Misleading Forums and Mistrust of Parent Boards Rampant In Anti Charter School Propaganda
Photos
Know For Yourself (Lest You Be Enabled)
A church going man sought a clean life so that he can get into heaven. Feeling concerned about getting drunk he went to his Pastor to confess. His Pastor told him, don’t worry about it, a little spirit never hurt anybody. Later the man returned to confess another failing. Again he Pastor made him feel good about the slip up stating, “even King David had multiple wives.” Heading home that very day the man was killed in a car accident, standing before God to atone for his sins he learned that he was condemned for hell. The man asked, but Lord, why didn’t my Pastor tell me I’d end up in this state? To that God replied, ask him the next time you see him.
Like faith, we need to know some things for ourselves. Getting understanding is key to good decision making and as much as we can we should listen to or read for ourselves direct sources for information. For Georgians, both the Presidential Election and the Charter School Referendum puts much at stake. The latter is as murky as the former as we consider ways to step towards shoring up secondary education. Many people sending out information about the November ballot question are tied to powerful stakeholders shaping their thinking and confusing the facts. The reality of challenges in our education system, and the effects on the future of children is too often lost in the equation.
An Issue of Power and Trust
Three years ago Lindley Middle School in Mableton was a nightmare. In an August article in South Cobb Patch, editor Kiri Walton wrote that the NEA ranked the school one of the most violent in the state. It had been in “Needs Improvement” status for six years until Sandra Ervin, the principal who was part of a failed effort to bring Teach for America assistance to South Cobb took the helm. With her leadership the violence all but disappeared from Lindley and the school became a Title 1 Distinguished School. As reported in an August South Cobb Patch article, then teacher and newly appointed assistant principal Sabrina Richardson stated, “Her passion for these kids cannot be denied. She made a difference in the lives of our three sons,” Robinson said. “I think she had a lot of heart and a lot of drive. She had a vision. She shared her vision and then she did it. She should start her own school.” Perhaps she could, but not likely without a charter school amendment. Cobb County School Board has been slow to approve charter schools. Many would argue that the teachers like the Coach Carters, Michelle Rhees and Sandra Ervins of the world are the reasons we need to allow teachers to lead in classroom learning reforms. We already know that teacher directed classrooms work, but are hampered by excessive testing, stagnant administrative systems, and improperly prioritized funding. One Question is: Which locally controlling group would you most trust to give teachers the wings to teach; a district wide school board, or a school specific governing board?
Parents to the Rescue?
Parents are the controlling force in petitioning for a charter. One argument that continually surfaces from opponents of the measure is that charter schools are not locally controlled. South Cobb State House Representative David Wilkerson, who voted against HR1162 held an event last night at Trinity Tabernacle Church. He was accompanied by two professional teacher associations who openly advocated against the amendment. The message from the panel was that charter schools are run and controlled by state bureaucracies and profit focused management companies. Wilkerson told the small gathering that independent public charter schools don’t have parental control as touted. That sentiment doesn’t pass the fact check. The International Academy of Smyrna, the lone charter school in Smyrna, was once managed by a company. Not liking the results they were getting from Imagine, the school’s self directed Board of Governors took upon themselves to fire Imagine. This fact flies in the face of the argument that charter schools operate without parental involvement in running the school. The growing charter school’s Governing board has 3 parents and 4 community members including a former Smyrna City Councilman and the Assistant City Manager. Pro-independent charter school parents Claudia and Javier Vietti point to naysayers like Representative David Wilkerson with puzzlement. “How can a politician claim to care about schools in his own district, while misleading parents to believe that charter schools will be run by the state with a management company having ultimate power? Smyrna’s charter school is a perfect example of the exact opposite of what he is asserting. At the surface it seems that Wilkerson is pandering to union like pro teacher associations. It is unfortunate that teachers are being manipulated into thinking charter schools are a threat to teachers.” Representative Wilkerson said that he is supportive of charter schools, just not the commission. Wilkerson and the teacher association spokespeople were openly invited to a non-partisan forum and informative session on charter schools that will take place on Thursday October 4th 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. in Smyrna. A short movie will precede the presentation at 6:15 p.m. Panelists and location will be announced here in future blog posts.
