The Oley Valley School District continues to circle the wagons with another policy designed to restrict and inhibit community participation in the educational process.
The Policy Committee, headed by Robert J. Cappa recently passed a policy to restrict public comment at the regular board meetings.
Despite several editorials in the Reading Eagle, Board is obligated to listen to the public, Proposed changes block Sunshine Act, Revised Oley Policy still may be illegal, suggesting the policy violates not only the spirit of the First Amendment, but maybe the state Sunshine Laws, the Policy Committee and the board voted their anti-free speech rules anyway.
Mr. Cappa in his letter to the editor “An audience not guaranteed” sneered at the idea he must listen to the community.
Lately, the Policy Committee concocted a standard regarding Public Records. A new Fee Structure can potentially make in-file information very costly.
The copy costs will be twenty-five cents a copy. There could be an hourly rate, as well.
Mr. Cappa lectured in his letter to the editor “Letter twisted comments” in rebuttal to the idea that the district would charge hourly rates for public information,
“The policy specifically states that the district shall not assess any fees for staff time or resources used to evaluate a request for access to pub-lic records. This is unchanged”
However, the new phrase in the Fee Structure Cost to provide the required material, other than paper, should be reasonable and shall be determined by the Superintendent contradicts his claim.
They assert the policy is misinterpreted, yet they cannot define what “Cost to provide the required material, other than paper” means.
This loophole can easily inhibit access for people of modest means.
The committee claimed the revision is for anyone who makes “volumes” of requests. When asked if they could provide any examples of such an event, they could not site any. When asked why they would change a policy that worked in the past, they could not provide a reason, either. When asked what the hourly rate might be, they did not have an answer.
Mr. Cappa gloated over the possibility that a Right to Know lawsuit might resolve the matter.
The Reading Eagle wrote an editorial about the Oley Valley School District, “Board action violates public’s right to know” describing their refusal to discuss the Nextel lease agreement.
Potential exorbitant fees preventing the public from records they have every right to see and review tests the Right to Know Law, as well.
Posts
265 comments:
1 – 200 of 265 Newer› Newest»We've got a few questions:
1. If Mr. Cappa had no intention of listening to(and hearing) the questions asked by the public, then why did he want to run for the school board to begin with?
2. Were his initial intentions for serving this community to include his well publicized intentions to "not have to listen?"
3. His practices do not seem to include the feelings of all board members, yet nothing is being stated otherwise. The Board, their President, and attending staff appears to be guilty by association, according to their silence on these and other matters. Why are these things not addressed by the leadership of this Board?
Many citizens are not able to attend these meetings. It would be very helpful to see video(s) of these board members as they are confronted with audience questions. Putting it in print is helpful. Seeing and hearing the videos, even better. Witnessing the elected members actual repliles to these questions:
PRICELESS.
Thank you, Al Jacobs, for your dedicated service to this community.
How many people really will want to make copies for their own records? Couldn't the public just go and view the documents they wish to see and, oh I don't know, maybe make notes?
If there's a legal matter at the point of interest, "making notes" may temporarily amuse a judge, but that's about it.
Some people might not have the time it takes to stand there and make notes. If they're looking for something specific, copies would be the way to go. I don't understand why anyone would actually want copies, either, but to each his own. Public records are public records.
if there is a "legal" matter, there is such a thing as a subpoena. AND, although not having the time or just wanting to have your own copies may be valid points, then don't you think 25 cents a page would be worth it to such persons? I just thnk Mr. Al is trying to stir things up unnecessarily.
"I just thnk Mr. Al is trying to stir things up unnecessarily."
25 cents is not the issue, it is the hourly rate the district may charge.
1. .25 - Per Copy Cost
2. $$$$- Hourly Cost
3. Potential Total Charge to taxpayer = ???????
If, the Policy Committee cannot describe the instance when they would charge an hourly rate or even a hourly rate, how can they create a policy for something they cannot define?
A vague and open ended Fee Structure is not in the best interests of the public.
Vague & open ended? Well, that about describes what you see and hear when you manage to find time to attend board meetings. But then, I'm just a tired, overworked, old man that only wanted to see and hear things for myself. I did this years ago, and it sounds as if nothing has changed. Nothing would thrill me, and my family, to log on to this blog and see volumes of people writing..."Great job, Board, that 's more like it!" But I'm afraid we've got a long, long wait for that to take place. Still, I pray for better days ahead, and YES, it's because we owe this to our children/grandchildren. I won't change my feeble old mind about that.
I hope that all you doubters never have to ask the board for anything, because you will be charged, and from the looks of it, this will not bother you.
Why don't you read up on the laws before you make not too intelligent comments.
In fact, if you want Al to stop doing what he is doing, then you deserve everything the school board dishes out, and when the taxes get too high, or they want to build some grandiose structure, you will have to open your own mouth to find out this information, and not have it handed to you by Al and others.
Everything in your little happy lives is OK, until something happens to your child. At that point you will have to fight your own battles, and by the looks of things, you will not know what to do to accomplish this.
"If there's a legal matter at the point of interest, "making notes" may temporarily amuse a judge, but that's about it."
Well if there's a legal issue involved you're going to need a lawyer. Another few quarters on top of his/her fees certainly won't make a difference! ....thinking about suing the school now, are we??
"I just thnk Mr. Al is trying to stir things up unnecessarily."
I agree whole-heartedly!!!! I also think part of the reason this blog is so extremely negative and hateful is because the "leadership" of the blog sets the stage for such attitudes and behaviors. Disagreeing is one thing. Acting out of anger is another. The anger here is apparent.
