SRC passes budget despite public outcry
by Dale Mezzacappa on May 31 2011 Posted in Latest news
The School Reform Commission passed a $2.75 billion budget Wednesday that was roundly criticized by a roomful of students, parents, advocates, and others for cutting essential services like full-day kindergarten and most free student transportation while preserving other programs that many speakers said were unproven or unessential.
Commmissioner Johnny Irizarry voted no, without comment, while Commissioner Joseph Dworetzky voted yes with reservations.
"I certainly understand the pain and fear and unhappiness about a budget that makes as serious changes as this one does," Dworetzky said. "I wish it could be much different, but I think the approach taken is a fair approach."
Later, Irizarry explained his vote: "I just feel there were too many unanwsered questions. I didn't agree with some of the cuts." During the meeting Irizarry asked several questions about plans to close 13 privately run alternative schools designed to reengage out-of-school youth and replace them -- at lower cost -- with District-run options.
The SRC also passed a resolution that gives it the right to cancel collective bargaining agreements by June 30 if they are not renegotiated. All the members voted yes, with Dworetzky saying he doesn't expect the District to use the power. The budget counts on $75 million in savings from new agreements.
The vote followed nearly two-and-a-half hours of public testimony at which the SRC got an earful from members of the public.
Councilman Bill Green was the first of more than 30 scheduled speakers, and while he said he came in a "true spirit of cooperation," he said that he had still not received requested information showing the efficacy of some programs that the District is proposing to keep as opposed to what it has put on the chopping block.
"I urge the School District to stop fear-mongering," he said. "Don't hold us hostage."
In an hourlong presentation before the public started its testimony, officials including Superintendent Arlene Ackerman tried to straighten out what they said were misconceptions and misinformation about the proposed budget, which is designed to close a $629 million funding shortfall.
Chief Financial Officer Michael Masch called it an "interim" budget made necessary by legal requirements. The District is required to adopt a balanced budget by the end of May.
Faced with the end of federal stimulus funds and draconian cuts in education aid in Gov. Tom Corbett's spending plan for next year, officials are in heavy negotiations with both the city and the state to find additional revenues.
District officials are also talking to SEPTA in an effort to change the process by which state reimbursements are credited for some of its transportation costs as one way to forestall transportation cuts. The budget passed by the SRC ends all transportation for regular education students who attend District-run or private schools.
Masch said that he expected that the SRC would adopt a revised budget, probably by the end of June, once the state approved its final spending plan and the mayor and City Council decided whether and how the city could provide more revenue.
"At this moment in time the only thing we can do is adopt an interim budget," he said. "There is a likelihood there will be significant changes in the coming days and weeks. ...[We hope to] roll back some of the most harmful cuts."
Ackerman asked Masch a series of questions designed to show that many of its contracts with vendors -- which have come under heavy criticism -- are for mandated services. One big item, $65 million, he said, is to pay private schools for court-mandated placement of students who need special services.
Masch said that vendor contracts in total amount to 12 percent of the budget.
Apparently responding to repeated complaints that full-day kindergarten is being cut while an 18-day summer school program is being retained, Ackerman said that summer school is paid for through federal Title I funds, while kindergarten -- which is not required in Pennsylvania -- does not have a dedicated funding source. Ackerman also implied that research on the effectiveness of summer school shows benefits equivalent to that of kindergarten and early childhood education, which is also slated to be cut.
But few of the speakers seemed persuaded by those assertions. Parent Rebecca Poyourow decried what she called a "lack of oversight and priority-setting by the SRC." Several speakers questioned spending more money in the turnaround Promise Academies and on converting schools to Renaissance charters without more evidence that they are improving student outcomes.
For most of the more than three-hour meeting, the room was full. Many in the audience were students in some of the 13 privately run accelerated schools for out-of-school youth. Some held up signs and spoke urging that their schools be kept open.
SRC member Irizarry asked what the District would do for these students.
Associate Superintendent Penny Nixon and Benjamin Wright, who oversees the alternative system, explained a new plan to create five District-run accelerated schools in their place and to use funds from the Department of Labor to set up 10 more school-based programs. They said the District's plan would serve far more students and provide the same level of services.
But students who have benefited from the existing alternative schools pleaded, sometimes tearfully, that they continue as is.
"El Centro is my high school, my pride, my integrity and most important, my education," said Joandaly Chavez, referring to her accelerated school, run by Big Picture Philadelphia. Others spoke about their success at Excel Academy, run by Camelot.
To close the staggering budget gap, the District is also counting on savings of $75 million by renegotiating collective bargaining agreements. Masch told SRC members that some -- but not all -- of its five unions have agreed to reopen their contracts.
Jerry Jordan, president of the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers, by far the largest of the District's five unions, was in the audience but didn't speak publicly. He said that he was outraged at the move to override the contracts.
The SRC, under the law authorizing the state takeover of the District, already has power to impose terms on its unions, but has never used it.
"They have no credibility," said Jordan, who said that the PFT is not negotiating any change in the contract. "How can teachers believe a thing that they say?"
The PFT is due for a 3 percent raise in January. Forgoing that raise will not get the District to the $75 million it has earmarked, Jordan said.
"My members have gone 16 months without a raise," he said. "We were not at the table when they spent millions that led to the $629 million deficit."
Masch said that without these concessions from the unions, something else would have to be cut from the budget.
Comments (176)
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 20:46.
ACKERMAN has the power to recommend cancellation of the contract? the wolf has truly run away with the sheep. Get this fraud out!
Submitted by Rich Migliore (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 10:00.
I just want to get this at the top of the comments: If anyone in a leadership position, whether it be the SRC, Mayor, Governor, City Council person, or members of the General Assembly, think that this crap helps children in any way, you have your head in the sand.
It is destroying our collective capacity to serve our children well.
I have watched sincere people tell you that over and over again at SRC meetings and you continue to blindly support the destructive practices of the district leadership. In my 36 years of service to the district and its school children, I have never seen our district such a mess at so many levels.
it is not only the budget that is a mess, but so are our instructional practices. But what is most saddening is that we have lost our Moral Compass.
The most important thing in effective leadership and effective education is that we function as a "true professional community." The "community of OUR schools" and school system is being destroyed.
I realize you all have no background of experience with how the district actually operates internally, but it is dysfunctional and it is your responsibility to step up and lead and stop rubber stamping and rationaliizing away the wrongdoing and mismanagement of those you have a duty to govern.
Your actions and inactions have caused many of our schools and our entire system to devolve into a "toxic climate" and the evidence sits right here before us... it is ALL So SAD....... And All So UNNECESSARY...
Counciman Green said it right yeaterday, "We need to act in Collaboration and Parnership with each other."
As I said on the back cover of my book: If we are going to create Great schools for all of our school children, "We must grow up as a nation and rise above the adversarial practices of an era long gone that destroy the community of our schools."
"Trust formation" is the most important element of effective leaders. The research points to that over and over again. As Lawrence Federman, one of our greatest CEO's in the private sector, once said, "Trust formation is a leadership game. The leader has to ante up first."
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 17:19.
I can recommend that I'm better than Lebron James too. Recommendations are like breaths, we all have lots of them. Having said that, Ackerman has crossed the line of no return and we need to see it clearly and resist as if our lives depend on it because they do. No more dilly dallying around. A MASSIVE walkout of all unions nation wide is long overdue---with loads of MALICE too.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 21:57.
I TOTALLY AGREE!!!
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 23:03.
Right behind you!
