"Meet me half-way, but don't use hate to criticize.
If you're going to criticize be constructive about it, but don't use hate to do that."
I don't think it's a stretch to say that many teachers and members of the Peoria community are saddened by the fact that last night, the Board of Education (BOE), extended the contract for Superintendent Grenita Lathan for four (4) more years.
I'm thinking that this BOE must be privy to some pretty interesting data about progress, if they made this decision. You people in comments who keep talking about not making AYP, this move by the BOE would indicate that we will be seeing improvement (because we know they already have preliminary scores).
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| All pull quotes are from the Ungurait deposition, click images to enlarge. |
Citizens should be able to expect that the BOE reviewed their employee and acted in the best interest of their constituents when making this decision.
It sometimes seems as though the BOE and Administration is caught up in a bubble (or some may say ivory tower), the Us vs. Them bubble and as a result, doing what's best for the children gets lost. I know people (especially on blogs), say mean things about them, but that kind of goes along with the territory of being a change agent, doesn't it? They just seem to be a little too busy being defiant, you can see it on their faces and in their posture.
Surely they know that every citizen in Peoria is not against them, but that doesn't stop them from constantly using fighting words and double entendres to hit at certain people, every single time the camera is in their face. It's just not nice, it's not good customer service and for the money we are paying, we deserve better.
We have seen in the Ungurait deposition allegations of the mean spirit that permeates through the District. When the Superintendent gets awarded a very nice contract, (thanks to the taxes of citizens of Peoria) did she step up and smile and say anything nice? No, she didn't; instead she came across very defiant, almost (dare I say), angry. I really expected better. It's past time to rise above the drama - that interview could have been a new start. Unfortunately, it seemed like a promise of more of the same (with just a hint of... or, you can kiss my ***).
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| Quotes from the Ungurait deposition, click to enlarge. |
The Superintendent says that she would like to receive constructive criticism that is not riddled with hate, that's a reasonable request. I hope that in reviewing her, extending her contract and then giving her a raise, that her employers (the BOE) asked her to at least give her employees and citizens of this community the same respect.
However, judging from the most recent television interview, I doubt that discussing the issue of civility with the Superintendent was a part of the BOE's decision.
64 comments:
It is time to look into a recall election for the school board. These people are to the point that they don't care what the taxpayer wants they keep throwing cash at this troll and letting her waste money left and left. (yes i put two lefts because nothing is right about this) She is a bully in a school district that has enough of them. lets fire 105 people and give her a raise and a bonus. one last slap in the face to these people.
Let's refrain from calling names, or talking about how folks look, please. Thanks.
At no time at any board meeting have I heard anyone (including myself) speak with hatred toward Dr. Lathan personally. (I know the same can't be said for some Anonymous bloggers). Everyone seems to limit their criticisms to decisions, issues, etc. Certainly, she has had to endure considerable criticism--a not uncommon burden for any school superintendent.
I am surprised (after reading the statement she made on WEEK last night) that she used that short time to focus in on the hate she feels is directed at her. The gracious (and more flattering attitude for her) thing for her to have done would have been to thank those who are putting so much confidence in her--to give her an additional four years. She would have done herself a huge favor by omitting the message to those she feels hate her.
So much of what I hear her saying reveals this defensive attitude--one which will not serve her or District 150 well in the next four years.
In response to my own comments last night, she denied ever saying that white teachers can't effectively teach black children. First of all, I did not accuse her personally--I referred to this administration (which includes all those she has chosen to help her lead). I certainly, expected her to take the opportunity to clarify and/or deny what I have heard. Her denial was fine, but she had to add the defensive part when she stated something to the effect that she is ready and willing to work with any who can look past her race. As a leader--and if there is any hope for her regime in District 150--she will simply have to get off the defensive and be the leader.
I have heard it said of marriages that if both parties only meet each other half way, there is little hope for the marriage. Both sides have to give 100% to the marriage. As a leader, Dr. Lathan cannot wait for others to meet her half way--she is the one doing the inviting. The meet me half way sounds very much like the veiled "My way or the highway" proposition.
I hope that the confidence that the board has placed in her will give her the confidence to stop the leadership style that seems to run on the tactics of fear and intimidation. To be successful, the board and the Chamber of Commerce cannot be her primary allies.