"Well, that about describes what you see and hear when you manage to find time to attend board meetings.... I did this years ago, and it sounds as if nothing has changed."
...a prime example that it is not simply THIS board that is to blame. Things were the same years ago when the board was made up of entirely different people. Maybe it is just hard for some of you to see the good that is and was taking place!
"Why don't you read up on the laws before you make not too intelligent comments."
Here we go with the nastiness again! Boy oh boy!
I think Al Jacobs has a fascination with R.Cappa. He really enjoys using his picture
"I agree whole-heartedly!!!! I also think part of the reason this blog is so extremely negative and hateful is because the "leadership" of the blog sets the stage for such attitudes and behaviors. Disagreeing is one thing. Acting out of anger is another. The anger here is apparent."
Talking about facts angers the feel gooders.
They would prefer to sweep things under the rug.
Hate is a school board member writing letters to the editor saying he does not want to listen to the community, then pushing policies to satisy his hate.
Obviously Mr. Jacobs saw something he liked in Oley when he moved from the Daniel Boone School District. Was it a quality education - or just lower taxes than most? (which we still have) Was Mr. Jacobs this active in the Daniel Boone district or is this a newly acquired hobby?
"Was Mr. Jacobs this active in the Daniel Boone district or is this a newly acquired hobby?"
Well, anonymous, why don't you give him a call and ask.
"8:18 PM,8:21 PM,8:25 PM,8:28 PM"
A flurry of posts from a certain angry school board member?
Mr. Jacobs wrote "Despite several editorials in the Reading Eagle, Board is obligated to listen to the public, Proposed changes block Sunshine Act, Revised Oley Policy..."
Anyone who has ever read the Eagle editorial page knows they are hardly accurate, usually liberally slanted and they rarely check facts. Just because its in the paper dosen't make it true.
The Eagle never bothered to survey other school districts and report that Oley's policy for speaking at board meetings is pretty much the same as others and other districts are more restrictive (Boyertown for example).
The Eagle editorial page is lazy and likes to pile on. A perfect complement to Jacobs and his doom sayers.
"Hate is a school board member writing letters to the editor saying he does not want to listen to the community, then pushing policies to satisfy his hate...."
For argument's sake, the above seems to be correct. In this household, we're with "Al's Pals," on that thought, too.
For any new bloggers to this site, let's take this opportunity to recap a pinch of older, yet documentable information...:
When a "retired" "medical"
"Professional" opts to compose, type, and deliver a letter to an elderly taxpayer that was dying of cancer, and clearly state that this gentleman was always "whining" about his taxes.....no further explanation should have been needed to clarify the level of sanity required to execute such an act of complete disrespect for this, or any taxpayer. Furthermore, a carpet large enough to cover those sweepings does not exist.
Please, refrain from retorts commenting on the "fact" that "we" elected each and every board member. Elections don't always turn out the way we planned. Ask Al Gore.
someone might add that up to this point, Al's children have not felt the need to post comments on here, in his defence!
Cappa is taking this district down. Also when Barb Bieber asked for copies when she was on the other side of the fence, she never got charged for man hours. So now that she can her copies for free being on the board, she says ok to Cappa's new policy in charging us the taxpayers man hours. What happened to her? What at turnaround! a 360 I would say! What is in the icecream they serve them? Turkey Hill mind control with nuts!
Was that for here or to go?
Don't be a bore, vote for Al Core we are already poor!
Al's adult children are very proud of their father and his strong convictions in keeping this board held accountable. He is truly a great man and friend to all that really know him.
Elections don't always turn out the way we planned. Ask Al Gore.
9:25 PM
Yeah. Let's live in the year 2000.
Are you a chad counter who wants to throw out the electoral college?
Thank God the founders of this nation were much, much smarter than you.
Oh my! Such powerful words, oh wizened one! Each election in this country gets harder to watch and more difficult to listen to, especially near dinner time. It's a real chore deciding which lying yahoo gets our vote.
Rendell or Swann? That's like trying to choose between Rendell or Swann.
Al's adult children are very proud of their father and his strong convictions in keeping this board held accountable. 9:41 PM
Exactly what has Al accomplished so far? Has he prevented any more tax increases, has he stopped the proposed new track, has he inspired masses of voters out to the polls to oust the school board, has HE run for school board, did he get the over paid Zackon fired and what happened to Act 50?
I hear tires screeching and see tires spinning and smoke, but there is no traction other than this blog and his 3 or 4 nasty coconspirator bloggers.
Yeah, I know, at least he cares about the children.
10:13 p.m.
Dear Duh,
Ever hear of "A" for effort? Are you dissatisfied with the items you mentioned in your blog? Do you spend any of your personal time and money to research in ANY of those areas? Maybe you do and are just so shy, we are not aware of your efforts. Please, by all means, take credit for anything you've done in those directions, if indeed, you've done anything about it yourself. Maybe we're all wrong, and maybe we missed the behind the scenes efforts you and any others have provided. Anything is possible. Feel free to come forward with any and all ideas you may have to better our school district. None of us are too proud to extend a hearty handshake and thank you for your efforts. Really, we'd be glad for the help. Perhaps you are experiencing many free hours each day, and would be both willing and able to commit yourself to better serving our community, say, like running for school board. Unless you're already there. Or, helping as a volunteer in our school system. Unless you're there everyday, already. Who knows? This anonymous thing has it's plusses and minuses. Wow, it's freezing in here tonight. Wish I knew I'd have enough oil left for the rest of the season, but it's certainly not cold enough yet to be running the heater. But that's okay. The budget the school is running on is good for the children. They get heat, I presume.
