there aren’t all kinds of letters being sent to the Uri… er I mean Journal about all the problems the schools are having. Maybe there has been a flood of mail and the paper is ignoring it. I imagine the Chronicle would print the information. While there are a lot of people reading the WOMblog, there are too many out there who don’t even know about it. If all of you who have actually experienced what’s going on in the schools write in to the newspapers, maybe some good would come from it.

I’m a former teacher who went through a few strikes back in the day, but never experienced anything like what’s happening now.

51. on 06 Sep 2007 at 11:32 pm 226.casey said …

Just went to the LCS website and was looking at the information about the Endowment Fund–“Providing More Than $6000,000 to Enhance Student Achievement Since 1982″. Now, I wasn’t a math teacher, but how much money is $6000,000 really?

52. on 07 Sep 2007 at 12:42 am 227.Veteran Teacher said …

#170…curiosus…interesting piece you gave us regarding “fair share fees” and Ohio law. I see the date it was effective was 3-1-1990. I am trying to calculate if LEA “Fair Share” was instituted prior to that piece of law or about that same time…does anyone know that answer?

#175…Kyle…It sounds like to me, Mrs. Sanchez is not as familiar with the LEA contract as she thinks she is. She has stated other things incorrectly as well in accordance with the contract, so that does not surprise me. Unfortunately, you would not have known that at the time.

#187…Toodles…You have got to be kidding me about the reprimand for not checking mailbox…was this a verbal or a written? I hope your friend called the LEA and informed them.

#205…Ruffled and Baffled…I hope that counselor told whoever put them on lunch duty that it was a violation of the contract and that they were going to file a grievance…if not…I hope someone tells them to do it.

This makes me crazy that SOME principals continue to carry on the Dee Morgan days with intimidation tactics and orders. Some people never learn…but one day, it will come back to bite them.

53. on 07 Sep 2007 at 5:16 am 228.Little Dudz said …

Page 45 c #4 of the old contract, which was not changed so we should be able to follow that one. (of course apparantly the contract is not being followed anyways, so who knows if they would honor this part!)If you have temporary work it looks like you have an additional 15 days to report. Of course that time would be unpaid, but at least it would give you time to look for daycare, plan bus pick up for kids, etc. They can’t expect us to drop everything because they finally decided to get they s*** together!


Kyle-Good luck on the interview, TRUST ME anything is better than Lorain right now!!!!!!!! Let us all know how it goes, my fingers and toes are crossed for you!

55. on 07 Sep 2007 at 7:13 am 230.Devastated said …

out of work:

We are trying to figure out, contractually, how many days a Rif’d teacher has to report to the new position once they are called. A lot of us have to find babysitting, etc.

56. on 07 Sep 2007 at 9:22 am 231.20/20 vision said …

15 days…it is in the contract.

57. on 07 Sep 2007 at 9:30 am 232.20/20 vision said …

It is on p.44 of the blue contract book, number 22.10B. Notification by certified, and 15 days to accept position, unless of course the new memorandum of understanding negates it? A union question, …..


On page 45 I read it as: you have 10 days to report unless you have temp. employment somewhere else, then you have 10 plus 15. That is what I believe it to say.

59. on 07 Sep 2007 at 1:58 pm 234.numbers game said …

When are they going to make call backs??!! The “long-term/short-term sub” positions were supposed to be for 10 days. Monday will be the 10th day, surely by now TPTB realize how many students they actually have and in what buildings the additional trachers are needed.

According to the Chronicle Atkinson is quoted as saying

“At Palm Elementary, a fourth-grade class had 38 students in it, which was the most in the district’s elementary schools, but a substitute teacher will be brought in today to take about half the class, said Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson, who took over the district Aug. 1.

Atkinson said the substitute is only a temporary solution, and she will wait until next week to see how many students are actually enrolled. If enough students attend, the district will get more money from the state, which will allow some of the laid-off teachers to be recalled, she said.

“We’re watching the numbers across the district and giving them a chance to peak,” she said.”

Come on Dr. Atkinson, do what’s right here and help everyone from students, parents, teachers, and principals get their lives back. This has been going on for over 90 days already - let’s get it together pronto!

60. on 07 Sep 2007 at 2:18 pm 235.Out of Work said …

I agree, if the numbers are still too large in some of the classes at this point, fix it! The kids are here, be glad. Now get some more teachers to make the class sizes meet the union contract. It is what is best for everyone. Fix it before we run off any more of our students.

61. on 07 Sep 2007 at 4:45 pm 236.secrets said …

I heard today that many meetings were going on over at Charleston involving certified staff. Things are much much worse than we were led to believe. Numbers, numbers, numbers is the topic of conversation. They are talking many more cuts, but where, I wonder?


How can things be worse than they already are? I wonder. . . . Hey Devastated, I take it there have been no call-backs huh? I thought today, maybe, but I guess not?


No.. nothing… I wonder how things could be worse and where more cuts could possibly be made…

64. on 07 Sep 2007 at 5:30 pm 239.I Wonder... said …

I heard about 12 teachers being called back.

65. on 07 Sep 2007 at 5:36 pm 240.Froggy's Mom said …

That would be nice!


I think there are 12 of those “short-term” subs, so you would logically think those would be filled, but seriously, this is Lorain, and they might try to get away with keeping those as subs!


I can’t imagine them not calling back more teachers, however, I never imagined them not following the contract to this extent either, soooooo I guess I am always way off base. I can’t possible imagine where more cuts could be made, except at the top! Also, the school with the medical incident, did the secratary call 911, because I think that if that happens again we as staff need to cover our own behinds. I don’t want something serious to happen to one of my students and then have myself be blamed for it, so you know what, call 911 and let the emergency crew deal with it since obviously we are understaffed! Some of these kids have serious medical issues that need to be addressed

immediately, and if it comes down to a life/death situation, their safety and life is number one!!!!!


As far as “things being much worse”. I gathered they are talking about finances. “THERE IS NO MONEY” is what TPTB are referring to.


Breakfast at our building again was a total fiasco. This ain’t gonna work. Secretarys are being hounded by Charleston for numbers….that aren’t being reported on time. They are doing the best they can with everything thrown on them. I guess giving 110% is not gonna be enough this time around.

70. on 07 Sep 2007 at 6:49 pm 245.betty said …

I went to my son’s open house last night (we live in Cuyahoga Co.), and spent the entire time thinking, “I’m so glad I took him out of Lorain schools.” My son attended Lakeview for preschool and Kindergarten because I wanted him to experience a diverse school setting, and I knew Lakeview was a really good little school (I’m sure it still is). I was amazed at the positive school atmosphere at his new school, the pleasant working environment, etc., etc. It was like night and day comparing his school to Lorain elementaries and what those poor teachers are experiencing. Working all day with only a 30 minute lunch? It’s criminal. I’m so glad my children aren’t going to Lorain schools anymore. I can’t imagine how grumpy I would feel if I couldn’t even pee during the school day. It’s unacceptable. I’m so glad my son’s teacher doesn’t have to deal with all of that B.S. I feel for all of the elementary teachers in our district.