Sharon Crews made a good point on the PJS comment section, that I agree with:
If enrollment in Peoria Public Schools District 150 stabilizes;
if test scores improve to a point where schools won't be on a watch list, that will be the ultimate measurement tool of Dr. Lathan's
success or failure.
but if test scores improve, along with other factors, such as
better community/parent involvement, improved graduation rates, I will be here ready to serve up the negative Neds and Nancies their words to eat. With or without seasoning.
But one BIG obstacle to all this: adequate funding from the State of Illinois. It will be hard to teach kids when you don't have enough fund to pay teachers. Sometimes I wish that the negative folks would channel as much energy toward the General Assembly to make education a priority, as they do against Lathan and the BOE. Thank you.
Hi Dennis:
So Sharon commits to doing a mea culpa when the time warrants and immediately we move on the "But one BIG obstacle." Before Sharon made that statement the teachers and union were that "one big obstacle."
Here's what I think, until you have a child who is of school age; live in Peoria; had to deal with District 150 Administration; and pay taxes in Peoria, your comments about how a person who does should feel and/or what they should say, are just a tad too clinical. Thank you.
I've called for a Summer Summit - a meeting of the BOE, the unions, the administration, and the PTO's. I'd like to see all stakeholders come together to create common goals, common language, and absolute transparency. I'd like to see all stakeholders emerge from the meeting united and ready to tackle the 2012-2013 school year. If we take just one year as a trial run -- focussing all energy on a few common goals, I think we'll make great strides. If we create a structure - a method to the madness - that strucure will transcend the nonsense. People not suited for doing what's in the best interest of our district will be weeded out.
I think it can happen.
Summer Summit 2012.
I'm going to embrace the attitude.
Jeff Adkins-Dutro
and batter number one for the team "All about the kids", Jeff Adkins-Dutro, steps up to the plate!
This is an amazing idea and we have time to get it accomplished.
Is it possible for the board to recind her new contract within three days, like any other contract? If so, start inundating your boe members with emails and phone calls...time to act
Teacher
Love the idea but the board doesn't care they have their mind made up. You can't look at a gym full of people screaming at you yelling this is wrong, drive threw a picket line on the way to said gym, they do not listen to what the people are begging for. The board does whatever it wants they refuse to listen but its for the children and change is hard.
I am probably guilty of being facetious--I thought the word IF would eliminate that possibility. I did say IF scores improve, not WHEN. :) Personally, I don't expect scores to improve. That's why I keep harping that the NCLB scores should not be the measuring stick. As I stated in my comments last night, teachers are being judged by the results of tests that might very well be (are) biased against inner city kids. Then when the kids can't pass the tests, the teachers are blamed for the failure. Ostensibly, Dr. Lathan is being judged by the same measuring stick--that's not fair either for the same reasons.
P.S., please don't tell me that going up from 2 to 10 points in any given year is improvement--it's just luck, dependent on the students who happen to take the test that year. No schools jump 20, 30, 40 points to meet AYP. Most schools stay within the same range within 10 points--and go up and down within that range.
Here's a Summer Summit 2012 Facebook page I made. Emerge, I hope you don't mind me posting the link here.
http://www.facebook.com/EmbraceTheAttitude
Jeff Adkins-Dutro
There is no one more willing to give 100% than Jeff is. For him, striving for reconciliation will always win out.
Emerge, in my slight defense, I clicked "post" of my comment just moments before Sharon's popped up on my refreshed screen. If I had seen her post before I posted mine, I probably would have altered it. But I still believe adequate funding from the State of Illinois is hampering quality education all over the state, not just Peoria.
Jeff, I'm on board with your Summer Summit 2012 idea. How can I help promote it, get the word out?
The superintendent will continue to treat people with disrespect because her board keeps rewarding her for behaving in such a manner. Unbelievable.
This decision will take years to recover.
As the incoming President of the Glen Oak Primary PTO and as a Parent I will defiantly attend a Summer Summit 2012 should we be able to pull this together. Just let me know how I can help.
What is funny is right before I read your idea on here I was talking to one of my coworkers about how I would go about setting up a meeting of all the PTO's in District 150 before school starts.
I know some may not like my next statement but here goes anyway.....
Last year is over, lets everyone start fresh and work towards making District 150 a better school system for all the kids.
I am not saying let’s forget about the past – what I am saying is let’s just move on and see where we go from here. None of us can change the past, we only have to ability to change the future.
You are correct tls1995...
time to move forward. It's a good idea to rally parents and feel free to send your info into the blog for posting.