I'm pretty sure that I'm not the only blogger on this site that can see a "set-up" post, when they're put on here. Kind of comical, actually. On here, you've got regular people writing as...well...regular people. Then you've got the "multiple personality bloggers," which are very entertaining, to say the least. Has our school ever offered a "night time" class on creative writing? It more than likely has not. If it has, it appears as though refunds are in order. Wait! The words "refunds" and "Oley" are rarely viewed in the same phrase. Oh! Bite my tongue! Too much ginsing tea can turn a fellow towards the sour side of town. We dare not take that path. This is Oley...happy, happy, joy, joy.
Somebody chip in and get that guy a new shirt....
Whew...speaking of free hours in a day. Maybe you should lay off the tea or check what's in yours.
10:13..
"I hear tires screeching and see tires spinning and smoke..."
Generally it's said that we see "wheels" spinning. However, I don't know which cars you've been watching, or the quality of your corrective eyewear.
As for the "smoke?" You've pretty much described yourself...clearly.
You're filled with critical comments about Al, but have nothing constructive to add on your own behalf. Well, then, there you go!
To Al: Most bloggers are deeply appreciative of your efforts. Those of us who genuinely understand your concerns and research extend our heart-felt thanks!
It's still called free speech! If you don't like the "read," go back to my-space.
No big deal with the free hours. Some of us are accustomed to working more than a handful of hours each day. Plus, we're patient as we await our "turn" at the family computer. In our home, the kids come first, and there's quite a crew here. So, when mom and dad get our turn on here, we savor each minute!
"So now that she can her copies for free being on the board, she says ok to Cappa's new policy in charging us the taxpayers man hours. What happened to her? What at turnaround! a 360 I would say! What is in the icecream they serve them? Turkey Hill mind control with nuts! 9:37 PM"
Hey Oley math major. A 360 degree turn brings you right back to where you started.
No change.
I'm guessing you meant to say 180 degrees. Maybe you should try ice cream with IQ enhancing fish oils.
Good point.
If you are going to insult someone,
at least get the math right.
Who need the Reading Eagle comics section? This stuff here is much funnier in the morning.
Speaking of funny, how about John Kerry this week. Boy can he tell a joke. Too bad he didn't win in '04, we'd all be rolling on the floor every day (in pain)
7:59
"Who NEED the Reading Eagle comics section?"
What's this, a new class for Oley?
EBONICS?
Thanks nit-picker. Ever hear of a typo miss perfect Oley grad who never left the valley?
180 or 360 what does it matter! She has changed and for the voters that put her into office we are all shocked!
The process of change takes time, especially when dealing with those protecting either their power or money.
After all, it took nearly thirty years, before Harrisburg decided to pass and institute property tax relief legislation.
However, this statewide change would never happen without citizen involvement demanding fiscal and educational accountability.
Politicians and the special interest groups do not want the taxpayers to get involved in government. They count on people becoming discouraged and apathetic.
When that does not happen, officials reach in their bag of tricks and create barriers.
Limiting speech at public meetings, making public records inaccessible, stonewalling questions are just a few of the rudimentary tactics.
These obstacles dishearten some, but energize others.
Thunderclouds are forming for those who think that they can prevent fiscal and educational accountability forever.
Now, there are federal and state laws requiring education to be responsible for their performance.
This also is the result of people taking the time to get involved and trying to make a difference.
Accountability may be a four letter word to some, but it could be the difference whether families keep their homes or seniors can afford food and medication.
100% correct
TO 8:13 AM
Hey! Lighen up! Just a little jocularity. When we read your reply, the whole room blurted out the same thing...."I can hardly believe my EYE! Better go no.
FOOT, don't fail me now!
Remember, we're the ones that were told we were TOO serious. Couldn't use a touch of humor? Criminy, we can't please anyone. Maybe WE should run for board. They seem to be in the same boat.
And don't be so quick to pick on Oley, Oley grads, and not leaving the Valley. We're OLD SCHOOL Oley. There's a heap big difference between the teachers we were lucky enough to have and what our kids have now. Teachers that spend more time in college, don't necessarily make better teachers. Sometimes it means they were not quite ready for the college life when they got there, making the extra years a necessity, not an option.
"After all, it took nearly thirty years, before Harrisburg decided to pass and institute property tax relief legislation."
WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT??!! Who has gotten tax relief? - Oh, do you mean the slots revenue? You do know that it will take many years, and then if we do get some "relief" it will be about a hundred dollars? Who's side are you on?
Keep up with current events and don't just swallow what the politicians say or what the media reports - Rendell called it "significant property tax relief." He's got a lot of nerve! Expect more of the same lip service if he gets reelected.
"WHAT IN THE WORLD ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT??!! Who has gotten tax relief? - Oh, do you mean the slots revenue? "
No, the tax relief is not the slots at this point or imposing a local earned income tax either, but rather the inflation index imposed on spending.
If the school board wants to spend more than the index and any qualified exemptions, they must submit a referendum to the public.
The taxpayers would then have a say on any spending above the index.
As of the last Tax Study Commission Meeting,the board cannot raise millage more than 4.1% on the 2007-2008 budget.
If this referendum feature existed in the last six years our taxes would probably be half what they are now.