Leo Smith
4:31 pm on Friday, September 21, 2012
Many argue that charter schools have more flexibility to allow teacher directed classrooms, innovation, theme and community based solutions, and parental involvement. The amendment seeks to re-institute an alternative authority to authorize, not create independent charter petitions not approved by traditional school boards. This process can be done as a temporary measure due to the previous authorizer, the Charter Schools Commission being deemed unconstitutional in 2011. Furthermore, independent charter school petitions approved by the state charter commission would only receive state appropriations. No local funding would go to these schools. Charter schools have to abide by all the same admissions tests too per federal law. That and more are some of the myths out there.
christie harper
1:15 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
I'm very curious to know how these state sponsored charter schools will be funded. On the surface it seems like and ok idea to have charter schools but if they are state sponsored will the state be required to give them funds?
Leo Smith
3:14 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
Hi Christie: Compulsory attendance laws require all children to attend school. The state uses our collective tax dollars to fund public school systems via school districts. The public charter schools are no more state sponsored that traditional public schools from a funding perspective. The state would "authorize" the schools if they felt it would benefit the educational needs of the community and would operate effectively. As per operation, independent public charters are "sponsored" by parents more-so than traditional public schools. Parents have to raise money and sponsor the petition, grant writing, board selection, etc. The overall state & local funding a public charter eventually receives is overall less than traditional publics. This actually seems unfair to some since public charters like Ivy Prep in Atlanta often serve more minority and disadvantaged areas (DC, Philadelphia, NY Urban Schools). The compromise to ask for less from the state and to waive local county funding when not approved by local school boards was to appease legislators who were sensitive to the idea that charter schools take funds from traditional public schools. I've seen no evidence that they do in Ga. BTW- I saw an awesome movie called "Won't Back Down" last night. I'll blog about it later.
Leo Smith
3:16 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
Apologies for the typos in the first paragraph of this blog post. Anyone want to be my editor? ;-)
Larry King
3:39 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
For one thing, there is too much discussion, a lot of misinformation, and plenty solid facts about whether and how charter schools should be funded, established, and operated. Most of us can easily contact our local school board members and hold their collective toes to the fire so they vote for our kids and not what they feel or according to who pays them.
The decision we have before us on November 6th is whether or not we cede the decision to establish charter schools to a set of appointees or retain it at the local level. I hope we can sort through all the agendas and stick with the issue.
Leo Smith
10:46 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
Well said Sir. A good reminder. Can't get to the October 4th public forum and presentation soon enough. I've been to lots of forums that don't even present the details and facts because everyone gets so emotional so quickly. Panelists just immediately tell people "trust me - vote against." That is their right I guess, but good education properly used is power. Let us consider that matter.... Thanks again. BTW - I saw you at that panel. Your patient steadfastness is inspiring.
David Wilkerson
6:32 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
Mr. Smith. If you recall, I did mention that both Smyrna and Kennesaw are two charter schools that Cobb County School Board approved. Smyrna was doing no better, nor worse than surrounding schools but they provided parents an option. That was the reason the school system worked with parents to separate from Imagine and keep this school open. The same thing happened when Kennesaw was renewed a few years ago. I remember seeing the school board member from Smyrna at the time hugging the Kennesaw parents because they were able to work together to keep the school open.
Do you trust the Governor to care enough about our community to make these decisions for us? Do we need another government agency in Atlanta pulling already shrinking education tax dollars? This is easy for advocates that wont take the time to put their kids in our local schools, or put their efforts in to making them successful, to scream from the bleachers. I am fully supportive of charter schools and parents having options. However, I should not stand by while 1.6 million Georgia children see increased class sizes and out of state interests making money off of our children.
When will people stop attacking teachers and start lending a hand in our schools? Our kids need us to act like adults and focus on them instead of throwing stones at each other.
Leo Smith
9:30 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
I'll answer your questions because you asked them. Not because they seem relevant. Re: the Governor. I don't know him. Nor will I downplay a person's power to exist and achieve outside of his reach. But I do know my neighbors. I trust that they are capable of knowing what freedoms and choices they want when it comes to education. Re: needing "another Government Agency," my answer is NO. As much as possible we need to make movement towards returning choices and operation of things like education to civically engaged parents and citizens. I've seen our school board in Cobb struggle to relate to the problems with education in your district. I've had some community chats with very smart parents and teachers in your district. I think they can do better for their schools if given more options for involvement.
