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District Updates
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 hours ago
From the Times about the West Seattle robberies of Denny students: S*eattle police believe they may have caught at least one teen connected to the armed muggings and beatings of West Seattle middle-schoolers earlier this week.* * **When officers approached a dozen teens hanging out around 4 p.m. today near Roxhill Park, where the armed robberies took place, several of them took off running. Officers chased after them and caught eight, all between 14 and 18 years of age.* * **One 18-year-old was arrested and booked into King County Jail because of a gun and box of ammo in a car he’d b... more »
Superintendent's Press Conference on MAP
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 21 hours ago
*Update:* I reviewed my notes and realized, based on questions about opting out, that I had missed one answer. I had asked the Superintendent about what would happen to the teachers who boycotted MAP and what would they do with students who opt out (given, for example, that word is that at least 50 Orca students had opted out). He deflected the teacher question with the "working on solutions" answer but with the students just said that students are able to opt out. He would not say what any given school would be doing. Clearly, he does not want students to opt out or for parents... more »
Friday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 day ago
Interim plan for next year kicked down the road another week. Will the new enrollment data change anyone's mind? Community meeting with Director DeBell tomorrow from 9-11 am at Cafe Appassionato, near Fisherman's Terminal. Community meeting with Director Patu tomorrow from 10 am to noon at Cafe Vita, 5028 Wilson Ave. S. In the "what?!" category, from the Washington Post, the Texas State House has introduced a bill to stop funding for standardized assessments. *"By way of explanation, Speaker Joe Straus said, “To parents and educators concerned about excessive testing, the Texas ... more »
Publicola and The Stranger say YES to Levies
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 day ago
From Publicola: *Cynical voters may see that as an opportunity to vote the local money down as a way to put the state on notice. Astute voters understand that the McCLeary decision highlighted a crisis that demands collective action. Putting the state on notice that Seattle's all in is the smart thing to do. * ** *PubliCola picks "Yes" On Seattle Propositions 1 and 2. * From The Stranger (keeping in mind, this is The Stranger talking): *But really... vote yes on both of them.* *Slashing a quarter of our schools' funding would be absolutely unthinkable. So don't even think it.* *Ca... more »
How to Make a Point in a Discussion?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
From recent elections, there are those who confuse arguing with attacking in order to get what they want or to marginalize others. I saw this during the charter school election when I got personally attacked by both Lisa Macfarlane and Shannon Campion at several debates. (What is interesting is that Tim Ceis, the former city official who was known as a pitbull, could not have been nicer at the debates.) I had thought, in the moment to respond back, but my reward was watching the faces of the audience and clearly, people think little of personal attacks. Now from Ms. Campion, I... more »
SPS Librarians also Speak Out on MAP
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
From our friends at the Stranger Slog, what librarians are saying: *Laurie Amster-Burton, who spoke on behalf of librarians, says she actually switched schools in part because of how invasive MAP testing had become in regard to library time and space. The district has told educators that it thanks them for their concern but it needs time to work out a solution, but Amster-Burton says that these problems have existed for years, and educators have been bringing them up with the district the whole time. She brought with her a letter to Superintendent Banda, signed by 35 Seattle school ... more »
District Continues to Overbuild?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
I'm not an architect so someone who know building design or construction, help me out. The West Seattle Blog has a report about the "preferred schematic" for the future Genesee Hill school where Schmitz Park will be moving. The good: *The design principles were described as including “really fit(ting) into the challenging site” where Genesee Hill Elementary now sits, and being “timeless” as well as serving as a “community resource … not just a place of learning … to be a community center, to allow for community access onto the site, to use as a park, if you will,” plus “to be sus... more »
Robberies of Denny Students Cause Concern
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
From West Seattle Blog: *3:13 PM UPDATE:* The SPD report says this was one of TWO robberies targeting kids that age, in that area, in the past four days – the first one was near 27th and Cambridge last Sunday, and yesterday’s robbery is now described as having happened in Roxhill Park itself. Details here
Chief Sealth Teachers to Boycott MAP
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
It appears that at least some of Chief Sealth teachers will be boycotting the MAP. (I received this statement via Facebook from a teacher at Sealth.) *Be it resolved that we, the undersigned educators from Chief Sealth International High School do hereby support statements and actions of our colleagues at Garfield High School regarding the MAP test. Furthermore, we join our colleagues in their boycott and refuse to administer the MAP test to students at Chief SealthInternational High School. *
Interim Plan Vote Postponed at Least a Week
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
The Board is currently voting to extend the voting time and will NOT be voting tonight. They are extending it at least a week (or more) but need to get it done before enrollment starts in late Feb. I believe the Board must have gotten tremendous pressure about the plan to change the voting date. They will be receiving new enrollment data from the Enrollment office. Directors are debating whether gettting the data on Tuesday night for a Wednesday vote is fair to families and community. Is it sufficient time for these people to give input? Tracy Libros says they need a week to be su... more »
From the National Education Association
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
WASHINGTON—National Education Association (NEA) members at Garfield High School in Seattle, Wash., voted to not administer the district-mandated Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) standardized test that is not aligned with state standards or the district curriculum. NEA has long urged for the careful consideration of the fact that these tests are being used to make decisions about students’ and teachers’ futures, and have corrupted the pursuit of improving real learning and effective teaching. A rally event organized by the Seattle Education Association in support of Garfield High... more »
Timely Updates
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
Apparently, the Superintendent has sent out a letter to teachers that is to read at mandatory faculty meetings today. It informs teachers of the outcomes of not giving the MAP test. (I am going to verify what that is but it does involve punishment.) If you support the teachers and believe MAP does not help your student, let the Superintendent know: Phone: (206) 252-0180 Fax: (206) 252-0209 Email: superintendent@seattleschools.org On-line petition. Also, about the interim plan, Apparently Directors Carr and Martin-Morris attended a meeting at Sacajawea last night to allow parent... more »
Board Meeting Likely to be Lively
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
I suspect that given the district has a media event to explain the interim plan for next year AND the SEA is having a "boycott the MAP" rally at 4 p.m. outside of JSCEE AND the large number of concerns over the interim plan, the Board meeting is probably going to be lively (to say the least). What questions do you think I should ask at the media event? The speaker list reflects that most of the speakers are going to talk about the interim plan. The speakers start at 5 p.m with the vote on the interim plan occurring roughly at 6:30 p.m. Sadly, I think that the directors will al... more »
Charters in Chicago
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 days ago
A lengthy and devastating account of public schools in the Chicago school system, created by the Chicago teachers union. While I'm sure some of the viewpoint is somewhat skewed, they have hard data. Thanks to my friend, Carolyn, for this info.