The educrats raised a big stink about back-end referendums. They are actively lobbying to water down the legislation.
This should give you some indication how much effect they think controls would have on future spending.
Tax relief is the first step to tax reform.
We need to work with what is available, then pressure Harrisburg to complete the task.
This is why the blog has an E-Mail feature so you can contact your representative.
So you're thrilled with the index and the back end referrendum, don't you recall that this year's budget increase fell within the index? The index wasn't developed prior to that, so we don't know if we would have gone to referrendum. And have you forgotten about all the exemptions? Glad you like this - we wanted the Caucus Plan instead. Now all these politicians are running on "property tax elimination" let's see how much we hear about it again after Nov.7th. Don't hold your breath for another 30 years till the next "big break."
"So you're thrilled with the index and the back end referrendum, don't you recall that this year's budget increase fell within the index?"
Perhaps community involvement played a hand keeping the spending under the index?
The wish list was over $3,000,000. By the time the budget passed, the amount shrunk to $600,000.
It never hurts to attend budget meetings and ask questions.
"And have you forgotten about all the exemptions? "
There are ten. The district plans to submit exemptions for health and retirement.
People should contact their representives and urge them to tighten or eliminate these exemptions until a better plan evolves.
"Now all these politicians are running on "property tax elimination" let's see how much we hear about it again after Nov.7th."
The Republicans controlled Harrisburg yet they did not get the Caucus package passed.
Their ranks are thinner now because people tired of promises.
Al is correct, we need what Harrisburg gave us for a start and now we must yell louder to get real tax reform and fiscal responsibility at the local level.The people of PA need Harrisburg to put their interest first. We elected them to help us. Do what is right for a change.
6:28 p.m.
"we wanted the caucus plan instead.."
Well, chatty, what did YOU do to get things in motion for any changes at all? Please, identify yourself, so we can graciously
thank you! Really, if you were of help, at all, everyone concerned will want to extend the right hand of fellowship, and give you the recognition which you deserve. We live in a busy little town here, and sometimes we "miss" the behind the scenes action that assists us all in a better deal for lower taxes, eliminated taxes, referendums, accountable school board spending, and much, much more. Again, please let us give credit where credit is due.
Al Jacobs seems to be dedicated to this cause, with little help and even less recognition. Yes, you're on HIS blog, so he must be doing something right. After all, was there ANY other means of conversing about these issues, before Al? I could be wrong, but I don't think so. What's that? We could discuss these things at the board meetings? Yes, following their many rules and regulations, we would be free to state whatever we want, out in the parking lot.
THANK YOU, AL, YOU'RE OKAY IN OUR BOOK!
Identify myself to Mr. Up? I don't think so, not to someone with the first name of Fess. That's just a little too wierd.
Besides, Anonymous is a traditon on this blog.
Now that last comment just makes me smile! :)
PLEASE NOTE, ONCE AGAIN, BLOGGERS TOTALLY AVOIDING THE QUESTIONS. WE ASK WHAT THEY DID TO HELP, AND THEY ANSWER...I WON'T FESS UP. STRANGE THAT ANYONE IS TRYING TO HELP WITH TAX PROBLEMS, YET WON'T STATE WHO THEY ARE SO WE CAN THANK THEM, OR POSSIBLY LEARN SOMETHING FROM THEM. CASE CLOSED.
IT'S SUNDAY---DO WHAT FITS.
We've seen how you've "thanked" people in the past on this bolg. No thanks needed, we're not looking for accolades let alone your right hand of fellowship, besides the Caucus Plan won't go anywhere now with Dennis Leh and Sheila Miller leaving and Sam Rohrer possibly being defeated. They were our best chance at that.
A better question is, what did theses concerned citizens/taxpayers groups do (not that it even matters any more) to rally their membership around a critical issue - NOTHING. Brandywine was the only group to make half an effort to help promote the elimination of property taxes.
Letter writing campaigns, circulating petitions, meeting with legislators, bus trips to Harrisburg. There was plenty that an "organized group" could have done. No, we did it as individuals because the only thing the Oley Concerned Citizens group is really interested in is perpetuating their own agenda - which is why their "membership" is what it is.
Sincerely, Uncle FESStor
..."we've seen how you've "thanked" people in the past on this blog..."
One may think they know everyone that is viewing/writing on this blog. And one does not always know all they think they know. And in this case, the above blogger is way off.
God bless you, one and all. Never thought I'd say this, but my family has had it with the "locals..." See ya 'round....
Dear Uncle Fesstor:
How do you know what our membership is?
How do you know what your membership is?
You just might be surprised.
Do you support the $1.4 million track? Do you have the money to pay for it?
Or do your children just want to reap the benefits of it, or will your children be out of school before it is built?
Looks like Dr. Zackon, again true to form, has spoken for the taxpayers of this district, and will be insisting that the taxpayers pay for the $1.4 million track, as per the article in the Boyertown Times this past Wednesday. He has again, conveniently spoken for the School Board.
There he is posing in all his SELF-IMAGINED GLORY stating that the district might as well go ahead with the larger version of the track, to include the artificial turf infield, because it only makes sense.
Dr. Zackon, please put YOUR MONEY WHERE YOUR MOUTH IS.
According to the Boyertown Times, the track group has already reached their goal. $250,000 is hardly half of the cost for this new project. Have they stopped taking money? Who has custody of this money?
Thank you,
A Concerned Taxpayer
A few fortune cookie gems from the last two bloggers:
One does not always know all they think they know.
