SRC announces two superintendent finalists
by thenotebook on Jun 22 2012 Posted in Latest news
Pedro Martinez and William Hite are the two finalists for the District's vacant superintendent position.
by Benjamin Herold, Katie McCabe, and Dale Mezzacappa
UPDATED 10:15 PM
And then there were two.
After six months of searching for a new superintendent, the School Reform Commission revealed Friday the names of two finalists for the District's top job:
- Pedro Martinez, the deputy superintendent for instruction of the 311,000-student Clark County, Nevada School District, and
- William Hite, the superintendent of the 135,000-student Prince George's County, Maryland School District.
Martinez's candidacy was announced Friday afternoon, but an announcement about Hite was delayed by Hite's concern over prematurely making his candidacy public.
The public will have the chance to meet and ask questions of the candidates at public forums at District headquarters next Monday and Tuesday evenings.
Both finalists for the District's top job have a "passion for education" and experience running large school districts, qualities that School Reform Commissioner Wendell Pritchett said were foremost in the minds of the superintendent search committee formed six months ago.
Both are also graduates of the influential Broad Superintendents Academy.
Martinez, 42, is also one of five finalists for the superintendency of Washoe County (Reno), Nev., where he previously served as deputy superintendent.
A 2009 graduate of the Broad Academy, Martinez also served as chief financial officer of Chicago Public Schools under current U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan.
During that time, he dealt with significant district budget deficits, in part caused by what Chicago officials said was insufficient state aid.
He also led a project for the Council of the Great City Schools to help urban districts develop and adopt best practices for their non-instructional operations.
Born into poverty in Mexico, Martinez grew up in Chicago and is the first in his family to graduate from high school. He has never served as a teacher or a principal. He is a certified public accountant and holds a master’s degree in business administration from DePaul University in Chicago.
In Clark County, Martinez led a district organization plan that grouped schools into “performance zones.” They included an “autonomous zone” for consistently high performing schools and a “turnaround zone” for low-performing schools.
At the school level, Martinez has focused on raising district graduation rates through dropout prevention initiatives such as “Reclaim Your Future.” He has also worked to improve student achievement through the implementation of a new student tracking system, the Nevada Growth Model, and district-wide adoption of the Common Core Standards.
Hite has been superintendent in Prince George's County, Maryland since 2009. He began his work there in 2006, when he was hired as a deputy superintendent. A 2005 graduate of the Broad Academy, Hite previously served as area assistant superintendent and director of middle school instruction in Georgia’s Cobb County School District.
As deputy superintendent of Prince George's County, Hite oversaw a district reorganization plan that decentralized resources into regional school zones to reduce cost and increase autonomy for high-performing schools.
During his time as superintendent, Hite has focused on strengthening the district’s principal leadership pipeline and overseen the implementation of the district’s first pay-for-performance program. At the school level, he has worked to improve student performance byreorganizing high schools around career themes and extending the school day for middle school students.
Pritchett declined to list the qualities that drew the search committee to the two finalists, saying he preferred to allow candidates to present themselves to the public.
Pritchett did elaborate on the process by which finalists were identified. The search committee winnowed a pool of more than 100 applicants and nominees down to 15 candidates, four five* of whom were from Philadelphia. From there, the search committee passed a shortlist of “four or five” candidates on to the School Reform Commission, which zeroed in on the two finalists.
Asked whether he felt the last two candidates standing were the best among the pool, Pritchett was direct and unequivocal:
“Yes.”
In addition to the two “public engagement forums” at District headquarters on Monday and Tuesday evenings at 6:30, the candidates will also meet with groups of business leaders, parents, students and teachers during their visits.
Ultimately, said Pritchett, the decision on whom to hire will be made the SRC. An offer could be made as soon as the end of next week.
The Broad Academy, founded by philanthropist Eli Broad, for the past 10 years has trained dozens of school leaders from both education and other backgrounds. Many of them now run or hold influential posts in top urban districts, including Los Angeles, New York and Chicago. It has come under criticism by some as favoring corporate-style school reform, but says that its trainees both come to Broad and leave it with a variety of viewpoints and strategies around improving education.
* Commissioner Pritchett later clarified that five candidates were from Philadelphia.
Comments (225)
Submitted by Anon (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 15:26.
What? The email I got said to show up at 440 N. Broad Street at 5 on the 25th and 4:15 on the 26th.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:11.
That's because you are part of an organized parent group. There are different engagement forums for the Charter Community, Teachers and Non-Instructional Staff, Organized Parent Groups, and then one for the general public.
Submitted by Philly Parent and Teacher (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:40.
Teachers / staff are to report at 3:45 pm. Guess each group gets 30 minutes...
His resume reads like a mini Arnie Duncan - no education experience - but with the deadly tie to the Broad Foundation. He is everything the public says we do not want. The SRC with Knudson, Shorr, Scott Gordon (Mastery) and the Great School Compact once again disregard the wishes of the majority of Philadelphians.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 23:22.
All those folks you just named happen to be white people, hmmmm. I guess they represent the education saviors. It's obvious we are still shackled and committed to believing that "they" know what's best for all these poor performing misguided black folks, because it is obvious black folks are not capable of saving their own, or at least have been successful in giving an impression of appearing half interested in the fate of our children. Unfortunately, Our district is worst after having been under Arlene's care, and now her successors, Nunnery and Nixon & Company (Wayman, Johnson, Kolsky, Cannon(consultant), Williams(consultant), Knudsen( highly overpaid consultant) SRC, and BCG, have only managed to fracture and destroy an already strained relationship with the tax paying community. so now what? Are our hands tied? Have bootlickers and self-serving butt kickers succeeded? They all say it's for the children, but EVERYONE knows that cliched phrase is not true. It's about money and power.
Submitted by Philly Parent and Teacher (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 05:24.
None are education "saviors" - read what I wrote. Those "on top" include, as you wrote, Nunnery (who we haven't heard from in months - is he still on the payroll), Nixon and Company, Nutter, etc. as well as Shorr, Knudson, Scott Gordon, etc. With the selection of two candidates for Superintendent from the Broad Foundation, things will only get worse.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 11:53.
Exactly. So what does that say about the nature of Black leadership in the School District? A fiefdom of nepotism, mismanagement and cronyism.
Submitted by Ken Derstine on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 14:18.
It is not necessary to make this racial. Nepotism, mismanagement, and cronyism come in all colors. Judge people by "the content of their character not the color of their skin."
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 17:13.