Submitted by Just Sayin' (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 20:56.
It is really important that people also know that they voted to SHELTER PROMISE ACADEMY TEACHERS FROM THE LAYOFF. Is she the super of schools? or the super of Promise Academies?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:24.
did they really do this tonight? In a separate resolution? or in the same resolution that gives them authority to cancel contracts?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:11.
It was a separate resolution. Yes, they really did it.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:21.
Time to go to court - and start our own blue flu.
JERRY JORDAN - DON'T YOU DARE GIVE IN ON THIS ONE. We do not authorize you to acquiesce on our behalves. We want to fight, so lead or get out of the way.
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:18.
Jerry Jordan just sent out a message saying he is fighting this - he is not giving in!!!
Submitted by Teacher (K.R. Luebbert) (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:27.
Jerry's latest message:
http://www.pft.org/Page.aspx?pgid=51&article=313
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:01.
Just a reminder to all PFT members. Jerry is our president, yes. He is president of a union with over 10,000 members. But when there are meetings or rallies, we are no where to be found. If only 1/3 of the membership showed up to various events, things would be a lot different.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 23:52.
I show up to the rallies, but a lot of my friends became bitter after the contract ratification, stating that they felt it was a done deal, with no real membership input desired. And many said afterward that they would never waste their time attending PFT gathering because of how we were treated on that day.
When members of a union are not afforded respect and honesty by their leadership, it's hard for them to work up the momentum to drive into town, pay for parking and show their support for said leaders.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/03/2011 - 08:36.
I would be happy to go out on strike. There are many reasons to take a radical stance, But, most teachers are too afraid to lose their jobs and their certification. The sheep of the system are happy to turn on their fellow teachers while kissing up to administration to keep their jobs. It has become an every man for himself situation where there is no solidarity and no spine to stand up to intolerable conditions. Working in Philadelphia as a teacher is like being in a concentration camp where some are happy to collaborate for a few crumbs of food just to stay alive, or employed in this case,
Submitted by Meg (not verified) on Fri, 06/03/2011 - 09:41.
I can't say I would be happy to go out, but if the majority decides that is our best option, I would join in, completely and fully - marching, picketing, whatever.
Happiness would not be part of the package, though, especially with new student loans, a mortgage, etc.
In the long run, I do believe that it would be for the best of my children and my own sanity.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:35.
agreed - fight it or get out of the way
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:41.
you are missing the big picture with the promise academies. these schools MUST maintain consistency. a THIRD YEAR of turn-around and shuffling would be devastating.
i work in such a promise academy, and i work from 6:00 am-8:30 pm. WHO THE HELL WANTS MY JOB? I CHALLENGE YOU ALL. IS THERE ANYONE WHO WOULD LIKE TO TAKE IT?
please, give up your social life, families, spouses, hobbies, saturdays, etc. i love my job, but those who bitch have no idea what they are walking into.
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:10.
I have nothing against the dedicated people who work in Promise Academies.....but the State Code is clear - there are no "lay off proof" teachers. It must be fair and consistent across the board. The state code goes by system seniority. I hope that every employee that faces a lay off will be brought back quickly - no one is going to be happy with the decision, but we must follow the law, which is a non-subjective way of doing this.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 03:30.
How "F-ing" dare you think your job is more important than mine! You were given a choice to work at a Promise Academy school and knew what you were signing up for!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 13:36.
please dont tell me your an educator using th F- word wow
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 14:46.
Please don't criticize teachers for their language when you can't write "you're" correctly.
Submitted by Annonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 06:39.
And you are paid considerably more - as well as bonuses. While that may not compensate you for all your hours, I am never compensated for my post 3 pm hours at school/home and weekend hours at home. There is pressure on everyone in "empowerment" schools and "promise" academies. But, you knew the deal at "promise" academies and were given a "bonus" to sign up.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 06:57.
You've been drinking the Kool-Aid, I see. If an extra hour and every other Saturday make it so that you really have no life at all, then you have an unsustainable job. Many of us have a second job and still have time to see our spouses... you're either being a drama queen or you're doing it wrong and are bound for a nervous breakdown.
Submitted by Meg (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 07:13.
I open my building every day witht he building engineer at 6:00 am. DO NOT assume this is only at promise academies. Many of us in buildings throughout the city work hours no one else would in any profession. Teaching is the only profession that puts in these hours behind closed doors, without acknowledgment. It is not a Promise Academy thing. As for wanting your job - with the extra monies you do receive for mandated overtime - I passed and will continue to do so, thanks. It's the uniform for adults that annoys me most, though, honestly. Not the overtime.
That is very disrespectful of the profession, in my opinion.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 10:00.
I also work in a promise academy, and the majority of the teaching staff arrive at 8:00am -- don't try to make the picture look worse than it is to protect your job.
Do the promise academy really work, time will tell. Is it the amount of time a child spend in school or the quality of the education that dictates the succes of a child?
Submitted by Rich Migliore (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 10:21.
Quality time counts most. And so does time spent on reading, projects and homework. There is no emprical evidence whatsoever that supports the notion that more time in school increses instructional outcomes. I would much rather have teachers use their time to read student papers and design their own lessons to meet student needs.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:26.
Really? You challenge us? I could do your job, and I guarantee I could manage my time better than that. I want to keep MY job, however, so you shouldn't be exempt from layoffs just because you work at one of Ackerman's little projects.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:11.
You, my friend are missing the big picture. Don't you think that children in all schools deserve consistency? Wouldn't shuffling of of any staff at any school cause devastation? Don't all students in all Philadelphia Schools deserve the same allocations that Queen Arlene's Promise Academies receive?
Are you saying that because you work such hours (for more pay plus bonuses) that you deserve to keep your job over another... here's reality:
I left my job working for the government - went back to school to earn a teaching degree and incurred a HUGE amount of additional debt. This is my second year working for the District and I am 7 months pregnant. It is almost certain that I will lose my job come June 30th - and along with my job I lose my health insurance for my entire family. I will not be able to afford COBRA that costs $530/mo for just me as I don't have a job!!!!
Spare me!
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 23:46.
I hope you don't lose your job and wish you and your family well.
Teachers, we have to stick together. Arlene would love to divide us over this Promise Academy exemption. We can't let her manipulate us like that.
The School Police and the PFT are standing strong together. Sadly, CASA seems eager to bend over, but I can't imagine the building engineers are going to agree to the proposed terms. Let's be united internally as well. Working in a Promise Academy is no piece of cake. I wouldn't want to do it. However, all union members must be subject to the same laws. Let's respect the primarly purpose of creating a union and demand fair and equal treatment for all.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 22:07.
Give me a break! Being in the district 12 years, I have sacrificed time and money on behalf of my students, and worked unofficially on Saturdays (preparing lessons and out shopping for Monday!) with NO pay. I totally agree, YOU chose to work at a promise academy. So if the job causes you to give up your social life, family, hobbies, etc., you didnt have those things from the beginning.
And ALL students deserve CONSISTENCY, not just those in promise academies.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 22:56.
To the person working long hours at a Promise Academy: The issue is not who works harder than others... the issue is that it is just not fair for us to be safe and the rest of the SDP teachers to wonder if they will get laid off. I, too, work in a Promise Academy. I work hard, but MANY other people in the district work hard as well. I have worked in the district for 3 years, and I chose to work at a Promise Academy because it fit with my life and choices. Not everyone wants to work at Promise Academies and they shouldn't feel bad about it in any way. I don't think it's fair for someone in my school who is a 1st year teacher to get to keep his/her job over someone at another school who has been teaching longer.