David Wilkerson
6:42 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
Two posts in one day....I dont usually post on the blogs, but this is too important a decision. To answer the funding question. The state sponsored schools will receive a higher allocation than local schools. This is because they are approved by the state and not the local system. There is no requirement to meet any criteria. This new agency with non elected officials appointed by Gov. Deal, Lt. Gov. Cagle, and Speaker Ralston answer to those three gentlemen. We dont print money at the Capitol, so any dollar that they spend will come out of the rest of the education funding. Mr. Smith also failed to mention that the amendment is also opposed by Georgia PTA (the largest parents education group), the League of Women Voters, the Democratic Party, the Young Democrats, the NAACP, the majority of the Legislative Black Caucus and many others. This is not about unions. This is about trusting people in Atlanta to decide for us. I will be joining the many of my fellow Black Caucus members and the Rev. Joseph Lowery soon to do a press conference. I invite you to attend at the Capitol when details are announced.
Still love to get together for coffee when you get a chance.
Leo Smith
9:15 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
Let's do Representative Wilkerson. There's much we can do to help people find the truth for themselves. I hope you'll accept my October invitation. I'll certainly call you Monday to schedule coffee. As we discuss this, let's not change the subject. Teachers are not the problem. There are a lot of other moving parts, but I think we'd be doing citizens a disservice not to focus on the referendum itself. The referendum will provide MORE options for teachers just as you admit the public charter schools in Smyrna and Kennesaw provided more options for parents. For the sake of brevity - a rare thing from me - I did not share the whole story. I also want to respect the intentions of the church who hosted the event and not "air out too much laundry" here. There were a lot more shockingly wrong things said by the two other panelists at that meeting advocating against the referendum. That meeting was more about race baiting and slandering people than the referendum. The public should know that you did tell me it was not a panel formed by you but the church. I suspect that you were as shocked as I when the moderator, selecting questions from cards as she saw fit blurted out, "there's no one here who supports this referendum." Such panels are not about educating people or having discussion. They are about forcing opinions on people and distracting them with issues not on the referendum. Let's get together & do better. I am a PTA and NAACP member. They didn't poll us.
David Wilkerson
10:26 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
My question on governance is completely relevant because this legislation gives those 3 men the power to create a new agency with the power to create charter schools and to fund those schools with our tax dollars. I respect each of those elected officials, however this is something that voters need to decide if they feel comfortable doing. This is not much diffferent than the "Trust" discussion on TSPLOST.
I dont think it is proper for you to attack a church for hosting a forum and then you slip in "not airing laundry" as if they have something to hide. The church did not take a position on this legislation and it is not correct to say that they did. I know of churches that have had allowed forums to be held on their premises which support this legislation. Churches should get out information. Please dont attack this church and the great things they are doing because this forum didnt fit your viewpoint. The groups pushing this legislation will have over $2 million in out of state money to get their views out.
Leo Smith
10:01 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
The church is to be commended on the effort. Didn't intend for that to seem like an attack. That was a horribly one sided panel. I am certain the church leaders didn't expect the decorum to be hijacked by claims made by your co-panelists. Please let me know if I can help with future ones you do. Just know - if people unjustly race bait, they should be ready for some debate. I've written before about my own lessons learned arguing on behalf of a class of people to whom I didn't belong and framing an issue for them. Black people are not monolithic. We don't all feel that the charter referendum is segregationist. I do have a tough time listening to people play that card even though I've been an NAACP president and EOAA officer. More on that later. Just spoke at a church today with the NAACP and GAE. I'll be calling you in the a.m. Good healthy discussion is killed by fear mongering about race. The quality and independence of education with self esteem freedom of pursuit is more important than skin color anyway. If we get out of the way of peoples FREEDOMS TO - We won't have to worry so much about FREEDOM FROM. We'll be too busy doing excellence to worry about nebulous agendas. Black people can petition for a charter just as well as anyone else. Our school board has made comments of interest in such. After November would you be interested in doing a how to petition workshop?
C.J.
10:34 pm on Saturday, September 22, 2012
RE: "At the surface it seems that Wilkerson is pandering to union like pro teacher associations. It is unfortunate that teachers are being manipulated into thinking charter schools are a threat to teachers."
Leo,
First, I want to reiterate that teacher unions don't exist in Georgia. You are misleading your readers by including the referenced quote in your original post. There is nothing "union-like" about professional teachers associations. Nearly all major professionals have access to professional associations which, among other things, lobby various levels of government--architects, doctors, computer programmers, home builders, and on and on. I'm sorry to say it buddy, but throwing the word "union" around where it has no bearing on the issue is seriously dishonest. You're better than that.
