| Newspapers; 3/16/06 | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: Mar 16 2006, 06:23 AM (332 Views) | |
| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 06:23 AM Post #1 |
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From the Detroit News: http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603160398/1026 Thursday, March 16, 2006 John M. Galloway / Special to The Detroit News Thomas Kimmel, 4, hugs his mom Deborah Kimmel's leg during registration for the all-day kindergarten program in Hartland. A half-day program still is available. The district argues all-day kindergarten better prepares for students. Hartland offers all-day kindergarten District argues it can afford it; some parents say it may end up shorting other students. by Deborah Davis Locker / Special to The Detroit News Kim Hill of Hartland walks with her daughter, Mya, 6, to register for the all-day kindergarten program. See full image County roundup The following school districts are offering kindergarten registration: Brighton: The district offers half-day program. Roundup is 1-3 p.m. Tuesday; 9-11 a.m. March 22; and 6:30-8:30 p.m. April 6 at Miller Early Childhood Center at 850 Spencer. For information, call (810) 299-3800. Pinckney: The district offers half day and full-day programs. Roundup is from 4:30-6 p.m. April 11 and 6-8 p.m. April 12 at the five elementary schools. For information, call (810) 225-3900. Fowlerville: The district offers an alternate full-day program. Students with last names starting with the letters A-L, roundup will be held 7:30-11 a.m., 1-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. April 4. Last names starting with the letters M-Z will be from 7:30--11 a.m., 1-3 p.m. and 5-8 p.m. April 5. From 7:30-11a.m. and 1-3 p.m. April 6, any person may register. Call (517) 223-6001. Howell: The district offers a full-day alternate day, and a half-day program. It also offers an opt-in three sections of a five-full-day class. Roundup is over, but, to register, call (517) 548-6200. Hartland: Consolidated Schools offer a five full-day program. Roundup is over, but, to register, call (810) 746-2100. HARTLAND TOWNSHIP -- Now that the school board has approved an expanded all-day, everyday kindergarten program, some are questioning how the district will finance the program in light of looming budget cuts. The district is working on cutting $1.5 million from next year's $46.5 million budget and has discussed everything from reducing staff and programs to outsourcing custodial services to balance the budget before July 1. Last week, in time to start kindergarten registration, the board voted to expand the district's half-day kindergarten program into a five full-day, everyday program. An optional half-day program will still be available. Parent Heather Paul, 30, is concerned the school district will pay for the all-day program at the expense of other students and programs. The Highland resident has three children who attend Hartland Consolidated Schools. There were 29 students in her child's second-grade class. "Why would you choose (to expand) all-day kindergarten when the elementary grade classes are maxed out size-wise?" Paul understands the full-day class is attractive to working parents, but asks: "How are we going to pay for it?" Scott Bacon, assistant superintendent of business and operations, estimates that expanding the all-day, everyday kindergarten program will cost the district $123,500, roughly the cost of two additional teachers. The district employs 14 kindergarten, junior first-grade and developmental kindergarten teachers. If Hartland eliminates the junior programs as planned, and has 12 all-day kindergarten classes next year and four half-day kindergarten sessions next year, they will only need 14 teachers. "By reconfiguring our teachers, we can offer the full-day kindergarten at a minimal cost to the district, and give the children a deeper kindergarten experience," Bacon said. Laurie Mayes, assistant superintendent of curriculum, said the rigorous curriculum standards for high school has a trickle-down effect for all grades and the all-day kindergarten is better preparation. The all-day program will give kindergartners a good foundation, and the extra time of the full-day class will make a huge difference for the kids when they go off to first grade," Mayes said. School board member Charlie Aberasturi voiced opposition to the plan, saying the district cannot afford it. An accountant by trade, Aberasturi said an all-day program has incremental costs closer to $750,000. Four-year-old Thomas Kimmel of Deerfield Township, was one of 280 kindergartners who registered last week in Hartland. While Thomas was excited about starting school, his mother Deborah was a little surprised when she found out that the kindergarten class would be five full days. "I'm a little nervous," she said. "I didn't think I would be sending him away all day. But he'll be fine." Deborah Davis Locker is a Metro Detroit freelance writer. ______________________________________ http://www.detroitnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/a.../603160306/1008 Thursday, March 16, 2006 Unique schools deserve special attention Flexible curriculum for creative programs would benefit students S tate lawmakers are wrapping up the details of proposed mandatory high school requirements, and there's one order of business that should get careful attention. High schools that can demonstrate an effective and innovative curriculum should be given some flexibility in meeting state requirements. Such a school, for example, might emphasize foreign languages, performing arts, international programs or innovative techniques that boost student achievement. Lawmakers looking for ways to provide flexibility have considered several options, including allowing exceptions for up to 30 high schools with the approval of the state school superintendent. In exchange for flexibility, the specialty schools must deliver a higher median score on the ACT, a national student achievement test. One option calls for specialty schools to deliver a median score that is at least 10 percent higher than other schools in its district. Strict requirements for high school graduation and college acceptance would also be applied. Some students, such as those at Detroit's University Preparatory Academy, would benefit from such flexibility. "The purpose of diploma requirement legislation is to increase the percentage of college-ready high school graduates in Michigan," notes Doug Ross, founder of the academy. "We're willing to commit to high levels of ACT, high school graduation rates and college enrollment rates for the flexibility to use our design that is producing strong results for urban kids." On Wednesday, state senators tinkered with their version of mandatory class requirements, and a bill could be passed as early as today. Any differences will have to be squared with a related House bill. Members of both chambers of the Legislature should build in flexibility that will keep and nourish innovations that work. |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 06:33 AM Post #2 |
