Enough!
It's time for a change. Can anybody think of a single school committee accomplishment over the past year?
Did they finish restructuring the Community School so that it was truly a self-supporting entity? Nope.
Did they respond to the Community School audit report requested by the prior School Committee so that it could be finalized? Nope.
Did they settle the teachers contract which has been in negotiation for 18 months and was forced into mediation by the prior Committee ? Nope. (Did they settle ANY contracts?)
Did they work with the Superintendent to implement any more new programs such as Project Excel or the Spinnaker Program which brought services in-house and reduced payments previously made to outside vendors? Nope.
Did they follow up on the work which began the prior year to reduce transportation costs by studying the cost-benefits of acquiring additional buses or vans? Nope.
How about Facilities Use? Did they work out a plan with the local sports leagues so that outside groups would pay the costs of maintaining the facilities they use -- to eliminate tax dollars from being diverted from the School Budget? Nope.
The Pool -- did they make any effort to get a handle on exactly what the pool costs to operate AND ensure that pool revenue covers those costs -- again, to ensure that tax dollars are not being diverted from the School Budget? Nope. (Please, don't tell me about 1972 again!!)
Did they continue to meet regularly with the Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee in order to encourage that "improved communication" they like to babble about? Nope -- the Superintendent (that they chose to "unrenew") generally attended BOS & FinCom meetings by herself. A sharp contrast to the prior Committee where Chair and Vice Chair met regularly with their counterparts on the BOS and members were frequently at FinCom meetings - or at least in regular contact with FinCom members.
How about updating the 5 year Financial Projection that was started two years ago -- or coming up with a new one? Nope. (Although Kangas did question a $1500 travel budget line on the $30 million budget!)
What DID they DO?
Oh, I remember ... they talked about choosing copy machines... and they replaced the Superintendent. The Superintendent would be the person who had been cutting costs and adding programs. Unfortunately, she had the audacity to expect her teachers to be properly trained, licensed, and fit for duty. She also expected the Community School and Pool to be self-supporting -- not relying on shrinking school budget dollars, or subsidies from more "profitable" Community School offerings.
For the benefit of newcomers -- that could be considered the Trifecta --- pissing off the Teachers Union, the Community School Crowd, and the Pool People.
PLEASE help end the madness!!
They haven't asked for this endorsement -- Hell, they may not even want it! But as a Sandwich taxpayer, and the father of three kids in the District, they have my support!
28 comments:
The Truth Maker, would also endorse both as our best choices for resolving all of the present issues before this committee.
I do not have any children in the Sandwich school system, but if I did I know they would also support progrssive minded adults that really have the children of our district at heart.
We will get two adults that can focus on the issues without a jaundise eye, while also providing the guidance to excellance within our schools.
from your lips to gods ears Bob my friend....
Based on your published criteria how can you support these two canidates. They don't have 1/3 of the criteria that you indicated canidates needed to run.Just a side note a number of your nopes have been taken care off.
Smith, the other candidates don't meet ANY of the criteria !!
Also -- out of curiosity -- which "Nopes" do YOU think have been taken care of?
As usual, your posts contain far more venom than facts (which is why they rarely get posted!)
Mr.Smith please tell us how we can confirm that list of important items have been resolved and completed. Based on all the school committee meetings I've endured the past year, the only two items I remember is the copier contracts and the no cause termination of Dr. Johnson.
I would like to verify what you are saying so do I call the admin office or Chair Marshall for the proof, it would make me feel a whole lot better about the current board and their work the past year.
I couldn't agree with you more Bob. These are excellent candidates. We need them desperately!
Pretend it's May 5th Voting day
Hmmmmmmm
Vote for Marshall who is adamant that the schools, pool, Comm. School remain in the 1972 time warp regardless of how it affects our childrens' education and the taxpayers.
Sherry has clearly shown for years now, she advocates for the SEA union, Comm. School and pool buddies, pretends to advocate for our children.
Actions speak louder than words and her actions clearly are not for our children or the taxpayers.
Or Vote for:for Susan Sundermeyer and Bob Catalini who already have made it clear they will advocate for the children and not all the other interest groups, SEA Union, Comm school, naked adults showering with our children.
12:51 No the easiest way is for Mrs. Smith to post on this blog so we can follow up and call the administrative office for verification that these projects have been completed. I've been watching for over a year now and most of these projects were not resolved publically, have they been resolved behind the scenes Mrs. Smith?
Im serious, Mrs. Smith could you please let us know where we can get the information that will verify these projects are done.
I'd like to prove Mr. Simmons wrong for a change myself.
Bob
You say you don't post my comments because of my venom that they reflect. I have read your blog and find it interesting that never once have you stopped any commentors who you have agreed with. If someone takes the other side in support of the SC or disagree with you the post goes in never-never land. I support Sherry because of her track record.The last super was a communication nightmare. You had to bail her out a number of times with her interaction with people. But I bet you won't admit that.