I do wonder though how it would work IF Promise Academy employees were laid off and others had to take these positions; could they force transfer someone into one of these schools? It doesn't seem likely because the teachers all had to sign a contract agreeing to the extra time. I guess this doesn't really matter...
At any rate, I'm not going to think my job is safe until I start the next school year!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 09:58.
1- It would actually only be a second year of turn around and changes, since this is the first year of the promise academies.
2- Many teachers put in long hours similar to that who are able to maintain a social life, and many professional across the board.
3- I hope that you have multiple years of experience in this district before you start placing a higher value on the importance of your job over the importance of any other of your co-union members. That is extremely ignorant and exactly what the SRC wants. UNION members vs UNION members.
4- Does your working from 6am-8:30pm include your travel also?
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:25.
"Masch said that without these concessions from the unions, something else would have to be cut from the budget"
Then let something else be cut, starting with Masch's position - and Ackerman's.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:34.
With any luck the IRS will take care of at least one of them hopefully both.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:14.
I agree. Why is no one mentioning Ackerman only deferring her $100,000 bonus temporarily and her overinflated salary along with overpaid Leroy Nunery and Archie and the rest of these goons. The Mayor has nothing to say about this. This is just the ammo that John Street needs against Nutter (even though Street was part of the takeover nonsense).
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:23.
Street didn't bring in Ackerman, though. Nutter did.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:31.
I meant that Street was part of the takeover support along with Dwight Evans.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:41.
Actually Street's plan for undermining the state takeover was exposed just as the new Gov. took over. It was leaked to the press at the time.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:29.
From the minute she came to town, Ackerman has been marked as a "union buster." I guess that were right!!
Submitted by Annonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:36.
What about the principals/administrators' contract? It is more lucrative than teachers, custodial, etc.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:04.
It's time every district union joined together against Ackerman and the SRC. Teachers, Principals, School Police, Building Engineers/Custodians, etc. Let's not turn against each other, but rather, stand as one. Together, we're a force the administration can't dream of defeating. Separately, they'll take us down one by one.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:48.
Yeah, and the CASA head buckled right away. It's a shame. All of the unions should stand together.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 16:56.
What happened with CASA? I can't find any info in the news about them.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 20:40.
They immediately said they were willing to go to the table and talk, and make concessions if needed, since "these are hard times for everyone"...They should be ashamed to be part of the Teamsters
Submitted by Annonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:37.
If Ackerman's summer school is paid for with Title 1 money, there needs to be an audit of Title 1 spending.
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:44.
None of the unions should agree to concessions. A friend of mine gave me three great reason why NOT TO:
1. What proof do we have that the money would actually be used to save positions (as the queen has said)? NONE!!!
2. Once contract negotiations are open, then the district could impose a contract - Act 46.
3. Look at Detroit - they went with concessions last year. This year EVERY SINGLE PERSON in the Detroit Federation of Teachers, and other unions, received LAY OFF NOTICES - Yes, everyone.
As I said, the district has horribly misspent the stimulus money, used $290,000 for OUTSIDE legal services to may for mistakes made by the queen, and putting their pet projects first (cronyism and nepotism) rather than thinking of the students. I know - a novel concept!
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:47.
Don't forget about the queen's $100,000 bonus that she DEFERRED - not gave back, just deferred until the district can afford it.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:48.
AGREE__NO CONCESSIONS AT ALL !!
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:31.
Great points! Let's remember them when times get harsh.
Submitted by Timothy Boyle on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:44.
Before the spin on the most needy school's needing continuity of teachers starts, according to the RFA report on Renaissance Schools, an average of 67% of teachers in Promise Academies are fully certified. If you really wanted the best for children, you could at least match the empowerment school rate of 88.9% fully certified.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:26.
I don't understand - I thought ALL schools had to have 100 percent teacher certification. People were let go for failing the Praxis exam. How is it we have teachers in our district who are not fully certified?
Submitted by gustavus (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 10:28.
The catch comes because teachers can be hired when they're not yet certified. They have three years on Emergency Certification to finish their regular Cert. and can be dismissed if they fail to do so.
As to why an uncertified teacher or one with an Emergency Cert. gets to stay in the system when a certified teacher gets laid off... for that one you're on your own.
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:54.
Anyone with Emergency Certification are the first ones being let go. When a person is on Emergency Certification, they have no system seniority. Look at the seniority report at your school if you have someone with a EC - they have no seniority.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 16:31.
Teachers with emergency certifications have already been issued termination notices. People that haven't passed the appropriate Praxis test for their teaching area are issued an EC, which is different from an intern certificate. Intern certs are issued to teachers that have passed the required Praxis tests and are completing the state coursework requirements to get their Instructional I cert. You'll find that people that are in alternative certification programs, like Teach for America, Philadelphia Teaching Fellows, Transition to Teaching, or etc, are the ones with intern certs. They're still qualified to teach because they've passed the required content knowledge tests and are working on pedagogy by going to school while teaching. They're certified teachers by the DoE and earn system seniority.
Just thought I'd clear that up.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 16:32.
Teachers with emergency certifications have already been issued termination notices. People that haven't passed the appropriate Praxis test for their teaching area are issued an EC, which is different from an intern certificate. Intern certs are issued to teachers that have passed the required Praxis tests and are completing the state coursework requirements to get their Instructional I cert. You'll find that people that are in alternative certification programs, like Teach for America, Philadelphia Teaching Fellows, Transition to Teaching, or etc, are the ones with intern certs. They're still qualified to teach because they've passed the required content knowledge tests and are working on pedagogy by going to school while teaching. They're certified teachers by the DoE and earn system seniority.
Just thought I'd clear that up.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 21:47.
Fools--STOP !!!!! No union should give squat--nothing. Let's fight NOW. All unions are under attack so let's get it on . I'm more than ready and everybody else with sense better be ready too.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:02.
Have no fear--Jerry Jordan is already on top of this and so is the PFT legal team. I am also sure that the AFT represented by Ted Kirsch will be on top of it too. This will make major national news headlines. Its our jobs we are fighting for and our rights. Enough of the well overpaid Ackerman and the SRC members who have no experience even in the field of education!!! Archie, Ackerman, Nunery, and SRC need to go. Replace them with a School Board with Philadelphia residents.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:19.
Jordan and the whole union leadership must go if they give up anything!
And where is Nutter? What is the PFT getting for its unqualified endorsement of him? He helped bring Ackerman and does nothing to stop her wrecking operation of the public schools. When are people going to wake up?
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:28.
No kidding. I couldn't believe the union endorsed Nutter.
Time to stop posturing and start fighting.
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:59.
There were thousands who voted for him. The results were posted in our school.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:48.
When was this secret vote held? There was none at my school.
Submitted by Mark (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:51.
I think the votes were counted by the same people who ratified the last PFT contract. You know, a "no" means "yes," and saying you don't support any of the corrupt and weak politicians means that you support Nutter.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 16:41.
I agree with that--Great Point.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 06:23.
I agree--a pox on us too.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 07:43.
Nutter is a nothing-Mayor who must be in cahoots with Ackerman and Co. He didn't have my vote in his last election and he won't get it in the next.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 07:59.