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From the Detroit Free Press: http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article...EWS06/603160528 Michigan ARTWORK IN PLYMOUTH-CANTON SCHOOLS: Masterpiece murals Re-creations serve to inspire students, staff March 16, 2006 BY PATRICIA MONTEMURRI FREE PRESS STAFF WRITER A replica of "Red Canna" by Georgia O'Keeffe brightens the stairway at Salem High School in Canton. The replica was painted by Aisha Chappell and Val Brown, from the Class of 2000. O'Keeffe's work was painted in 1923. Here are some of the masterpieces re-created by students at Salem, Canton and Plymouth high schools, all located at Plymouth-Canton Educational Park in Canton. Michelangelo: A detail from the "Creation of Adam" in the Sistine Chapel. Matisse: "Creole Dancer." Henri Rousseau: "Exotic Landscape" 1910. Georgia O'Keeffe: "Red Canna." Diego Rivera: "Girl With Lilies," "Flower Day" and "Flower Seller." Pablo Picasso: "The Dream" and "Girl Reading." Jasper Johns: "Three Flags." William Buffet: "Albertine's Jazz Musicians." PATRICIA MONTEMURRI On the walls of Salem High School, students can lose themselves in the lush jungles of Henri Rousseau, the mesmerizing blooms of Georgia O'Keeffe or the bounty of Diego Rivera's flower peddlers. The masterpieces -- re-created by students over 20 years as part of a senior humanities class -- number about 100 and are in all three high schools operated by the Plymouth-Canton school district at its Plymouth-Canton Educational Park off Joy and Canton Center roads. The art often serves as guideposts. When students at Salem say they're going to meet in the Egyptian Hallway, they're referring to a corridor painted with figures from tombs found at the pyramids. If kids want to sneak a break "under the fingers," you'll find them on the second floor where a detail from Michelangelo's work in the Sistine Chapel depicts God's hand outstretched to Adam. For Lauren Norris, 17, of Canton, the art is an everyday inspiration. "I'm just an art appreciator," Norris said Wednesday. "I think the presence of murals sparks creativity" -- and respect from the students, who generally don't mar or disfigure it. "It's unconscious appreciation of the work that students put into it," she said. Renovation work at Salem High means some of the artwork will be painted over. But it's also spurred an effort to catalog and preserve the bulk of the students' handiwork, which shows up in stairways, in classrooms, in alcoves near vending machines and along corridors. Even for students who aren't artistically inclined, "the art becomes part of their life," humanities teacher Susan Welker said. "They might not know it's a Picasso. But they'll see it and they enjoy it." When her students replicate a masterpiece, they put together a business proposal. They study the artist, get permission about where it will hang, consult with the school maintenance staff about upkeep and might solicit donations to pay for the cost of paint and materials. Senior Kim Heaney, 17, of Canton, is painting a replica of Picasso's "Mediterranean Landscape." On a door-sized piece of hardboard she's covered with white primer, she and two classmates have outlined the jutting rooftop angles depicted in the painting. "We wanted to put artwork in the school that will last forever," Heaney said this week. Studying how to make the reproductions last is the work of seniors Julie Greeneisen, 17, of Canton and Nate Wallace, 18, of Plymouth. They are doing an independent study about preserving and archiving the murals as they prepare to take the Advanced Placement Exam in Art History, which could give them college credits. "It's really a powerful project because I'm going to leave such a big impact on the school and on the people who are going to see the murals until they tear the building down," Greeneisen said. Greeneisen and Wallace are doing touch-ups on several paintings. They're also collecting old bedsheets to wrap artwork that will be taken down as renovations continue through fall 2007. The renovation project managers, McCarthy & Smith Inc. of Farmington Hills, are sealing off the artwork painted directly on walls as they begin work on installing new heating and cooling systems. Among murals deemed too damaged for repainting are a copy of Van Gogh's "The Bedroom," re-created by students in 1987, and an interpretation of Snoopy done after cartoonist Charles Schulz's death in 2000. Greeneisen and Wallace also are cataloging and photographing the artwork. "It brightens the school, and it's a statement about what's important. It's beauty and art created from the passion of our kids," counselor Mary Vertrees said. Contact PATRICIA MONTEMURRI at 313-223-4538. |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 07:55 AM Post #3 |
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From the Livonia Observer: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...392/1027/NEWS10 PETITION FLAP Some eyebrows have been raised by the citizens group that's collecting signatures to recall members of the Livonia Board of Education on city property in front of the Community Recreation Center. The protesting grass-roots group is trying to halt the Legacy Initiative, the school district's re-organization plan to close seven schools, restructure elementary school buildings and trim about $1.5 million a year in expenses. Group members hope to collect 11,000 signatures for each of the five school board members to force an August recall election. City attorney Sean Kavanagh said any group has a right to seek signatures and hand out literature on city property as long as they are at least 100 feet away from the door. He said this is permitted according to the state's election laws. "There is no city ordinance against collecting petition signatures on city property," Kavanagh said. "On Election