Changing the subject, for several consecutive years, the state has not met its legal obligations, as required by the Quality Basic Education (QBE) formula (and the state constitution), to adequately fund our existing public schools . Does that bother you? I ask because with all space that you devote to seeking dedicated funding for charter students, your silence on the shortfalls in QBE funding for ALL students is deafening.
Leo Smith
9:29 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
That's not silence CJ, that's an attempt at Focus. The QBE and funding reform issue will be one of the next efforts I'd be willing to work on if the associations will have me (and my wife will let me.) I don't fully understand what the teacher associations and legislators are doing there. Right now the teachers associations seem to be piggybacking the QBE issue on another issue that beat it to ballot. I understand how frustrated they must be, but the children shouldn't suffer while they negotiate QBE. Since we are not Union, I don't thing Georgians will tolerate what happened in Chicago. I pray the legislators will do better on that issue for them. It is hard to give that concern justice when it gets muddled into another. We don't prioritize funding well in my review compared to other states (CT for example). Classrooms and teachers should receive focus before bricks and mortar. Ever see most of Harvard's classrooms and buildings? Some of them are 18th Century!! We have to look at why seniors don't contribute too while they do in other states. What do you think we can do to move the QBE discussion ahead? What's the status of the negotiations?
C.J.
9:54 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
RE: "Right now the teachers associations seem to be piggybacking the QBE issue on another issue that beat it to ballot. I understand how frustrated they must be, but the children shouldn't suffer while they negotiate QBE."
First, Leo, demonize them all you want, but this isn't about teachers associations. This is about our entire education system. Therefore, this is about all of us.
With regard to Quality Basic Education (QBE), there is no ballot issue to consider, and there is nothing to negotiate. QBE is the law. Despite this fact, the state refuses to comply by funding education as required by the QBE formula. Why? Because, they claim, the state doesn't have the money.
If the charter school amendment passes, then every dollar that the state would put into a state-chartered school is a dollar that it is withholding from our existing public schools. It makes no sense to complain about the quality of our public school systems while simultaneously undermining them.
Erik Fernald
6:59 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
I think Leo is disturbed mainly about the serious lack of quality education choices for parents and children here in Georgia. We currently rank near the bottom in all basic standards (47-48th nationwide). I currently volunteer at a local school and it is rough. Of the 15 children I read to each week, 1 can read. I repeat, 1. People who continually defend the current system of academic malfeasance are the root of the problem. It is easy to attack people who are trying to change the current system. But the growing reality with massive cheating scandals to acquire political and financial ends tells us clearly that this system is a colossal failure. The defense of it comes from the political class. Parents witness the the failures, but seem too busy trying to play catch up financially to get a real grip on the problems here. I currently have a 3 year old and I cannot face sending him to one massively flawed and wildly corrupt institution. I liken it to a death sentence to my child's future. I see it and will not allow it to happen. Anyone sending their child to these places is seriously impaired in dealing with reality. I am not a wealthy man, but I know enough from my experiences to see that every dollar I earn will send my son(s) elsewhere. Political football is no place for my boy to be when he is 5. I will save that for the real game.
Leo Smith
10:05 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
Eric's post is indeed the silent cry of many parents. Again, there are spots of good choices within traditional options but more options would be more better. People deserve choice. Moreover, more competition would improve the product called education.
Leo Smith
10:59 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
CJ wrote:
"First, Leo, demonize them all you want, but this isn't about teachers associations. This is about our entire education system. Therefore, this is about all of us.
With regard to Quality Basic Education (QBE), there is no ballot issue to consider, and there is nothing to negotiate. QBE is the law. Despite this fact, the state refuses to comply by funding education as required by the QBE formula. Why? Because, they claim, the state doesn't have the money."
Not demonizing them CJ. I've done you a disservice by not sharing what some of these association panelists are claiming that I frankly find offensive. I don't think for a moment that they speak for all teachers anymore than the NAACP or PTA speaks for all their members. I can tell you for certain the NAACP, with whom I held an office and have been friends with several national presidents, don't even poll their members on most issues they take a stance on. BTW Everyone - The resolution is at hr1162.htmlwww1.legis.ga.gov. CJ - If you are a policy analyst or otherwise have some detailed insight, would you be willing to compare notes to notes with me? I'd like to learn from your perspective. Can we meet?