I understand what you're saying, however I've watched over the years how the African-American community has clamored for management over the School District because it matches the population of the community. Fine. However, just as in so many urban area school districts across the nation, when the leadership was finally given, it becomes a virtual train wreck of irresponsibility. There is something called community responsibility and it begins with the family and spreads outward from there. It has nothing to do with skin color -- you're right. It has to do with proper and responsible values from WITHIN the community.
Submitted by Bill Hangley (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 15:38.
At least he'll be familiar with EMOs. The LVR-J today: "Despite lackluster student performance at the Clark County School District campuses it oversees, EdisonLearning will continue its local partnership at a cost of $3.8 million per year to taxpayers.
"The New York-based for-profit management company has spent more per student than the district average while delivering subpar test results .... board members [who voted in favor] argued that the company needs a chance to improve. But EdisonLearning has been running six district schools for 11 years without bringing student performance at the campuses up to the district's level, [dissenting board member Carolyn] Edwards said."
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 09:02.
Dr.William Hite Jr goes Bonkers – finally loses it!
http://sasscer.wordpress.com/2012/05/03/dr-william-hite-jr-goes-bonkers-...
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 09:11.
Great, just what we need...another run-out-of-town superintendent like Ackerman
Submitted by A Touch of Sense (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 09:26.
Thank You! Everyone needs to read the post you cited. It is a red flag.
Seriously. We really do all need to rise up and say, "No! Enough of this ridiculousness."
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 10:06.
The blog you cited doesn't really provide much actual info. I know nothing about Hite, but that blog seems more like a disgruntled person with an axe to grind. Most of the "allegations," etc. are just vague assertion about corruption, etc. Again, I don't really know Hite's background, but this doesn't seem like an Ackerman situation, where she'd been run out of two districts already, with widespread distrust, documented not just on random blogs, but by actual news organizations in all three cities she worked in.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 11:07.
I think Kristen Graham should do some investigation into this guy's record.
Submitted by Ken Derstine on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 11:27.
We have the internet. We all should be doing investigating about all of this. People who have relatives and friends form the districts they come from should be getting information. Time to take responsibility for educating ourselves and not leave it to others.
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 16:32.
I have a friend who is an administrator in Dr. Hite's area and my friend claims Hite is Paul Vallas without the charm, an arrogant, disrespectful, loud bully who has no interest in learning and listening from/to others. Sounds like our kind of guy. We shouldn't let him get away.
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 12:42.
Is this Penny Nixon again ??
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 10:56.
hites right up our ally,lol....
Submitted by Reform Sasscer (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 23:53.
The blog is factual about Dr. William Hite. Everybody has a right to know. The good thing about the internet is that information is made available more than ever before. check this out and retweet ~~~> http://pgcpsmess.wordpress.com/2011/11/
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 09:59.
Well, you know what they say:
One man's trash is another man's treasure.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 15:39.
Another non-educator making educational decisions. Just what we DON'T need.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 18:23.
3 RED FLAGS - worked under Arne Duncan in Chicago (where they are trying to gut pensions and downsize public ed), pay for performance advocate, and a non educator. These 3 are huge, and don't think they aren't game changers.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 15:55.
Why are they trying to bring in someone with ZERO classroom experience?! What a bunch of morons!!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 01:02.
Amazing! No in front of students experience and HE is one of the finalists? Amazing (and deplorable!)
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:10.
So, someone who was a deputy supt of some smallish district in Nevada, who has never been an educator, and who graduated from the Broad Foundation.
Basically, our worst fear.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:23.
I'm hopeful that they are putting him out as someone they could force on us, so that whatever other candidate they may have looks better.
Because they cannot be serious with this toad.
Submitted by Helen Gym on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:36.
Clark County NV has 300+ thousand students more than double Philly.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 17:16.
Of course. Sorry, I was looking at his position last year in Washoe.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 17:45.
I disagree. Michelle Rhee should be your worst fear.
Submitted by Concerned Philadelphian (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:15.
Michelle Rhee has political connections but no credibility. There is also a cheating scandal in Washington, DC.
Submitted by Teachy (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:49.
You got that right.
Submitted by A Touch of Sense (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 07:26.
Scott Gordon is our worst fear. Mark Gleason is a close second. These guys are already "operating on the inside" for their self interests and capitalizing on the privatization of the American schoolhouse.
They are poster boys for everything that is wrong with the agenda of privatization.
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 21:49.
Actually, Clark County is a large district, and includes the city of Las Vegas.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:14.
Does The Notebook know who the other candidate is and keeping him/her under wraps per disclosure agreements or do you guys really not know?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:41.
betcha it's Penny Nixon..
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 23:29.
Definitely not Penny Nixon, and she doesn't want it anyway! She would actually be the best candidate. People may think she was corrupted by Ackerman, but that is really not the case!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:18.
From Reno papers comment sections: "Let him go! go! go! Maybe he can work his "Immaculate Graduation Miracle" in Washoe as well. Maybe he will be able to get 1,000 defunct, failing, truant kids to become "miracle graduates and honor students" up there in one year or less just like our 500 students did down here. Let him go and see if he can do the same thing up there ... no state education officials or politicians are watching any way so another "Immaculate Graduation Miracle" would be no real surprise. Phantom honors students can appear anytime, anywhere when no one watches, questions and investigates the test score results."
Seriously. Arlene Ackerman Jr.
Submitted by Susan DeJarnatt (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:23.
I will try to keep an open mind--but this does not look good. He doesn't have a very stable track record as he has only been in Las Vegas since May 2011 and was in Washoe for less than two years before that. Is he itching to leave or were things not going well? I am always concerned when someone starts looking for a new job less than a year after starting the last one!
Submitted by Mark G. (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:37.
Well, according to the Reno editorial comments section, folks are happy to see him go. He's playing from the same mystery handbook of Kenny Gamble etc--no success and no transparency but lots of glam.
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 21:56.
I am also skeptical about Martinez because Las Vegas and Clark Count are much different than Philadelphia. The ethnic demographics are much different. Vegas is a much younger city than Philadelphia, so the issue of infrastructure (e.g. old school buildings) is not going to be an issues. Handling the capital budget and improvements in Philly is a major issue. Ideally, the superintendent for Philadelphia would have experience in a district similar to Philadelphia and a good track record. Examples of districts include Detroit, Cleveland, DC, Baltimore, NYC, Boston, Atlanta, and the like.