Day, candidates can hand out literature as long as they are 100 feet away from a polling location." Furthermore, Kavanagh said the citizen group is operating within its Constitutional right "to petition the government for a redress of grievances." Originally published March 16, 2006 ______________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...390/1027/NEWS10 School libraries get an upgrade BY STEPHANIE ANGELYN CASOLA STAFF WRITER Livonia Public School libraries are about to get a major overhaul. Jim Fraser, supervisor of information technology, called the current system "very antiquated for students used to using Yahoo and Google." Outdated libraries throughout the school district will soon be replaced by a new, automated system created by The Library Corporation. The system costs $150,479 and includes software, installation, training and other devices. Board members unanimously approved the purchase last week. According to district officials, TLC offered the lowest bid which met the district's needs. The purchase will be funded out of the Building and Site Technology Fund, which is money the district sets aside from its budget to cover the costs of its five-year technology replacement cycle. The recommendation for purchase came after nearly a year of research completed by the district's Library Review Committee. The 13-member committee requested proposals from 50 firms. Of the seven vendors who responded, the committee looked at the top three before choosing TLC. "The product itself is easy to use and understand for all levels of students," said Fraser. He estimated that the new program will actually save the district $30,000 a year in maintenance costs for the first five years. Susan McCoy, media specialist at Stevenson High School, said the program meets parameters required by federal No Child Left Behind legislation. It will also increase access to research and information at all levels of education, she said, and customize results for the user. The program will lead users to age-appropriate Web sites and make it easy to find books on subjects connected to their search. "It opens up a whole new world," said McCoy. Linda Ligon, media specialist at Churchill High School, said the committee has done its research and chosen the best system to suit the district's needs. "We can take advantage of all the resources we have," she said. "Students at Stevenson, Webster and Frost can see what we have at every school in the district." Fraser said the new system should be in place by fall of the coming school year. "We want the media center to be a source of pride," McCoy said. "We want to promote a passion for learning." scasola@hometownlife.com | (734) 953-2054 Originally published March 16, 2006 ___________________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...384/1027/NEWS10 Renovating 5 classrooms costs $555,00O Five classrooms at Cooper Elementary School will be renovated at a cost of $555,000, under a proposal expected to be approved by the Livonia Board of Education next week. The project would be paid for through the district's sinking fund, which can only pay for capital projects. Rod Hosman, director of administrative services, told the school board that work would on the five former industrial arts rooms (metal and wood shop from when the building was Whittier Junior High) would have been needed eventually even without the Legacy Initiative, which will put 900 students in grades 5-6 into Cooper this fall. "It was on a long-term list of things we want to get to," Hosman said later. Bringing the rooms up to code for student uses had been estimated to cost $600,000, Hosman said, noting the bidders being awarded the contracts will actually bring in the work for under that price. The bids spanned 18 different projects, ranging from steel and masonry to windows and mechanical work. The rooms, described as "deteriorated," are currently used for storage. That means the work can begin once the stored items are removed and before the end of the school year, Hosman said. by Dave Varga Originally published March 16, 2006 ______________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...397/1199/NEWS10 LETTERS Halt plan, for the kids Who knows what's best for our children? Lately the Board of Education's mantra has been "It's all about the kids" when it comes to the Legacy Initiative. I think the parents know what's best for their children. And the Legacy Initiative is not. We have quite literally known our children since the day they were born. They sleep in our beds, eat at our tables, cry, sweat, bleed and pray with us. We hold them in our arms when they are inconsolable over the death of the family pet. We sleep at their bedside when they are sick. We do not have to consider other factors like union contracts, political posturing, and putting a good spin on a bad situation. With parents it truly is all about the kids. Please put a halt to the Legacy Initiative. With over 4,000 signatures (for each board member!) already collected for the recall, it is not a question of if they are collected, it is when. Don't put us through this. Stop it now. Do it for the kids. Jim Dawes Livonia Stop ripping community apart Since October, we have watched and listened to all the arguments both for and against the Legacy Initiative plan. We understand and are sympathetic with both sides of the argument. It doesn't really matter what side we're on, what this issue is coming down to is whether or not Livonia's children are being hurt by all the dissension. If all those who oppose the plan pull their children out of Livonia Public Schools, then our child loses friends and so do those poor children who will have to find new friends at new schools. This dissension is what is harming LPS, our children's welfare, and property values! By continuing to pull LPS into the courtroom, our children lose money that could be spent on them. Everyone, school board members and parents alike, all have one goal: THE WELFARE OF OUR CHILDREN. Children are much more resilient than parents are and our children will be just fine if they are allowed to continue their education with their friends. Their main concern on a daily basis is whether their best friend is at school, not the bus ride, or total number of students at the school. So, FOR THE SAKE OF OUR CHILDREN, PLEASE STOP RIPPING LIVONIA APART and allow our children to continue receiving the quality of education that LPS has always and will always continue to provide. Mike and Ann