No problem posting the Facebook information Dutro. I'm in for the Summit, feel free to talk about here as much as you need.
Hey, Dennis. I'd say turn people on to the Facebook page. I think having the presidents of the PTO's hold the summit would be marvelous. If THEY would like to see the major stakeholders meet and get on the same page, who can argue with them? They are the ones whose kids are attending our schools.
So much could be resolved so simply with a face-to-face meeting / summit where the stakeholders choose a few things to shoot for, a few things on which to agree, and a common (professional) way to treat each other -- all while choosing to focus most effort on the agreements and least on the disagreements.
I'm just do tired of the strife and I think the majority of our stakeholders and community members are too. So, I figured I'd swallow my pride, admit that I've been a bit nasty at times, and ask that we all put our nastiness aside and do what's best for the district.
If the PTO presidents out there would like to spearhead the effort, I can get them in touch with Dr. Patrick Dolan - who has a system for ensuring that the summit is productive for everyone.
If you can't beat 'em, join 'em, huh?
Dr. Dolan was advocated numerous times to be brought in to help Lathan with her management style.
Why would you want to work with a person who is insulting to you after being given an extension on her contract?
I don't see it as working with any particular person - I see it as creating a framework that requires all parties to work together for the benefit of our district. I'm sure we could fight against the board and the administration and maybe "win" some sort of battle over the next four years; however, it seems more direct to me to invite the stakeholders to the table. Who's willing to unite for the benefit of our district? Who's not? I'd love for the PTO's to unite and call for a summit - to demand an end to the strife - to call for common goals, common language, and absolute transparency. Anyone refusing to attend would look foolish.
I'm on the Northmoor PTO - I know parents would be all for ending the constant turmoil & feeling of dissatisfaction from their teachers.
Let's do it. Do you think the PTO presidents would head it up?
My only question would be how do we find out who is the PTO President of each school is? From comments on here there are 2 of us on board already - Glen Oak (me) and Northmoor (katiesmom1803).
Good question. If there isn't a network of PTO presidents, it might be a good idea to create one. ???
Jeff A-D
Looks like that decision to extend Lathan's contract is already paying off, judging by the current reaction by some of the Board/Administration's most vocal critics.
In a lot of ways, its forcing the hand of all sides. If those that have been critical of the BOE and superintendent ask to meet in the format Jeff proposes, and one of those says "no" who looks foolish? If Central Admin and the BOE are game and PTO different unions say "no" the same thing goes.
If they have the summit and one side doesn't hold up to their end of the deal, again that respective party looks foolish.
I teach in the district and am tired of all of it. It was a very unhappy year in some ways--too many initiatives without a purpose and too much fear of retaliation if you said as much. I don't like when my boss, which is the superintendent, implies because she's had some criticism it is because of race. None of the complaints in my building have been because of her race, sex, creed, age, marital status, etc...most have been because of the overwhelming amount of initiatives and the lack of accountability for students/parents in regards to discipline/attendance/grading.
I like my job, a lot. I don't like the need to walk on eggshells--I worked in corporate America and came into this profession to work with students.
You want accountability and so do I, but not just of the teachers.
I'd like it of central administration, the BOE, parents, students, and yes, even as Dennis stated--the state of Illinois.
As for knowing who PTO Presidents are...Hinton used to have PTO President breakfasts once a month and they were successful. I guess a good place to start would be with the schools themselves. Also, they (current and past presidents) may know who is who. If you know one in a specific school start there and build on it.
Someone needs to email York Powers for PTO president:
http://www.psd150.org/Page/9744
I'll email York and see if there's a list of PTO presidents. And yes, I do believe the extension of the contract is going to compel some (?maybe most?) to get on the same page -- to work together. If the BOE can extend the contract AND push for unity, I think we'll be in decent shape. However, if their idea is to try to use the contract as some sort of power play, there'll be a lot more work to do.
It's at least worth trying it out for a year, isn't it? You know, the unity thing.
E'mailed Mr. Powers. I asked him if there's a list of PTO presidents . . . asked if that information could be put on the district's web site (with contact information via Group Wise) . . . and asked if it could be set up so PTO presidents would meet quarterly at the Parent University meetings -- that would boost PU attendance and would give PTO's a chance to interact.