I foresee there will be a lot of sick days used for mental health days within the district.

72. on 07 Sep 2007 at 7:00 pm 247.Stephanie said …

I put this in another post filled with great and inspirational quotes but it probably fits better here

“In Germany, they came first for the Communists, And I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t aCommunist;And then they came for the trade unionists, And I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a trade unionist;And Then they came for the sick, the so-called incurables, and I didn’t speak up,because I wasn’t mentally ill.And then they came for the Jews, And I didn’t speak up because I wasn’t a Jew;

And then . . . they came for me . . . And by that time there was no one left to speak up.”Pastor Martin Niemöller

Another version:

” In Lorain City Schools, first they cut the fine arts and I didn’t say anything because I didn’t value the fine arts;And then they cut PE and I didn’t say anything because I’m a couch potato and I don’t see the need;And then they cut the librarians and I didn’t say anything because the movie was soooo much better;Then they cut elementary counselors and I didn’t say anything because they deal with so few children and mine aren’t screwed up;And then they cut the elementary teachers and I didn’t say anything because a few more in each class won’t hurt;And then they cut the Preschool and I didn’t say anything because my children are grown and there is always Sesame Street;And then they cut the nurses and I didn’t say anything because the secretaries can handle it…oops I forgot they cut them too;And then they cut the custodians and I didn’t say anything because repairs are so far behind a little more won’t hurt;And then they cut the elementary day and I didn’t say anything because that’s more playtime for the kids;And then they reduced the graduation requirements and I didn’t say anything because now we won’t need as many teachers as other districts;And then they called the seniors down and said we have no more electives for you so go home early and I didn’t say anything because I knew we could keep their education money and not have to provide them with an education;

And then they cut the potty breaks;

ARE YOU KIDDING ME!!!!!

73. on 07 Sep 2007 at 7:07 pm 248.A Survivor said …

Bravo! Send it to Dr. Atkinson &/or the editorial page at a newspaper.

74. on 07 Sep 2007 at 7:12 pm 249.at a loss said …

Hi Kyle,

How’d your interview go? Hope you get the job and we can go to dinner. Happy to help

75. on 07 Sep 2007 at 7:16 pm 250.at a loss said …

Stephanie,

Yes, send that to the paper. If it wasn’t so sad, riduculous, and potentially dangerous, it would be funny.


Another one:

And then they cut the extra curriculars like National Honor Society, Key Club and Model U.N. and I didn’t say anthing because who will sell the drugs and cause mischief on our streets?

77. on 07 Sep 2007 at 7:56 pm 252.Sandra said …

A mother came to sign the petition at the table today(found a location on the south side)outraged because she had just been told they weren’t going to add a 1st grade at Steiner Rice. Both 1st grades have 33+ students.Petition people arrived at Lowell this morning at 8:45 and we were appalled. School does not even begin until 9:30 and at 8:45 there were over 40 students standing on the front lawn unsupervised. There were sticks thrown, kids running out in the street to get balls, you get the picture. Daycares were even dropping off vans of students at 9:00-still no supervision.I don’t know what tragedy LCS is waiting for.


So I guess the new contract doesn’t matter (pertaining to the student/teacher ratio)


Froggy’s mom-What’s worse than that is they WILL have to pay back the money they got from the title I and II. The treasurer told them by taking that money and using it they way they were they had to abide by the rules. Couldn’t have high numbers in the classroom. Title money is state money and the state gets very picky because the state will lose it’s money from the feds if it is not used properly.


Good point Ruffled-Didn’t the treasurer say the ratio HAD to be 1 to 25, even one more head in the room meant pay back time? Was I the only one that heard that, or did others too? Maybe I was dreaming? The only think I don’t remember was it k-8 or k-3 or k-2?


thing not think

82. on 07 Sep 2007 at 8:36 pm 257.A Survivor said …

K-2 no more than 253-6 no more than 28

83. on 07 Sep 2007 at 8:37 pm 258.20/20 vision said …

Stephanie: You are singing my song….

84. on 07 Sep 2007 at 9:14 pm 259.SAHM said …

S(stay)A(at)H(home)M(mom)here. It is rumored that Charleston is considering taking a two percent pay cut to help bring teachers back. Has anyone else heard this? Is two percent enough to make a difference? Does anyone know who this included . . . the superintendent, treasurer, supervisors?


Yes, the treasurer did tell the board the numbers at the board meeting-I just couldn’t remember which grades had what numbers.Charleston take a hit-that would be a surprise.

86. on 07 Sep 2007 at 9:53 pm 261.KR said …

Stephanie- great post. You’ve got to send that to the papers. Some of you are so creative. I didn’t get that gift.I agree with the post that said how grateful she was that her children don’t go to Lorain. It’s sad, but most of us agree with you. Most systems treat their staff with respect and dignity- they even give them potty breaks!The copier situation is terrible. We all wait in line to use it because we all have the same planning time.Kyle- good luck with the interview. I am at Washington and the counselor has planned on taking our class 1x per month to do an activity. I am counting the days so I can have a break in the day. How sad. Our kids at Washinton are have so many personal problems. I’ve seen so much in 2 weeks. They so need counselors.Two of my students have serious medical conditions and we send them home as soon as they complain because we can’t take a chance. I worry all the time because the nurse is not here all day so I send them asap if they look the slightest bit ill. Why, why in America are our children treated like this? We have the wealthiest people in the world and yet so many of our children are receiving sub-standard educations.Anybody had any contact with the union?


I can tell you this the “people” at Charleston certainly have taken on an attitude towards staff in the school buildings. I’m running into several situations where questions won’t be

answered or their response is quite short and snippity. I won’t be talked down to. Making my list of grievances.


Ahhhh… So the “us against them” attitude remains under this reign as well.. ??? that is unfortunate… I really had higher hopes …


I have been thinking all night about what more they could cut? Would they cut the remaining fine arts such as choir, bands, art courses etc. at the high schools and middle schools, those are not necessities, plus the “random” itinerants that some elem. buildings have? Would they go as far as to cut sports for the winter months? How far will they go? I do know the only thing they could cut at the elem. level is our arms and legs, and I personally would like to keep those!!!!! I would be extremely shocked that admin. would take a pay cut, but I would be HIGHLY impressed with the Super if she actually did that for the young children of Lorain. I know I would to get teachers back, the 3% raise means nothing if I could get back some sanity!


I think we all had higher hopes. But with all the changes and pressures and everone sitting on pins and needles… what next job/responsibility will be thrown at me or even will I have a job next week. We all have been put in a position that we cannot do our jobs the way we are used to, should do and want to. The children are suffering…long term proof will come sooner than we think. And of course the “people” at Charleston have to blame someone so of course the finger pointing goes directly to the ones working with the students. Because they sit at their desks and shuffle papers but don’t see the actual repercutions they have created.


Exactly tired and sad, I am also tired and sad, and quite pissed off at times!