Murphy Livonia Originally published March 16, 2006 ______________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...395/1199/NEWS10 LETTERS SHARE YOUR OPINIONS Put this issue up to a vote In the District Transition Update that was sent home on March 1 it was announced that rather than having only three tiers of start and dismissal times, it will instead have four. What are parents who start work at 9 a.m. going to do with K-4 students not starting school until 9 a.m.? Are they supposed to be late for work everyday? Are they supposed to add money into their budget and start sending their kids to SACC now so that they aren't late for work? What about the bus ride home for K-4 kids? If the bus leaves the school at 4:05 and you are stop No. 8 your child won't be getting home until 4:30 or later depending on traffic and weather. It gets dark in the winter at 5 p.m. This doesn't leave any playtime for these kids. Some people have written in suggesting that kids should do their homework on the bus and are OK with long bus rides. Maybe if you are talking about older, more mature kids, but I can't see a 6-year-old saying, "I'll use this as an opportunity to do my homework." Plus, I enjoy helping my child with their homework, and spending quiet time with them after school. Once you get into the 4:30, 4:40 range it's getting close to dinner time and after-school activities. This is just one more reason that I am hopeful that the BOE will consider putting the Legacy Initiative and this four-tier structure (K-4, 5-6, 7-8, 9-12) aside long enough to let the community take a vote and have the citizens of the city decide whether this is what we want for our kids, and our property values with so many neighborhood schools being shut down. Sadly, the BOE has made it clear that they have no intention of putting this critical issue up for a vote...why I wonder? Because, they know it would probably be voted down. S. Colby Livonia Will plan cause people to flee? Salespeople that frequently make "cold calls" have, as an objective, to make a concrete second appointment with a prospective customer. About one in nine of these prospects will take the time to make that appointment and hear the salesperson out. This success ratio of just over 10 percent is considered pretty good. What if that success ratio jumped to over 80 percent? Astounding you say? Well, that is the average for capturing signatures and having dialogue with neighbors when attempting to gather support for the LPS school board recall. I have been uplifted by more neighbors in my neighborhood the last few weeks than I could have ever imagined. The message that I hear time and time again from people is, "Why don't they just work with us?" or "How can I help to gather signatures?" Particularly frustrating to me are those that say to work with the board or be a part of the discussions. Work with the board? Be a part of the discussions? How? Every opportunity was afforded to work this out before it came to this. No one wanted a recall or lawsuit. This is in response to a forced condition. I realize that an incredible amount of work has been put into the Initiative, but my anger is directed towards the lack of two-way communication that is necessary for such drastic changes. Yes, changes are necessary because of the economic conditions that we find ourselves in. But the current form of what is the Legacy Initiative is not the change that is necessary. Recently, Livonia released crime figures that showed a double-digit spurt in crime. Is the next headline, "Livonia closes seven schools" going to be one that brings people to Livonia, or flee? What is the path of least resistance? Be realistic folks. People move to Livonia because of our historically low crime rates and NEIGHBORHOOD schools. They are not going to come because we are redistricting to a K-4, 5-6 model and the fact that we saved 1 percent of the operating budget per annum. Give me a break. Matt Yardley Livonia It's an injustice to community As a parent of a Taylor Elementary student I understand that our school district has to make financial changes to keep our district viable. However, I feel the district did an injustice to our community by implementing the Legacy Initiative without listening to the communities concerns and apprehensions. The Legacy's presentation to the community was rolled out on Oct. 21; the day after our elementary students completed the state required MEAP testing. One has to wonder why? The question and answer forum at the three high schools were screened; they only answered the questions that were of their liking. The public forum at Churchill High School was just a show. The Board of Education refused to listen to our concerns or the level of public outcry. The number of people who addressed the board in opposition out numbered the supporters at least 10 to 1. The real enlightenment was the presentation to the Board of Education by the Demographics Committee. The committee also considered two other plans, which in my view would not have impacted the community to the extent as the Legacy Initiative has done. The cost saving between the three plans were minimal. The difference between the K-4 5/6 plan and the K-6 plan was the possible special classes the district may offer. Of course, they always have the disclaimer that they MAY offer, no guarantees! Closing of 7 schools without impact studies and traffic studies shows the district's negligence of duties. How many people are going to leave the district that aren't being verbal. I do know of some. As it has been said before if we loose 182 students, it will negate any annual savings by the Legacy plan. Oh, let's not forget that the four out of the seven Board of Education members were also part of the Demographic Committee, some were more active than other, but even if you were somewhat involved, how can you remain neutral? So may I ask, Dr. Liepa, please reconsider what the district is doing and listen to your community. We really do want to work with the district, please just try! Let's not leave it up to the court! Eileen McDonnell Livonia Give plan a chance Your article about the Legacy Plan ("Legacy plan, recall drive starting to tear apart our community") hit the nail right on the head. My child is in kindergarten at Washington. Although his school is being closed, I just feel like we should give this whole thing a chance before we condemn it and everyone associated with it. We live at Joy and Hix and although it's probably not the most