What About BEX?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 days ago
What are you hearing at your school about the levies? Is there a big push on? I know that at least 20+ schools have endorsed it. Yesterday, the Times had an op-ed from the head of School First, Greg Wong, in support of the levies but it had one day on their webpage and is now gone to their file area. Kind of odd. The election is less than a month away and ballots are coming your way next week. And, yet this seems to be a decidedly low-key election. Does the district NOT want to call attention to it? I go on record as saying I support both levies. (FYI, I find it unlikely t... more »
Co-Location It Is for JA K-8
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 days ago
* *So unless someone has a change of heart, it appears that Director Carr has decided her vote for next year's Interim Plan. She has submitted an amendment (which yes, could get defeated but I doubt it) and it signals, rather clearly, her vote. The only vote still up in the air is Director McLaren but she appears to be leaning that way as well. *I move to amend the NEW STUDENT ASSIGNMENT PLAN TRANSITION PLAN FOR 2013- 14, as submitted by staff on January 22, 2013, to (1) restore the language included at Introduction on January 9, 2013, where the Jane Addams building will be desi... more »
KUOW Report on the Alliance for Education
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 days ago
It's a doozy. The first head of the Alliance, Sue Tupper (who coincidentally ran the No on 1240 campaign for the WEA), said this: *"When the organization started, there was great sensitivity to needing to take the cues from the school district, rather than coming up with an agenda and then imposing that agenda on the school district," Tupper said.* Exactly. I get some air time and then comes in Sara Morris, the current head of the Alliance. *When the district introduced its memorandum of understanding with the Alliance for school board approval last May, local education activist a... more »
National Graduation Rate Rises
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 days ago
From the Washington Post: *The percentage of students at public high schools who graduate on time has reached its highest level in nearly 40 years, according to the most recent federal government estimates released Tuesday.* *Based on data collected from the states for the Class of 2010, the National Center for Education Statistics estimated that 78 percent of students across the country earned a diploma within four years of starting high school. The graduation rate was last at that level in 1974, officials said.* *Asian students had the highest graduation rate, with 93 percent of ... more »
Tuesday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 days ago
What's on your mind?
MAP Updates
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 days ago
UPDATES: The Superintendent's Special Education Advisory and Advocacy Committee has also released a statement (in the comments section) that they support the MAP boycott. From their statement: Evidence of the lack of care and thought in MAP testing is that our children are REGULARLY denied their accommodations for the MAP. How does MAP testing somehow take precedence over the necessary accommodations on the IEP? In addition, the Superintendent will be holding a media briefing right before the School Board meeting on Wednesday about MAP testing. - Rally for teachers/parent...more »
News of Interest
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 days ago
The Children's Film Festival Seattle starts this Thursday, Jan. 24th and continues through Feb. 3. Overview of Festival. This includes a pajama party with Caspar Babypants one night, a pancake breakfast and short films the next morning, and a 1924 film version of Captain January. Info for teachers/educators. *We have added three extra weeks of weekday morning screenings for groups – so tell a teacher or childcare provider!* From the Times, a story about College Bound, the state program that help pay for college for low-income students, which is a great success story. In its f... more »
Seattle Schools This Week
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 days ago
It's a fairly quiet week around SPS this week. *Tuesday, January 22nd* Call into the Board office (or e-mail) if you want to sign up for the Speakers list for the Board meeting on Wednesday. Frankly, you will not be changing anyone's mind if you choose to speak BUT if you want to make a point, out loud and in public, now's the time to go on record. 252-0040 or boardagenda@seattleschools.org *Wednesday, January 23rd* Rally to support teachers against MAP at 4:00 p.m. This one is organized by the SEA and I sure hope there is a lot of teacher, parent and student presence. Schoo... more »
Schmitz Park Joins the Chorus of Teacher Voices
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 6 days ago
From the West Seattle Blog: *Dear Superintendent Banda,* *The staff of Schmitz Park, by a unanimous vote, joins in its support of Garfield High and all other schools and individuals around the district that boycott the MAP test. We agree with Garfield’s position about the harmful, ineffective, and wasteful nature of the MAP test and its deleterious impact on instructional time and consequently student achievement. We join SEA in asking you to not discipline our colleagues for standing up and speaking the truth. * *We also agree with the Sanislo Elementary letter of support, which po... more »
McCleary Decision
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 6 days ago
Via SPS, I see that there is an OSPI document on the McCleary decision. It's a fairly basic overview but it may be helpful to those getting up to speed on the issue. One key issue that I have been reading is that the Court based its decision on HR2261 about what full funding looks like. What I have heard some legislators say is that they DON'T like what is in HR2261 and if they redid it, then we would be fully funding schools. In other words, rewrite the rules of what full funding means so that you don't have to fully fund schools. Here (via Publicola) is what Senator Steve Litz... more »
Saturday Round-Up
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
Former State Superintendent Judith Billings weighs in at the Times about *charter schools.* *So The Times recommends Superintendent Dorn violate his oath of office to uphold the state Constitution. Article III, Section 22 states in plain language — by law not subject to interpretation if the language meets that test — “the superintendent of public instruction shall have supervision over all matters pertaining to public schools.” The initiative emphasizes charter schools will be public schools, yet excludes the superintendent from supervising them.* ***Superintendent Dorn has sugges... more »
Vote for Concord!
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
Vote for Concord Elementary - they are trying to win $1,000 for technology for their classrooms. They are ahead in the votes but they probably need every vote they can get.
Friday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
* UPDATE: *Thank you to a sharp-eyed reader - Director DeBell is NOT having his community meeting tomorrow. It has been rescheduled for next Saturday, Jan. 26th. I confirmed this with the Board office as the calendar still had it as tomorrow. The district will be sending out their Levies Information brochure soon so look for that in the mail. Op-Ed from Garfield's Jesse Hagopian on why their teachers took the stand that they did on MAP testing. The MAP opt-out was covered on NPR as well. What's on your mind?