This the time to FIGHT if ever there was one. The Tea Party and people like Ackerman who are doing their bidding, need to be STOPPED or we--the working people--are doomed and I very much mean that. No more talking, negotiating and marching and singing etc. These people don't respect us and we need to return to times of old when things were dire because they are again and the time is now. Jordan needs to lead or leave. All unions are under attack from the ultra right wing and we all need to stand together or die one union at a time. The result will be like 100 years ago when Standard Oil, Ford etc. controlled the masses like peons who had no rights because we didn't. People like you and me, fought and many died for our current rights and history seems to be repeating itself. Don't think it can't happen again. The natural extension of crushing unions will be the corporations will AGAIN control everything 24/7. I don't want that and I am much more than ready to fight for my rights. Hopefully, we all are. Keeping a cool head is one thing but being bullied constantly is quite another. It's TIME !!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 06:25.
I agree.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 12:12.
We can not put all this on Jordan's shoulders. This is OUR livelihood and OUR children who are suffering. Police have the Blue Flu. I should see the signs of the RED FLU brewing. Are we ready to write a check our hind parts will need to cash?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:02.
Who's putting it on Jordan's shoulders???? However, he does lead the PFT and his FogHorn LegHorn act is wearing thin, real thin. Time to grow a pair, Jerry.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:02.
Who's putting it on Jordan's shoulders???? However, he does lead the PFT and his FogHorn LegHorn act is wearing thin, real thin. Time to grow a pair, Jerry.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:02.
Who's putting it on Jordan's shoulders???? However, he does lead the PFT and his FogHorn LegHorn act is wearing thin, real thin. Time to grow a pair, Jerry.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:02.
Who's putting it on Jordan's shoulders???? However, he does lead the PFT and his FogHorn LegHorn act is wearing thin, real thin. Time to grow a pair, Jerry.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:02.
Who's putting it on Jordan's shoulders???? However, he does lead the PFT and his FogHorn LegHorn act is wearing thin, real thin. Time to grow a pair, Jerry.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:02.
Who's putting it on Jordan's shoulders???? However, he does lead the PFT and his FogHorn LegHorn act is wearing thin, real thin. Time to grow a pair, Jerry.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:47.
If Jerry leads a fight, I'll be ready to fight by his side. He can count on me to share a jail cell if need be.
However, the way he conducted the last contract ratification makes me feel that he believes he knows better than the membership. He wouldn't even let us take a week to read the contract. He forced a ratification vote that many still believe was rigged (most of us heard more 'noes" than "ayes." So there's good reason to worry about his judgment.
That said, he's my hero of the moment. It's a shame the principal's union president is such a sycophant. He should be standing side-by-side with the other school unions. Instead, he's meekly saying he's sure there's some more his members can give. Pitiful.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:50.
By the way - Jerry is paid to represent us. So lots of this fight does belong on his shoulders.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 16:40.
Yes, I agree but I was trying to be kind. Enough od the Daffy Duck, Foghor, Leghorn act. It's ok to get mad and this is a definite case where we all better be mad as hell.
Submitted by Emily Adeshigbin (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:44.
Philadelphia School District parents, let's wake up and storm the SRC, SDP, City Hall and Harrisburg. Enough is enough! Our children will fail if we continue in this way. Imagine having to cut your home budget by 50%, what would happen to your family?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 08:07.
I AGREE TOTALLY. This is garbage being foisted on us by our won--make no mistake about it. Carpetbaggers and bullies pushing the poor and middle class around--- like we're sheep. It's time to do "whatever is necessary" to secure the rights for our children, if not ourselves, and let's get it on now. They're bullying us 24/7--No More.
Submitted by H Scribner (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 08:45.
I agree....but we cannot even get parents to a simple Advisory Council meeting.....they seem to "check out" somewhere in middle school. I would love a parent storm to descend on our leaders and force some kind of clarity of thinking, but it does not seem likely.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:52.
CARPETBAGGERS GO HOME!!!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:52.
I agree with Emily. Where is the OUTRAGE? Parents need to step up and fight for what they believe in...and while they're at it, why not impart upon their children the need to do well in school?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 22:58.
Parents are the only ones that can get things done. No one listens to the teachers. And the politicians are untrustworthy. Please, parents. Step up and get this carpetbagging leech out of our city!!!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:21.
Few educational strategies have a stronger evidence base than early childhood education and the loss of 800 prek slots has gotten lost amidst the rhetoric. While the impact if an 18 day summer school program may be queastionable, one thing we know for sure is pre-k and full day kindergarten work and repay taxpayers many times over.
Submitted by Teacher (K.R. Luebbert) (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:29.
Jerry's latest message:
http://www.pft.org/Page.aspx?pgid=51&article=313
Submitted by Voice of Reason (not verified) on Tue, 05/31/2011 - 23:36.
SRC plans to close 13 privately run alternative schools. [logic? it could be done better if run by the district.]
SRC plans to open privately run Promise/Renaissance Academies. [logic? it could be done better if the district gave it over to be privately run.]
Dear Ackerman,
If you are so skilled at managing schools -- why is it that you are trying to privatize education, distribute funds inequitably and take away THE MOST IMPORTANT programs in our system?
---FYI: Kindergarten & Summer school are NOT comparable. The more the brain is trained in youth the more adaptable & fluent it becomes later in life. Summer school is, however, a much better option when data comes out for the School District as a whole and they compare it to 5 or 10 years ago.
What does it show?
More students are graduating! QUANTITATIVE
Fewer students can read with a high school diploma! QUALITATIVE
Congratulations, SRC & Ackerman, you've made us *appear* to look like we're moving up while you're destroying our community 1 decision at a time. Now the 5 year olds won't be in school so they'll have more time attending photo shoots with Ackerman to put on the front page of the district website making it *appear* that they're being educated. Ironic, isn't it? Keep up the good work, SRC!
<3 always,
The Conscience You Threw Away
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 05:15.
What a vile bunch of thugs we have running the SDP! The SRC demanding school employees make concessions or they will rip up "contracts" is outright blackmail!
It is time Labor ran its own candidates and have its own political program. What difference is there between the Democrats and Republicans? The Republicans hang you with a hemp rope and the Democrats hang you with a velvet rope. In the end you are still dead!
Nutter can make rosy speeches when he wants your vote, the day after election he'll stab you in the back. This is no longer a democracy if they are allowed to get away with this.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 06:39.
I am certain all principals will be posturing, more than usual, today. Don't be so quick to judge. If they cancel our contract, you're sure to be next. Watch this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMt3p_xDAoU&feature=related
How do we continue allowing non-certified personnel to teach our students, who then make very slow progress, but turn around and punish teachers for incompetent leadership?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 06:46.
The SRC ALREADY has voted that our contract is open for renegotiation. They did it last night, after the public meeting.
Go big or go home, Jordan!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 07:03.
WHY ARE WE NOT STRIKING?????
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 09:10.
That's the best question I have heard yet.
Submitted by Kevin (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 14:17.
We're not striking because:
1: It's illegal..it's not right but it is what it is
2. If we strike we give Ackerman the hammer she wants and I have little doubt she will fire anyone who does strike. She will then hire lower paid teachers at the bottom of the scale and save money and you know what..she won't care and niether will anyone else.
Remember the air traffic controllers under Preseident Reagan? How did it work out for them?
we just need to be patient and let the process unfold and go from there.
Submitted by Teacher (K.R. Luebbert) (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 14:47.
So far it is illegal to strike, but the constitutionality of that law has not been tested. Every time the union has filed a brief, the court has refused to hear it because "no one has been harmed by the law yet". If we do strike and get fired, the courts will have to hear the case. I do not hold out much hope for PA courts finding in our favor, but who knows??