affluent suburb in the city, we love it. We love living in Livonia and we love having our children in Livonia Public Schools, and we loved Washington Elementary. If people are concerned about Johnson, which is just over the border in Westland, it seems to be a really nice school in a really nice area of Westland. All cities have their nice spots and their not so nice spots. There are some areas in Livonia that could use a little help themselves. It's sad that this issue is tearing apart the city even before it is given a chance. I'm not sure it's the best solution, but neither is losing parts of the school curriculum because Livonia schools are losing enrollment, money, etc. I am concerned about the property values and what the effect will be with having Washington close, but my biggest concern is that my child is safe, happy and getting a good education. I think he's actually looking forward to getting to ride the bus next year to Randolph. I just have to wonder if all of these people that are so against it are really against it for the sake of their children, or if it is just more inconvenient for them. I think Livonia has always been a great place to live and a great place to go to school. I really hope it stays that way. Thanks for writing a great article. Cindy Tucker Livonia Originally published March 16, 2006 |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 07:59 AM Post #4 |
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From the Westland Observer: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/.../603160471/1041 New choice Wayne-Westland looks to add students with intra-county program BY SUE MASON STAFF WRITER The Wayne-Westland Community Schools has decided to open the doors to its elementary schools to students living outside the district. The school board Monday evening approved an administration recommendation to accept enrollment in the district's kindergarten-fifth-grade program beginning with the 2006-07 school year. "There will be room for a limited number of students based on the grade level number of seats not filled," Superintendent Greg Baracy told the school board. "This is an effort to maximize the efficiency of our buildings and raise revenue for the district so we will be able to maintain our programs for students." The district hopes to raise much-needed revenue as well as stabilize its student enrollment with schools of choice and its recently approved an all-day kindergarten program. Wayne-Westland lost more than 200 students this year primarily at the elementary level. Some of that loss was to the neighboring Garden City Public Schools which instituted an intra-county school of choice program two years ago to boost its enrollment. The district's four middle schools and two high schools currently have full enrollment and are not included in the nonresident schools of choice. However, its alternative education program at the Tinkham Center is open to nonresidents. Wayne-Westland has offered an internal schools of choice program for its kindergarten-eighth-grade enrollment for many years, and it won't be until after the elementary program's April registration deadline that school officials will have an idea of the number of empty seats in the its elementary schools. "Once that's complete we'll have a better handle for applications for intra-county schools of choice," said Deputy Superintendent Charlotte Sherman. "We have a committee developing the guidelines." Trustee Cindy Schofield questioned what would happen in schools that may face an overcrowding situation. "If we accept children from outside out boundaries and then have additional children move into the district, will those children be sent back to their district or will we have to hire another teacher?" she asked. "The parent will have a choice of schools, but the district will assign the buildings," Sherman said. "If at count date, there's overcrowding, the first to have to change schools will be the person who is new to the school because of the intra-county program." Baracy added that "once we accept these out-of-district students, they will be ours until they graduate." "This program will require an annual resolution and whether or not we decide to continue doing it, these students will be ours," he said. Trustee Steve Becher questioned what would happen if schools experienced an influx of new students in their area and was assured that "our students will get first priority." "A child who applies from outside the (school) attendance boundaries won't be guaranteed that school," Sherman said. "We will ask for first, second and third choices and try to accommodate them." She added that once a child is accepted, his or her siblings would have priority over other applicants. smason@hometownlife.com | (734) 953-2112 Originally published March 16, 2006 |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 08:03 AM Post #5 |
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From the Redford Observer: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/.../603160617/1033 RU plan means far-reaching changes BY MATT JACHMAN STAFF WRITER One building will close as a traditional elementary and younger students will attend a central school under a reorganization plan adopted Monday by the Redford Union Board of Education. The board, after two months of intense public debate about the future of the district, voted 5-2 for a plan that will shutter three buildings and divide elementary students. Kindergartners and first-graders, along with some young special education students, will attend what is now MacGowan Elementary. Keeler Elementary will lose its traditional focus and will become the site for an RU program for about 120 educationally impaired students. That program, attended by students from several districts, is currently located outside the district. "It's a big change for this community," said Jim Taylor, the board vice president, after trustees voted during a meeting in a packed high school auditorium. "Of all the options, it made the best sense to build a future." "I think it was the right thing to do," Trustee Mark Wierimaa said. "Bulman is the most flexible building we have in the district, with the most land." The reorganization keeps Bulman Elementary open, with some program shifts, and Wierimaa said that best preserves RU's options for the future. 