No Clear Answer for the NE
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
I attended today's *Operation Committee of the Whole* where some important issues for school year 2013-2014 were discussed. Those would be transportation and what to do in the NE middle school region. The regular Operations Committee meeting went over some sundry items but President Smith-Blum, who came in late, explained she had been at a meeting about Yesler Terrace. Apparently there will be a large number of very low to moderate income level apartments coming in there and this is something for both the Board and staff to consider in the future. The Transportation presentation w... more »
Sanislo Supports Garfield Teachers
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
...but they are not boycotting the MAP test. Their letter to the Superintendent is both alloquent and heartfelt. From the West Seattle blog comes this report about a letter sent to Superintendent Banda from the teachers at Sanislo: *We the staff at Sanislo Elementary, by a unanimous vote, write to express our support for Garfield High School’s decision to not administer the MAP test. We share many of their same concerns, including the impact on a struggling student’s esteem and the lack of usability of the results when given the current text adoptions. We similarly decry the loss ... more »
Washington State Teacher of the Year Finalist for National Title
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
I knew it. I met the *Washington State teacher of the year, Jeff Charbonneau, *last week. He was so impressive and I told him I wouldn't be surprised if he were one of the four national finalists. And it was announced today that he is a finalist. The National Teacher of the Year will be announced in April. Jeff teaches physics, chemistry and engineering at Zillah High School in Zillah, Washington (outside of Yakima). They have 400 students. After years of perseverance, he was able to offer college-level classes. In his classroom alone, students can earn 24 college credits.... more »
In Advance of Today's Operations Committee Meeting
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
I am blessed to know people who also work hard to understand our district. Many of these sources have analytic skills far beyond mine and I am so glad they are willing to share their knowledge and understanding with me. What I put forth comes from conversations with a couple of these people. (But we don't all agree.) In terms of capacity management for 2013-2014, here are a few things to consider as the Board has its Operations Committee of the Whole meeting today where they will be discussing this issue. (Also, keep in mind that as we have been discussing the NE middle school r... more »
Michelle Rhee is coming to Seattle
Charlie Mas at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
Michelle Rhee, the former chancellor of the Washington, D.C. public schools from 2007 to 2010 and strident education reformer is coming to Seattle to speak at Town Hall and you can attend for free. CityClub presents A Conversation with Michelle Rhee Location: Town Hall, Great Hall 1119 Eighth Avenue, Seattle, WA 98101 Doors Open: 6:30 p.m. Program: 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. including book signing
Seattle Student Senate Supports MAP Opposition
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
From Dexter Tang, President of the Seattle Schools Student Senate from their meeting at Ingraham High School: *The Seattle Student Senate, the main student advocacy organization of Seattle Public Schools, supports the opposition to the MAP test. * *The MAP test inefficiently uses district resources and consumes valuable instruction time. We support alternative methods of student evaluation. We encourage the district o explore alternative methods of assessing student academic achievement that are efficient and align with the classroom curriculum. * *Furthermore, representatives o... more »
District Provides Three Options for NE Middle School Capacity
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
The district put out a new options list for addressing the capacity management issues for the NE middle school region for 2013-2014. The Operations Committee meeting of the Whole is tomorrow, the 17th starting at 3:30 pm. There are three options: - Creation of a sixth grade academy - Creation of a new Jane Addams Middle School with changes to Hamilton and Eckstein attendance areas and boundaries (note: this option does not mention co-location with JA K-8 but I assume that is so) - No feeder pattern or boundary changes - use technology and improved support to manag... more »
In The News
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
Some pretty funny (and not surprising) public education items in the news. First up in the category of "*well, that didn't take long*", the Washington Policy Center opines on Senator Ross Hunter's idea that the state should take over failing schools. (This is a similar idea to what happens in many other states - the schools become "turnaround" schools.) *Lawmakers should remove the cap that limits the number of charter schools that can open to only eight a year, up to a total of 40.* We don't even have ONE charter and they want the limit raised. Unbelievable. They do use the tho... more »
Updates and Events
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
In what is an interesting coincidence of stories, I learned today that Rainier Beach High School, after three long years of work, is on the cusp of receiving their endorsement to be in IB school. Good for them. That now makes three Seattle public high schools with IB; Ingraham, Chief Sealth and RBHS. What is the coincidence is that tonight, at 7 p.m., the Lakewood/Seward Park Community Club is having a forum about education featuring discussions of the RBHS IB program and charter schools. Guess who is going the charter school presentation? Bree Dusseault. Lakewood/Seward Park Co...more »
Tuesday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
Upcoming events: *CoolMom's 'Think Outside the Car' Celebration, Tue Jan 15, 6:30–8:30pm, Fauntleroy Church UCC, 9140 California Ave SW, free.* *Education Without Borders: Transforming Learning for the 21st Century, Wed Jan 16, 4:30–7:30pm, Seattle Children’s Theatre, 201 Thomas St, free. This one is brought to you by the World Affairs Council and will have ed experts from different countries discussing education and educational system.* Also of interest, this Times article about speed cameras around school zones. What's interesting is that the projections of the number of tick... more »
Exeuctive Director to Leave Post
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
It appears that Executive Director of Schools for the SE Region, Bree Dusseault, will be leaving SPS. You may recall that Ms. Dusseault was the Executive Director pushing for Ingraham principal Martin Floe's dismissal. Principal Floe kept his job and she was moved to the SE Region. I was told she is taking a position with a charter group. Honestly, not one surprise here and it's one fewer TFA person in this district.