Submitted by Rich Migliore (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:36.
If I am not mistaken, we still do have a contracts clause in our Constituion. It reads exactly like this:
"No State shall enter into any Treaty, Alliance, or Confederation; grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal; coin Money; emit Bills of Credit; make any Thing but gold and silver Coin a Tender in Payment of Debts; pass any Bill of Attainder, ex post facto Law, or Law impairing the Obligation of Contracts, or grant any Title of Nobility."
I would certainly suggest we look into the proposition that the school takeover law and/or some of its provisions are unconstitutional.
Oh by the way, Does the Constitution stop at the schoolhouse door?
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 16:49.
Does it seem likely Ackerman can fire 11,000 teachers?
We don't need to be patient. We've been patient. We need to join together and end this abuse.
Submitted by Kevin (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 20:12.
Ackerman would relish the thought of firing everyone. She would endure the chaos up front just to prove her point, She is that egotistical. I'll pass on the jail cell. I've learned over the years that things are never as good or bad as they seem to be and things most always seem to work out in the end.
The PFT needs to stay focused and on message:
1. Our current contract was praised by everyone as landmark reform contract...whether we agreed to it or not is a matter of semantics at this point. The message is that the SDP did not negotiate in good faith if they knew all along that they could cancel it.
2. Phila teachers are the lowest paid in the state and have not had a raise in the recent past.
3. The working environment is poor at best with little support from the SDP.
4. All teachers are treated equally under the contract. No exceptions for special groups. Ironically if you look at the SDP vacancy list, those precious Promise Academies have an awful lot of vacancies. There doesn't seem to be many teachers to protect.
5. The PFT is prepared to take the issues to court.
Patience is the key. All of the rhetoric only serves to raise your blood pressure.
Submitted by h scribner (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 07:18.
A lot of strong rhetoric from people who stay anonymous is empty. I am a firm believer in a strong union, but after watching the PFT barely raitifying (and yes I was at Temple when we did and heard the devisiveness) I M concerned that we are in a weak position to begin with. I fully support equality, and as Teacher at a promise academy, I am frustrated by the lack of focus on our students throughout this process. I am proud of the difference we are make every day, and our staff is fantastic, but we are all in this togethef and I am sick that they are putting a target on us by trying to exempt us. We are all Pft and weshould be in this fight together!
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 07:35.
The PFT's problems started with Jerry Jordan accepting that last contract, not allowing us time to read it before voting on it and forcing it through with, frankly, fewer votes than claimed. From where I sat - and from where my friend on the other side of the stadium sat - the nays had it.
Jerry needs to redeem himself. This is his chance.
Submitted by CAS (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 07:49.
Agreed Scrib, It has to be equitable across the board. That is why we have a union and that is why we pay union dues. Also If it is about the students how can you exempt a non-certified teacher because of the building they teach in and lay off a certified teacher?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 08:02.
YES, THEY ARE USING YOU FOLKS AS A DIVIDE AND CONQUER STRATEGY. DON'T LET THEM. STAND UP AND MAKE YOUR FEELINGS KNOWN. YOU'RE BEING USED AS PAWNS, AS PIGEONS ON A FENCE, AS COLLATERAL DAMAGE--YOU GET THE POINT. FIGHT BACK---SOLIDARITY IS THE ANSWER.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 11:07.
I am not a student, teacher, parent, or even a resident of Philadelphia, so I really dont have a dog in this fight either way.
However I want to say that I find the many objections to promise academy teachers' layoffs here absurd and self-serving. You would think it was the end of the world given the hysterical tones pft members describe this policy in.
Earlier this year I read so many teachers on these boards talk about the need for continuity as a point against converting traditional schools like Gratz intio promise academies and charter schools, now their recognition of this common sense fact goes out the window when it threatens their job. Thats understandable I suppose, but it still warrants an eye roll.
The larger point here, is that in spendimg the last six months learning about education policy, Ive tried to approach these issues with an open mind. But clearly theres some truth to the anti-union claims that the interests of students and teachers are not coextensive, and teachers dont mind putting themselves (and their mortgages and student loans) ahead of kids.
Just consider the promise academies from a policy perspective. Its decent but untested policy to make the the sort of investments the district is trying to make in these schools. Its also self-serving from the superintendents perspective to try and build her legacy with a pet project. But her pet project is to turn around the districts worst schools. Now that might be done for selfish reasons, but its good policy and its going to help kids.
Now, the problem is that the gains of,the PAs shouldnt come at the expense of other district kids. Thats a real problem. But the way I see it, teachers on this board care more about fairness and equity in how layoffs proceed rather than yhis legitimate point.
Whatevs.
If you guys strike over the district maintaining less senior union members over some of the older guys as some fools on this board have suggested, get ready for a national media firestorm. The public wont be saying how couageous you are, and in reality, you really will be quite weasley, contract or not.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 12:28.
While I am sure you are doubtless more informed than I am given your six months of education policy study, your argument is ridiculous and narrow.
You present this policy in a reductive and simplistic way: "turning around" the lowest performing schools is good. Hey, I like that. That sounds nice. That's it. No need to consider how it is done or its financing.
An actual "good policy" considers the short-term costs and benefits, long-term costs and benefits, political factors, ultimate outcomes and financial implications of a decision. In all aspects of the way in which Dr. Ackerman set this policy in motion, she has failed: short-term she caused tremendous upheaval and dissatisfaction with no forethought (such as the ridiculously somehow stupidly unforeseen forced placements last year when teachers who left these schools were still promised jobs); long-tem she has set back kids with horribly curricula that are masking huge deficiencies; in terms of ultimate outcomes, most likely the district will be forced to retake the promise academies when funds dry up; politically she has pissed off everyone possible with (you write that teachers are putting themselves ahead of kids when they -- gasp -- think of their loans and mortgages) this latest move; financially she has bankrupted the district and a decent chunk of it comes from decisions related to this "good policy".
Then you write this paragraph about the problems here. So you write that there is a problem: gains at promise academies should not come at the expense of other kids. So laying off teachers at other non-promise academy schools would not be at their expense? In fact, more teachers would be removed at non-PAs under this layoff scheme because PAs are untouchable.
Also: stop using the trope of "for the kids." In case you didn't realize it, school districts are organizations with employees and a customer base. Employees must be happy in order to benefit customers. Employees are not happy when one group is privileged above another. That is not good business.
Lastly, on your mention about the media-- so what? The same thing will happen a la Wisconsin. Everyone will hate public employees on first glance, and then everyone will learn more and more, and some will still hate them while others will not, and inevitably the NY Times will write a series of columns on the goodness of public sector employees. In fact, the Notebook's writers will probably get called on, one of them will write an excellent piece explaining it, and then the D cities and states will learn and the R cities and states will continue to hate it.
Education policies as they relate to school districts must consider a number of factors. This did not, and it continues to be shortsighted. When you write things like this under the auspices of knowing something about "education policy," you make those of us in education policy look bad.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:26.
I agree-know -it -alls are a real treat, aren't they? Jefferson once said that some people give freedom of speech a bad name. He must have had that writer in mind. Just a waste of protoplasm.
Submitted by Chaos is Winning (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 16:45.
How do you manage to study "education policy" without knowing how to use an apostrophe?
You certainly know nothing about labor policy. In it, everyone is treated equally - no preferences. That's how things are made fair. When the person who sits across you at the bargaining table starts favoring a part of your group in an attempt to manipulate people and conditions, it wipes out the whole "equal treatment for all" point of the union. Sorry for explaining in such basic terms, but apparently you missed this class in high school.