You just might be surprised.
Stay tuned -
Uncle FESStor made some interesting observations, true to form and as swiftly accused: BLOGGERS TOTALLY AVOIDING THE COMMENTS.
I popped on the blog today to see a local voter's guide with regard to candidate's stance on property taxes and issues that would concern citizens - alas nothing to be found. Funny, I would have thought a powesrful group like this would be on top of these issues that directly affect us. Guess I'll Google sites from other districts, maybe they have real concerned citizens there.
It's been all over the local news and papers, and if you don't know who you are going to vote for by now, it's obvoius that you could care less.
No one is avoiding the questions, we are starting at the local level, which is where we have the most leverage.
Why do you avoid the LOCAL ISSUES?
School district employee, feeder off the system, school administrator, substitute teacher or guest teacher.
YOU ALL HAVE IT MADE!
I presume by your comments that you wish to have taxes raised again to pay for the track.
As a united force, which candidates are the Concerned Citizens endorsing?
And you are presuming - from which comment exactly?
THEY RAISE THE TAXES
THEY RAISE THE TEACHER'S PAY
IT'S LIKE MEDICARE. GET A RAISE IN SOCIAL SECURITY, WATCH YOUR INSURANCE GO UP. WHAT A JOKE.
HERE'S MY FORTUNE COOKIE STATEMENT:
ROTSA RUCK, LOCAL VOTERS.
From 6:00 p.m.
We just returned from an out-of-town family emergency. Good to see that nothing has changed. Al's guys are still hanging in there, and the teachers, staff, and related groupies are still...painfully the same as they always were. We wonder if they have found a way to get paid for their digs and jabs inserted on this blog. Surley, if they try hard enough, they can find a way for the rest of the taxpayers to compensate them for their time speny criticizing Al and his fellow caring citizens.
Oh geez you caught me.
I usually do my blogging at Oley high school in between classes that I teach. I also blog sometimes when the kids are taking tests & doing in class assignments. So yes it's true, I do get paid to blog here. (I love my union) I criticize everyone equally, I never have anything good to offer and do not support a new track. Markley is a good guy and Lightcap is a lightweight.
OK caring citizens. I'll step back now and watch the blog explode.
"No one is avoiding the questions, we are starting at the local level, which is where we have the most leverage."
Which is it, leverage or no leverage? How can you complain that the board continuously votes against your wishes, and at the same time, claim that you have leverage on the local level? It seems to me that you have no power at all on the local level!
"the teachers, staff, and related groupies are still...painfully the same as they always were."
Why is it that i your eyes, anyone who speaks against you MUST be in one of the above groups? I, for one, speak against you, and I am a fellow taxpaying citizen of Oley who has children in the system. I disagree with you and I am among the people who believe you are hurting the children. THAT is why I speak against you. Don't just assume that we are all from one of your pre-determined categories!
Yo Blogger 7:37:
You need to go back to square one and start over. You are taking things out of context.
Leverage AS VOTERS come the next local school board election and asking questions and asking for fiscal responsibility from our school board.
No one said that we had
Hey doc, hope that wasn't you blogging in the guise of a teacher, and if you truly are a teacher, glad to have you aboard.
Just in case you are a teacher, better watch out for your ILLUSTRIOUS LEADER.
OLEY CONCERN CITIZENS HAVE BEEN TO HARRISBURG, HAVE BEEN ON WEEU, HAVE SEND FLYERS OUT, HAVE E-MAILED OTHER CONCERN CITIZENS OF THIS DISTRICT AND OTHER DISTRICTS WITH IMPORTANT INFORMATION. HAVE MEET WITH OTHER GROUPS, WE EVEN HAVE OUR OWN BLOG SITE. WOW, WE ARE DOING SOMETHING. HOW ABOUT YOU JOINING US. WE CARE THE MOST ABOUT THE WHOLE DISTRICT! GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS!
ROTSA RUCK, LOCAL VOTERS.
7:03 PM
Are you the same person who made the ebonics remark recently?
You have a bigoted tendency showing or a careless sense of humor.
No I am not the same blogger.
Much to your dismay, I'm sure.
Who the heck are you? Are you bored on a Sunday night to be writing on a blog site you totally hate and wish that it did not exist?
WE CARE THE MOST ABOUT THE WHOLE DISTRICT! GOOD NIGHT AND GOD BLESS!
8:15 PM
Yes, only you chosen few "concerned citizens" can claim the high ground of moral purity and say that you "care the most." Do you have any sense of how stupid that sounds? As you like to say, case closed.
Vote all the creeps out! we need real tax reform and people that really care about the issues of all the people of PA. Vote all the local board members out while we are at it. Change is good at all levels.
Who the heck are you? Are you bored on a Sunday night to be writing on a blog site you totally hate and wish that it did not exist?
8:22 PM
Ask yourself the same thing.
What are you doing on a Sunday night?
I guess you are one of the chosen bloggers, as the last person said, on moral high ground.
PS: Ever hear of wireless internet? I can look at this blog on my laptop while watching TV or lounging with my family.
I actually like reading the facts and truths of this district from Al and the Oley Concern Citizens Group, which by the way are alot more than the few you think. I guess hanging out with the family is not all that fun if you are on a hated blog site writing nasty thinks to people that care. My family went to sleep early tonight. They have to get up for school and work and they like to get their 8 hours a night. Clock tells me now it is time for me to join them. Sweet Dreams!
"You need to go back to square one and start over. You are taking things out of context.