'NOTHING PERFECT' However, "Nothing was perfect in it," added Wierimaa, a Bulman parent. The reorganization, which will include staff reductions, will be implemented for the next school year and should save more than $1.6 million a year, according to estimates. The district is on a four-year program to eliminate an estimated $3.7 million budget deficit. Dubbed Concept 4, the plan was the only proposal to win majority support during preliminary votes on seven reorganization proposals. Trustees Patricia Isabell and Sherri Caloia voted against Concept 4. Trustee James Brenner voted against it initially, but changed his vote in the final round. Caloia, who has children at Keeler, said the reorganization simply isn't good business. Keeler is larger than Bulman, she said, but will host a small program. "It doesn't make any sense to put the smallest program in the largest building," she said. She disagreed with Wierimaa's reasoning that preserving Bulman keeps options open. If Bulman becomes overcrowded, she said, "we're going to have to reopen a school we've had to close." LIST OF CHANGES In addition to moving the program for impaired students to Keeler and making MacGowan a central location for kindergartners and first-graders, Concept 4 will: Close Roosevelt School, the B. Beck Education Center and the Raeside Administration Building. Programs at Beck will be divided between other buildings, administrative offices will move to the Pearson Education Center, and leases for non-RU programs renting space at Roosevelt will not be renewed. RU acting Supt. Donna Rhodes said space at Beck may be rented out. Keep Stuckey Elementary and Bulman Elementary open, for students in grades 2-5 plus special education students in the same age range. Keep a schools-of-choice program, adult and community education, the alternative middle and high schools, and a tuition-based child-care program at Pearson. In a separate decision, the board voted 7-0 to have current Pearson schools-of-choice eighth-graders attend RU High School for their freshman year. Officials said a decision will likely be made in May on the future of the schools-of-choice program, which accepts students from neighboring districts. About 460 schools-of-choice students now attend Pearson in grades 5-8; others are scattered throughout other district buildings. Monday's meeting was marked by calls for unity and praise for school officials and board members for welcoming public input. "I've been so impressed with the respect you've shown your employees and this community," Robin Schmidt, a former trustee, told officials. 'We have a lot of excellent young teachers. My heart breaks for them.' 'It's just the beginning of a process. We've got a lot of work to do.' mjachman@oe.homecomm.net | (734) 953-2115 Debbie Fitrakis Donna Rhodes Originally published March 16, 2006 __________________________________________ http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...628/1033/NEWS16 S. Redford awards bids on bond work South Redford Schools awarded $2.4 million of its $32.6 million building improvement bond to low bidding contractors Monday. The decision represented the first of three significant bond packages which will come before the board for approval over the next few months. "Once the bids were taken, the construction management team made sure they were provided with everything they asked for in a bid," said Bill Weber, superintendent. "I am pleased this evening to tell you all (recommended) bids were low bids. All of the contractors were checked out. Even more importantly, all of the bids are coming in at the prices we estimated." ABC Paving Company will earn $1.4 million to complete site work where the artificial turf athletic field will replace the current field, and $155,000 for asphalt paving. Homrich Inc. will earn $114,000 for demolition work at the high school. Toledo Caisson Corp. and JC Holly Contracting Inc. balance out the low bidders for construction and concrete. In addition to the artificial turf field, the package includes foundations for Thurston High School's new performing arts center, auxiliary gymnasium and athletic fieldhouse, as well as parking. Board trustees supported the recommendation 7-0. "We are getting underway," said Weber. Construction is scheduled to start on the week of April 10, though parking and traffic flow may be affected as early as April 3. South Redford Schools will host its Groundbreaking Ceremony at 4 p.m. Monday, May 1, at Thurston High School, 26255 Schoolcraft. By Stephanie A. Casola Originally published March 16, 2006 |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 08:09 AM Post #6 |
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Principal
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From the Northville Record: http://hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...782/1202/NEWS12 EDITORIAL: MEAP results: A job well done Congratulations to Northville students whose MEAP scores once again place them among the most academically successful programs in Michigan. Northville students, staff, faculty and administrators deserve praise for committing themselves to challenging academic rigor and delivering on their public promise to offer kids a solid educational experience. Achieving successful MEAP results, especially under the sometimes quirky "No Child Left Behind" standards, is no easy feat. Among Tri-county school districts, Northville students ranked first in seven of 21 academic categories. They performed well in all categories and demonstrated marked proficiency in math and reading. Continued MEAP success is a testament to the administration's solid curriculum choices and its implementation by caring teachers who allow children to express and develop their unique abilities. Parents who choose each day to remain involved in their children's lives — especially those who read and write with them early — should also be praised. Young, developing students need direction and positive role models. Parents who appreciate and refine the strong link between their personal involvement and their child's academic success are crucial to maintaining positive results. Does a favorable MEAP result ensure every child a quality public education, or mean every student is performing at a suitable level? Absolutely not. But Northville Public Schools has once again demonstrated the ability to understand sometimes sketchy state and federal academic requirements and the willingness to shape a quality curriculum matching those goals. High marks deserve high praise. Congratulations to those who are getting the job done. Originally published March 16, 2006 _____________________________________ http://hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...720/1202/NEWS12 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Defending students Mr. Larry Schlagheck's letter remarking on poor behavior by Northville High School students at the recent state district basketball game at Novi High School could not be further off the mark. As the parent of two former NHS student athletes I have attended athletic events for many years. Therefore, when I arrived at the sold-out Novi gym it was with some disappointment that the only seats my wife and I could find were not with other parents, but directly adjacent to the NHS student section at the south end of the gym. However, I was pleasantly surprised during the game at how well behaved the kids sitting next to me in the student section were. Only once during the game did I hear any chanted obscenity begin in the adjacent student section, and it was immediately squelched by Principal Dennis Colligan, Athletic Director Brian Masi and their on-site and attentive staff. It was hardly an "on-going display." Were the kids raucous? Yes. Were they enthusiastic? Yes. So were the other 1,200 people in a gym that was at capacity. The atmosphere was truly electric. I don't doubt that Mr. Schlagheck heard some obscenities during the game in his seats. It is unfortunate and perhaps symptomatic of the current cultural climate for which we all bear some responsibility. But to smear all Northville High School students and administration with this broad stroke is contrary to what really happened and a disservice to our kids, the school administration and the community that turned out in force to support their hometown team. As to his assertion that this behavior reflects poorly on character education in our schools, I would submit that responsibility for our children's character starts at home. We are surely lost if we as parents abrogate this important assignment. Kudos to the Northville students I witnessed being great fans and the staff that helped them understand how to positively support their team. Jeff Jacobs Northville Defending students II To the gentleman that was so disturbed by the students obscene chant at last week's basketball game, I would like to point out that I too find their behavior inappropriate as well but ... Remember these are still young kids and like your son, they make mistakes. It is our responsibility to point that out to them, as the administrators in attendance did very quickly. That chant did not happen again, which I consider a very positive result. I attend many NHS activities and don't remember that ever happening before. Maybe you should take your son to a fall play, spring musical, band or choir concert or any of the other fabulous events that these kids put on. You will find far more positive things to talk about than one isolated incident. There are over 2000 students at the high school and a vast majority of them are great kids. That is the true atmosphere your son will find at NHS. I am proud of the students, administrators and teachers at NHS for job they do representing our community. Bill Collins Northville SADD thanks Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) is an organization at Northville High School. We work within our school district to help students become aware of the dangers of drugs and alcohol and to make positive life choices. We also try to work in the community to educate and prevent alcohol-related injuries and fatalities. Alcohol involvement remains one of the leading factors in motor vehicle deaths. St. Patrick's Day is approaching and when it comes to alcohol related crashes the statistics show that unfortunately the numbers are not far behind New Year's Eve. For the past four years, we have initiated a project to remind people on St. Patrick's Day to be responsible. We have designed a table tent with the logo: Don't let your luck run out. Always wear a seat belt and never drive drunk. A friendly reminder from the students of Northville High School SADD. SADD would like to recognize the following restaurants that have decided to support this project by displaying the table tents at their establishments: Applebee's Neighborhood Grill, Bonfire Bistro & Brewery, Border Cantina (Novi), Mothers Pizzeria (Plymouth), Nassau Grill & Bar (Plymouth), Poole's Tavern, Red Hot & Blue BBQ (Novi), Rio Wraps (Plymouth), Rocky's of Northville, Sheehan's On The Green (Plymouth). We are grateful for their support and hope their patrons will be just as appreciative. Carolyn Miranda Northville High School Bond: no time soon Why did I vote "no" on the school bonds? It started as a conscience-guilt issue but finalized as a common sense decision. I couldn't believe it but ex-President Clinton was my inspiration, "It's the economy, Stupid!" Pure and simple. Although I've lived in the township 27 years, this was the first "no" vote I ever cast. Evidently there wasn't a millage or bond I didn't like: library, police, fire, green space, senior renovations and education were bubbled yes. Not this time. I couldn't pick up my No. 2 pencil fast enough to bubble in the "nos." I ask the board and its advisors; when was the last time you bought a gallon of milk, filled your car with gas, bought shoes for your children, bought prescriptions, paid medical premiums, water and utility bills? Did you experience sticker shock? They aren't going to come down. You probably paid your taxes and recently received a notice they would be raised again next year. Plymouth, Northville city and the township hired an independent company to inspect all the houses for improvements, thus having a basis for increasing your assessment. And then you have the unconscionable and outrageous gall to ask for 70-plus million. When the high school plans were presented to the public, we were assured that administration would be most satisfied with the Eight Mile Road athletic field. Such is not the case. In the proposed bond, $17.2 million would have been allocated for a field house addition to the high school. If the directors had been honest upfront, they would have included the field house in the original plans. Clever, intelligent managing and planning of the high school will provide adequate space for activities and events. The board missed an opportunity when the last bond was floated. Meads Mill could have been incorporated with Cooke at the present Hillside. There was ample room for both schools to co-exist either separately or as one unit. Much money