The concept of "equal treatment for all" also applies to students in a school district. One doesn't get more or less than another. This has been a joke in the district for years, as the schools in middle class neighborhoods end up with everything first, but it hasn't been so blatantly institutionalized as it has done with Promise Academies. Even the food is better at these schools, as though no other kids in Philly deserves the same decent meal. This is simply unacceptable.
As to whether the Promise Academies are going to "help kids," I'm curious as to how you think you know that? Do you have any clue what sort of curriculum in place in these schools? Would you know the difference between a school founded completely on the concept of standardized test preparation (i.e. Empowerment Schools, some Promise Academies, if not all of them) with one where true mastery of a subject is taught? I doubt it.
Submitted by Sunny Bavaro (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 10:55.
Dear "Whatevs,"
That's an awful lot of strong rhetoric from someone who doesn't "have a dog in this fight either way." And, by the way, what a hurtful metaphor!
So, let me be clear. I am a teacher in the district. I have 3 1/2 years "in the System," (here, this phrase means that I have worked for the District for three and a half years, just in case you didn't pick that up from your research) and I have been a teacher for 10. Prior to teaching in the System, I was an adjunct at various local colleges.
Now that you know who I am, let me ask you: do you put the public you serve over defaulting on your "morgage[s] and student loans?" If you don't have a "dog in this fight," I am going to assume that you are not a public servent, and forgive me if this is inaccurate. And I will tell you this: just because I am a public servent does not mean I deserve to be not be compensated for the work that I do or that my labor rights should be trampled on when others mismanage the finances of the District.
Whitney Houston's oft quoted phrase begins, "I believe the children are our future." And I agree. However, people often forget the second half of the line, which goes: "Teach them well and let them lead the way." The ability for teachers to "teach them well" is directly related to the positivity and support in our work environment. And this is, indeed, research based. In fact, according to EducationWeek (which I'm sure you came across in your research as a well-respected publication), "A recent study in the _Journal of Health and Social Behavior_ found that negative classroom environments—such as those in which teachers feel disrespected and material resources are lacking—can cause students to feel stressed out."
Notice the part about where teachers feel disrespected. This IS a labor issue, and this labor issue directly correlates to the outcomes for children. So, in making sure that I can pay my mortgage-- (actually, for me, it is rent. I have too many student loans to afford a downpayment on a house, even though I am at the highest pay grade for my years in). As I was saying, making sure I can pay my rent will make me a less stressed teacher which, according to the research sited above, increases the likelihood that students in my classes will get a quality education. This says to me that my commitment to being emotionally and financially healthy IS part and parcel with my commitment to the education of urban high school students. What do you think?
Finally, there are many failing schools in the School District of Philadelphia. The District hand- picked the Promise Academy schools and can provide little evidence that these schools are in a more dire situation than that of the other Empowerment Schools in the district. In fact, the only commonality that is exclusive to the Promise Academy schools is their proximity to universities and colleges in Philadelphia. This has always been suspicious to me, and I hope that your research can turn up some answers as to why this is the case.
Submitted by Sunny Bavaro (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 15:08.
servent = servant. Yes, I am an English teacher. No, I am not a dictionary.
Submitted by Philly (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 12:05.
Going to disagree. I've been at one of these promise academies, and tried to come back, despite the fact that it was a difficult place to work. The district decided that a number of teachers who had posted the best student scores could not come back. That included myself.
I believe that a major motivation behind this was to try and break the union- to make this resolution protecting promise academy teacher jobs hurt more senior teachers.
At the school I was at, we always had people quit teaching in September and October. It will happen again next year, but a lot of the people who pulled the slack when that happened, will be gone.
The argument that the district posted that this protection of promise academy jobs is about continuity for the kids is a lie. If that was a concern of the district, they would have kept the best teachers at my school, many who have been here the longest.
Submitted by Annonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 12:21.
Your point is well taken. Most Promise Academy staffs are just being formed for 2011-2012. Therefore, "upsetting" the staffing is not an issue except at the few Promise Academies that currently exist. That said, the whole premiss of "Promise Academies" is staff turnover is what "makes" the school different. By cutting off staff at non-"promise" schools, often staff that has been at a school for more than 1 year, is also upheaval.
The reality we face this year is a result of Ackerman and her "team" and the SRC. Staff, students, and families pay the consequences - not Ackerman nor the SRC.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 13:37.
Actually, I am very disappointed with the inappropriate commentary I am receiving from Promise Academy teachers. They are like a pack of desperate, disrespectful piranhas. In their effort to keep their jobs, they disrespect our contract and our union with their tactless words. You would stab another teacher in the back----and think nothing of it-----seniority or no seniority. This is who you are.
They are REALLY doing our profession a disservice. In some cases, it is best to keep your opinions to yourself. The malicious, backbiting content of what you say is sickening, cold, callous and heartless.....all due to your uncertainty.
This goes to show your inexperience and lack of integrity. You are the kind of people they are using to divide us.
Submitted by h scribner (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 14:41.
Strong words fron anonymous sources are empty...grow a pair or shut up.
Submitted by Anonymous and proud (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:41.
There certainly is something to being willing to stand for who you are and what you say. I just find the process of putting in some screen name on a comments section of a blog as no more meaningful.
"h scriber (not verified)" does not really give me any more idea about who you are in the world than "Anonymous" or "Anonymous and proud," as the case may be.
No one here really is going to post their personal email, address, school, job other than school, number of kids etc -- information that actually identifies a person. It's just not that type of context. If I run into you in the lunchroom or courtroom, I'll be sure to make sure you know my full name.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 15:47.
As wonderfully brave and courageous as you are for typing your name, no one made you the arbiter of opinions or posting here. Anyway, adding a name will do what? Lend them credibility? Allow you to find out who they are? What are you going to do? Fight them? Call them by name and then tell them to "grow a pair?"
Submitted by T (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 16:56.
I am so angry and frustrated. I currently work at an Empowerment School that is really doing great things. I will not be able to return to my school though because there is not a position available for me due to budget cut backs. I am a teacher that arrives at school everyday at 6:40 and usually does not leave until 4pm at the earliest. I live 45 minutes from my school . I then spend at least 2 or more hours a night working on school work. I am dedicated and motivated.
I had the chance to apply to a Promise Academy but I did not for several reasons. I already get to school over an hour before that kids arrive and stay for about an hour or more after the kids leave. I spend all Sunday Lesson Planning every week. With my level of commitment I would have a nervous break-down at a school that required extra hours and Saturday School. From what I have heard Promise Academies are not doing anything more beneficial. Consequences are not being enforced. Extra rounds of corrective math and reading are being done (but not according to the proper program and therefore are not effective like the research suggests). Teachers are quitting. Schedules keep changing. These are the schools being sheltered.
I do not know what the answer is. But I know that less teachers, more students, less support staff is not the answer.
I am inclined to think that we need to start focusing on the parents. Because some of these children need a real parent and some serious help more than their parents can give and because of that we have classrooms where Every child has a special need of some sort diagnosed or undiagnosed.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/03/2011 - 11:21.
Steer clear of the black sheep, T!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 17:06.
I work in a promise academy also. Although I do not agree with all the changes we were forced to make (I hate the uniform), I think some were great. We had the chance to get rid of 90% the dead wood in the building. We had so many awful teachers who did the absolute least they could do and sometimes even less than that. One of the ones we were "freed" from came late almost everyday, missed 20+ days and left before the kids. Should she have a job? Should a new teacher who a 1000% better than her be laid off?