Adkins-Dutro writing the PTO posts. :)
What are the ideas/suggestions teachers have to promote/encourage/COMPEL parents to own up to their responsibilities? Without that at the forefront of your summit, it's all just posturing.....
For parents to "own" up to their responsibility, ie, their children, I believe that you have to tell them that there will be REAL consequences for NOT doing THEIR job. Real consequences, like calling DCFS, dropping their child from attendance after so many absences, call tardy police after 5 tardies, not 20. Enforce those consequences immediately, do not keep giving ONE MORE CHANCE, that is how we got here in the first place.
Frankly, I believe it is parents themselves (through PTOs or some other organized fashion) all over the city who will have to call for stricter standards and rules that stick. District 150 has already proven for many years now that they will not heed the advice or pleas of teachers for these standards.
Parents have spoken loudly on this issue--however, District 150 has been deaf to their loud footsteps as they have left District 150 in droves. Now the parents who really want to stay in the District must speak up and must complain corporately about any schools where rules are not in forced.
Lala land = complain corporately? What does that even mean? Dropping from attendance or more expulsions/suspensions is NOT effective for parents who don't really care to start with....
The vote to renew the Super's contract was unanimous. Get over it people.
I say we bring QUEST into the picture. If they have requirements for patents, why the hell can't other 150 schools? Let's learn from each other instead of continually comparing who got the higher ISAT scores. I know I don't do NEARLY as much as I should at Whittier - where my kids attend. Maybe it's time for the district to REQUIRE me / patents to do more. I'll point that finger at myself.
Adkins-Dutro
Quest does not have requirements for parents. It is a hand full of parents working their behinds off over there to make it what it is. FACT.
So, are you saying Martha Ross and Lynn Costic voted "yea"?
Parent groups have been diluted.
Unfortunately the majority (not all) of the parents in 150 do not care or do not know how to do their job. This is not going to change no matter how many summits we have.
The BOE needs to explain specifics as to why they voted her an early contract renewal. It cannot come from Linda Butler, who has a friendship with Lathan. There is a reason why they all voted yea. They can do that without giving up personnel info.
Also, Rev. Butler's remark that they were sending a message to other districts that we are keeping her so they can't have her, came across as too defensive and silly.
You can tell Ms. Butler Dist 150 can have her. We are thankful that you have her as you are the laughing stock of all the other districts for keeping Lathan and renewing her conract. Who in their right mind would keep such a person when you see what she did all year to ruin the students and the school system? We think more of our children and would never allow it. Your BOE is a disgrace to your district
And the above comment was posted by which D150 teacher? D150 problems started decades ago sweetie and will take years to correct - if ever. Like a lot of readers, I'm wondering what teacher solutions are? They must be under top secret lock and key cuz none have been offered.
Ya know, if Ms. Butler said a comment like that, "that we're keeping Dr. Lathan", makes me think that some other school district maybe was tryin' to lure her away, and Peoria's board decided to act. Who knows?
Here is an idea!
http://www.sj-r.com/breaking/x1660535065/Illinois-State-Board-of-Education-ousts-East-St-Louis-board
Hey - maybe "complaining corporately" IS the answer. If only we knew what it means. Ha!
It has become a power struggle, The BOE, Latham against the entire staff of the Peoria Public Schools. Butler and the board renewed this woman's contract to send a message to the employees of the district. I am the boss and it doesn't matter what I do I am here to stay. To bad she couldn't put the fear of God(along with the prophet Butler) in the hearts of our districts estteem parents. The parent University is a joke! Teachers, best practices , up to date technology will never work if Billy and Lakeisha have no social skills, manners and are raised by parents who don't value education.
I am beginning to see a disturbing trend... it seems that now that folks know the Superintendent will not be moved, it's time to turn up the bashing on parents.
We have parents who are good parents and they take care of their responsibility, just like the teachers have teachers who are good and take care of their responsibility.
Attacking parents won't work - so I would suggest teachers move away from slamming them and work to get them on your team.
All the broad sweeping statements about parents don't value education, or don't care about their kids are a bit much for me.
Emerge, I agree. I cringe when I read the posts from teachers blaming parents. That kind of blanket blaming doesn't help the cause, at all--if for no other reason, the one you just mentioned. Teachers should recognize that they are often unfairly judged by the worst among them.
I suppose at the primary school level, the charges against parents are more tempting. I just wasn't that tempted to blame parents of high school kids since the kids should be held responsible for their own actions, at that point.