Board of Education Struggles with 1240 Role
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
The State Board of Education had a two-day meeting last week in Tumwater to address various issues under their purview. One of them is figuring out their role/duties and the boundaries of both under the newly-passed I-1240 to create charter schools in Washington State. (I was also honored and pleased to meet Jeff Charbonneau, the Washington State Teacher of the Year from Zillah High School. I want to write a separate thread on him and the great work they are doing there but boy, what a great guy and a great teacher.) What came first before the discussion was a presentation by Al... more »
ORCA K-8 Joins the MAP Boycott
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
So says the Times. *Eleven teachers and instructional assistants at ORCA K-8 have decided that they, too, will boycott district-required tests known as the MAP, according to ORCA teacher Matt Carter.* * In the letter to district administrators, the Garfield staff members listed nine reasons why they oppose the test, which range from how few students take it seriously to how much time it takes away from class instruction and whether it measures what teachers are supposed to be teaching. * *The middle school teachers at ORCA will not refuse to give the tests because they hope to g... more »
Seattle Schools This Week
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
*Monday, January 14th* Opening day for the Washington State Legislature. Here's where the rubber meets the road on education. For those legislators who don't want to raise taxes, *tell us what you would cut elsewhere. * For those legislators who say we don't need more money for public education, * tell us how you would spend the current dollars better. What would you cut and/or what would you add?* (I'm pretty sure the "private sector could do it better and cheaper" will come into play at some point.) Curriculum&Instruction Meeting from 4-5:30 p.m. Agenda includes Creative Appro... more »
What Should Garfield's Teachers Do?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
Superintendent Banda has come out with the district's response to the Garfield teachers' ringing rejection of giving the MAP test. Basically, it's "we're going to talk about issue this spring; you must continue giving the test now." Before the issue was raised by our teachers at Garfield High School, the School Board had already asked for a thorough review of our how we assess student learning, including MAP testing. During an annual report to the Board on Nov. 28, it was agreed that the District would review the effectiveness of MAP testing. We plan to report back to the Board... more »
Comments in the Seattle Times
Michael Rice at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
In the Sunday edition of the Seattle Times there is an article about education funding and how the State House and Senate is going to find ways to comply with the court mandate to fully fund basic education. As of 4:00 on Sunday, there are 145 comments, mostly negative toward teachers. I posted the following comment. I don't know if it will make a difference, but I felt compelled to respond. I have posted the comment below. Long time readers of this blog will know this is not the first time I have written a comment like this. I thank them for their understanding: I teach math... more »
The Road Ahead
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 1 week ago
A couple of important stories to check out this morning. One is from the Seattle Times about how our Legislative leaders are going to figure out how to enact McCleary. (I will point that charter schools only complicates this process.) The other is Seattle Channel's interview with Superintendent Banda. Once again, the Superintendent comes across as quiet but firm. There is also an interesting op-ed from outgoing Governor Chris Gregoire who says there should be one education department for the state to cover pre-school to higher ed. *Today we have eight education agencies and a... more »
Guns for our Teachers
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
There are few people in the Legislature who do not seem to represent the best thinking. To whit: - Newly-elected Rep Liz Pike, R-Camas wants "trained" teachers to carry guns in their classrooms. From the *Times*: *GOP state Rep. Liz Pike helped to kick off the state gun-laws conversation last month with a widely read Facebook post that floated the idea of allowing teachers to carry guns in the classroom if they undergo training and pass a psychological evaluation. The program, modeled after one in place for airline pilots, would be voluntary.* Pike suggested in a Facebook ... more »
GET in Danger in the Legislature
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
David Goldstein over at The Stranger Slog lays out the case for the GET (Guaranteed Education Tuition) program. The legislators who are talking it down are - no surprise - some of very legislators who have turned on their own party, Rodney Tom and Steve Litzow along with Ross Hunter. (And, as Goldy points out, some live in some of the most expensive areas of Washington State.) *GET is Washington's prepaid tuition program, a variant of the federally sanctioned tax-free "529 plans." Families buy their children college credits at today's prices, plus a (sometimes hefty) premium, an... more »
Friday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
What a week. Confusion over the interim plan for the next school year, GHS teachers/staff take a stand against MAP and a chance of snow flurries? Support GHS teachers (and encourage other SPS teachers/staff) to say no to MAP at their Facebook page. Don't forget the following activities this weekend: *Saturday, January 12th * - *Kick-off for Schools First campaign for the SPS operations and capital levies* (Props 1 and 2) from 10:30-11:30 am at McKinstry's Innnovation Center (just sw of Costco), 210 S. Hudson St. - Director Carr Community Meeting from 8:30-10 am at ... more »
Updates from Garfield Teacher Action Against MAP
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
Just back from the well-attended press conference. To note, educator Diane Ravitch has already blogged about this action and added her support. First up, the district response (partial): Seattle Public Schools expects our teachers to administer all required tests, pursuant to our policies and procedures. Last fall, during an annual report to the Board on Nov. 28, it was agreed that the District would review the effectiveness of MAP testing. We look forward to hearing from our principals and teachers as part of that process. A report back to the Board is expected to be presented i... more »
Director Peaslee's Community Meeting Tonight
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
As we previously stated, Director Peaslee is having her *Community Meeting tonight from 6:30-8:00 p.m. *at the Lake City Library. However, I received an e-mail notice that it was a "capacity management" meeting that included Pegi McEvoy. This is NOT a new meeting on the short-term interim plan but merely Director Peasleee's regularly scheduled community meeting. Any number of topics might be discussed. (It is not typical to have a district administrator attend a director's community meeting but Ms McEvoy stated that she is going to listen.) In terms of last night's Board meetin... more »
Once Again, Educators Save the Day
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
There was a high school shooting in Taft, California today with one student shot but with a teacher and administrator able to talk the student shooter into giving up his weapon. Taft is a rural community about 120 miles northwest of LA. Taft Union High School has about 900 students. From AP: * **When the shots were fired, the teacher began trying to get the more than two dozen students out a back door and also engaged the shooter in conversation to distract him, Youngblood said. A campus supervisor responding to a call of shots fired also began talking to him.* *"They talked him ... more »
Strategic Planning: Want to Join In?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
Is this any way to figure the future of this district? I like that the Superintendent and Board realize how unwieldy the last Strategic Plan was but a taskforce of 6-80 people? It'll be like herding kittens (or be largely pro-forma facilitation from the consultant group). (Sorry for the varying typefaces; I couldn't get it worked out of the press release from the district.) From district Communications: *Seattle Public Schools is starting the process of revising the current Strategic Plan, Excellence for All.* *The updated plan will guide academic and operational priorities for ... more »
Garfield Teachers Say No to MAP
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
In what is a major step, the teachers of Garfield High School will be holding a press conference today to announce they will not give the MAP test. From the press release: *The teachers contend that it wastes time, money, and precious school resources. * * “Our teachers have come together and agree that the MAP test is not good for our students, nor is it an appropriate or useful tool in measuring progress,” says Kris McBride, who serves as Academic Dean and Testing Coordinator at Garfield. “Additionally, students don’t take it seriously. It produces specious results,... more »
575 new National Board Certified teachers
Charlie Mas at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
From the Seattle Times: Washington gains 575 new National Board Certified teachers This puts Washington State number two in the nation for new Board Certifications and fourth nationally for the total number of Board Certified teachers.