Leverage AS VOTERS come the next local school board election and asking questions and asking for fiscal responsibility from our school board."
Well, you (and the small group of others like you)have been rallying against the school board for quite some time now. If you had any leverage of any kind, the board would be filled with individuals who are like minded with the "concerned" citizens of the Oley Valley. I know, I know....it's coming, "change is coming" ....yawn!
Been away awhile.
Okay, as to Oley School Board's fiscal practices: They are not living within "our" (taxpayers) means. What's wrong with demanding that they do so. One of the former board members who helped to put us in fiscal jeopardy moved to Florida where there is no property tax. So much for convictions.
He helped to spend the town dry and then moved away.
As to someone's earlier blog arguing that people are not leaving the Oley Valley because of taxes. Not true! In my husband's and my immediate families, at least 10 lifelong Oley Valley residents/ graduates are in the process of finding/buying out of state properties for relocation upon retirement within the next 3 months to 4 years.
Outside of our immediate family, I can count nearly 50 lifelong Oley Valley residents/graduates who are also in the same process. Out of control school tax is the number one issue.
To say it breaks our hearts to leave the place many of our ancestors originally settled is an understatement. However, because they, too, left their original homelands due to repressive taxation and uncaring & often evil leadership, we know they'd understand.
Anyone who is willing to stay and fight for what is right is a hero in my eyes. Others have fought the good fight to the point of exhaustion and others have failing health because of it. My husband and I are seriously considering joining the exodus. And even the people who can afford the ridiculous property taxes ask themselves if allowing their hard earned money to be squandered by bureaucrats and out of touch politicians and school boards for on every fad and whim is being a good steward of their blessings.
Blog on good citizens, and don't give up your rights to anyone; and may God be with you.
Dear 10:37:
What is your desire for the future of this school district and taxpayers?
Perhaps you are one of those contented to let things get more out of hand, and then ask what happened?
Or perhaps you don't care.
Or perhaps you want to see taxes raised to the point where there is no more money.
Or perhaps you just want someone else to do your dirty work. Have someone else take on the school board and the elite, and then step up to the plate and and take credit.
Not that we're looking for any credit. Just some concerned citizens trying to make SOMEONE accountable for the taxpayer money that they spend.
Gosh - what a horrid position to take - just trying to make a school district live within its means.
Welcome back LB.
As you can see, nothing has changed.
A friend.
Linda B. is correct, as usual. Anyone that thinks that people aren't making tracks OUT of Oley, better go get their eyes checked. They're not seeing everything that's right in front of their eyes.
Also correct about why the original settlers left where they came from, to settle here. Times are always changing, too bad it's not for the better in this end of town. Quaint, pristine Oley Valley and surrounding vicinities are quickly becomming the haven for overpaid, adult "brats." When the bottom falls out, we hope "they" like wide open spaces...and empty homes with nothing but the wind whistling through them. Plywood sales will skyrocket, but that's about it.
three words you don't hear in Oley.....
WHO'S AL JACOBS?
Does not matter what your job is:
secretary
factory worker
teacher
bank president
scientist
nurse
No matter what your income level, THERE'S NOBODY IN THE USA THAT WANTS TO PAY HIGHER TAXES THAN THEY HAVE TO. So, dear bloggers, if you think that Al's Pals are a handful of tight fisted old fogeys that just don't want to pay taxes, or can't, then read the above list, again. NOBODY WANTS TO PAY HIGHER TAXES THAN THEY HAVE TO. This will never change.
The original settlers in this area did not come to America to avoid repressive taxes.
They came for A. opportunity (business, financial, to become land owners) and B. religious freedom. This area was under the rule of a English King and always subject to taxation. The tax problem got worse under King George III which led to the American Revolution.
"When the bottom falls out, we hope "they" like wide open spaces...and empty homes with nothing but the wind whistling through them. Plywood sales will skyrocket, but that's about it.
7:16 AM"
Well that sounds like it will then be a good time to buy real estate!!!
"I disagree with you and I am among the people who believe you are hurting the children."
Discussing wasting money on things like a $1,400,000 track is hurting "children"?
Your "feel good" is too expensive. Pay for it yourself.
9:46 am
...."this area was under the rule of a English King..."
hahahha..."A" English King! hahahahha...the rest of your composition is wasted...who could get past..."a" English king?
hahahhaha...somebody please, get me a tissue, I can hardly see the screen....hahhahahahaaaaaa
You are a idiot!
hahahha..."A" English King! hahahahha...the rest of your composition is wasted...who could get past..."a" English king?
hahahhaha...somebody please, get me a tissue, I can hardly see the screen....hahhahahahaaaaaa
12:24 PM
This is classic. Some clown can't argue or debate so they jump all over a TYPO?!??!!!???
You are a dope. Spell check dope for me OK???
remember everyone - get out and vote on Tuesday!
I agree with "go back to school..."
Let the facts speak for themselves.
A lot of Oley's grammar is terrible. Many of Oley's teachers are on par with 8th graders' grammar. If you graduated from Oley and attended Kutztown, you STILL won't learn proper grammar, because those apples didn't roll far from the tree. Listen to the evening news on any real station. You don't hear:
A English King
I seen the movie.
I been there twice"t"
The guy is nutst.
How ya'z been?
Wanna go with?
They want rain.
Them kids are noisy.
The snow's deep, aint?