Amanda L.
7:38 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
The equation is a simple one. There is only so much money in local communities for education. Bypassing local boards to set up more charter schools takes away local dollars for already strapped public schools gutted by austerity cuts and an underfunded QBE. More charter schools that perform at or below the standards of public schools simply drain the pot further, thus taking money from public schools. This is why GA PTA opposes it. This is why State Superintendent Barge opposes it. This is why parents in our public schools oppose it. There are Amazing things happening in our public schools. Yes. Even in South Cobb. Parents who are afraid should visit one. Check out the gifted programs. Talk to the PTA. Speak to the Masters degreed staff. It is absolutely possible for your child to be challenged and motivated in our public schools. If you want to be an involved parent, there are countless ways to do that. Don't be afraid to become a part of this diverse and rich community. You might be surprised. In the meantime, let's not lay blame on the shoulders of the ONE State Rep who has children in Cobb Co public schools for standing up for the children and families whom he represents. Please follow the money. That $430 million has to come from somewhere. Our public schools will have to shoulder it. Again. This is only going to make it harder to improve our schools. Bottom line, it takes away from the good work that great people are doing with already limited resources.
Leo Smith
10:25 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
These are tough discussions. There will be some bruising. But we have to have them. You know Amanda, as a non-elected regular guy, tax paying parent, with no ties to being employed by the secondary education industry, no need to worry about saying something that might lose me votes from a special interest group, I had no idea what QBE was. Looks like the charter movement grabbed the hearts of parents and engaged them more than the QBE issue. It is only natural for teacher associations and insiders to know more about it. I hope they will share more with us. I think if you increase active stakeholders in the education product, and show that those supporting status quo care about the children more than any other issue, the QBE issue, with good community educational sessions, will see a groundswell of support. I'll pull together facts on public charter school funding for the public forum. I just don't see it as a threat big enough not to innovate, include, reward and hold accountable. I work in and volunteer for the traditional publics too. We've got a window of opportunity here to have a convergence of interests. Bad economies have the potential to bring divergent groups together as much as apart. Perhaps you can help us put on the QBE information workshop I suggested to the education insiders who read this blog. Are you in? Even if that's not your thing - I am sure that you are doing your part. I thank you, and my children thank you!
Leo Smith
10:31 pm on Sunday, September 23, 2012
BTW - independent public charter schools, by law, will not take away local dollars. That was one of the compromises made to get the referendum supported. Another myth buster - Independent Charter schools actually serve more minority students, and with better outcomes when compared to traditional public schools in the same zone. Flexibility, specificity to socio-economic needs, parental control, and massively different accountability are part of the reasons.
Melissa Pike
6:25 am on Monday, September 24, 2012
I fail to see how creating a THIRD bureaucracy that can be easily manipulated by campaign donations serves our students who are already dealing with an underfunded educational system. Perhaps if the people so vigorously advocating for this amendment weren't being so richly compensated by out-of-state groups who seem strangely interested in the welfare of Georgia students I wouldn't be so suspicious of their motives which look very much financially based.
David Wilkerson
6:41 am on Monday, September 24, 2012
Mr. Smith, there is a reduction in local dollars. Local dollars flow to the state from local districts (Cobb is a richer district so we are a net contributor) and then the local dollars are allocated back to the county systems by a formula. These state schools receive money. They will actually receive more money than the traditional public schools if this amendment passes. There is only one pot of money. Where else would it come from? The state gets money from the local systems.
I will say, one compromise was supposed to be the language on the ballot and removing the word "Achievement". However, as you can see they added the statement about achievement to the preamble. So, the supporters still got what they wanted. Charter schools on average to the same (about 46 %), and there is double the chance that they will do worse (37%) than do better (17%).
I understand the frustration of everyone involved. Do we want to give more power and control to Atlanta? There is not a good track record. The HOPE scholarship promise was broken when leadership cut funding for students already in school. The state leadership continues to collect tolls on Georgia 400. Leadership continues to collect fees on tire disposals that are supposed to go to cleanup but instead goes to the general fund. Leadership continues to underfund QBE every year, shortchanging our children. Now, we are supposed to trust the current leadership with more tax dollars and power.