The issues with the district are systemic. Think of the district as a hydra, many heads and no real strong leader. There are too many issues and too many chiefs. The district needs to restructured and divided into smaller more manageable regional districts. The district is unmanageable in it's current form.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 17:37.
What would happen if teachers refused to wear the uniform? I would probably consider working in a Promise Academy if it were not for the uniform requirement. I consider it an insult that the District would require teachers to wear uniforms to work. Granted, some teachers do come to work dressed as if they are going to mop floors. However, these teachers should be dealt with on a one-to-one basis. Most teachers I encounter are professionals and demonstrate their professionalism by dressing professionally or in business casual attire. This is acceptable even in the corporate environment.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:21.
Geez--I hope you don't teach any form of English. Please speak the King's English or keep your comments off paper. You're a teacher who is critical of other teachers???? Huh??
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:35.
If there is "dead wood" in a school, who should be held accountable - the administration. There is a process to remove teachers, but too often principals say - transfer out and I will stop the 204's.......Who does that help again? They go to another school and cause more problems, but since there is nothing in their file, it takes that much longer to get rid of them!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 17:20.
Promise Academy teachers should be careful of what they wish for. Take heed: This Ackerman character is being investigated by both the IRS and the City Controller. I wouldn't trust a word this woman says. Next week she might decide to fire all PA teachers.....YOU MAY VERY WELL BE ON THE CHOPPING BLOCK. Who knows what's on Ackerman's mind. THIS IS WHY SOLIDARITY IS KEY!!!!
I'd be more concerned about the fact that you (including PA teachers) may not have a contract at all in 30 days. Who knows what that may look like.
Funny how all of you were conveniently union proud when ALL teachers across the city marched hand in hand against Corbet's budget cuts. Yes, that was only a few short weeks ago. Oh, how soon you've forgotten the many benefits of being part of a union.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 17:46.
This post says the most important thing in it re: cancellation of the contract.
If she is allowed to cancel the contract and impose her own terms, she can change, or cancel whatever parts of it she wants.. She can cancel ALL of it.. not just the part about seniority, layoffs and raises...
In that same contract is the provision for payment at hourly rate for those extra PA hours.. she can cancel that. or change it to EC or PD rate..
Those bonuses in December and June..she can cancel them.-say there is no money for them..
She can cancel the one year requirement making PA teacher's have to stay for 2 yrs before transferring.
So when JJ and the PFT wants to fight to keep the contract don't think it won't impact PA teachers.. because it can.. it most certainly can. If she wins yes other teachers may be laid off or lose their raise.. but PA teachers stand to lose a LOT more. they can be working extra hours/days with NO extra pay..
just a thought..
I betcha you'll want JJ and his lawyers then..
*no disrespect to Jordan by calling him JJ.. just shorter to write*
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:18.
I have no idea what you're talking about and I read your post 3 times. Huh??
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:26.
I get it... (I think..) The poster is pointing out that while promise academy teachers seem to be okay with Arlene canceling the contract to exempt them from layoffs,(schools need consistency, promise academy teachers work hard, blah blah blah) they need to be aware that that same contract writes out the terms for their extra money for working those extra hours..
And since Arlene can't be trusted, once she cancels the contract what's to stop her from canceling that extra money they get too.. (while leaving the extra hours they work...)
Which is something to think about...
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:26.
I get it... (I think..) The poster is pointing out that while promise academy teachers seem to be okay with Arlene canceling the contract to exempt them from layoffs,(schools need consistency, promise academy teachers work hard, blah blah blah) they need to be aware that that same contract writes out the terms for their extra money for working those extra hours..
And since Arlene can't be trusted, once she cancels the contract what's to stop her from canceling that extra money they get too.. (while leaving the extra hours they work...)
Which is something to think about...
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:39.
Last night, the SRC voted to cancel our union contract if we don't renegotiate our contract prior to June 30th. Rather than Promise Academy teachers feeling they've won something, in that they are being exempt from layoffs, they should open their eyes and understand the "big picture" here.
WITH THE LOSS OF OUR CONTRACT ALL SDP TEACHERS ARE IN JEOPARDY OF LOSING JOBS, DOING RECESS DUTIES, CAFETERIA DUTIES, STAYING LATE, COMING IN EARLY, LOSING HEALTH BENEFITS, ETC.
This is a major development that we should all understand. This will impact our future. We should be concerned about our livelihood as well as the future of our profession in this country.
PROMISE ACADEMY TEACHERS ARE INCLUDED-----WAKE UP!!!! IT IS VERY ARROGANT OF YOU TO THINK THAT YOU SHOULD BE ABLE TO SKATE PAST.
THIS MEANS YOUR CONTRACT WILL BE ON THE CHOPPING BLOCK TOO!!!!!!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 19:45.
Thank You for explaining it to me. Solidarity is the answer. The Promise Academy folks are being used as pawns and they should understand that first, last and only. Having said that, even if the Queen was Mother Teresa, which she surely is not, solidarity is still the answer. Divide and Conquer is an old strategy used by carpetbaggers and other scoundrels, of which, Arlene is Queen.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 06/01/2011 - 22:02.
I'm a relatively new teacher (not amongst the very newest), but I don't work in a Promise Academy. It deeply saddens me that I'll likely be cut in favor of someone who was hired after me and reads a script just because of the school I teach at.
If the PFT can't earn fair treatment for the non-PA teachers, I'm hoping my layoff notice comes with a check to reimburse me for those dues I've been paying for no reason.
Submitted by Kevin (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 12:23.
Does anyone know what Act 46 says specifically about canceling contracts and imposing terms? Is it clearly stated?
Submitted by Rich (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 14:04.
Yes, I read it and I am an attorney, too. No, it is not clearly stated that they can do that. It is highly arguable whether they can do that legally. That is becuase after the state takeover, the SRC negotiated a new contract with the PFT and the SRC voted to ratify it.
I do not see language that empowers them to breach their own contract. When they were first enacted they had the power to break any existing contracts and negotiate a new one. If any union failed to negotiate a new contract they have the authority to impose terms. The PFT did negotiate a new contract.
I am sure the PFT attorneys have sat around and thought about several grounds on which they can attack any attempt of the SRC to dictate terms and violate the contract. There are also constituional issues and unfair labor practice issues under state and federal labor laws.
The SRC did not authorize Dr. Ackerman to dictate contract terms, only to recommentd to the SRC. The SRC did approve a resolution authorizing Dr. Ackerman to lay-off teachers without regard to Section 11-1125.1 of the School Code which requires "suspensions" (layoffs) to be done in reverse order of seniority. However, I do believe you have PFT contract terms regarding order of layoffs. Dr. Ackerman has no legal authority to violate your contract.
I do not see that the SRC has any clear power to violate its own contract with the PFT. But that is why we have the Commonwealth Court and Arbitration.
There is no case law directly on that issue to serve as a precedent. The PFT attorneys know what they are doing and the SRC would be fools to break the contract. The damage it would do would last for years and they would risk a constitutional challenge to their own legitimacy. There is already a bill in Harrisburg to disband the SRC and replace it with an elected board.
But you never know how things will play out, and I believe reasonable minds will get together and work things out before a major legal battle or a strike.
But I do know that none of this BS is good for children....
Submitted by Dragonlawyer2011 (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 14:20.