I also believe that just graduating from the Broad Superintendents Academy doesn't make one qualified for a superintendent job. It is necessary to have experience in education. Unfortunately, many of the influential people funding school reform--such as Bill Gates, Eli Broad, and the Walton family--never attended public schools or their children didn't attend public school. This is certainly the case for Bill Gates. He attended an elite private school in Seattle called the Lakeside School and his father was an attorney. He never had experience living in poverty or going to public school. He's better off fighting AIDS than working for school reform.
Submitted by Susan DeJarnatt (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 23:17.
All good points. Hite at least has more relevant background and a stronger job history though I am less than thrilled with his Broad connections.
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 00:00.
I'm not thrilled about the Broad connections either, but I'm looking at who's the better of the 2. Clearly, he has much better educational credentials.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 00:08.
Kinda like seeing which poison tastes better!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 11:10.
This is also why the Mayor is so out of touch with our Public Schools. He went to Catholic Schools Gr 1-12.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 11:34.
And to Wharton where he learned to see himself as an aspiring CEO.
"Why It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia"
from Wharton Magazine
http://whartonmagazine.com/issues/winter-2012/why-its-always-sunny-in-ph...
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 11:06.
This is their training at Broad Foundation. GET the cash, move up the ladder, spin reform on its head, outsource schools, jobs, and responsibility, Move on to the next city, GET the cash, move up the ladder, spin reform on its head, outsource, outsource, outsource......
Submitted by tom-104 on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 11:37.
A Parent Guide to the Broad Foundation’s training programs and education policies
http://parentsacrossamerica.org/2011/04/a-guide-to-the-broad-foundations...
How to tell if your School District is infected by the Broad Virus
http://parentsacrossamerica.org/2011/04/how-to-tell-if-your-school-distr...
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:29.
I don't think they have anyone available. We need someone who knows philly and at least has a local connection. Another Broad graduate is bad news. They just keep doing the same things and get deeper into trouble.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:53.
in addition i just read that the bond rating of clark county schools was lowered at the beginning of the month. there are a million red flags on this guy; i just hope that people come out and ask the pressing questions
Submitted by K.R. Luebbert (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:54.
In order to be eligible for a Superintendent's Certificate in Pennsylvania one must:
"Have provided evidence of six years of teaching or other professionally certificated service in the basic schools: three of the six years must have been in a supervisory or administrative capacity."
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=506745&mode=2
Are Broad Academy graduates exempt from this or will the SRC get special dispensation from their buddies in Harrisburg?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 17:00.
Philly is exempt through the take over law.
Submitted by K.R. Luebbert (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 17:05.
Lovely, so we get a series of educational know-nothings! What is that saying: "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result." ? NO MORE Broad graduates!!!
Submitted by Ms. Chips (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:40.
There are many unenforced regulations. Most likely, he will not be called the superintendent. Archangel of Death to Public Education would be be appropriate. Or The Undertaker.
Submitted by Mr. R. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 00:27.
While I love reading the little tidbits that folks post on here about the District and everything that seems to be going on unbeknownst to the rest of us out here, at times (more frequently than usual recently), I come across a post where the "facts" the blogger is putting out there are not completely accurate... Do not interpret that as me "picking on" anybody, but just doing what I feel is appropriate, and chiming in to give accurate information when I see something I know is not totally accurate.
Under recent amendments to the Pennsylvania School Code of 1949, the criteria for which you have listed in order for an individual to be eligible for a Superintendent's Letter of Eligibility, are no longer applicable in as there are a set of "alternative guidelines," which the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) issued in late October of last year. While these alternative guidelines were specifically designed to benefit financially distressed school district in the Commonwealth, not specifically, but including Philadelphia, other school districts across the Commonwealth may also elect Superintendents and Assistant Superintendents using the same criteria. A set of alternative guidelines also exists for Administrative Certification for Principal K-12 as well.
As it relates to the new Commission Process for Letter of Eligibility, the following guidelines apply:
"PDE will issue a Commission to serve in a particular school district to an applicant who:
1. Holds a graduate degree from an accredited higher education institution in business, finance, or management.
2. Provides evidence of four years of relevant work experience in business, finance, or management in the fields of business, industry or education.
3. Provides evidence of approval by the school board of the hiring entity.
4. Be a person of Good Moral Character as required by 24 P.S. §10-1002.
5. Completes upon appointment as a superintendent or assistant superintendent for the first time in this Commonwealth, a Leadership Development Program that meets the Pennsylvania School Leadership Standards under section 1217, such as the Pennsylvania Inspired Leadership Induction Program, within the duration of the initial contract term."
As you can see from the above, the gist and thrust of these guidelines are that any individual who holds a master's degree or higher in a field related to administration, and who has four years of "relevant" (key word to the new alternative guidelines) experience in fields requiring a strong base in leadership/management, has been elected by majority vote of the local board of school directors, and has not been convicted of the offenses enumerated under the new Act 24 legislation, can be appointed and given the powers and authority of a District Superintendent as provided by law and regulation. Relating this to Philadelphia, as long as a person meets these requirements and the School Reform Commission wants them, they can be made the Superintendent/Chief Executive Officer.
Submitted by K.R. Luebbert (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 09:05.
Interesting, thanks for the update. I do not know why the state has such faith in the business sector. They did so well with banks, mortgages, etc...that they practically destroyed the country!
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 22:25.
Yes, but who's paying for all their greed and corruption, not they. It is we. The business model at work will completely segregate the haves from the have nots. The playing field is already uneven, of course but there is hope. There will be systemic delineation if the corporations can bully their way in and that's why the 3 new prisons are being built post hast. ALL of this has been orchestrated for years. The people of Philly are doomed if this model is adopted. The unions will also be dashed as will, of course, the Middle Class. Silence, Jordan, is not the answer and waiting too long to respond is a dumb game to play............ but you already know that so why are you doing it?? Really??
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 10:09.
Since you like to bash Jordan so much run for Union President!!
You obviously didn't read my response at all. I would take the word of Ron Whitehorne (Public School Notebook) about Jerry Jordan and how he is a good strategizer and that it will all play out in court any day over your nonsense. It will play out in court. If you are so gung ho on jumping now and acting then go meet with Jerry Jordan yourself and talk to him. Or, run for PFT President if you think you can do a better job because from what I see, my 3 family members who are devoted PFT members have a good paying job, an excellent pension, and Personal Choice where no money comes out of their paychecks for health care. Thank the PFT, Jordan, Kirsch, and every Union President before that!!!
As for the SRC---if they cancel your contract, then there is no contract, and then you can strike. If the SRC tries to throw your contract out, the courts will then become involved. The PFT lawyers are good and will take care of it.