I go through a range of emotions on a daily basis..

tired and sad: I just keep picturing a bunch of torsos in the elementaries… without arms and legs trying to teach… just torsos… you are right though, that is all you (we) have left to give…

There are days I cannot wait for that call, and others where I am grateful I am not involved in this mess, then the bills come in and I realize I need to go back, I am sad

becasue I already know that I will not be able to be who I want to as a teacher… I mean, Lorain teachers are good, but we are not magicians…

I give all of you working now a big round of applause for keeping it together so far..

93. on 07 Sep 2007 at 11:04 pm 268.whenwillthisend said …

It is very difficult to keep it together. Our entire building so so short staffed. I needed to pee and there was no one to relieve me. I waited to lunch time. Breakfast is still a joke. It is 8:15-8:30 in the cafeteria. Teachers were asked to “help” and in return receive comp time. No one took the offer in my building. One building changed their teacher start time so b-fast could be served in the classroom. Each teacher is getting 15 min. comp time EVERYDAY! So in a few weeks each teacher will basically have an entire day off. How is that saving money? All those subs will be expensive. some buidings aren’t budging and others are trying to help out- for the sake of the kids and the principals. We want to help too, but we also want people called back. It’s a no win situation! To top it off, luch is a joke too. There is no time between lunch periods and we spend 5-10 minutes waiting in the hall EVERYDAY waiting to get into the cafeteria. Not only are we not getting breaks, our lunch time is being cut short! There are too many kids in the building and the principal does not want to add another lunch period. Who could blame her? We just found out we have to administer the ODE beginning of the year test. WE have to run off the entire test and administer it to every kid witnin 30 days of the start of school. It is a one on one test that takes at least 20 minutes per kid! When? How?

I know I’m rambling…. sorry


We have always been a disrict with many underprivileged kids, but that was outside of school. Now our students are lacking even the most fundamental aspects of a normal education. Talk about underprivileged!

95. on 07 Sep 2007 at 11:37 pm 270.ART said …

A(another)R(riff’d)T(teacher) here. My guess is comp time is a joke. I’d bet they won’t pay for subs for that time. They’ll ask you to find your own coverage. Split your class in elementary or find teachers to cover at middle and high school. I’d be willing to bet you wouldn’t be able to take a whole day off also.

As far as the 2% cut…if that is true, they are probably agreeing to it only to save their own jobs. 2% less is a lot better than no job at all…which is where it really should begin with considering the extra fat at Charleston.

96. on 08 Sep 2007 at 8:00 am 271.betty said …

And who in their right might would want to even SUB under these conditions?? What if a teacher DOES want to take a mental health day, which is completely DESERVED under these circumstances!! Who is going to want to fill in when one can’t even be given the “luxury” of going pee during the school day?? What is being done about the huge numbers of children in classrooms?? Is the union working on this? Grievances take so long. Are they even really effective? Somebody tell me about their experience in filing a grievance and how it ended up working out for them. I’d be curious to hear about it.

I feel pretty lucky to be working up at the high school, especially after reading all of these recent posts!! I’m sympathizing with all elementary folks BIG TIME!!! Again, I’m so glad my own children are not involved in all of this drama. Money might be tight now with preschool/daycare over here where I live, but I say it’s worth pinching pennies rather than having my daughter in this environment!!!

97. on 08 Sep 2007 at 8:34 am 272.Toatally Disgusted said …

I am suggesting, due to the dire circumstances within your schools:

NEXT TUESDAY OR WEDNESDAY, EVERYONE AND I DO MEAN EVERYONE CALL IN SICK!!! (MENTAL HEALTH).If at least 100+ do this, they cannot possibly get enough subs and it will FORCE the Charleston people to come to the school to pinch hit. ONLY THEN WILL THEY SEE WHAT YOU ARE PUTTING UP WITH.

You must unite yourselves because it appears the union is taking very little action. It is not out of the realm of reality for each of you to truly BE SICK.

And if they threaten an investigate, well so be it. That would also be in your best interests.

DO IT NOW_DO IT TOGETHER_YOU HAVETHIS BLOG TO ORGANIZE .

98. on 08 Sep 2007 at 9:02 am 273.hopeful said …

Question:

What are the riffers who got called back to sub, supposed to do on Monday?? A friend of mine has been subbing and no one has told her what to do on Mondqay. Of course she called our wonderful union, of course no one has gotten back to her. Does anyone know who she should ask, talk to? SHould she just not show up on Monday??


On the 61st day of subbing, they are entitle to per diem pay. I beleive benefits also.


No, I mean she was on the rif list and was one of the teachers who was called to sub for the ten day period. No information was given to her as to what to do after Monday.


our wonderful union should have been insisting that none of those rif’d teachers take those sub jobs… I was livid when some were asked to take those jobs and union told them “take it if you want to”…… They will be in no hurry to fill those jobs when they have highly qualified teachers for basically free in there…


Morning HOpeful…


I know it’s been awhile. My friend is asking me because she doesn’t know who to ask. I always check this womblog faithfully because I know someone can tell me where to direct her. Maybe they should just not show up after Monday. But I like what #272 suggests and maybe everyone should take a sick day!!

Morning Devasted:)


Has she/he called Juanita? or the HR guy? If so, what did they say? I would think they would know more than Christine on this subject.

105. on 08 Sep 2007 at 9:31 am 280.kat said …

Why are we in the dark about what is planned for this school year?

In the dark from teacher meetings, to staffing, to school activities. Another teacher showed me a print out from her sons school web site which listed items from classroom home work projects to directions to the away games.(non LCS, NON, CHARTER) ( do the principals know?)

Another posting referred to the pleasant atmosphere and calmness that was emanating from the well thought out plans executed in her new school she /he enrolled their kids at.(NON LCS, NON CHARTER)

I was disappointed about the general membership meeting on the first day. She lost her opportunity to get us as teachers in the proper frame of mind to start the school year, hopeful for change.

I also think we have thoroughly discussed how things got this way. i would like to see every one discussing the problems they are having in there day to day school day. this way when its skimmed by the TPTBit may be noted. (hopefully addressed.) why should we do it here? because there is no other channel we can do it to. The principals have no control. Even the chain of command is not discussed nor published, so the only left option is public discussion. thank you WOM.

I also think we have chased all the kids to charter schools and will not get them back till we return to the pre Morgan years, of well thought out programs such as the AccMath/reader, clubs, after school programs and happy teachers with gym and music and art in the day of each student.


I think that she is going to call Juanita on Monday. Thank god for her! It’s a shame though, that so many of us are trying to reach out to our union to get the information we should be getting. And yet, we aren’t.


I’m telling you–TPTB will not or cannot give you answers. They have proven to be an inept group. Even if Dr. A is the best powerhouse around, she is STUCK with all those admins over at Charleston. My guess is that she too is overwhelmed. Not being from here is a disadvantage. She is looking at numbers only. Your only hope is to make a BOLD statement and to do it quickly by your actions. Some teachers are already caving in to duties beyond their requirements. As time goes on, it becomes more difficult to organize and gather momentum. Use this blog, use fake names that cannot be traced. Do you want to ALWAYS be on the REACTIVE side? Or do you want to be PROACTIVE? If these circumstances do not lead most of you as a group to do something drastic, it tells TPTB that you are afraid. They will continue you to squash you like bugs!