Leo Smith
8:21 am on Monday, September 24, 2012
I appreciate your time on this Mr. Wilkerson. What many want to do is give more power to parents for the very concerns you express. History has proven that where politicians fail to represent the needs of citizens, where ethics in the legislators spin out of control, parents and citizens who feel the effect at home mobilize and act. This movement is about taking back our schools from people. It is not a bad idea from a citizen perspective to have MORE LOCAL CITIZENS involved in creating educational opportunity. To have MORE options. We must commit to a strategy to break through this status quo mentality. As I've said before, get more people at the local level involved and empowered, expand the stakeholders and constituency base, educate about the shared pain of the QBE issue, and your case will improve. That is certainly something I am willing to help with. Doing the same thing and getting the same result is not a winning option.
David Wilkerson
9:39 am on Monday, September 24, 2012
Mr. Fernald, first thanks for stepping up and going into the schools. This sounds like an unacceptable situation that those kids cant read. I have never seen that in the schools I volunteer, so please provide more details. You may be hesitant to call out a particular school, but this shouldnt continue. Please post the school and I will contact the Superintendent’s office today to see what can be done.
Erik Fernald
10:44 pm on Monday, September 24, 2012
My email is eriklfernald@hotmail.com. I am in my 2nd year reading to these children and the heart of the matter is that parental concern does not appear to be present. Last week I gave each child there own book to begin to read from my son's books at home ( he is 3) they are 6-7. I expect my son to be reading by the end of this year and if he can do it, these kids can with a little encouragement and feeling of self worth. I also coach here in Smyrna and I see similar patterns from kids from different parts of town. I am for the first time taking personal responsibility for the boys and girls I interact with. Each one I see and interact with will get my undivided attention so that they move forward with their lives.
David Wilkerson
9:42 am on Monday, September 24, 2012
Mr. Smith. I agree with parents getting involved. I am still lost how giving the Governor more power and control over money makes me me empowered as a parent. As I asked the other night. Is it about options or achievement? Which is more important to you?
Leo Smith
9:55 pm on Monday, September 24, 2012
Representative Wilkerson wrote: "As I asked the other night. Is it about options or achievement? Which is more important to you?"
Freedom! The freedom to choose is always first. Everything else comes after freedom. Yes - Even death and taxes. Call me Sir if you can have coffee Wednesday morning. Cheers!
another comment
11:04 pm on Tuesday, September 25, 2012
The ironic thing is that it was the white middle class smyrna/vinnings parents that advocated for and did the leg work for the Smyrna Charter school. They wanted a choice for when their kids finished up with Teasley. They were also becoming afraid of what Teasley was becoming with the section 8 vouchers from Atlanta coming up Atlanta Rd. The massive change in demographics at Teasley and then the class size increases at Teasley.
So long in short it was the educated white middle to upper middle class, that mostly grew up in other states where they went to public school. Folks that believed you should be able to get a public school education that brought the Smyrna Charter in. Not the black community. Then what happens, the black community takes advantage of what the educated whites worked their butts off for. So the white middle class ended up scraping up what ever they could and sending their kids to Private schools to avoid the mess of Campbell Middle. Some of us have tried Campbell High, alot of folks have just plain moved out of an area we loved to live.
The real killer is Cobb County Schools doesn't get it and keeps on putting in sub standart principals such as Denise Magee and Grant Rivera. Magee doesn't have command of the English language. She has teacher's having sex with students.
Leo Smith
9:01 am on Wednesday, September 26, 2012
The effort made by the Smyrna Academy of Excellence group was impressive. It is not unusual for those most marginalized from processes (whether self selected or not) to benefit from the social innovations of others. Roger Banister broke the 4 minute mile. Suddenly, something thought impossible was achieved more than 6 times in one year. I see the same irony you do. As an ex NAACP Chapter President in Virginia, I believe my executive board and local families would have embraced the opportunity to pursue creating a charter school independent of a system that has struggled to meet the needs of most black children. As much as I hate to say it, but this is not representative of the "advancement of colored people" I expect of the organization of which, conservative as I may be, I am a life member. I fear that on many issues they have been co-opted with the influence of special interest groups.
Do note however, that like myself, black americans do have a wide range of socio-political viewpoints. Media just likes to highlight the "stereotypes." There are lots of pro-charter amendment blacks in Cobb. The referendum was co-sponsored by a black democrat Alisha Morgan. President Obama's children went to a Chicago independent charter school. The President's U.S, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan started some of Chicago's first charter schools before becoming Chicago's Superintendent of Schools. Interesting to ponder the ramifications of it all!