Gates Foundation Flash: It Takes "Multiple Measures" to Judge Educators
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
From Ed Week: *Student feedback, test-score growth calculations, and observations of practice appear to pick up different but complementary information that, combined, can provide a balanced and accurate picture of teacher performance, according to research released today by the Bill &Melinda Gates Foundation. * * The $45 million study, in progress since 2009, is one of the largest and most extensive research projects ever undertaken on the question of how to identify and measure high-quality teaching. It involved some 3,000 teachers in six districts: Charlotte-Mecklenberg, N.C.; D... more »
Speaking of Education Backwaters...
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
If you consider Washington State one of those (as the ed reformers in our state like to do), then how is this true? (from SPS Communications and OSPI): *For the fourth consecutive year, Washington state has placed second in the country in new National Board Certified teachers. * *Numbers released today by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards show that Washington has the second-most new NBCTs (575), behind only North Carolina, and is fourth overall in the total number of NBCTs (6,817). * *At Baker Middle School in Tacoma, the entire teaching staff – 35 teachers – ... more »
Tuesday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
We note the passing of Loyal Heights Elementary teacher Sally Moneda. Ms. Moneda taught a multi-grade classroom and directed the school's annual play. She died of ovarian cancer on January 3rd; she was 47. A memorial service will be held on January 19th at 2 p.m.at Mars Hill Church in Ballard. The Mayor and other officials and community members are today announcing a gun buy back effort in the Puget Sound region, part of the Gun Safety Initiative. Among the sponsors Amazon, Five Point Cafe, Eli Lilly, Nucor Steel, PEMCO, Seattle Police Foundation and SEO Moz. Community partner... more »
Whose Child is Next (And When Will It Matter to You)?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
2013. *Let's make this the year when gun control matters.* Enough of these (seemingly) endless mass shootings. Folks, we can agree to disagree on what the Second Amendment means. (I personally believe our Founding Fathers meant a militia of many and not of one but that's not how the Supreme Court ruled.) Let me be clear. Yes, it's is about who has the gun, not the gun. But way too many guns means access to those guns by people who should not have access. It's about common sense. It's also about saying if you own a gun, you *WILL *be held responsible for what happens to that... more »
Arbor Heights Burglarized Again
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
From th West Seattle Blog, a report of yet another break-in (the second in two months) at Arbor Heights Elementary. Both times, computers were taken. From WS Blog: *4:29 PM UPDATE: More information from SPS’s Wippel: Four computers were stolen today, worth $1,800 each – $7,200 total – “And no budget to replace them. The four stolen last November weren’t replaced either. (Principal) Christy Collins said the kids ‘feel violated’.”* How did the thieves get in? *Seattle Police spokesperson Det. Mark Jamieson tells WSB the break-in was discovered after an alarm went off around 5 am; o... more »
Like Pancakes? Like the Seahawks? You're in Luck
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
Free on Saturday at IHOP.
The Education of Michelle Rhee (via Frontline)
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
Grab a soothing drink (or set that VCR or DVR) because this is going to be good - *Frontline is showing a special on Michelle Rhee. It will be on KCTS 9 at 10 pm Tuesday night. * Rhee, the poster girl for all that is wrong in public education reform today, has had this discussion long coming. Given Frontline's hard-hitting reporting, I'm sure they will be thorough and frank. Coincidentally, Rhee just released a report card of sorts, through her "group" StudentsFirst on how states are doing. Diane Ravitch calls her out on it here. This comes on the heels of a number of staffer... more »
Activistism in Public Education in Washington State
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
One reason for this blog - and that has always been the case since its earliest days - is discourse and encouraging activism. I said this recently in an interview and I frequently have parents tell me that it's the only place they can really go to ask questions. I am glad that enough parents know about it that they feel comfortable to come here and raise issues. (Some also e-mail Charlie and me and that's fine as well.) One topic that came up in the Eric Lui interview was about how parents can be involved (and how deeply) in their children's education. Eric pointed out that... more »
Seattle Schools Week of Jan. 7-12, 2013
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 2 weeks ago
*Monday, January 7th* If you wish to speak at Wednesday's Board meeting (where the Transition Plan for 2013-2014 will be introduced), sign up today beginning at 8 am, either boardagenda@seattleschools.org or 252-0040. * * *Tuesday, January 8th* Special Education Advocacy & Advisory Council Meeting from 6:30-9:00 p.m., JSCEE, second floor, room 2700. The open forum part of the meeting is from 6:30-7:30 pm with a Working Group Session from 7:30-9:00 p.m. *Wednesday, January 9th* Executive Committee Meeting - 8:30-10 am. Agenda College Goal Sunday from 3-7 p.m. at Cleveland High School... more »
We Must Teach our Sons (and Daughters) Better
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
What is the standing of women and girls in the world today? It's hard to know. On the one hand, we now have more women in Congress than ever before. There are now 20 women in the Senate (although as The Stranger points out, that's a group that has been around for 200 years and yet it has taken this long). New Hampshire state government seems to be an all-woman squad at this point. Many European countries have long had female leaders. Yet, throughout the world, rape is still a harsh and terrible tool used against women and girls. The young woman in India who died from her injur... more »
Friday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
Glad we don't have Board members like this one in Georgia who apparently tried to run over a high-school student in a Walmart parking lot. I spoke with State Superintendent Dorn yesterday. As I had previous surmised (and he confirmed), he is truly confused about his role under the state constitution and what the wording is in 1240. He is planning to have a conversation with the Attorney General's office to seek clarification on this issue. If the AG's office is unable to give him that clarification, he may have to go to the ultimate source which would be the Supreme Court but the... more »
My Interview with Seattle Channel's Eric Liu
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
I was invited to be a guest on Seattle Voices with Eric Liu and I wanted to provide a link to the interview. Eric Liu is a great interviewer and this is probably the best interview I have ever done (and Eric and his crew are great professionals). Eric is the author of several books including "*Guiding Lights; How to Mentor and Find LIfe's Purpose*". He also served as a speechwriter in the Clinton White House one term and deputy domestic policy adviser in the second term. He has served/serves on several civic boards including LEV. He has children in SPS.