108. on 08 Sep 2007 at 10:20 am 283.Frustrated said …

We need to know about Open House- our school voted to NOT show up because of the way we are treated and the contract not being followed. I read that Jacinto is having an Open House on Monday and that teachers will be there. Our union needs to address this NOW so we all stick together!!!! Somebody should call our union leader and have her call the Union reps. asap and get the word out to us if indeed we are boycotting Open Houses.

109. on 08 Sep 2007 at 10:42 am 284.tired and sad said …

I am certainly in need of a mental health day???? Nothing else seems to have gotten their attention of the chaos in the schools.


Cheryl,Elaine, Haydee, Dean, Ann M., Graham, Francie, Laurie, Barb, Cindy, Jackie, Lora, New HR dir, come on down.

We are cordially inviting you to a special treat—a day in the life of a LCS teacher. I am sure you are more than willing to become entrenched in the daily life of the people YOU serve. We will make sure you have one pee break. If you are lucky, you will get to eat lunch without gulping. We want a synopsis of your day by the next day and we need 25 copies each from the 1 school copier. If by chance, you are in the midst of a fight, nose bleed, medical need, etc, we will allow you to call 911. And remember, while putting up with all this sh*#, please do your best to give your class the best instruction money can buy.

111. on 08 Sep 2007 at 10:45 am 286.stuffyname said …

good news about the long lines for copying during the universal planning time… I hear we are out of paper already at my bldg, so the line will be very short! my experience so far this year, 90% nightmare!

112. on 08 Sep 2007 at 10:54 am 287.Froggy's Mom said …

This last Friday was the last day CHarleston had to figure out the numbers mess. They have mest everyday all last week about numbers and recalls. Don’t know why it took all week but… whatever! We should know by the beginning of next week pertaining to the recalls and subs that are in the buildings. Remember….the subs in the buildings are temporary. Some of them have limited contracts and those positions must be filled by more seniority people.

113. on 08 Sep 2007 at 11:14 am 288.A Survivor said …

I know of one school that has already had their open house and the teachers showed up even though it was deemed voluntary.

114. on 08 Sep 2007 at 11:31 am 289.John Smith said …

OMG! You folks are still complaining. My colleagues have told me things are off to a rather good start.

Why don’t you all just get off your computer and go do somthing productive. The school year is well on it’s way. You should be moving on also.

Choas? Please!

You folks are sadly - something else!

115. on 08 Sep 2007 at 11:44 am 290.Stephanie said …

Historically, when teachers attend an open house they haven’t been compensated for their time. It has always been a gift.

To whom was this gift given in the past? Who will be most hurt if the gift is not extended this time? The Administration?

Open houses are a time to reach out to the community. They are imformational as well as social gatherings. We certainly have a lot of information for parents this year. Teachers should be forthright and honest. Tell it like it is. This is an opportunity to get our message across and encourage parents to bring their questions and concerns to the next board meeting.

If teachers don’t attend TPTB can point fingers and be believed when they point out that they organized this wonderful event and the uncaring, petty, uncooperative teachers didn’t even attend.

Pick our battles carefully. If we have always done it we should continue to do it. It’s the new duties that are being shoved upon us, that take away the jobs of others, that we should boycott.

Just my opinion

116. on 08 Sep 2007 at 11:50 am 291.PollyAnna said …

ENOUGH!!!!!!! STOP!!!!!!!! CHARLESTON, DO YOU SEE THIS???????? No, you probably don’t read this blog anymore. The truth is hard to listen to day in and day out. So many people are hurting. Our district is limping along. I give her credit, she is still getting back up no matter what punches are thrown, although she stays down longer each time. She gets up because of the teachers and the staff and the families. WHY ISN’T ANYONE LISTENING???????? FRUSTRATING!!!!!


Thank you, John Smith, for being what I call the perfect A##hole.

118. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:02 pm 293.John Smith said …

Hey - YOU! Totally Disgusted -

I have been reading your ‘crap’ all summer long. Go find something else to do. The perfect A##hole? Really? Well, maybe I’m just aspiring to be you - a whole A##, not just part of one.

Onward, except for the slower one (Disgusted)…..

Move on folks - It’s September. Life goes on, and based on reliable sources, the current state of LCS is as bad as many of you (whole A##, er, totally disgusted) makes them out to be.

It’s not perfect, but they are inching upward - from the poor and awful ‘leadership’ of Dee Morgan. She’s the one you should be angry with. She’s gone - and now the healing should be happening. Maybe Totally is really a cheerleader for Dee.

Either way, let’s look forward.

Onward…

119. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:04 pm 294.PollyAnna said …

#289 - I know that it is difficult to read this thread. You are right, some (emphasize some) schools are doing okay. I am lead to believe that a lot is happening behind the scenes however.

On June 6 I learned that I no longer had a job in the profession that I loved. I picked myself up and began looking for work. I tried to focus on teaching positions only and also held out hope that LCS may call me back. Nothing. Someone correct me if I am wrong, but I do think I tried to get over it.

I tried to get over it up to August. I bought my daughters’ school supplies and uniforms and begain to look for jobs where I still may be able to use my educational backround but maybe not in the educational field. I started to prepare my daughters for the fact that I did not have a job. Things did not look good.

September I am still “moving on” and trying to be positive. I have no job. I am now willing to look further away from my beloved teaching profession. My heart aches to be back in the classroom. Whenever I get the chance, I “teach”. It is painful.

I am hurting very bad right now. Okay, I wrote it. I admit it online, out in the open. I am terrified. There you go. I have be “moving on” and trying so hard not to complain since June 6th. I have a unique take on this whole situation that at times pisses off this thread I am writing on.

Believe me sir, they are trying desperately to move on. I now believe that with all of my heart. I wish this blog wasn’t as public for them so they would not have to be judged so harshly for loving their profession so much as to mourn its loss, for caring about students and education so much as to want to fight to save it.

Please Mr. Smith, know that we are all trying. I have tried so very hard. You do not know me (Kathy Boone), but I have been trying so very hard.

Moving on.

I wish I could.


John Smith-Obviously you are NOT an elementary teacher in one of the elementary buildings. Do you realize that a fight, medical emergency, and lunch was going on all at once at one of the buildings and there was no nurse, just one principal to deal with all of the issues at the same time? How is that ok? How is it ok that I can’t use the restroom for 4 hours, nor eat my lunch in the 10 minutes I have? These conditions are unfair, and I invite you to do my job for one day!!!!! You will be crying by the end like a baby, TRUST ME!!!!! 30 first graders in a room is unacceptable!!!!!! Everyday the kids come in and ask, do we have art gym or music today, and everyday I have the same response, “I am sorry boys and girls but you will not have those classes this year.” Does a child need to be seriously injured or die before you see that this is unacceptable? I don’t know who you have been talking to, but obviously they are not the workers in the trenches of this pure hell!

121. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:10 pm 296.scott bakalar said …

No name calling on the playground, kids.

You may disagree all you want - but please keep your comments as civil as possible. To do otherwise only makes whatever side of this issue you represent look bad, and opens up this place to possible liability.

Please consider this comment a “yellow card”.

122. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:12 pm 297.Toatally Disgusted said …

Boo hoo hoo. Mr. Smith. I have better things to do with my time than banter with you. You are a dude who loses control easily–scary. Sure wouldn’t want to be involved with you. Enough said.


If this blog is such a waste of time, why are you reading? Apparently you are interested in what’s going on in the buildings. But obviously you were not painted a clear picture.

124. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:15 pm 299.John Smith said …

FYI - I’m an elementary teacher. And a rather good one.

Except for TD, you all made valid points and they are all duly noted. Keep you head high.

Best of luck too ALL of us.


Mr. Smith has every right to comment and read this thread. If we were all of like minds then this blog would be useless. Banter, disagreements, looking at topics from a different point of view is what this blog is about.

What, no whistle Scott? Yellow card? Is that like a sports term?


spin, spin, spin

127. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:19 pm 302.Frustrated said …

I wouldn’t waste a minute responding to Mr. Smith. To all of you that are still RIF’d, believe me you are still and will conitinue to be in many, many of our thoughts and prayers. It is extremely painful to lose your job, for most of us unexpectedly, and then wonder everyday if you have a chance of getting called back. We teach in an inner-city school district that means we not only teach the academics but try to show those little ones that they can break the cycle if they come from a dysfunctional, drug using family or worse situations. You can’t know what we are experiencing or go throught on a daily basis in LCS. You have to be on the “front lines” to relate. It means so much to us to watch the social growth of a troubled student learn how to deal with his emotions in an acceptable way rather than lashing out at a peer. It’s not always about the paycheck but about something else a lot more important. Hang in there! We’re all hoping the best for all of our fellow comrades.

128. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:23 pm 303.scott bakalar said …

Yeah, it’s a penalty warning card from Loraine’s football (soccer).

As she knows better than I, perhaps she can explain the football rules - but I believe a player is first given a yellow card for an infraction and is allowed to continue play.

The next infraction results in a red card - which means expulsion from the game.

129. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:29 pm 304.Brian said …

Jim Smith,I for one as a concerned parent am really interested in knowing how we are moving forward or are we just struggling to keep our head above water? The comment that I read about running out of copy paper might not seem like a big deal, but when I know that kids are not allowed to take their books home because there are not enough of them to go around I see that as “learning opportunities lost” and our schools being turned into glorified day care centers.

According to your statement Jim, “ Move on folks - It’s September. Life goes on, and based on reliable sources, the current state of LCS is as bad as many of you (whole A##, er, totally disgusted) makes them out to be.” I want to know how bad it really is. I do not have reliable sources that will give me the “inside scoop” if I should continue to trust the school system with my children’s futures.

How bad exactly is it? I want to know! Is there going to be enough money to pay the winter heating bills or are we going to have to lay off more teachers and staff? What is going to happen this winter in our older school buildings as building components like the heating and electrical systems fail? Is there even any money to replace the light bulbs as they burn out?

What is it that we are NOT BEING TOLD? If our school system is about to implode I want to know, AS A CONCERNED PARENT, how am I going to get this information? Let me lay out what I know and maybe someone can get me the answers. The school system has a payroll of about 1 million dollars a week. That is just to get the teachers to walk through the doors of our schools. How many weeks of payroll are left in the bank account after the utilities and bond payments are made?

130. on 08 Sep 2007 at 12:30 pm 305.Toatally Disgusted said …

You are right, Scott. And I certainly have much respect for YOU.


FACT: Last school year in the winter months. Columbia Gas came to one particular elementary school to shut of the gas due to non payment.


Sorry Jim Smith. I ment to direct my comment to John Smith. Just to explain how names can get messed up I am working for a Joe Smith and when I assign purchase oders to his job I get that “yeah sure” look.


Along with the concerns I have about the districts bank accounts, are we still “shoe boxing” our bills that our treasurer told us in the summer was happening? I am just wondering if all of the bills from LAST FISCAL YEAR have been paid yet?


John Smith, If your situation is good at your elem. school, I think I need to switch, mine is horrid!!! I need to investigate to see if I can switch schools. Does yours have any extra Itinerant times? (gym or music or art) Apparantly my school got a shafty deal then. How are your class numbers? Ours are PACKED. Just wanting to compare.


Why is a school having open house during a board of education meeting?Or has the BOE cancelled that meeting?

136. on 08 Sep 2007 at 1:15 pm 311.More dismayed than ever said …

I have not had time to read postings for the past week since we have been swamped at our building. I don’t post anything often, but as an elementary teacher I felt that I had to respond to #289 John Smith… (I’m sure others have probably responded in the same manner, but I’m so annoyed that I stopped reading the other postings to respond for myself!)

I cannot believe your colleagues are in an elemntary building if they are saying things are off to a smooth start. Either that or they have lost their vision and hearing skills! Things are anything but running smoothly no matter what the Journal may say. We have classes primary classes with 33-36 children, well over the limit of 25. We have no support staff for the prinicipal who feels she has to do the job of every person who was let go, because she is such a saint. I would like the superintendent, someone from the papers, or you and your colleagues to come and follow her around for a day and then tell me things are running smoothly. As if it is not bad enough for the teachers to deal with all they are dealing with, it is even more awful for the principals, especially those like ours. You should not dare say to get off the computers and do something productive until you have spent some time in the shoes of an elementary teacher or principal. You are the one who is “sadly…something else!”


Brian-Good question about the shoebox of bills, have those been paid and is the district doing the same thing again. Also, where is all the money going that they are saving by closing Homewood, (and that whole plan they shared a few BOE meetings ago?) As a taxpayer, I want to know!!!


The principals have been put into difficult working conditions also. Ours seems to try to hold it together, but they can only wear soooo many hats! A nurse, building manager, referee, potty break giver, etc. I mean really, they must go home and collapse on the couch without as much as a hello to their own families. I feel very bad for them, they picking up so much slack!

139. on 08 Sep 2007 at 1:29 pm 314.Frustrated said …

I see the #1 need in our school is either an ISS person to keep the disruptive students or a building manager and a fulltime nurse. What are your school’s main needs? Just curious as to what we all see as necessities. We also need a K and 1 teacher due to high numbers.


#1 at one particular elementary bldg. an ISS person is desperatley needed. She,I hate to admit is the do all person. Behavioral problems, bus person, lunch duty, whereever she is needed she does it. (Probably not to the contract) but at this point who is? The part time nurse is not working either. She’s there 3 1/2 hours and then packs up to go to the next building. Not very productive at all.


The reason why I asked the questions that I did is two fold. One is that I find it a little hard for someone who is employed with the school system to tell someone else to “move on” when the second part of the purpose of my question of “tell me what I am not being told” would help answer not only my questions, but so many others.