was expended to enlarge class rooms to accommodate Cooke students and the left over space was "donated" to Parks and Recreation. Two schools can and have co-existed on one campus. I proposed this solution by mail to the board, but it was never considered. Meads Mill is a great facility and would have been most suited as an elementary school. Finally, the residents were informed that the cost of the millage on a $400,000 home would be $318 for 20 years - but then again - it could be reduced to $180. All contingent on the number of new residents who move into the area. It's not going to happen. The board will give us $138? I don't think so. Just look at your new notice of assessment. It will increase every year for eternity. Be prepared for more voting. As the old teacher joke goes: "You will do it over and over again until you get it right." It won't be until the board and its advisors show some economic restraint that I will vote "yes." Mary Elizabeth Braddock Northville Originally published March 16, 2006 |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 08:13 AM Post #7 |
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Principal
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From the Plymouth Observer: http://hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/arti...613/1204/NEWS15 LETTERS SHARE YOUR OPINIONS Frivolous request As an involved parent in the Plymouth-Canton Community School district, I am disturbed and concerned regarding Mike Murray's information request for documents pertaining to Mark Slavens' role as Plymouth Canton school board member ("Activist targets Slavens with info request," Observer, March 2). What is Mr. Murray's true motive? I support freedom of information, but I do not support frivolous requests that cost our tight-budgeted school district thousands of dollars. What is wrong with Mr. Slavens' potential political opponents that they cannot run on their own merits, and need to make this desperate attempt to discredit Mr. Slavens? With over 10 years of volunteer experience in this district, including P-CCS Community School Council, I am confident that Mark Slavens and the school board do an excellent job of running the district while keeping our children's best interests in mind. Mr. Murray, please do not financially burden our district for personal or political motivation. It does not contribute to the education of our children, and we do not need you to police our school board. Debbie LaFontaine Plymouth Originally published March 16, 2006 |
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| grantmom | Mar 16 2006, 09:59 AM Post #8 |
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Principal
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Great letters to the editor......keep them rolling in everyone. |
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| Hull_CHS | Mar 16 2006, 10:32 AM Post #9 |
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Principal
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I just want to say I appreciate the posting of these articles all in one place to view, I'm sure it takes a lot of time and I just wanted to say Thanks. |
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| Anna Krome | Mar 16 2006, 10:53 AM Post #10 |
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Principal
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Thank you, Nancy. I agree. You make keeping up a lot more efficient. And, the scope of the articles is great. Good job. AK |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 07:19 PM Post #11 |
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Principal
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From the O & E: http://www.hometownlife.com/apps/pbcs.dll/...NEWS19/60316007 School open Friday after arson damages auditorium James Mitchell and Sam Black Students will return to South Lyon High School Friday, after a fire started in the auditorium closed the school Thursday. The Oakland County Sheriff’s Department is offering up to $5,000 for clues to who set an auditorium seat on fire. Six seats in the balcony were burned spreading smoke damage throughout the auditorium. A sprinkler system extinguished the fire, causing water damage as well. A separate $500 reward is being offered by the South Lyon Community Schools district, said Melissa Meister, an assistant school superintendent. “It’s absolutely heartbreaking,” Meister said. “I’m just so disappointed for the students and the community.” Det. Brian Salenick of the Oakland County Arson Investigation division said accidental causes for the fire are ruled out. South Lyon Fire Department Chief Craig Kaska said alarms sounded at 7:15 a.m., and firefighters discovered three rows of theater seats burning in the upstairs section of the auditorium. School was closed by 8 a.m., and buses were brought in to take students home. No injuries were reported. Water also flowed into nearby classrooms and a choir room, but was cleaned up by late Thursday. Meister said clean up alone for the auditorium will take about 30 days and cost thousands of dollars. About 150 seats are being removed from the balcony to be cleaned or refurbished. This is the first such incident in the school’s history, said Larry Jackson, who has been the school’s principal since it was built 16 years ago. “It’s terrible, because it jeopardized the lives of students and staff in this school,” Jackson said. This Sunday’s South Lyon Area Taste & Expo will still be held in the school’s commons area from noon to 4 p.m. And Meister said she’s hopeful the auditorium will be ready for the school’s play, “Bye-Bye Birdie,” which will open the last weekend in April. South Lyon Police Chief Lloyd Collins said the Michigan Arson Prevention Committee is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the conviction of those responsible. The reward would be provided through the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department. Information may be provided to the sheriff’s Lyon Township Substation at 248-437-5600. The South Lyon Fire Department was assisted by the Green Oak Township and Lyon Township fire departments. Originally published March 16, 2006 |
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| NFarquharson | Mar 16 2006, 07:20 PM Post #12 |
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Principal
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Thanks for the thanks! You're welcome!
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