WEA Considering a Court Fight Against 1240
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
I have received word that the WEA Board of Directors has decided to fight I-1240 in court. From their statement: * “Though our candidates won, we are disappointed that corporate interests with their $11 million were able to pass the charter school initiative. Looking forward, your board of directors has decided to fund a legal challenge against the new charters law and, as we did with McCleary, are seeking partners and developing an approach and timeline for this effort. More details about this will come.” * Please note: *the WEA has NOT filed anything* but this was a statement ma... more »
Teens and Drugs - Communication Seminars Upcoming
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
From Prevention WINS: *Teens, Marijuana & Alcohol: Setting the Framework for Healthy Communication * Featuring Dr. Kevin Haggerty, University of Washington Social Development Research Group · Tuesday, January 15, 7PM @ Nathan Hale High School, hosted by Raiders Against Destructive Decisions · Thursday, January 17, 7PM @ Roosevelt High School, hosted by the Roosevelt High School PTSA For more information contact: Annemarie Michaels at anplumpe@seattleschools.org or Inga Manskopf at inga.manskopf@seattlechildrens.org.
WEA to Fight-1240 In Court
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
I have received word that the WEA Board of Directors has decided to fight I-1240 in court. From their statement: *“Though our candidates won, we are disappointed that corporate interests with their $11 million were able to pass the charter school initiative. Looking forward, your board of directors has decided to fund a legal challenge against the new charters law and, as we did with McCleary, are seeking partners and developing an approach and timeline for this effort. More details about this will come.”* The Washington Policy Center is itself already on the attack against this... more »
Parenting
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
A couple of good parenting ideas have come across my desk. One is an article from Parent Map on how to get your children to do their homework. This mom made a "homework hour" for the entire family. (I assume she got out her bills, etc. to work on while they did schoolwork.) Any thoughts/tips from you about how you handle homework? Do you feel like your child is getting too much/too little/not effective homework or is it just right? The other story is from a mom's blog - Janel Burley Hofmann about an iPhone contract with her 13-year old son. It is an 18-point contract full of som... more »
What's up at Lafayette?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
It appears that Lafayette Elementary may be in the news soon. I was contacted by a tv news organization for a "statement" about an "investigation" at Lafayette. When I followed up, they professed ignorance even though they contactted me. Charlie and I were made aware of a situation at Lafayette earlier this year that seemed to resolve on its own (or through the district). It is unclear to me the details at this point so I won't go into them but I offer this information so that if you DO see a story on tv, it won't come as a surprise.
Following Up on 2012
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
Over at Friend of our Blog,* Seattle Education*, Dora Taylor has a great thread about the expose by FireDogLake about Cory Booker and the $100M gift to Newark Public Schools from Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook. Apparently the ACLU had to sue Cory "Superman" Booker for release of e-mails between him and Facebook executives. *It started on Oprah.* * **Facebook founder and Winklevii nemesis Mark Zuckerberg announced a $100 million donation to Newark schools to blunt PR damage from the release of The Social Network help school children. The money would not be going into the struggling cit... more »
End of 2012 - Wrap-up and Hopes and Predictions for 2013
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 3 weeks ago
A rosy glow this morning across the horizon - maybe a good sign for things to come. It was a HUGE year for public education - in Seattle, Washington State and the US. For whatever reason, public education has become a huge issue. Whether it's trying to break unions (in Wisconsin) or the push for more on-line learning opportunities (whether at school or at home), politicians had a lot to say this year. Are we focusing on the right things? I'm not sure we are. I'm not sure that we won't look back in 10 years at much of the new education spending in this country and wonder if muc... more »
Friday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 weeks ago
From Ed Week, a report on international tests (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study) and how the US fared. *Florida came up a big winner on PIRLS, in terms of average scores (more on that in a bit). On TIMSS, Massachusetts, mirroring its strong performance on the National Assessment of Educational Progress, did very well in both science and math, compared with the United States and other high-performing countries and education systems. However, the good news largely evaporates when you look at the percentages of s...more »
Right Time, Right Book?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 weeks ago
The NY Times is having a discussion over the right time for which books i.e. should a 6-year old read Harry Potter? There are a series of short essays from various people on the subject. As a former children's bookseller, I would err on the side of waiting for certain books. You can read almost any book to any child at any time but many themes are possibly too big for some kids as presented in some books. They could read them at 6 and then again at 12 and get something different. That would be okay (and to be expected) except that if the theme worries the child or causes upset a... more »
Education Reading Round-Up
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 4 weeks ago
From the Washington Post's The Answer Sheet, an article about D.C.'s county superintendent calling on President Obama and Secretary Duncan to call a moratorium on standardized testing. *He also said it was wrong to evaluate teachers based on the scores their students get on standardized tests because the method that is is based on “bad science.” He noted that he had previously worked in the New York City Department of Education, the nation’s largest school system, where was director of school performance and accountability. It became clear, he said, that the formulas used to assess ... more »
Happy Holidays!
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Charlie and I will naturally be on a bit of a hiatus through the end of the year. My computer desktop is flooded with many ed articles and I may throw up a couple of "ed reading" posts. Otherwise, consider the Interim Plan for capacity management with your friends and be prepared to state your case in early January. Best wishes for a happy and safe holiday!