If our school system is as broke as I suspect that it is, tell the laid off teachers that they will not be coming back so they can figure out what they are going to do. At least that would put the remaining teachers that are still working on notice not to expect much improvement so they could figure out what they are going to do. If our funding is going to be going down or the working conditions are going to remain the same, they should know as soon as possible.

But all in all, the main reason why I believe that we hear so little about what is in the future for our system is because it delays parents like me from removing our children from the school system for now. If they can just keep the kids in school long enough to get a head count and the funding for their bodies who cares about their minds……..


I want to add this principal is a saint. She’s doing it all, but unfortunatley not enough time in the day to do HER job. No time to meet with parents, take calls, not to mention the work she has to complete for TPTB. She is even fitting students for uniforms that can’t afford it. She deserves to be recognized.


Meat Pie sauasage rolls come on England gi’ us a goal ….. yup 2nd yellow gets you red and an off……Oh John Smith don’t you see then next round of rif’d could be thee,so tighten up lads on the pitch and also let us moan and bitch, our spirits are really low so never mind if we have a go!


Very good point Brian, instead of leaving all of us hanging-parents, students, teachers, RIF’ed teachers, support staff, RIF’ed support staff, etc. tell us the plan, how are we

moving on? What is the plan? Are we going to need to deal with what we have all year long, or are things going to change in the near future? These are questions that should have been answered a long time ago! I know as a parent, I would be furious not knowing what next week will bring for my child. Will he/she be stuck in a class of 30 first graders, or will another teacher be brought in to lower the class sizes. Will a full-time nurse be brought in case my child falls outside? These are issues that NEED ANSWERS!


Brian brought up very good questions. We have no answers. As much as I tried to think…”I am not going to be recalled, I am not going to be recalled,” in the back of my mind, I think I held out hope. Scratch that, I know I held out hope. Dagnabit.

Is there a BOE meeting this week? I can never keep up.

No matter, we will not get answers. Thank you Mr. Smith for stirring the pot, for antagonizing the right people and starting the debate and the blogging so ferociously. I have learned quite a bit today. You could be a little nicer when you do it, but thanks anyway.

Scott and Loraine - sad thing is, I should know about the yellow card as my daughter plays soccer.

146. on 08 Sep 2007 at 2:13 pm 321.overworked teacher said …

Jacinto is having open house because it is for the children and parents. We have the support of our parents now and we want to show them we care about the kids. It has nothing to do with Charleston.I do like the “sick day” idea however!


According to the schools web site there is a board meeting scheduled for 6:00 in the Charleston Gym. No idea what they are going to talk about because the only thing available is the agenda from the last meeting on August 23rd. I guess if I wanted to be informed I have to make sure I am physically there because they don’t post the minutes.

Is the open house at Jacinto the same time as the school board meeting and are other open houses scheduled for the same time? I think that the administrators from our school system should be at these open houses also to answer questions from the parents. See what a tangled web that is being weaved?

148. on 08 Sep 2007 at 2:37 pm 323.Senor said …

Two comments…

1) Can anyone out, I mean ANYONE, please tell me if a public school system has ever “shut down”? I mean to be so broke that there was not heating. So broke that employees did not get paid? So broke that over 1/3 of all teachers were laid off even though teachers have been hired each and every year for at least the last dozen years? I personally don’t think a district can run out of money. It can be in debt, and if it is in so much debt the State can take over, but a district does not implode and disappear. So if someone can tell me facts about a district someone that the students had to suffer severe consequences (i.e. sitting in a cold room in the middle of winter because the district couldn’t pay the bills), please let me know. Also, please site sources. Anything else I will consider hearsay.

2) To my good ol’ friend John Smith…This blog is meant for open discussion, and as such, you are entitled to your opinion. You, as I, have an alias that I go by in this blog. Understandable. Half the time I don’t even think you believe what you are saying yourself, you just do it to ellict a response, like this one. But you lose all crediblity when you straight out lie, which you have in your recent post. You ARE NOT currently an elementary working for LCS. Nearly half of all elementary certified teachers in LCS were RIFed a few months back. I don’t think you were. Of those remaining, there is only a handful of males. I’m assuming since you go by the name “John” you are a male. The jury’s out on that one. But of the males that I know at the elementary level, none of them have the anger you have. If you do indeed currently teach for LCS, you are at a high school. Elementary and high school teachers are totally different breeds, and you sir are no elementary teacher. Speak your mind all you want, but do not try to pass yourself off as someone you are not.

149. on 08 Sep 2007 at 2:37 pm 324.More dismayed than ever said …

Thanks for the update on the board meeting. On Friday we heard it was at 6:00 at Jacinto. I plan on being there along with the other 5 people coming along with me. School may already be in session, but the work of the public is definitely not finished as far as information and issues go. Many people are still in the dark because nothing much comes out of the newspaper as far as details go.


The open house at Jacinto is scheduled for 6-7. They usually start in the gym too. Don’t know how that will work since the meeting will be going on…


Maybe John Smith is a female and has used the name to make us think she is a male? Who knows, all I know is I have friends at many buildings and their situations are no better than mine. WE, the elementary teachers, have taken a hard hit, and as always we will be the ones expected to pick up the pieces. I know the middle school classes are also crammed way over the contractual limits. Don’t complain when these little ones reach 3rd grade and their test scores are very low because they can’t read. The K and 1st grade

teachers are teachers, not Miracle Workers. Good luck high school teachers when you get these wee ones in the years to come!


Why would Jacinto have an Open House at the same time as the Board meeting. Weren’t teachers encouraged to go to the board meeting? Can’t be two places at once? Of course lately many people expect us to be!


According to the schools web site, the board meeting is at Charleston in the gym.


Wow! This has been some crazy reading. All I have to say is, I hope the RIF’ed teachers and staff have not been forgotten. The only way to improve the schools situation is to cut other than from the bare bones staffs already left at the schools. These children are not getting what they need for an adequate education, let alone the excellent one they were getting for the past many years. I hope that things will get better for Lorain, I have enjoyed living here, but this summer has shown me there are many economical issues here that will not heal overnight. All I can say is good luck to everyone, whether it be teachers, nurses, locally owned businesses, etc. everyone will be affected by what has happened with this school system. I would love to teach in Lorain again, but if an opportunity comes to me from elsewhere, I will snatch it up in a heartbeat, because I am not sure this situation will improve anytime soon, and who is to say that this won’t happen again next summer, or the next, or the next. I love to teach, as I know all teachers do, and it saddens me to see so many of my friends in tears at the end of the day. Good luck to all of us!


Are most or many of the elementary scholls having open house at the same time as the school board meeting?


I heard from somebody who talked to somebody who talked to Christine. All teachers are encouraged to go to the board meeting because after the board meeting they will do the 183 grievances filed against LCS pertaining to no art, music and gym. Each teacher will meet with the board and they will have to explain why they cannot have art music and gym. ALL TEACHERS ARE ASKED TO COME!!! I have a feeling it will be a long night for the BOE!