I still believe that when schools start to hold parents accountable for the behavior of their children--in some meaningful way, that most parents will comply. How to hold parents accountable is the question. I honestly believe that absolutely no time has been spent trying to come up with the kind of action and communication necessary to get that message across to parents. After those possibilities have been exhausted, then and only then should we throw up our hands in dismay. I am not against a fair way to hold teachers accountable, but parents do need to be held accountable, too--for the good of their own children.
I am just thinking of the bus monitor who has been featured on every news broadcast (over and over again). Sympathy for her is, in large part, due to the kindness with which she is handling the situation--and the way she even comes to the defense of the offending children.
Yes. My heroes are students who have no one at home making them come to school but who come to school every day anyway. It's not their fault their parents don't give a sh*t.
That said, yes, we have WAY more involved parents than uninvolved parents. Nine times out of ten my students ask me to see their grades not because they want to know whether or not they're on track for college - but because if they take home a C mom and dad are going to be P*SSED! :)
Also, I've seen a very cool trend - it seems that although we might not be talking Leave it to Beaver families, there are a lot of solid blended families. A lot of times biological dad isn't in the picture but a father / husband comes along and my students tell me that the "step" dad is the one who has been there for them. He's the REAL dad.
And you never know what's going on at home. - parents work two jobs - some have cancer and the kids are taking care of them - You just never know.
I think I do a decent job raising my five kids but I'm VERY weak when it comes to getting over to the ole school house. My kids' teachers (all District 150 teachers) do such an outstanding job - I guess I kind of take it for granted.
A-D
The Peoria BOE extention of the Superintendent's contract is just a demonstration of a united front at this TIME. There are too many things happening in the District and the State for them to actually show what they feel. Please don't read too much into that vote. They are using the same stance that Boards use in many corporations when their CEO is under fire. They agree to a united front for the public only. Behind close doors, with the CEO, it is not as pleasant.
If anyone thinks there is a Winner. Not so at all.
Mr. Dutro, I applaud your idea of an Education Summit for this District. It will be the only way that all stakeholders can provide input and become accountable.
I have noticed that many individuals have begun to "blast" parents. That should not happen. Some of the best teachers I know have developed relationships with their students' parents. They have found that success in the classroom involves everybody. These teachers not only teach but they nurture. Some times they nurture kids, sometime parents. There are home visits, phone calls, notes home, calendar of events for their classes, open invitations to visit their class. These things are done on a consistent basis. Yes, this happens along with grading papers and teaching every day.
So, when you demean parents, think of the things you can control to build a relationship. You will be surprised.
I would caution that the parent you really need to meet, ain't gonna be on the PTO. You need to get from York Powers the names of the people who sit on the Parent Advisory Committees that this District has been required by the State to have in EVERY school in the District.
This has not been happening, this is probably why Parent University has not been successful. It is not parent driven.
As a teacher in District 150, I have to say that teacher/parent relationships are incredibly important. Early in the year is the time to START calling-invite them to school functions, explain grading procedures, or ask THEM if they have any questions. Routine calls or notes sent home help to build a strong foundation for the success of their child. Parents are our greatest allies!
Yes. Teachers shouldn't blast parents. The VAST majority of them are very supportive and are great to work with. A-D
ok mr dutro. just curious. did the boe embrace the summer summit?
3 replied somewhat favorable. 2 outright NO. 2 no response at all.
Why did Manual have summer school when summer school was to be held at the Transition center on Knoxville? Who paid for the extra teachers, etc? How many students actually showed up at either place?
tlh82
Sorry, but not surprised, to see things getting worse at D150. Though grateful to have my kids out of D150, I feel badly for the dedicated teachers...but mostly I feel sad for the students who have no choice. After 12 long, arduous years at PPS, I can only say, "Know your rights." That applies to parents, teachers, and mostly students.
tlh82
D150 teachers: if your interview is cancelled by a principal who claims they had to leave school suddenly because of an emergency (i.e. residential break-in), please have the sense to follow up with a FOIA to the COP for documentation of such an "emergency".
tlh82
D150 teachers: if your interview is cancelled by a principal who claims they had to leave school suddenly because of an emergency (i.e. residential break-in), please have the sense to follow up with a FOIA to the COP for documentation of such an "emergency".
tlh82, what does that mean?
What is status of Summer Summit? Sounds like the BOE wasn't too much interested in getting everyone together.
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