Thank every Union President before you that got you a good contract and quit whining on these boards about Jordan.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 10:16.
Can't run since Jordan was appointed by the Executive Board for four years a few months ago without an election being announced.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 21:43.
Correction....no one ran against him....get your facts straight...
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 15:37.
We didn't even know he was running. You should get your facts straight. Are you a member of PFT?
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 15:49.
I agree--I know I didn't know nor did anybody I asked at my school.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 16:51.
BS you didn't know. Yes I am in the PFT!!! Do you go on pft.org or to Jerry's Blog? Do you read the PFT Reporter. It was in there and no one ran against him.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 16:55.
You mean the blog where he keeps telling us to vote for Nutter and Obama? That really worked!
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 17:11.
I agree-hold your nose closed but ROMNEY ???? Are you serious?? Nutter is a disgrace and Obama, a MAJOR disappointment but the alternatives?? They have us in their pockets and they know it.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 17:41.
Who are you going to vote for Corbett and Romney???
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 17:42.
So I take that as a "NO" you do not go on pft.org or Jerry's Blog or read The PFT Reporter. Otherwise, you would know what I am talking about.
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 19:19.
Since Philadelphia is exempted from the above requirements, Philadelphia actually may have a pool of less-qualified applicants. However, I am not opposed to waiving this requirement for an out-of-state applicant who has comparable experience in his or her state. There are no school districts in PA anywhere close to Philadelphia in terms of a combination of size, demographics, and economic disadvantage. A superintendent or person in a high-ranking position at a school district like Baltimore, Chicago, New York City, DC, or Detroit would have worked in a city comparable to Philadelphia. Someone like Martinez--with a year in Vegas and experience as an accountant--won't cut it in Philly.
Submitted by ScaryOldGuy (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:59.
NOT ANOTHER OUTSIDER!
Submitted by J.J. McHabe (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 16:59.
I figured he would be a Broadie. I am guessing the second mystery candidate is a Broadie, too. So Philly gets to choose from a Tweetle-Dumb and a Tweetle-Dumber?
Submitted by ScaryOldGuy (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 17:01.
NOT ANOTHER OUTSIDER! We need someone home grown (and he just left for Foundations); who knows how to effectively and fairly manage people; make sound educational decisions; and can manage Philly/PA politics. All else is another fancy band-aid.
Submitted by A Touch of Sense (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:27.
So much for the community input sessions. They selected someone who is exactly what the community said we "do not want."
The SRC will lose its last ounce of credibility with this one.
He is an outsider who knows little about teaching and learning.
This is alarming!!!!
Submitted by Concerned Philadelphian (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:18.
There is no way Mr. Martinez is the "best" the SDP could do with over 100 candidates. He is a "floater" - moved from job to job since his stint with the Broad Foundation. He is in charge of instruction but has never taught??? He is a friend of Arne ??? His school "zones" are no different than the 3 levels for next year (full autonomy, "strategic" schools and "intervention" schools). I can't believe there were no more qualified candidates.
Submitted by K.R. Luebbert (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:25.
Emmanuel Caulk! Emmanuel Caulk! Of course, he is up for a job in Portland, Maine. And, he has actually worked in schools and listens to teachers and staff! That alone would disqualify him from SRC's list.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 19:32.
Amen to that. There are few individuals that have the entire package. Manny Caulk truly is one of those educational leaders. He trusts that his principals and teachers are professionals and supports them in the work they do. He is truly about children and helping schools create educational opportunities that are meaningful, relevant and engaging for students. Should have been first choice here and most likely we will lose him to Portland. Their gain and Phillies loss.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 08:07.
When the announcement was posted without the identity of the second candidate, I had hoped that it was Emmanuel Caulk...but then I remembered that Mr. Caulk is about educating students, minus game playing strategies that come with lining one's pocket while destroying public education.
He would be the kind of superintendent who could last for a decade...bringing the kind of stability we have not seen since Constance Clayton.
I am a bit surprised that he was not promoted the new associate superintendent (instead of Dunkley). Guess the powers that be don't want a knowledgeable, roll up your sleeves, working to improve education and graduation rate kinda guy hanging around.
He has effective ideas and experience that the know nothings fear...
Submitted by Concerned Philadlephian (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 08:18.
My experience in Philadelphia is people with strong track records and credentials are not appreciated - they intimidate those who rise to the top without the ability nor credentials. It amazes me when people dismiss accomplishment because it makes them look bad. While I do not know Mr. Caulk, if he is a quality leader, he has no future in Philadelphia. Dunkley is apparently an insider who, like Nixon and Co., get to "hold on" and bring the SDP down.
Submitted by Annonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 08:22.
This year, Philadelphia now has nearly 100 National Board Certified Teachers. This was never mentioned on the SDP web site, there was never recognition by the SRC, etc. Rather than recognize accomplishment, it is ignored. This is not a local recognition - like the Lindback Awards which are often a reflection of school politics and not quality teaching - but recognition on a national level based on actual work with students. What other school district shows no regard for this accomplishment?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 17:27.
Hmmmm.... What if we had a teacher-led school staffed primarily with NBCTs? (No, Penn Alexander doesn't count, unless you can replicate the socioeconomic status and involvement of the parents in other schools.) That would be something worth trying, and infinitely less risky for our students than choosing either of these weak candidates for superintendent. THAT kind of recognition would mean a great deal more to me than shaking the hand of an administrator who I neither admired nor respected.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 21:13.
I agree - Let a group of National Board Certified Teachers run a school! It would be much better than sharing the hand of an administrator. Nevertheless, the SRC has recognized a lot of things this year but not teachers who have accomplished something few teachers even attempt.
Submitted by Rich Migliore (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 23:25.
I certainly urge the SRC to let a group of certified teachers run a school. After all, the original concept of charter schools was to have teams of teachers run schools. They were supposed to be incubators of innovation and school based research.
There are a number of very interesting scenarios which could be developed. Great leaders are people who say, "Why can't we?"
Congrats to you and and all of the NBCT's. I certainly recognize your hard work and accomplishment. Maybe the Notebook could cook up some sort of recognition.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 00:11.
Okay, let's get the ball rolling, as soon as the new guy is appointed!
In Penny Nixon's May 29 memo to the SRC regarding the Creighton proposal for a teacher-led school, she concluded, "The Chief Academic Office believes that teacher-led schools can be a viable approach to school turnaround. Therefore, the CAO recommends that the District and the SRC explore research-based models and opportunities for teacher-led teams to participate in the RFP Renaissance Schools Initiative process. In addition, the District should provide professional development opportunities to support teacher-led school turnarounds."