I'm not going to debate .... if you disagree with the site, go elsewhere.
I don't run comments from people which I believe are either inaccurate OR unsubstantiated -- especially when they haven't got the guts to sign their comments!
If you have a specific verifiable comment (and you never have) that disproves me, send it in.
You support Sherry "because of her track record"
Her track record of what ?
The Supt was a "communications nightmare" what does that mean? "She Sucks" is not a reason for anything. Nobody has ever made any specific allegations against MEJ -- Sherry specifically said she "didn't have to give her reasons for not renewing".
That's fine -- but if she's asking for my vote, I expect to know why she votes as she does.
Crossman (a Sandwich School employee) talked of anonymous calls -- but no specific incidents or people.
Linehan (a former Sandwich School employee) talked about poor communication -- but couldn't list a single example (other than she wasn't consulted quickly enough on the infamous Oakridge peanut ban).
Nobody has ANY idea what goes on in Kangas's head! But she kept getting up and babbling lists of numbers with absolutely no idea of what she was talking about -- she never asked for an explanation -- she just made accusations.
You said that the issues I raised above have "been taken care of" -- but you STILL haven't said how!
Enterprise has an article that reports the pool discussion by Crossman was not a violation according to the Stat ethics commission. However, what about the promise she made to the Selectman that she wouldn't discuss any pool issues. That's right we don't have a town ethics commission. That is why we get stuck with this kind of stuff and the consequences.
To Mr. Smith,
Could you please respond specifically to questions asked by "calling it like I see it" 11:49. You seem to have a personal issue with Mr. Simmons so I must ask, why do you log on? Why do you comment? Bob, perhaps it's time to ask your commentors to identify themselves, it seems as though it would weed out alot of the garbage. Thanks for your consideration.
Mr. Smith, This is Bob's blog. He is up front and out there with his opinion, taking the heat and taking it on the chin for what he posts. I don't always see his humor or enjoy he illustrations, but you can't knock a guy who stands up for what he believes to be right.
Bob may not have your respect but he has the respect of many in town because he worked hard. He has a right to be angry. He and others worked very hard to help the schools. Maybe they made mistakes, don't we all, but they worked extremely hard to include organizing the override.
And now he and many people have watched while a ridiculous School Committee wreak it and probably put at risk the financial stability of the town for the next few years as well. He can say what he wants. He's earned his strips.
Thank you, Bob! I'm delighted to have your endorsement. It pleases me to have the support of people with strong and even opposed views on various topics. People know they can trust me to examine issues thoughtfully and well. I take that seriously, and I intend to live up to it.
And greetings, NotThePTA readers! I hope you will visit my website for more information about me and about the campaign.
I’m running to help repair and rebuild public trust in our School Committee, to strengthen the relationships between the School Committee and other municipal boards, to foster better communication between the School Committee and the public, and to be a strong advocate for our schools.
I have no secret agenda to ram through, and I’m not in this for my ego. Au contraire -- my ego suffers mightily with each television appearance!
I know this is a tough crowd. I’m a longtime NTPTA reader myself and expect no punches pulled here. I will just say, explicitly: Yes, I am a relative newcomer. Yes, I have much to learn. I’m not asking for your vote on the basis of my broad knowledge of educational theory, and wouldn't try to fake it! Rather, I offer my candidacy as a smart, thoughtful, objective person who learns quickly, loves our town, and has a vested interest in the quality of our school district, time and energy for the work ahead, and professional and interpersonal skills that will serve the School Committee well.
Thank you for your consideration.
Susan
Go Bob! Go Susan! Bless your hearts for stepping up to the task. This is a completely honorable action you both are choosing to take for our suffering community. People like you will be a first step in improving the image of Sandwich, which is suffering both on and off Cape. Thank you.
The Truth Maker would ask brother Bob, do you think you have been rather harsh with uninformed poster. They are very correct in stating that Ms> Marshal has a great job, since she has been a member of the school committee.
Creating a poor envornment B +
Not doing the job she swore to uphold A-
Not sharing all the reasons why she voted to get rid of DR.Johnson A+
Operating a secret alience with the union B-
Not allowing the general public to speak at hearings A
How to enfluence enemy's and win friends B
Still does not know how a budget gets put together A+
Does not know what the responsibilty as a chair involves, B+
I could go on, but as you see Bob a passing grade in how to destroy what was once a great school district
I think we've beat this horse to death now.
The problem (IMHO) is that the "other" side has NEVER made any specific allegations. Why do you/they have a problem? You/they HAVE never publicly said what their complaint was -- or supported their position in any way.
It seems obvious -- MEJ was forcing reforms and the troops did not want to change their ways.