Glad to see I'm not the only one who read the law and then wondered from where the authority to impose terms was coming. From my reading of the law it seems that the SRC is not required to engage in collective bargaining regarding several issues. That does not mean that they can't nor does it mean that if they do so they get to cry "do over" when they don't like the results down the road.
I'm also pretty sure this morning's article concerning teachers striking in the Inquirer is wrong. Even if the contract is canceled, section (l) of the state takeover law prohibits school district employees from striking. While the same provision is embodied in the contract, the state law would still be in effect if the contract were trashed.
I would really be interested to hear the district in-house counsel's reasoning behind the SRC resolutions.
Submitted by Southwest Philly (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 14:45.
I seriously doubt they are using in-house counsel for this. They just spent $290,000 on outside legal fees to represent the district recently - let's waste more money that could be used to resolve this debt and spend it on outside legal fees. Now to finish marking papers (on my prep).
Submitted by Rich (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 15:26.
Yes, it would be nice to focus our attention on the children and their instruction. That is why it is poor leadership to waste our time, money and energy on legal maneuvers and power games that will only destroy the community of our schools.
You can not facilitate a common mission and collective vision by creating adversarialism. Starting fights is a destructive practice.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 17:56.
No one should work the summer programs. That will send big message. As long as we have dissenters who say "I need the money", Ackerman will keeps over the money barrel and have control.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 17:58.
We are all looking at this the wrong way. Look at the next move! One, contract is thrown out June 30th. Two, PFT calls for a strike. No teachers for summer school so no more summer school. Third move, teachers are to blame for not standing by their students and stopping kids from going forward. The last move, money saved for no summer school is pushed towards more projects that hurt us ALL. Contract fight goes to court, teachers MUST report in September on SRC and STATE terms.
Check Mate.....
Submitted by Annonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 18:12.
So, what is your solution? Should we be lambs in Ackerman's slaughter mill?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:11.
Nonsense Talk.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:50.
Summer school money is Title 1, thus it does not get "saved" to offset any deficit. Use it or lose it.
Submitted by Meg (not verified) on Fri, 06/03/2011 - 07:08.
No summer school, though may make the school district address these kids who keep sliding through on the 18 days of attendance ( last summer was 22 days with 5 for testing. I am not sure how much testing is planned in this shortened plan). We end up with the same kids refusing to work throughout the year, KNOWING that they can slide through by just showing up in the summer and they will be promoted.
With no summer school, there's no chance of that slide - maybe someone will get the message that summer should not be enough to cover an entire school year. We are honestly not doing any child a favor with this plan, anyway.
Taking the stand for no summer school may be doing a big favor to some of our laziest kids.
Submitted by Anonymous on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 18:13.
FYI...principals got notices today-are picking up layoff letters for their teachers from 440 tomorrow, and will be telling teachers on Monday, June 6 who is laid off....440 gave them a script to follow when giving the letters out. Anyone laid off loses all email, etc June 22. All health benefits thru SDP are cut off July 31, tho' they may apply for COBRA. Told them to avoid unpleasant scenes tell the teachers at the end of the day.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 18:21.
NOBODY will lose a job who is paper appropriately certified. NOBODY !!!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:07.
And you know this to be a fact?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:17.
The facts are numbers and they are down below 300 now and more retirements coming. The truth is we need to stand together and DO NOT let them divide and conquer. The Promise Academy folks need to FULLY UNDERSTAND THAT THEY ARE BEING USED AS PAWNS AND NOTHING MORE. SOME OF THE PROMISE FOLKS ON THIS SITE SEEM TO NOT GET IT AND THAT'S REAL BAD. Rookies etc. just don't seem to see what's happening and that better change.
Submitted by Curious (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 18:51.
This confuses me. Site selection is now set to run from June 7 to June 30 -- won't we need to be able to access the district website during that time period? Also, does this mean that we will have to do all our communicating about positions, etc. via our non-district email accounts? Are you sure about the dates?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:14.
Yep-saw the principal's email today. Anyone that is laid off is not eligible for site selection I guess. Only people laid off lose their emails-everyone else keeps their email until they leave the school district's employ. From one of the handouts...(included only some of the pints-others deal mainly with unemployment, life insurance..)
"Teacher Layoff Information
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is my last day of employment?
As stated in the contract, your last day of employment is June 30, 2011.
2. When is my last paycheck?
You will be paid through June 30, 2011. Your final paycheck will be July 8, 2011. Salary will be paid in your normal distribution format via direct deposit or live check.
3. When will my benefits expire if I am laid off?
School District benefits for employees being laid off will end effective July 31, 2011. You will receive a letter from the District’s Third Party Administrator, AmeriHealth Administrators, advising you of your ability to continue your medical insurance benefits through the COBRA plan. Further information is available from the District’s Benefits Office at 215-400-4630. PFT members should contact their Union’s Health and Welfare Office regarding all dental, optical and prescription benefits. PFT 215-561-2722
...
7. Will I receive a severance package?
No. The School District will not offer severance packages to employees separated from service.
8. What do I need to do to receive my termination pay?
You will need to return the completed Termination Pay Form in your packet to the Payroll Department. It may take up to 16 weeks to process.
13. When will my email address and voicemail be deactivated?
Email addresses and voicemail boxes will be deactivated on June 22, 2011.
14. Will I still have access to my electronic file drives?
No. Employees who are laid off will lose access to electronic files and shared drives as of the end of the business day on June 22, 2011.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:20.
It's all a strategy to divide and conquer. Don't fall for it. Nobody who is properly certified will lose a job-----Ain't going to happen. No Way !!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:20.
more..
SALARY
Your last date of employment is June 30, 2011. Your final paycheck will be July 8, 2011. Salary will be paid in your normal distribution format via direct deposit or live check.
ROLLOVER PAY
If you are a ten month employee being paid on a twelve month basis, you will receive summer rollover pay as a lump sum no later than July 22, 2011.
BUY BACK
Should you be reinstated following the issuance of the termination pay, you cannot “buy back” the personal illness, personal leave or vacation days for which you received termination pay.
VETERAN’S BENEFITS
If you are a veteran or the spouse of a deceased or disabled veteran, you may be entitled to additional seniority for the purposes of layoff.
RETURNING TO EMPLOYMENT WITH THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF PHILADELPHIA
Employees represented by a collective bargaining union will be placed on a preferential list for recall to service. Should a position become available in the future, you will be contacted.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 19:26.
We are supposed to be paid through August. Our 10 month pay being spread out over 12 months. How does that work if the final paycheck is July 8th?
Submitted by Meg (not verified) on Fri, 06/03/2011 - 07:12.
They said this one earlier. Whatever they have held onto for rollover will be tallied and given to you on that July date. That will be your final check from the SDP.
Submitted by Curious (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 20:21.
Still doesn't make sense, since I'm being told to apply for other positions via site selection. Is there a difference between "laid off" and "forced transfer"?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 20:36.
From what I understand...some people have been told by their principals that they are a forced transfer. I know many teachers in my school have heard this from our principal, but this can mean that come Monday you will get a layoff notice or you will be a forced transfer. If you are a forced transfer you are eligible to site select. If you get a lay off notice, you are not eligible. And I think that some people may not have heard anything about being a forced transfer and could still get a lay off notice.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 06/02/2011 - 20:38.
Yes-laid off is without a job or position.You are no longer a district employee...but are on something like a waiting list if positions open up AFTER positions are filled by forced transfer and voluntary transfer personnel. You stay home, collect unemployment, and hope they call you back...Forced transfer means your position at your school has been eliminated, but you are still a district employee.
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