Although the SRC and the new Superintendent are not bound to act on her suggestions, it would be foolish for them to refuse to consider a model that is being used successfully in other parts of the country, especially since it's being done with the support of both the district and teachers' union.
Submitted by Rich Migliore (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 07:17.
That is an awesome idea. Look for some actual teacher led schools that you can point to as successes. Try to find a group of dedicated teachers who want to do it. Then go to the new superintendent and say, Can we try this new "collaborative approach."
Pedro Martinez certainly said yesterday that he believes in "collaborative leadership." So, if he becomes the new superintendent, call him on it.
I certainly will be speaking before the SRC and the new superintendent about "collegial models of school governance" that could be easily implemented with no additional cost to the district. Maybe the time is ripe.
Actually now that you put the sparkle in my eye, if I get the chance today, I will ask Mr. Hite how he feels about teacher led schools and if he can point to any examples.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 09:38.
Hi Rich,
You've been responding to my posts. We communicated several months ago and I purchased your book (I'm not willing to publicly 'out' myself at this time, though:) My current school is not a place where, for many good reasons, I would want to try this model. I like working there and I like my Principal. However, I would truly LOVE to put together and implement a plan, with a group of like-minded souls, for a teacher-led school. You have my email address. Let's get started!
Submitted by Rich Migliore (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 09:53.
I will be happy to help you. I'll get in touch later today or tomorrow morning.
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 17:19.
This is a good idea, but one problem with it is that it would concentrate NBCTs in one school instead of "spreading the wealth" by having at least one NBCT at every school. It might even be better to create incentives for NBCTs to work at the most poorly-performing schools, especially those with many students from low-income families. It would also be prudent to put the best principals in the most poorly performing schools. Unfortunately, the cream often ends up at schools in more affluent neighborhoods and suburbs because these schools often offer better working conditions, higher parent involvement (including fund raising), and/or higher salaries.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 18:25.
True - there are very few NBCT in neighborhood high schools - most are at magnet schools. It is different with K-8 but there is a concentration in schools like Penn Alexander. Penn provides more assistance for the teachers to get certified and the working conditions are more conducive to obtaining certification. Obtaining certification is a neighborhood school, especially a high school since the SDP is so heavily tracked/stratified at the high school level, is more difficult. (Just getting all the permission forms returned can be an issue.)
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 21:17.
Penn Alexander is already at an advantage because of extra funding, many well-educated parents, and fewer students who live in poverty. Many of the Penn Alexander parents can probably afford to send their children to private or parochial schools, but sent them to Penn Alexander instead. They can afford to rent/own in the Penn Alexander catchment area.
The kids who concern me the most are those without the options. These children have parents who are poor, don't have a car, rely on family members for childcare, or can't afford to move/pay higher rent. Also, some children have severe special needs and their programs aren't available at charter schools or private schools. Children in these circumstances tend to be segregated at high-poverty neighborhood schools, many of them low performing. These are the children who, I believe, most need the best (NBCT) teachers and principals because they don't have as many resources from the home. Even in Philadelphia, it's fairly clear that families with more money have better schools (e.g., Penn Alexander, Northeast HS, Meredith, J.S. Jenks, Cook-Wissahickon), while lower-income students attend poorly performing schools with a lot of violence (e.g. John Barry, Cleveland, West Philly HS, Southern HS). There needs to be a better system for equalizing inputs so that children from low income backgrounds are not doubly disadvantaged by SES and then educational inputs such as inexperienced principals and teachers.
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 20:23.
Your comment is not correct. There was recognition of teachers who became NBCTs while Dr. Ackerman was superintendent: http://www.flickr.com/photos/phillyeducation/5436094653/.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 21:14.
I'm talking about this year. The SRC, the PR office, etc. have not recognized the many teachers who achieved National Certification this year. Every year new teachers are certified.
Submitted by MBA to M'Ed mom (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 22:34.
That is a shame because the one teacher I know who has this certification is a joy to watch and a pleasure to learn from. Parents would feel trust the district and teachers so much more (at least I know I would) with sending my child to be instructed by someone who has had to go through such a rigorous and long process to get the additional much more difficult certification. Shouldn't it be part of how a parent can evaluate and choose a school for their child?
Submitted by Education Grad Student (not verified) on Tue, 06/26/2012 - 00:28.
Gotcha! Yes, Nationally Board Certified Teachers deserve recognition every year. I wonder why the District didn't continue the practice.
Submitted by Wake Up Philly (not verified) on Wed, 06/27/2012 - 10:37.
Dunkley is a Broad Student as is Thomas Darden.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:28.
Somehow, you just have to feel suspicious of someone who travels across the US to take a job. What will the moving/living expenses cost us? So, what will this guy cost taxpayers p/year...$350,000?
Submitted by A Touch of Sense (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:46.
What a joke. They make a mockery of us all.
This is yet another "tourist" who is dedicated to his self promotion and not dedicated to our children or our community. It is a farce.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:43.
It looks clear to me that education is not the point here. Processing minority students for the least amount of tax payer money is the goal. If this is what the Mayor, City Council, and people of Philadelphia will settle for, then we deserve this.
Submitted by Concerned Philadelphian (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 18:52.
Who was on the committee to select the finalist? Lori Shorr, Scott Gordon, Great Schools Compact (dominated by Charter operators and SRC members including Ramos and Dworetzky, Gleason), ETC. ??? There had to be more appropriate candidates with more experience than Martinez. Come on - this is just another 2 years of turmoil, 1 year of desperation and out. A repeat of Vallas and Ackerman. Come on - his ties are to Vallas (via Arnie Duncan/Chicago) and Ackerman (Broad Fd.). How did Prichette claim he was "the best" with a straight face?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 19:01.
Maybe they've put forward the worst they got so when we have to accept the ??? candidate behind door number 2, they can pretend we had a choice.
Submitted by Ken Derstine on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 19:21.
Martinez graduated from the Broad Superintendent's Academy in 2009.
Ackerman was the first superintendent-in-residence of the Broad Superintendent's Academy in 2007-2008 before becoming Superintendent of Philadelphia public schools.
http://www.broadeducation.org/asset/0-090504tbasuptsinresidence.pdf
(do a search in the document for "Ackerman")
She served on the Board of the Broad Foundation, while Superintendent in Philadelphia, along with Michelle Rhee and other public school deformers, in 2009 when Martinez graduated.
http://www.broadeducation.org/asset/419-tbc_board_announcement.pdf
Arne Duncan, Martinez's boss before Duncan became Secretary of Education, has close ties with the Broad Foundation.