And you have still not supported your claim that the points raised above have been "taken care of".
This is the last post on this topic ... even I'm bored by this discussion.
No Bob, I am still waiting on Mr. Smith response to how I can verify those items have been accomplished. I have spent too many hours the past few years and all i really saw get done this past year was the copier contracts, undermining all of Dr. Johnson's effort and the no valid reasons for terminating her.
So the only conclusion I can have at this point is that she did take on the SEA union, Comm. school and pool. When Mr. Smith says communication was terrible, does she actually mean Dr. Johnson acted like a superintendant and not at the whim of every individual school commitee member, which obviously ticked them off.
Where did Sherry Marshall get her Education administration degree does anyone know that answer?
Seriously, Mr. Smith I really want to know what issues are complete and where i can verify that they are complete. Call Ms. Caulkins in the Admin Office?
If you don't respond then I and others will have to conclude you fell into the witch hunt trap of listening to the factless rumors and inuendos put out there by Marshall, Crossman Kangas and Linehands
Mr. Smith, Sherry should have known better. The last time she was chair she did a good job, but she had a seasoned and bright board. It is a shame that after so many years experience she could have done such a bad job with the committee. It is also very clear she does not understand the consequence to the town for such poor leadership. Time to be retired. We can't go backwards. We have to go forwards.
As a teacher, taxpayer and parent of children in the system, I appreicate and support the fresh perspective of Bob Catalini and Sue Sundermeyer.
Thank you both for stepping up and taking an interest in our schools. The direction that the new School Committee takes us will impact the students, teaching methods and believe it or not, property values.
All three are near and dear to my heart and I applaud your involvement. Many thanks and I hope my neighbors, friends and colleagues do their homework and get out on May 5th to vote.
Well said Ms. Hunt! Thank your for touching on the very real growing fact that leadership decisions in Sandwich now have enormous ramifications town wide. Not that they did not before, but the town is in the red financially with a to do list that would choke a horse, unforeseen consequences are now critical to the town's economic survival. Time for Sandwich to grow up and understand that leadership is no longer about ego or "boys clubs"/backroom mentaltiy. It is about skills, the most important of which is moving beyond knee jerk reactions and "know it all" mentality to really working together.
Our leaders have to do their homework, keep it transparent, and have an understanding and respect for government and healthy organizations. They need to be open minded. They need to be thoughtful. Above all else, they need to be honest and not manipulative.
I think that people need to give the 7 SC members a break. Lets look at what has transpired this past year. I don't think any of them have had an easy time of it. The main issue they have been dealing with has been a lawsuit thrown at them. Unfortunately, that has been the heartbeat of all the meetings. From what I've been watching, many of the members requested information repeatedly in regards to funding and programs. How were any of them supposed to be involved in these areas when they had no information. Thats what I saw. I felt the "copier" situation went on for so long because of how they recieved info - sporatically - Yes, the tension was obvious, but I feel it came from 2 specifically. I am bothered by the fact that the same 2 repeatedly stated only a judge can decide on contracts. A judge did, but the lawsuit continues. Really. So as far as I can tell, these 7 members won't be able to move on, do what is needed by them to get the district moving, or anything else they would like to do until MEJ and the lawsuits are gone. If this wasn't in their faces everyday, I believe this group of 7 could have done the job they wanted to do.
Bob, thank you for your your endorsement. Your blog, along with other media, provides a forum for the exchange of ideas regarding local issues. Hopefully, this ongoing dialogue leads us in a positive direction for our schools and community at large.
Since the selection of Dr. Canfield, by a 7-0 vote of the SC, on March 24th, I, personally, have focused on moving forward. We all know the history of educational events over the last few years. We all have our opinions of them. I believe it's time to be forward thinking and keep the 3400 children and young adults that we serve at the center of our thoughts.
Dr. Johnson's recent letter to school employees was truly gracious and in our best interests. She will, no doubt, be committed to a smooth transition to Dr. Canfield's leadership. I commend and admire her professional approach.
I would like to be part of the team that moves us forward to meet our challenges. I do have an extensive educational background and a balanced, objective outlook.
This is a critical time for our town. There needs to be communication and transparency between the boards and committees that set policy and lead us. It is time for "we" not "me".
Please visit my site www.catalini4sc.com and feel free to email me your thoughts and ideas.
Regards,
Bob Catalini
Been Watching 11:30 --- I am assuming your post was an April Fool's Day joke?
The lawsuit was filed in November ... what did they do for the first six months?
Been Watching 11:30 Are you kidding?
The four women were so unprofessional, disrespectful and irrational when they still refuse to cite why they LOVED DR.JOHNSON'S WORK AND PROGRAMS but went ahead and terminated Dr. Johnson and still have not given taxpayers, teachers, and parents a reason for terminating her?