Smyrnan
7:44 am on Wednesday, September 26, 2012
http://duluth.patch.com/articles/8-myths-about-proposed-charter-amendment
This is an excellent editorial on charter schools from the Duluth Patch.
L A Hays
8:12 am on Wednesday, September 26, 2012
While there's a lot of conversation here about the triumvirate at the head of our state government, the PTA, and the NAACP, I'm not seeing anything about whether our other state and local elected legislators/senators support the charter amendment. Money seems to be at the center of this discussion, and money flows in an open system that connects local dollars to those received from federal taxes and appropriations. We do elect people (effective or not) to go to Atlanta and Washington to represent us (sort of). I don't mean to distract from the discussion of giving local communities education choices, but we should know how our other elected officials would react if this amendment is approved.
Leo Smith
8:46 am on Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Several legislators have agreed to be present for the Smyrna Education Forum on the Charter School Amendment. This will happen Thursday Oct, 4. There is a short movie showing and information tables starting at 6. An informational presentation by an family law and education attorney will proceed at 7, followed by a legislative panel. Smyrna Market Village location TBA later today. For more information or to participate e-mail Leo Smith at education@leojsmith.com.
FREE TICKETS - Also - If you'd like to join me for a PRE-RELEASE viewing of the excellent movie "Won't Back Down," at 7pm tomorrow Thursday at Lefont Sandy Springs, please e-mail education@leojsmith.com.
David Wilkerson
9:31 am on Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Mr. Smith you keep mentioning the President but you fail to mention that you tout yourself as a conservative Republican on your bio. We are not against charter schools nor options. Only against Deal having ultimate power over communities. I find it troublesome that people that are trying to defeat the President are now using his name to push their agenda.
Leo Smith
9:49 am on Wednesday, September 26, 2012
I am pretty sure my bio doesn't mention a party affiliation David. I can't speak for political agendas as I am not a political leader. I want to discuss the Deal issue you bring up when we get together personally. I've heard that from several politicians.
David Wilkerson
10:05 am on Wednesday, September 26, 2012
You are listed as a Republican on the patch.
http://southcobb.patch.com/articles/patch-survey-of-gop-leaders-shows-widespread-opposition-to-tsplost-31443fd2
Leo Smith
6:54 am on Friday, September 28, 2012
The location for the Thursday October 4 Education Roundtable forum on Charter Schools mentioned in this article has been confirmed. The forum and charter presentation beginning at 7:00 p.m. will be in Smyrna City Hall's Council Chambers (King Street/Market Village). The movie "Making the Grade" will start at 6:15.
Sydney Busby
8:05 am on Friday, September 28, 2012
Hi Leo,
You may have already done this, but if not, you should post the forum as an event on Smyrna-Vinings Patch. Here's the link you need http://smyrna.patch.com/events/new
Thanks!
Sydney
Johnny Bowe
6:17 am on Saturday, September 29, 2012
Excellent and informative Blog Mr. Smith! I thoroughly enjoyed reading your thoughts and subsequent rebuttals.
MS
11:43 am on Sunday, September 30, 2012
http://alecexposed.org/w/images/9/9a/2D1-Charter_Schools_Act_Exposed.pdf
This the ALEC legislation that the Georgia Charter Commission law was based on. When that commission was found unconstitutional an amendment was proposed for the November ballot. Then a preamble was added to the the ballot question to confuse and mislead the Georgia voter.
Leo Smith
1:11 pm on Sunday, September 30, 2012
Thanks for the source. For most every organization, there is a counter. ALEC information can also be found at ALEC.ORG. I am familiar with a publication by ALEC titled American Legislative Exchange Council Report Card on American Education. In it, they gave Georgia a B grade on environment for educational policies that allows pursuit of a high quality education. Too complex to go into here, but I'll sure to bring a copy of the book to the Smyrna Education Roundtable event a City Hall on Thursday. Again, be sure to check out their website.
Larry King
7:49 pm on Sunday, September 30, 2012
Mr Smith
Your erlier assertion pasted here (The referendum was co-sponsored by a black democrat Alisha Morgan.) may raise some questions concerning motives.
It is on record that Mr Morgan has voted against charter schools that would serve students in his attendance zone while he is emloyed as a lobbyist. (paid by ???)