"Eli Broad describes close ties to Klein, Weingarten, Duncan"
from Gotham Schools
http://gothamschools.org/2009/03/11/eli-broad-describes-close-ties-to-kl...
For more on the Broad Foundation philosophy, see
"The Broad Foundation: A Parent Guide to the Broad Foundation’s training programs and education policies"
http://seattleducation2010.wordpress.com/race-to-the-top/the-broad-found...
Submitted by Mark G. (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 19:40.
Weingarten is very likely a double dealer, a union pretender with an eye on Alec and outfits like The Broad Foundation. IF we accept this, we deserve it. It's way beyond time to start really fighting with the only power we have--the power of numbers. A few activists and, of course, the churches are willing to go toe to toe but the PFT is just sitting. Why??
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:36.
The PFT will pursue through the court system and win like they usually do. When the time is ripe then legal action will be taken.
Submitted by Teachy (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:54.
Yeah, sure. PFT = scaredy cat complacence.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 19:19.
No, it's called you go through the court system and win. That's what all of this will come down to. Wait and see.
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 19:29.
I'm waiting and I don't like what I'm seeing. If you wait too long, the courts will find it harder to stop it.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 21:45.
the courts will take care of all this. I promise..hubba hubba...
Submitted by Ken Derstine on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 21:19.
Just this week a District judge ruled that New Orleans illegally fired 7,500 teachers SEVEN YEARS AGO. Now it will probably go to appeals. Are we going to wait to see what a court decides in 2020 about what is being done to the School District? Wait and see indeed!
Louisiana Illegally Fired 7,500 Teachers, Judge Says
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/22/education/louisiana-illegally-fired-75...
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 21:24.
I totally agree. Yikes--keep waiting ???? Let's get proactive with long overdue malice.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 22:18.
Ken,
With all due respect, I used to jump up and down and say, "C'mon, why isn't Jerry Jordan and the PFT doing anything,etc". However, there is a very intelligent individual named Ron Whitehorne (The Public School Notebook) who replied to a post that I had a long time ago and made a very valid point. He said he has known Jerry Jordan for years. He said that Jerry Jordan is a very intelligent person who has the utmost passion for this union and is a very good strategizer. Look back in the past and see that everytime the PFT, led by Jordan, has PFT lawyers take a case to court, the PFT wins. The battle with the SRC is going to take place in the court room. Sometimes, when strategizing, you collect input and data over a period of time to help strongly support your case then attack in the courts. You don't show the other side "your playing card hand" and jump right away. You build your case over time so that your case is solid and the PFT's will be. This isn't Wisconsin, this is Pennsylvania. Most of City Council supports the PFT as does members of the black clergy and various other entities. Relax, take a deep breath and all will be good. I have 3 long time Philly teachers in my family who are active in the PFT. In time and in the end, the PFT will prevail!!!
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 22:35.
Okay Pedro.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 23:57.
Obviously you didn't read my reply. Pathetic..
Submitted by Ken Derstine on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 22:51.
I attended the City Council hearings on Thursday.
After a number of representatives from the Chamber of Commerce spoke against the increased business tax, the Council President said that speakers would be limited to eight per resolution. The gallery was full of blue collar workers from the School District protesting the impending layoff of 2700 employees. They protested loudly about the speaker limit being unfair and Council President Clarke backed down.
Speaker after speaker spoke about the devastating impact losing their jobs would have on their families. Their union President virtually begged the Council to talk to the SRC about accepting their $25 million in concessions. One member talked about working for the school district for 28 years and telling his children and grandchildren that if they do a good job they would be rewarded, so how could he explain to them he was losing his job.
Many gave moving speeches. There was one problem. There were only three Council people left in chambers. The rest had gone to lunch!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 22:23.
With all due respect, I used to jump up and down and say, "C'mon, why isn't Jerry Jordan and the PFT doing anything,etc". However, there is a very intelligent individual named Ron Whitehorne (The Public School Notebook) who replied to a post that I had a long time ago and made a very valid point. He said he has known Jerry Jordan for years. He said that Jerry Jordan is a very intelligent person who has the utmost passion for this union and is a very good strategizer. Look back in the past and see that everytime the PFT, led by Jordan, has PFT lawyers take a case to court, the PFT wins. The battle with the SRC is going to take place in the court room. Sometimes, when strategizing, you collect input and data over a period of time to help strongly support your case then attack in the courts. You don't show the other side "your playing card hand" and jump right away. You build your case over time so that your case is solid and the PFT's will be. This isn't Wisconsin, this is Pennsylvania. Most of City Council supports the PFT as does members of the black clergy and various other entities. Relax, take a deep breath and all will be good. I have 3 long time Philly teachers in my family who are active in the PFT. In time and in the end, the PFT will prevail!!!
By the Way, Jerry Jordan has been out on strike as a teacher a long time ago and walked the walk!! Have you???? Rest my case!! Scaredy Cat...
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 22:37.
Get a life, Pedro.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 00:09.
T.Mc. Seriously, this blog is for intelligent conversation not petty comments. Have a nice evening.
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 08:44.
OK Pedro--I hope you can still pitch. The Phils need you. My name is Elroy Face.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 09:59.
Well, you won't be able to post on here much longer. The Notebook will be contacted. Apparently, you didn't read the agreement that is provided. This website is for constructive dialogue and discussing the issues, not posting silly comments that have nothing to do with the topics here on The Notebook. I will pray for you Elroy Face.
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 11:01.
Thanks--but you can call me Roy.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 21:46.
You can call me Al.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 10:06.
You obviously didn't read my response at all. I would take the word of Ron Whitehorne (Public School Notebook) about Jerry Jordan and how he is a good strategizer and that it will all play out in court any day over your nonsense. It will play out in court. If you are so gung ho on jumping now and acting then go meet with Jerry Jordan yourself and talk to him. Or, run for PFT President if you think you can do a better job because from what I see, my 3 family members who are devoted PFT members have a good paying job, an excellent pension, and Personal Choice where no money comes out of their paychecks for health care. Thank the PFT, Jordan, Kirsch, and every Union President before that!!!
As for the SRC---if they cancel your contract, then there is no contract, and then you can strike. If the SRC tries to throw your contract out, the courts will then become involved. The PFT lawyers are good and will take care of it.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 10:59.
The contract is not the reason we can't strike-- Act 46 is. When the state took over and established the SRC, they took away our right to strike. In fact, they made it so that we can lose our teaching license for striking.