Dr. Johnson gave numerous chances to work together.
Sherry's vendetta was due to the fact the last super choice was taken out of her hands after she attempted to shove a bag job super down that boards throats. Sherry was also aware Dr. Johnson was going to clean up and change the financial issues in the Comm School and pool, those are all Sherry's long times friends.
Linehan had it out for Dr. Johnson because she advocates for the union. Dr. Johnson did not want to violate laws by employed uncertified unqualified people in classrooms.
Crossman still is hearing whispering from who knows who about Dr. Johnson.
Kangas just rides the same witch train and still doesn't have a clue what her role and responsiblities are a year later. The learning curve can't be that difficult.
Dr. Johnson has nothing to lose by appealing the dismissal, everyone is moving on so who cares how long it takes to get a finding on the breach of contract, defamation and damages.
Sherry will settle the lawsuit prior to trial anyways, remember she just doesn't get the financial impact of her actions on the taxpayers. and her old "oh well it's town side money and insurance monies"
Catalini and Sundermeyer have 6 votes from our family!
Been watching, The law suit was in their face because of their emotional and shortsighted decision to reverse the vote that gave Dr. Johnson a signed contract. They showed no concern or respect for their fellow board members who early on asked for a judges opinion. They showed no concern or respect for scores of citizens and even respected teachers who came before them to ask for a judges opinion early on or for a compromise. They didn't try anything, just stuck to their power play. There would be no law suit if the majority members would have compromised early on and tried to negotiate for the good of the community. Two new members, just weeks in office made a decision that clearly show lack of character and professionalism, understanding, and frankly they continue to show they care little for the school district or the town as a whole. the gossip campaign that was launched was town wide and enormous. It included intimidation of people and businesses.
Dr. Johnson had no choice but to file a law suit. And frankly the new judge from New Bedford put little time or effort into his ruling. The defamation of character is obvious. The contract is still signed. There will be another day in court I am sure. It would truly be justice to get witnesses on the stand. Dr. Johnson seemed to have paid the ultimate price for not being perfect. But she'll go onto better things and our schools because of this year will barely recover, if recover at all.
And now that it is over the deep dark secret is on the streets and it is about petty gossip, hurt feelings, and unprofessional employee behavior. A case of the tail wagging the dog. The four majority members lead by veteran Sherry Marshall brought all this on. There were more professional alternatives to their power play. A food fight wasn't the only answer.
From the Cape Cod Times - 4/3/2011
SANDWICH — During a recent discussion about the use of electronic devices at board meetings, Selectman Linell Grundman's cellphone vibrated on the meeting room desk and blue lights on the display lit up.
The text messages were from what Grundman called "a couple of jokesters," but could they have just as easily been people trying to influence her opinion on the issue?
Sandwich resident Daryl Crossman thinks it is possible. Earlier that night, Crossman, a Sandwich man whose wife, Nancy, is a school committee member, asked Grundman and her four colleagues to consider creating a policy against the use of electronic devices during meetings.
"In today's environment for text and instant messages, the ability for someone not to be identified and have input into the discussion goes against what open meetings are all about," Crossman said in a telephone interview.
But the bottom line for Crossman is the potential for unidentified individuals to potentially influence board votes.
-----------------------------------
YOU CAN'T BE SERIOUS. Nancy Crossman voted to terminate Dr. Johnson's contract because "unidentified individuals" had called her to complain about Dr. Johnson. DID THIS NOT GIVE "the ability for someone not to be identified and have input into the discussion [WHICH] goes against what open meetings are all about."
What difference does it make if someone texts/calls during a meeting or BEFORE a meeting? It's still unidentified input.
Ms. Crossman should resign. According to her husband, she violated the Open Meeting Law by allowing unidentified input into the discussion which obviously influenced her vote. The School Committee Four have cut a deep, dirty wound on this town. It's shameful.
Thanks Anon 11:53 for your excellent observation. The irony of the situation is almost unbelievable, But that has been the nature of this situation since the photo-op political theatre of ceremonial swearing in. I wonder what Mr. Crossman thinks of the note passing that happens at the SC table between the majority members?
This is personal and sexist. It may be paraded as something else but give me a break. Too bad the Cape Cod Times and the Enterprise took the bait but tabloid fever often erupts in print media, for all their high ideals.
I love the way the times makes no mention of the history of cell phones at the Board of Selectmen table, which was long before they sent a photographer who snuck in behind the BOS to get the picture of the accused phone. Or no mention of the history of lap tops which predated the Grundman's at the table. Or that the lap top two weeks ago was explained. Gee, Selectman really need to do a better job budgeting their 86 cents pay to cover broken copy machines. Looks like the CCTimes is now on the Sandwich scent. Here we go.
As an aside, amazing editorial today that completely contradicts a front page story just days ago.
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