Can you confirm that Mrs Morgan is in favor of ceding decision control to a yet un-named group of Deal appointees that will not be of benefit to Mr Morgan? One would think that Mr Morgan would be agaist the amendment as a member of our local board that would loose control if the amendment passes. Just wondering what you think.
Leo Smith
9:58 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
How the Charter School Commission was selected will be covered at the forum on Thursday. The assertion about Representative Alisha Morgan's co-sponsorship was intended to counter posts that claim partisanship on this issue.
Parent
9:27 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
For the last 10 years, the state has decreased the monies to the school system with austerity cuts by $5 billion dollars. And you wonder why education is doing so poorly. Instead of diverting new monies into charter schools, please channel this "new found money" back into the current public school system. I have two children in elementary and middle school. After one "wonderful" year with Principal Sandra Ervin that you mentioned above who resigned suddenly amidst of cloud of mystery and non-disclosure agreements having to be signed by teachers, I pulled out my eldest and put him in a private school which I pay for. I request that MY tax dollars that I pay for go back into the public school system and the whole education system needs to be restructured. I want to pay for one well-run system and not two bloated ones.
Leo Smith
9:45 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
We'll have a great forum to speak with legislators on Thursday night at Smyrna City Hall. Movie at 6:00, Presentation and Legislative Panel at 7. I'll be at both! Hope to see you there.
Parent
11:42 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
I've already had a phone call "townhall meeting" regarding school charters. I was asked to submit a question 15 seconds after a representative ended speaking but waited over an hour before "time" was up. What was so enlightening was the "questions" that did get asked. Nothing but softballs. Over the years I've dealt with many legislators and consistently have yet to hear anything that doesn't have an ulterior motive for their party or their "friends/lobbyists". Not wasting my time. Just saying NO.
Smyrnan
9:37 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
Charter schools are a way for the Republicans and conservatives to break down public schools. The goal now of that political party is to dismantle the government program by program.
Also charter schools have become a way to resegregate schools. Private (white schools) popped up all over the south in the 60s during integration. http://www.albanyherald.com/news/2012/sep/28/charter-school-debate-heats-up/
Leo Smith
9:53 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
Ok Smyrnan. Don't fall for the race baiting. International Academy of Smyrna is hardly all white. Fact is, most independent public charter schools serve more racial minorities than whites. That's not just stats or propaganda - that's fact that visible right here in your own back yard. Are you familiar with them? Ivy Prep? KIPP Atlanta? Washington D.C., Philadelphia? Looking forward to seeing you all Thursday night!
Smyrnan
9:42 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
http://blogs.ajc.com/jay-bookman-blog/2012/10/01/state-created-charters-sidestep-public-schools/?cxntfid=blogs_jay_bookman_blog
The above article is the wrong one. This is the one I meant to post.
Parent
11:46 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
But of course. Parents who are unable to provide transportation to and from school, special education students, and disadvantaged neighborhoods will not be getting any benefits from a charter school.
Smyrnan
10:01 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
Who wants you to vote NO on Amendment 1:
State School Superintendent Dr. John Barge
Georgia League of Women Voters
Macon Telegraph
Southern Christian Leadership Conference
NAACP
Atlanta City Council
VoteSmart Georgia
Georgia Parent-Teacher Association
Georgia Association of Educators
Georgia School Boards Association
Georgia School Superintendents Association
Professional Association of Georgia Educators
Griffin-Spalding County Schools Superintendent Dr. Curtis Jones
Forsyth County School Board
Carroll County School Board
Richmond County School Board
Gwinnett County School Board
Carroll County Schools Superintendent Scott Cowart
Carroll City Schools Superintendent Dr. Kent Edwards
Atlanta School Board
DeKalb County School Board
Newton County School Board
Glynn County School Board
Towns County School Board
Smyrnan
10:02 am on Monday, October 1, 2012
Who wants you to vote YES on Amendment 1:
Wal-Mart
Multinational Conglomerate Koch Industries
10 big-dollar out-of-state donors
Gov. Nathan Deal, Don Balfour, Chip Rogers
MA Evans
5:56 pm on Monday, January 28, 2013
http://www.salon.com/2012/01/24/the_ugly_truth_about_school_choice/
The ugly truth about “school choice” The Koch brothers want you to think the movement's about racial justice and empowering parents. They're lying.