We should have taken this to federal court when they did it.
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 11:05.
And why do you think we didn't do that. Were the PFT Lawyers stupid back then OR could another agenda have been in the works?
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 12:08.
paranoia is terrible, isn't it?
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 12:41.
Yes, I hear it is but even paranoids are right sometimes. Look at the facts and get your head out of the sand or wherever you have it. These are political forces at work.
Submitted by Ken Derstine on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 22:43.
Sorry, I've been in the School District 37 years. I walked the picket line in 1973 when the union leadership was jailed and every strike since. As to the name calling, I posted my name, you didn't.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 00:06.
I don't need to give my name--It's my right not to and most bloggers on here respond as anonymous. Secondly, you obviously didn't read my response at all. I would take the word of Ron Whitehorne (Public School Notebook) about Jerry Jordan and how he is a good strategizer and that it will all play out in court any day over your nonsense. It will play out in court. If you are so gung ho on jumping now and acting then go meet with Jerry Jordan yourself and talk to him. Or, run for PFT President if you think you can do a better job because from what I see, my 3 family members who are devoted PFT members have a good paying job, an excellent pension, and Personal Choice where no money comes out of their paychecks for health care. Thank the PFT, Jordan, Kirsch, and every Union President before that!!!
As for the SRC---if they cancel your contract, then there is no contract, and then you can strike. If the SRC tries to throw your contract out, the courts will then become involved. The PFT lawyers are good and will take care of it.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 11:17.
We can't walk the walk you idiot -- it's illegal. Smoke some more weed . . . .
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 11:49.
Read the post again. IF the contract is cancelled by the SRC, then there is no contract, therefore, allowing you to WALK. IF they cancel the contract then there is no contract, duh!! Reading Comprehension is very important!! Learn it!!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 12:44.
Read Act 46 again, and put your smarmy foot in your mouth.
The contract is not the reason we can't strike. The state law is. I don't think the SRC has the power to cancel state law... yet.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 13:38.
The SRC can use their powers to cancel the contract. They just haven't done so as of yet. My point was, if they do cancel it--then you are free to walk, strike, jump up and down, whatever. Once the contract is cancelled then there is no contract. You're lloking too much into it. Just read what I wrote. Now take that bad comment back--be nice!!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 15:16.
No. Act 46 prohibits us from striking, gives the state the power to take away our licenses if we do, and has nothing to do with our contract.
The law that allowed the SRC to take over the district states: "During the time the school district of the first class is under the direction of the School Reform Commission, all school employees shall be prohibited from engaging in any strike ..." The punishment for doing so is possible revocation of teacher licenses.
If they cancel our contract, it has no effect on this law whatsoever and until the SRC is gone and we are no longer a school district of the first class declared in distress OR until Act 46 is repealed (a state law, not our contract, don't know how to make it clearer for you) it is illegal for School District of Philadelphia teachers to strike.
Now, we can have another discussion about whether this would hold up in court. But first you need to understand this basic fact.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 16:54.
Doesn't matter anyway. If all 10,000 teachers walk --seriously--hwat will they do--fire everyone. Be realistic here. And as far as certifications they are earned by you the teacher. They can't strip them from you even though they say they can. Bottom line--none of it would hold up in court.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 11:51.
paranoia again??
Submitted by Ken Derstine on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 20:21.
More on Arne Duncan and the Broad Foundation:
from the 2009 Broad Annual Report
http://www.broadfoundation.org/asset/101-2009.10%20annual%20report.pdf
Page 5
The election of President Barack Obama and his appointment of
Arne Duncan, former CEO of Chicago Public Schools, as the U.S. secretary of education, marked the pinnacle of hope for our work in
education reform. In many ways, we feel the stars have finally aligned.
With an agenda that echoes our decade of investments—charter schools, performance pay for teachers, accountability, expanded learning time and national standards—the Obama administration is poised to cultivate and bring to fruition the seeds we and other reformers have planted.
Page 10
Prior to becoming U.S. secretary of education, Arne Duncan was
CEO of Chicago Public Schools, where he hosted 23 Broad
Residents. Duncan now has five Broad Residents and alumni
working with him in the U.S. Department of Education.
Page 20
2007: Encouraged by the progressive leadership of
Chicago Public Schools CEO Arne Duncan, The Broad
Foundation invests $4.5 million for Chicago Public Schools
to launch a new data system to streamline its human
resource systems.
Page 22
The Broad Center names an independent board
of directors chaired by New York City Department of
Education Chancellor Joel Klein and including Chicago Public
Schools CEO Arne Duncan (later named U.S. secretary of
education), retired IBM Corporation Chairman and CEO
Louis Gerstner, and former Harvard President Larry Summers
(later named assistant to the president for economic policy
and director of the National Economic Council).
Page 23
Three members of The Broad Foundation executive staff are loaned to the U.S. Department of Education, led by Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. The “loaned executives” assist in the implementation of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as it relates to distribution of education funds.
Page 23
The Aldine Independent School District outside Houston wins the 2009 Broad Prize. Their win is announced at the U.S. Capitol by U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan. Finalists Broward County Public Schools, Fla.; Gwinnett County Public Schools, Ga.; the Long Beach Unified School District, Calif.; and Socorro Independent School District in El Paso, Texas are celebrated in remarks given by Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Education and Labor Committee Chairman George Miller and other members
of Congress.
Page 25
The Broad Center for the Management of School Systems
2009 Board of Directors includes:
Arne Duncan
Arlene Ackerman
Michelle Rhee
Wendy Kopp (Teach for America)
Richard Barth (KIPP Foundation)
and more
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 06/25/2012 - 18:36.
WOW what a lineup- if this isn't ALARMING I don't know what is. Most should realize by now that Duncan is Obama's front, and Obama is noticably quiet on public ed in this election year. He is focsuing more on college loans and community colleges.
Submitted by Concerned Philadelphian (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 20:42.
SRC, Lori Shorr, Scott Gordon, Mark Gleason/Great Schools Compact - Are you introducing Martinez to show us how little you listen to the people of Philadelphia? Martinez is a candidate from Ackerman/Vallas hell.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:39.
I agree--Their arrogance is stunning and right in our face. So what are WE going to do about it ?????????
Submitted by linda (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 20:45.
two words- NEVER TAUGHT
three more words- I AM SORRY
final words- WE'RE STILL IN TROUBLE
Submitted by Concerned Philadelphian (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 20:48.