So, educated adults, if you want to "strut your stuff," do some research first. There's nothing wrong with being a regular guy or talking in a down to earth fashion, but if that is how you choose to speak and write, then skip the debate. There's nothing wrong with beinging one of the crowd, as long as you don't talk like a person with no education and act like a professor. Don't bother laying this on the Pa. Dutch, either. They are bi-lingual, understand each other, and generally don't pretend to be professors. Try setting an example for our youth. If your grammar is poor, try to guess how they'll speak. If you just don't care about your grammar, spelling, and punctuation, you have the sympathy of every teacher that TRIED to teach you. Never say we didn't try.
You are "a" idiot?
There you go again....
My teachers told me it was
You are AN idiot.
And.....
Dear 9:46 anonymous and other readers:
I stand as corrected. No, my ancestors did not come here because of oppressive taxes in their homelands. They came here in 1720, however, and did fight in the revolution because of taxation without representation. That is what I meant but mis-spoke. Thanks for the clarification.
To the Retired teacher:
Thank you and your entire generation of educated, caring teachers who started out in the profession earning much less than you deserved and instilled the desire to do "nothing but our best" in many generations of publicly educated children.
Those of us who graduated in the mid-1960's (on the cusp of the drastic changes in public education) were educated in the very best of times. We didn't need remedial reading, writing and math our first year of college. Until recently, and upon the advent of the PSSA pre-test procedures, "good" teachers pretty much used the tried and true methods that worked. They would not be allowed to do so today.
As to fair teacher wages and benefits, the need for a teachers union was apparent at its inception because there were very real inequities at the time. Unfortunately, the pendulum has swung completely the other way.
It is ironic that the "best" teachers never were paid enough. An now, when teachers are being paid a lot, many are no longer teaching for the love of doing so, but rather for the hefty salaries and benefit packages. Ultimately, the children and taxpayers who are fleeced for a wasteful and sub-standard educational system are the great losers.
I don't know how you nit-pickers stay married, but then I guess I'm making a huge assumption.
Married, and happily married are two entirely different things, as your children probably already know.
God help your kids if this is how you treat them.
Perhaps I should have clarified the fact that I'm an OLD retired teacher. The teachers in our day were teaching for a fraction of today's wages, and we knew nothing of union demands. Although today's teachers have numerous benefits, I am sorry to say that they do not seem to appreciate these "gifts," and I am forced to wonder exactly why they qualify for such extras. I read the papers and follow some school related blogs, and the quality of our public school education seems to be drifting into a questionable area. How do these highly paid school employees qualify for raises and benefits, when their students do not show impressive progress?
to 5:12
How do we stay happily married? Well, that's an easy one. With all the extra time we have to spend at 2nd jobs, to save for our taxes, we're not home together long enough to do anything but be kind and loving. And that includes the way we treat our children. Hopefully, that ends your morbid and uncalled for curiosity. We could mention...."it takes one to know one..."
I am nearly 70 years old, and have been out of school a loooooooong time. Yet, I admired and respected my teachers so much, to this day, I can tell you the names of every teacher I ever had. They were great! They knew their "stuff". They made each child feel special, taught all of us until we ALL knew every subject. Oh, to have those teachers here in our schools today!
Dear Retired Teacher:
Please come out of retirement and show them how it's done.
PLEASE!
Thank you for participating in our blog.
And please know that you are remembered and appreciated.
We have changed math books at least three times in the last five or so years, and I belive we've also had a few reading series and language series, and the district still doesn't get it. On top of this, we've built two new schools, yet kids have trouble with math and reading.
To teach the basics, one does not need a book, they need a TEACHER, be it the parent or an "educated teacher". Our children need a person who truly cares whether or not they learn, not the fact that 50 pages were covered in the first marking period.
Our children also need to know that they must work hard to reach their goals, and that not everything will be handed to them as they live their lives, yet much comes to those who go after their dreams and aspirations, and all of this and more could be given to our children today through the school system, but somehow these values are absent, at all levels, including parents, administration, and teachers.
Sometimes progress and technology is not the best option for what people really need to know. When was the last time your computer hugged you and spoke kind and reaffirming words when you had problems, or comforted you in times of need?
The above post was wonderful! I feel blessed to know that the old ways are not totally forgotten. The key to this puzzle can be found and utilized with very little effort. It is found in a one syllable word:
R E S P E C T
Parents, it's never too early to teach respect.
Teachers, don't demand it, earn it. Show respect to your students and generally, they will return the same to you. Also, show respect to the parents.
Administration, when your guidance provides top quality teachers and honor students, satisfied taxpayers will complete the picture of a well rounded community. This will only occur when all parties work in the same direction. Again, it's never to late.
Oley still has a few teachers from the old school. They are still great and I am glad my children have them. They do not make them the way they used too!
Al Jacobs, could you jump in here? Would you please remind your fellow bloggers this isn't the warm and fuzzy reminisce about the 1940's & 50's blog. This is the beat up on the Oley school board blog. Get back to business.
Would someone spell check me please? And if I did make an error, please act like a fool and write something lame and incoherent. Thanks. Maybe I should write phonetically for you Oley graduates.
Dear 9:24:
Why don't you have a cup of hot tea and go to bed.
You see, the bloggers that you acuse of saying all the horrendous negative things and asking for accountability, actually do have a kind heart and do wish for good things for the valley.
It is absolutely ridiculous to say that all teachers were good then and all teachers are sub-standard now. I had some great teachers, some average teachers, and some poor teachers. I can say the same for my children's teachers. You cannot possibly lump all teachers into one category and claim that they work just for the salary and benefits. I have nothing but the highest praise for some of my children's teachers. Those statements are quite judgemental!