Ballard HS Security Issue Today
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Not sure what happened but Ballard HS didn't have their scheduled Winter Sports Assembly due to some kind of security concern. SPD was called in but apparently nothing happened and nothing was found. I have no other details as the district is now closed for the winter break. Maybe they will issue a statement. Update on security from Superintendent Banda and President Smith-Blum: *Superintendent José Banda and School Board President Kay Smith-Blum are releasing a joint statement on the NRA's proposal to have armed guards in schools. * The safety of our students and schools is of ... more »
SPS To Pay Out to Teacher Over Health Issues at Hale
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
From the Times (and thanks to a reader tip!): *A former Seattle teacher has reached a $750,000 settlement from the public-school district that fired her seven years ago for not returning to work in a school building she said was harmful to her health.* *The teacher, 14-year drama and language instructor Denise Frisino, sued Seattle Public Schools after the district fired her from Nathan Hale High School in 2005, according to court documents.* * **The lawsuit was initially thrown out by a King County judge, but an appeals court overturned that decision and the two parties settled on t... more »
Hey Wayne - You are Disingenious, Wrong and an Idiot
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Update: statement from SPS on the NRA statement. *We are forming a joint working group with the Seattle Police Department to study all recommendations for improving our school safety, and this effort will begin early in 2013. Together, we will formulate sustainable plans for implementing improved safety measures across the District. * *The security of our students and staff is our highest priority, and we look forward to working with our staff and community partners to implement improved safety measures across the District.* *End of update. * I rarely call people names here. Not u... more »
Untitled
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Let's see; - dark and dreary, check - one week since one of the most horrific days in American public education, check - NOT the end of the world day (but some still don't get that) Time for the holiday break. Great. Let's ALL take a break, a breath and count our blessings.
Schools First Release Press Release on 2013 Levies
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
From Schools First (the group that works to support SPS levies): *Seattle (December 17) –Schools First, the grassroots, volunteer-led campaign organization that convenes every three years to build support among Seattle voters for renewing the Seattle Schools operating and capital levies, announced today that it has begun its work to pass the 2013 levies, which will be on the ballot on February 12.* *The Operations Levy provides more than a quarter of the funds needed to operate the Seattle Public Schools, including funding for day-to-day teaching and instructional programs such as a... more »
Seattle Schools Updates
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
*Dear families,* *The Seattle School District is reviewing whether it should apply to the State Board of Education for a waiver, to allow the three full-day parent teacher conference schedule to continue for elementary and K-8 schools. The waiver also seeks one day for middle and high schools.* *Your input is valuable to us as we consider this decision. Parent-teacher conferences are important to ensuring direct communications between classroom teachers and families, and we want to make sure that we gather input from as many families as possible about these meetings. We have prepared... more »
New Interim Principal at Lafayette Elementary
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
From the West Seattle Blog: *Seattle Public Schools* just announced that another elementary principal from West Seattle is being promoted to management downtown – this time Lafayette’s newest principal *Shauna Heath*, after just a few months. From the district: *Today I’m announcing a leadership change at Lafayette. Your principal, Shauna Heath, has been appointed Executive Director for Curriculum and Instruction. In her new role, Ms. Heath will oversee Early Learning, College and Career Readiness and core content areas.* *I know Lafayette staff and families went through a principa... more »
WA State Supreme Court Ruling to Leg - Get Busy
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
From the Times: The Washington Supreme Court ruled on Thursday that the state Legislature isn't making enough progress toward finding more money for K-12 education in answer to the court's decision in the McCleary school funding lawsuit. The high court told lawmakers they must have something better to report after they finish their work in spring 2013. "Steady progress requires forward movement. Slowing the pace of funding cuts is necessary, but it does not equate to forward progress," wrote Chief Justice Barbara Madsen in the order filed Thursday. So there.
NE Middle School Options
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Here is the Excel sheet for the options for the NE middle school situation. My understanding is it is a combo of ideas from staff and FACMAC. During the Work Session the discussion went as follows: - They were first discussing what appeared in the presentation and what FACMAC was recommending. FACMAC was recommending an Eckstein split - North and South Annexes. Director Peaslee clarified that this was really a split and not a temporary annexation. The answer was yes. - There was also this discussion about Jane Addams and beefing up its middle school offerings to fill the scho... more »
Waiting Until the Nth Hour
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Despite the weather, several of us came to last night's Work Session believing we would see some real progress in what the interim plan for capacity management might be for 2013-2104. I left at 7:45 p.m. shaking my head. Once AGAIN, the district is a day late and a dollar short. I know staff works hard. I know they want to get input via the public both formal (FACMAC) and informal (community meetings). But it's December 20th (and neigh the end of the world upon us) and NOW they have new ideas? Even as they heard, for MONTHS, that they were not addressing the north end middle ... more »
Odds and Ends
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
*Olympic Hills Capacity Mtg on Monday night* Packed house, I was almost surprised they had it such a small school but it was cozy. Attendees - SPS staff, Directors Peaslee and Carr (but oddly, not Martin-Morris as one of the central issues was Eckstein that sits in his district) and FACMAC co-chairs and other members of the Committee. Rep. Gerry Pollet also was in attendance. The room was packed full. I liked the way this meeting went. There was just a brief presentation, then principal Zoe Jenkins did a roll call of sorts of what schools were there. She listed them on a blackb... more »
Ed Jobs at City Year
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
City Year, one of my favorite groups that helps SPS students, has two ed-related job openings that I thought I would pass on. *CITY YEAR: CORPORATE AND FOUNDATION DEVELOPMENT MANAGER. *We need an all-star development manager to drive City Year’s corporate and foundation development strategy – someone who is highly detail and goal oriented, has excellent writing skills, super personable and runs towards a challenge. Job description link is here: http://www.cityyear.org/CityYear/Jobs/Seattle/Corporate_and_Foundation_Manager.aspx *DIPLOMAS NOW: SCHOOL BASED TRANSFORMATION FACILITATOR... more »
Update on Applying/Nominating for Charter Commission
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
As promised, here's the info for applying via Speaker Frank Chopp (one of the three people to select the Charter Commission). It's basically the same as the Lt. Governor's office - write/e-mail them to self-nominate or to nominate someone. If you are self-nominating, give full details about your background (both personal and professional that might be pertinent) as well as your resume. If you are nominating someone else, maybe be sure that they want to be nominated so that they can send in their resume if asked for one. 339C Legislative Building PO Box 40600 Olympia, WA 98504-0600...more »