Apparently, this is why the SRC would consider such an ill prepared candidate as Superintendent of Philadelphia schools:
"Under questioning by Dworetzky, Thomas A. Darden, a deputy who oversees charter schools, said his office put the cost of the 1,621 new charter seats approved Friday at $3 million the first year. The amount would total about $38 million by the end of the fifth year of the renewals, he said."
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/breaking/20120622_Hope_Charter_tells_S...
Today, the SRC voted to dig the SDP further into the ground by expanding charter "seats." Once again, charters will cost money - not save money. Meanwhile, neighborhood schools are left to rot.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:20.
"Head's Up" all.
This guy is a red herring, wait for the other name to drop!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:55.
Who is it? If it is Michelle Rhee, I need to know to whom I send my resignation.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 22:06.
Michelle Rhee recently gave a speech at Cornell, it was her 20th reunion. She had been late getting there due to some air travel problems, but left immediately after giving her speech and went home to CA. Evidently she wasn't that well thought of even by her classmates from college and therefore saw no need to stick around and chat.
Submitted by Mark (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 21:51.
Are you fucking kidding me with this guy? This city is a disaster and doesn't care one bit about its children. Another outsider. Disgusting.
Submitted by T.Mc. (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 13:01.
These cretins are following the money first, last and only. Corbett and the Koch Bros. are proud of tthem.
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 06/24/2012 - 10:07.
You obviously didn't read my response at all. I would take the word of Ron Whitehorne (Public School Notebook) about Jerry Jordan and how he is a good strategizer and that it will all play out in court any day over your nonsense. It will play out in court. If you are so gung ho on jumping now and acting then go meet with Jerry Jordan yourself and talk to him. Or, run for PFT President if you think you can do a better job because from what I see, my 3 family members who are devoted PFT members have a good paying job, an excellent pension, and Personal Choice where no money comes out of their paychecks for health care. Thank the PFT, Jordan, Kirsch, and every Union President before that!!!
As for the SRC---if they cancel your contract, then there is no contract, and then you can strike. If the SRC tries to throw your contract out, the courts will then become involved. The PFT lawyers are good and will take care of it.
Submitted by Wake Up Philly (not verified) on Wed, 06/27/2012 - 10:46.
Can you please have respect for all and not curse? Please don't show ignorance by using bad language.
Submitted by Wake Up Philly (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 22:39.
Parents and community need to come out in force once again!
They didn't listen to one thing that we wanted in a CEO!
Who were the so called parents who "advised" this committee? No report from that person whatsoever to the parents they were suppose to be representing. What other parents were on the committee? The School District should have had parents from the Coalition, but once again they picked who they and the Mayor wanted.
How many are going to show up Monday and Tuesday Evening - take action and don't whine and complain on here!
UNITE AND TAKE ACTION!
Submitted by Erika Owens on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 22:59.
FYI: This post has been updated. The name of the second finalist, William Hite, was released this evening.
Submitted by Audax on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 23:18.
Hite too is another Broad graduate. Seriously, I mean seriously. Why not just say, "Hey, you, want to run a school? If so, sign here".
Submitted by Audax on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 23:30.
So Hite has had trouble with his staff in PGCPS and has managed to get performance pay in, and also appears to not be open and honest with how money is spent! Hmmm, he's our guy!
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 06/22/2012 - 23:49.
Just blow the crap up! It's been a hellacious year for all of us, beginning with last years massive layoffs and co fusing call backs. Chaotic and unprofessional at best, reaks of Ghetto Heaven. Broad does not believe in unions and these Stepfords are popping up everywhere. Why weren't the persons from Philadelphia considered? Why weren't there names released? Why is it necessary to bring in an outsider? What message does that send to the Philly applicants? Do we pick a mayor or other political candidates from outside the are? He'll No! And we need to take that same approach With the selection of our Superintendent and SRC. But Philly is such a massive arrogant clique. Just peek inside city govt, SDP, unions, etc. It's a who's who - family, lovers, frat brothers, sorority sisters, friends, you name it, it exists. Knudsen is doing what he was hired to do- right size the district- hopefully he will not get a paid contract extension( if there is a God in heaven, this prayer will be heard and granted!). Our district continues to waste money on people who make surface decisions, not knowing or caring about the deeply rooted implications. Whenever a worker is laid off, all levels of govt lose $$$, families struggle, life changes, and unemployment is never enough to replace what's lost. But not a second thought is given to these thousands of men/women, because the administrators at the top, are so far removed and hypnotized by their arrogance and ego's and stand staunchly convinced this is for the kids. Wow!!!
Submitted by Sharon Newman Ehrlich (not verified) on Sat, 06/23/2012 - 00:39.
NO MORE PEOPLE LEADING WHO HAVE NEV ER BEEN IN A CLASSROOM!!!!
We must question what a HIGHLY QUALIFIED PRINCIPAL, ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL AND ESPECIALLY A SUPERINTENDENT LOOK LIKE!!! Guess what..there are no real standards!!!!
ALL STUDENTS, TEACHERS, PARENTS LISTEN CLEARLY !!!!
IF WE DO NOT QUESTION THE EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUNDS OF THE PEOPLE RUNNING OUR SCHOOLS, THEN WE GET WHAT WE DESERVE!!!
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/about_pde/7203/...
GO THERE AND START ASKING: GIVE NAME OF PERSON IN QUESTION
1. WHERE DID THEY GO TO UNDERGRADUATE?
2. WHAT WAS THEIR MAJOR IN COLLEGE?
3. WHICH DEGREE DID THEY EARN IN COLLEGE?
4. WHAT IS THEIR TEACHING CERTIFICATION??? WHERE DID THEY TEACH AND WHAT??
5. WHERE DID THEY GO FOR THEIR ADMINISTRATIVE STUDIES? HOW MANY YEARS? WHAT WAS THEIR PRAXIS SCORE? WHEN DID THEY GET THEIR ADMINISTRATIVE CERT??
6. HOW MANY YEARS HAVE THEY BEEN AN ADMINISTRATOR?? AND WHERE?
7. ARE THERE ANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THEM??
WE MUSTLEARN ABOUT EVERY SCHOOL LEADER!!! If they are terrific, we still should know who is leading the school!!!
HAVE A CONCERN OR COMPLAINT ABOUT THE SCHOOL LEADER???
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/guidelines,_pol...
Let's make sure we take a stand for education...IF WE DON'T NOW IN PHILLY....WHO KNOWS WHAT TOMORROW BRINGS??
It is a citizens RIGHT TO KNOW..
Education215@gmail.com questions or concerns.. ..
nuf said.
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