Unless there is an announcement soon from TPTB, I think we need to rally around one cause at a time to try to bring back teachers. I think the first cause should be eliminating the annuity contributions for administrators. For those not familiar with the annuity, allow me to explain.

Teachers and administrators do not pay Social Security, we pay into the State Teachers Retirement System. A percentage is paid each year into a teachers account. The district pays some, but teachers pay the bulk into their STRS account. Administrators, to my knowledge, have 100% of their STRS contributions paid by the district. On top of that, the district pays 6.25% of an administrators salary into a separate annuity fund IN ADDITION to STRS. This extra annuity costs the district close to $300,000 a year. This added expense has been brought up at BOE meetings this summer, but it has not been pressed. Frankly, I’m not even sure if every Board member even understands this expense. I think it is time for the BOE to cut out this lucrative annuity perk.

This would free up enough money to bring back between 4 and 6 teachers. That may not sound like much, but those few teachers will be able to educate between 100 and 150 elementary students in this district. That is close to half a school. I think this should be the first of many issues that we focus on to bring back teachers and staff.

158. on 08 Sep 2007 at 3:24 pm 333.Jennifer said …

A lot of catching up on here for me. There are a lot of comments from teachers here so I thought I would post a “parents perspective”. I guess I can direct this mostly to “John Smith”. My son’s first 2 weeks at LAK have been fairly smooth. Just a few scheduling issues that were ironed out quickly thanks to his counselor. So for me, as a parent of a highschool child, I have no complaints.

BUT…I have several good friends and family who have kids in the elementary schools. They do not share the same satisfaction as I do. There have been MANY complaints. My best friend’s son is in kindergarten with 32 children. At open house, she spoke with the teacher about the class size. Apparently over half of the children cannot write their first names. Now, as I know a lot of that has come from the parenting, it is a reality. How in the world is this teacher going to give the time she needs to these children when she has over 32??? What about the ones who can write and read…what happens to them? 33 five and six year olds is TOO many for one teacher.

My niece is in a pre-school class with so many children…they have been “playing”. My niece is 4 and can write and is learning how to read at home. What benefit is she going to get? It is a daycare. My friends 6th grader has been pulling lunch duty in one building. She gets to go to the lunchroom and help the little ones open their milk. With a shortened school day, why is a child being pulled out of class to help with lunch? I would be furious!!

So you see Mr. Smith…to defend these teachers, things are NOT running smoothly. Sadly, parents are not stepping up to the plate and complaining as they should be. There

are many more stories I am sure far worse than these. If these issues were affecting my child, you better believe I would be knocking on some doors at Charleston. Fortunately for me (I am sorry it has to be this way) my daughter has enjoyed her first 3 weeks at her school. They are already planning their field trips. The communication is outstanding. She has all of the extra’s each week, like gym, music, art, computer and Spanish. I feel so sorry for so many of LCS elementary students who are not experiencing that. It is such an important part of learning.

Again, my heart goes out to all of you, RIF’d and non RIF’d…and to all of the kids who are suffering through this chaos. They are too little to realize now, but this WILL have an impact on thier future’s if Dr. Atkinson does not make a move and FAST!!! It is imperative for the future of Lorain. These children are the future of this city.

As always, I will be at the Board Meeting and maybe if “allowed”, I will find the courage I need this time to speak. I would like Dr. A to tell me in front of you all…why I should put my 4th grader back in LCS.


Froggy’s Mom,

If this is true, I’ve heard nothing about it. It will be hard to organize that many teachers in a few hours notice on Monday.


I heard the same. BOE meeting at 6:00. Following that executive session….re: grievances. All were encouraged to attend. Where or where is the communication from the LEA?

161. on 08 Sep 2007 at 3:37 pm 336.tired said …

#335 To the best of my knowledge…our LEA leaders have been LONG, unproductive meetings DAILY with the powers that be…and are continuing to deal with this TODAY to try and work things out. On Friday, the contact BR at my building received a call from a person working at the LEA office. This person was contacted by our president (who was at Charleston in meetings) and told to call the schools and ask the BR’s to have a quick meeting with their staff telling them about the lack of progress and ask them to attend the meeting on Monday. At my school, a quick LEA meeting was held and we were informed. You may want to check if other BR’s got the info and if it was passed on. Our school has also opted to wear BLACK to work on Monday in mourning for LCS. We will be wearing it to the Board Meeting as well.


Let me see if I can see something here. 183 grievances have been filed mostly by elementary teachers whose grievances will be heard this Monday. Open houses are “conveniently” scheduled at at least one, maybe more elementary schools at the exact same time?

Is Jacinto the only elementary school scheduled to have open house or is it more?


FM

I’m sorry, I don’t know how to use this fancy, smancy phones.


Going to the board meeting was never mentioned to us. We were encouraged to attend the open house!!!Another little unfair fiasco is the lack of inconsistancy at the different schools. Some schools have 2 itinerants per week plus a computer time with another adult. Jacinto only has art for 1/2 hour ond day per week. Some schools are fairing better than others in the itinerant area.

165. on 08 Sep 2007 at 3:53 pm 340.Jennifer said …

Scott,

Just curious, is this going to be one continous thread??

Thanks,Jen


Brian, I agree with your post about being given a plan. Since June, at every board meeting, we have been expecting, even demanding a plan.

Dr. A has vowed to be transparent to regain the trust of the public but I have yet to see any evidence. How hard would it be to publically state: We are waiting to get some hard and fast number counts of students before we call back teachers. We are using subs temporarily so that we don’t call someone back just to let them go again. On Sept— We will begin calling back to create class sizes that follow the contract and are conducive to good education. Those who are not recalled at this time will remain on the list for openings next year.

Sounds like a plan that would end speculation and allow people to move forward.

Or perhaps an announcement like this: We have tried to cut in everyway that we can. There is no money. We will not be recalling more teachers. We will have to deal with the class sizes we are currently experiencing because we have no other choice.

They should know if that’s the case this time.Until the plan is announced, RIFed teachers are waiting to see just how many can be called back and praying that the number will reach them. It’s a cruel game and there is no excuse for TPTB to hold the cards that closely. We know they are struggling and juggling to keep it together as are we. They would get so much more respect and cooperation if they kept us informed of their efforts. Now they are getting anger and mistrust from every corner. How does that make their job any easier?

What happened to transparency?

167. on 08 Sep 2007 at 3:57 pm 342.tired said …

Some schools are being told they do NOT have to stay with their students while their students are at an itinerant if there is a certified gym/art teacher teaching it. Other buildings are being told they DO have to.

168. on 08 Sep 2007 at 4:05 pm 343.teachme30 said …

Let’s rally and get the message out. Meeting Monday ..BE THERE…WEAR BLACK TO WORK AND TO THE BOE MEETING. MAKE A STATEMENT TO THE PUBLIC AND TO EVERYONE. WE ARE MOURNING OUR SYSTEM… REMEMBER, WE DID NOT DO THIS. WE CAN NOT HARBOR BAD FEELING TO EACH OTHER OR OUR IMMEDIATE LEADERSHIP. OUR PRINCIPALS ARE SUFFERING TOO. STAND TOGETHER MONDAY. UNITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!