Seattle Schools Capacity Management Work Sesson Recs
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
The presentation for this Board Work Session tomorrow has been posted. It's quite interesting. I note at last night's Capacity meeting for the NE, it was stated that FACMAC would have their recs tomorrow. It's odd because one page is labeled "Development of Recommended Options" and lists input from FACMAC but clearly FACMAC's recommendations are not part of this presentation because they aren't even out yet. Okay, wait a minute. Page 8 *DOES* have FACMAC recommendations. Confusing. I do not see any link to the complete FACMAC recommendations. Under *Community Feedback*: -... more »
Asperger's Syndrome
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
*Update: *great op-ed about this subject. Thanks to reader, Reader, for the tip. The Newtown shooter was said to have Asperger's Syndrome which is on the spectrum of autism. These people are considered the high-functioning end of that spectrum (even as they face very real and distinct challenges.) One thing to make clear - Asperger's is NOT mental illness. It is a neurobiological condition. While some mental illness, like schziophrenia, does have a biological basis, Asperger's is not defined in that category. After saying that, based on my own personal experience with Asperger's... more »
District Focus for Remaining School Year
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
From Superintendent Banda's Office: *As we head into the winter break, I want to take a moment to thank you all for your hard work and dedication. In the six months since I’ve been here, I’ve been proud to work alongside you. We have much to be thankful for at Seattle Public Schools – our enrollment is growing, our graduation rate has increased and our students are showing improved academic achievement.* *I’m grateful for the time staff has spent helping me get to know this wonderful community, including the many evening meetings with our families, community members, staff and stude... more »
Tuesday Open Thread
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Boy, it's dark outside. Maybe that's just the time of year or maybe it's just a dark cloud over our psyches. Threads to come: - capacity meeting at Olympic View last night (don't worry, all was calm and supportive but no real answers) - BEX IV and Schools First (the levy passage group) - their website says nothing about the capacity issues. Is this how they plan to sell a $1B package of levies? - Ed News Roundup What's on your mind?
End of the Honeymoon, Start of the Plan?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Over at Crosscut, they've written an article about the end of the so-called six month honeymoon since Jose Banda became SPS superintendent. As we have all come to realize, Superintendent Banda is a careful person. Not a big talker, a quieter person, he doesn't do a lot to draw attention to himself. Some might be anxious or annoyed with the pace of what he is doing but I like to think he knows just what he is doing. The article lays out several pressing issues for him: - Money and the Legislature (and the levies) - Capacity - Teachers and testing (and contract renewal) ... more »
I've Said It, Now Stats Prove It
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Parents, you REALLY are giving to your schools. From Education Week (bold mine): *It turns out that schools are hotbeds of civic volunteerism, and parents are the lifeblood of that activity. So says a study released recently by the Corporation for National and Community Service, in partnership with the National Conference on Citizenship. The study showed that volunteerism in America is at a five-year high, and parents of school-aged children volunteer at a higher rate than the overall population. These parents contributed more than 2.5 billion hours of their time to volunteer effor... more »
Want to Apply to Be On the Charter Commission?
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Here's how via the three possibilities - Governor, Lt. Governor and Speaker of the House. Each office gets to pick three Charter Commission members. *Governor * Governor Gregoire's office is taking the applications via their regular commissions form. They are then going to pass them along to Governor-elect Inslee's office and he will make the decisions. I was told both offices have received calls of interest about applying. *Lt. Governor Brad Owen* His office is taking nominations via e-mail and snail mail. You do not have to fill out an application and you can self-nominate ... more »
What To Say Today
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Back to school for the last week of the 2012 year. What did you tell your children? What do you hope your child's teacher does (or does not) say to your child? Should they say anything or is that * your* job as parent? What about older students? Is gun control an issue that high school students should consider in their history or civics classes? What do you think about what Sandy Hook Elementary had in place (which, sadly, did not work). Namely, locking all the doors after a certain point and people had to be buzzed into the building. What about arming every principal? That w... more »
Seattle Schools for the Week of Dec. 17-23
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
*Monday, December 17th* Capacity Management meeting for the NE area from 6:30-8 p.m. at Olympic Hills cafeteria, 13018 20th Avenue *Tuesday, December 18th* Audit&Finance Quarterly Audit Meeting from 4-7 p.m. Agenda. Much of this is the higher-level work of this committee - internal audit, external audit, risk management. The last hour of this committee is just for committee members to discuss labor negotiations. Superintendent Meeting with Pacific Islander Community from 6-8 p.m. at RBHS *Wednesday, December 19th* Enrollment Services close at noon. Board Work Session on Internat... more »
What would you have to say to the superintendent?
Charlie Mas at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
I don't make a habit of asking the staff to do things so much as asking them for information. That's because they don't work for me and they aren't accountable to me. I don't hesitate to offer suggestions for action to the Board because they are accountable to the public and they are supposed to represent the public. So if I had the opportunity to speak with the superintendent, I wouldn't so much have suggestions for him as questions. They are big questions and perhaps some of them will be answered in the Strategic Plan. Perhaps not. The previous Strategic Plan was a management plan... more »
Oddities in BEX IV
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
Perusing the BEX IV presentation and then what was presented to the Mayor's Educational Leadership Team yesterday, I see some things that I don't understand. - BTA has been about major maintenance like roofs and yet there are five roofs to be replaced under BEX IV. That is troubling because BEX is about renovations and yet there are roofs and other "major preventative maintenance" under BEX IV. What is really troubling is the "major preventative maintenance" at $18M has no list of projects. Basically, it looks like a fund for something. - Those five school... more »
The Heros in Sandy Hook Elementary
Melissa Westbrook at Seattle Schools Community Forum - 5 weeks ago
There has been a lot of name-calling and demonizing of teachers over the last few years. The teachers and those who represent them in the workplace - the teachers' union. *The teachers (and staff) at Sandy Hook saved lives. * Gave their own lives - standing between the shooter and the children - and died for those children. Young teachers, new teachers - all of them, right down the custodian. The Stranger Slog has this devastating interview with a first-grade teacher at Sandy Hook Elementary from ABC news. This teacher saved her students' lives and gave them love in what she... more »