That is unless you are scheduled to be at an open house to meet with the parents!

170. on 08 Sep 2007 at 5:05 pm 345.Kyle Herndon Gaskell said …

Re: 317I believe I worked for the same “saint” as you. Because of this Principal’s professionalism and kindness, staff wanted to work as a team.

May I make a suggestion? School counselors can get a wealth of info by just talking with an entire class. If I was back at Washington, I would make sure each teacher got a good 10 minute break every day for bathroom or telephone, and the counselor could “check in” with the class as a group. We have more flexibility and I would think it could be used in a positive manner to help both students and teachers.

Thank you for all the kind wishes with my interview. It was fantastic! However, I know that districts sometimes have already pre-chosen who they want. Therefore, I will wait until late next week to find out and not gret too excited. They did hire 5 of our teachers already. I think one of the Bombacks and Erin McSeviny and another special ed. This ditrict still values its students.

171. on 08 Sep 2007 at 5:12 pm 346.stuffyname said …

I am sorry… my presence is expected at the BOE meeting on Monday evening after working from early morning until at least 5:30 every afternoon since school began (I was given a major grade switch and only one set of teacher’s manuals–no other help– and need to learn the curriculem myself nightly so I can teach it daily–not to mention the hours of paperwork at home) I have a half-hour drive each way to work and am supposed to wait until AFTER the regular meeting with the other 182 “grievants” to be individually fed a spoonful of sh-t before I can finally go home to my family??? (which happens to be canine and doesn’t deserve to be locked up for 14+ hours because of this disgusting mess!) By the way, I am also expected for a command performance later this week for our open house–as teachers, our building felt, as others commented, that we should not punish the parents & students by ignoring this opportunity to meet each other. All of this is more than unreal!Thank goodness I have this weekend to go buy my own copy paper and run my materials off at home as I have graciously accepted breakfast duty for next week and won’t have any time to organize in the mornings…

172. on 08 Sep 2007 at 5:14 pm 347.Veteran Teacher said …

Stephanie…you make some very good points..

Re:#290…Teachers have always been encouraged to attend Open House. Most that I know go voluntarilly. I attended mine last week (and worked 4 hours in between as well) because I felt it was the right thing to do. This type of thing does not effect the call back of teachers. In fact, it is an opportunity to talk to the public about what is going on and how they can help with the situation. NO NOT ALL OF THE OPEN HOUSES WERE SCHEDULED TO CONFLICT WITH THE BOARD MEETING ON MONDAY. Some have already been held. I have no idea why Jacinto would’ve done such a thing. But I know where I would be if I were a teacher there…AT THE BOARD MEETING.

Re:#341…There DOES need to be a plan and IT DOES NEED TO BE SHARED WITH THE PUBLIC. That is why there are so many frustrated people. RIFFED people have the right to know if and when they are going to be called back. Current Teachers need to know if the working conditions are going to change. THE SUPERINTENDENT DOES NEED TO BE TRANSPARENT. She needs to start answering questions and letting us know what is going to happen. The lack of information and communication are what causes things to get out of hand. The super may have the qualifications, but it is a REAL DISADVANTAGE to not be from this area and dealing with this situation. Someone

from the inside would’ve been able to take the bull by the horns faster. I blame the board for allowing this to happen.

Brian…

As far as the $ issues…your guess is as good as mine. Have you been able to get through to the super and ask her these pertinent questions? If so, did she have an answer? I do know that the financial accounts of a district is public knowledge…maybe you can call and talk to the new treasurer. He might be able to give you some answers.

As far as wearing BLACK on Monday…I LOVE THAT IDEA. LET’S DO IT!

I have also heard that(on its Monday meeting) the Board will have to deal with the 183 grievences the Union filed individually for each elementary teacher and that IT IS important to be at the Board meeting on Monday. This will be interesting. I do wish LEA would’ve at least put this on their website to get the word out. LEA ALSO NEEDS TO HAVE MORE COMMUNICATION WITH ITS MEMBERS. We know the leadership is frustrated with the communication it has right now with TPTB…but we need to know what you are doing for us.

As for the day in the life as an elementary teacher in LCS…while my colleagues and I are doing our best to do what needs to be done for students in our rooms at this point, it is quite a difficult task at best. The students may not even see much of a difference because everyone is being very professional in their classrooms. However, we are wearing thin…I can’t tell you how many times I needed to go to the restroom this week and couldn’t until I could get help covering my room. Now, I make sure students get to go, but I cannot leave them unattended. Many days I do not have a break until after Noon, so I have to hold it for up to 4 hours. I do not need to tell you, this is not healthy…for anyone.

As far as principals…mine is a gem and I feel very sorry for her. She is making the best of the situation, but I know she can not do this all year. She is going to need some help. At the very least she needs a bulding manager and a full time nurse.

I did hear some teacher will be called back, but the numbers are very small right now…5-6 in middle school and about the same number in elementary.

Of course, we are still waiting to hear if we got the $10 Million and the School Improvement Grant…but I just wonder if we will ever know if we do…

Let’s hope Monday we hear something positive.

173. on 08 Sep 2007 at 5:14 pm 348.stuffyname said …

yes, I realize I spelled curriculum wrong and, yes, I am very upset and angry over all of this…

174. on 08 Sep 2007 at 5:27 pm 349.Laura Carver said …

My heart goes out to all the riffed teachers. I can only imagine how your lives have been devasted. I am disappointed in how the LEA is not responding. However, I am not convinced that the union can really accomplish much.

My experience has been that parents are the most effective way to create change. I believe that many parents still do not know what to do or how to do it. Parents need to be told to contact Dr. A and to call Columbus. I know that Dr. A’s office was flooded with phone calls when they tried to change Southview’s schedule. The result it went back to the old way.

If everyone had one non LCS employee call Dr A and Columbus daily, I guarentee changes would happen quickly. The state would have to find a way to make sure the students were recieving an education. The class sizes might be at the state maximum but in some cases that would still be an improvement.

I do know the Charleston is in an uproar. Maybe Dr. A will make some decision there that might help our students. I agree you teachers should not take on any additionally work to compensate for the administrations mistakes. However, I do want to see teachers continuing with the same level of dedication I have seen for the past ten years. It is because of all of you teachers I keep my children here this year. Many thanks for all you have done to help make my children, and everyone else’s successful.


I find it unfair that some buildings have 2 or 3 itinerants while some have 1, and some need to supervise the kids while others do not. If they would just go back to the old schedule and itinerants could rotate to 2 or 3 buildings, (since now we have less classes and kids) they would really only need to bring back 2 or 3 gym teachers, 4 music, and maybe one art teacher. That really isn’t that much to solve a huge problem. They could find the money by cutting at the top, so simple, yet has this even been thought of by TPTB?

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