Please re-read my previous blogs regarding teachers. I always say "many," (not all). I know there are some exceptional teachers at Oley and other schools. It is unfortunate that the teachers who do know "how" to teach traditional course content are forced to use failed Outcome Based Education methods instead.
However, it is an established fact that U.S. public school students throughout the last century up until the mid-1960's were among the best educated in the world. We are now at the level of of Romania. Statistical data speaks for itself.
The people who pay for our over priced, under effective education system certainly have a right to point out the inequities and fears for the future of our country based on our flawed education system. Those who have never been part of the best education methods in the history of this country cannot possibly understand how far it has fallen.
In first grade, school for me was in Spies Lutheran Church's sunday school rooms, because the old Alsace school buildings couldn't be "added onto" quick enough to accommodate the baby boomers. Our parents weren't screaming that the building "wasn't good enough," because they knew good education had little to do with the building in which we were taught, and everything to do with how it was taught and by whom.
I'll never forget 1st grade with Mrs. Bachman (a real disciplinarian), Miss Fidler in 4th grade. By then we were reading, without remediation, and doing long division, addition and fractions WITHOUT calculators. Many other fine teachers come to mind throughout high school, especially Mrs. Erb, who was among the most demanding and best teachers ever.
So, continue to bash us for remembering when education was what it was meant to be, and wishing today's kids could be equally blessed with the "best" there is.
All the happy face, patting yourselves on the back, feel-good sessions and pep rallies for today's failed educational system doesn't change the fact that it's less than our children and taxpayers deserve. People who genuinely care about the childrens futures will dispense with the false sense of security, face the facts and move mountains to restore educational integrity to our public school systems.
You're right, blogger at 9:51 p.m.
Lumping all teachers from "then" and "now" would be ridiculous. However, I did not read those posts in that same light. Breezing over those past few posts, it looks like people are pointing out the fact that education is not what it used to be, and MOST teachers aren't, either. Depending on how old YOU are, perhaps you were not lucky enough to have known any of the really "old school" teachers and teaching methods. If that is the case, your viewpoint is totally understandable. If you were not able to experience those facets of education, no one would hold that against you.
For my two cents, which is a small price to pay, considering my current tax bill (!), reading skills are the key to bettering every single area in public school education.
My age is unimportant, it does not matter how long ago I attended our local schools. But this one fact should speak volumes: if my memory serves me correctly, there were no students requiring assistance with reading skills...in 9th grade. Nor were there in 8th, 7th, etc. By 5th grade, as the latest, every child was able to read...everything...and understand what they'd read. If not, how else were they to keep up with the rest of the class in every other subject?
Want to add to that conversation? How about the misuse of "convenience drugs" which many of our students are now prescribed? "Little Jimmy can't sit still and pay attention...give him a drug." Bullcookies! The day that drugs began to control our student's behavior, is the day we kissed our future goodbye. Getting back to old school ways would be everyone's best bet. Back when the word "junk" was what you found where the trash companies emptied their trucks, not what you allowed your child to consume.
What's wrong with "warm and fuzzy" anyway? Some people just can't be pleased. We're either too harsh, too critical, too accusing, or too nice. Make up your mind.
I suppose we're also "too honest?"
Linda is right on! I pray every night for the children. Hopefully the parents are going to step in and demand we give the children what they deserve, a good quality education! Our future depends of these kids getting the best education and good morals to live by.
"I don't know how you nit-pickers stay married, but then I guess I'm making a huge assumption."
That's right, nit-picker families should keep their mouth shut when they are forced from their homes because they can't pay for a track.
Nit-picking seniors should eat less and stop taking medication so feel gooders can walk on synthetic turf rather than grass.
nit pickers?
Keep it up, pro-boarders. You're making yourselves looks better each day.
OH NO! You wrote "looks" instead of "look". The grammer police are on their way!
Keep it up, pro-boarders. You're making yourselves looks better each day.
12:44 PM
hahahha..."yourselves looks better"! hahahahha...the rest of your composition is wasted...who could get past..."yourselves looks better"?
hahahhaha...somebody please, get me a tissue, I can hardly see the screen....hahhahahahaaaaaa
This is to demonstrate how the nit-pickers like to attack a typo.
Al you gotta start hanging out with nicer non-nit-pickers.
Met a woman at the polls this morning who attended one board meeting and feels she can never go back because she was so offended by the cavalier attitude of the administration and board. She emphasized that she thought what she had heard was inflated opinion. When she actually participated in a meeting by addressing the board, she was flabbergasted that the attitudes towards taxpayers are far worse than she ever imagined.
Although she doesn't intend to personally subject herself to anymore of the board's attempts at humiliation, she does intend to vote for a clean sweep of the board members in upcoming elections until everyone of them is removed from office. Keep it up, Board. Your fan club is dwindling.
Keep up the good work Oley Concerned Citizens. Your legion of followers is growing by the day.
Hey spell check. SHUT UP!
If your life is so limited that you have appointed yourself proof-reader of a taxpayers blog, you are to be pitied.
As an apparent fan of today's "adequate" education standards, grammatical, punctuation and spelling errors should fit right into the scheme of things. So what's the problem?
Nit picking? I hear there's a cure for that now. It's called a blow-dryer.
"it is an established fact that U.S. public school students throughout the last century up until the mid-1960's were among the best educated in the world. We are now at the level of of Romania."
Does anyone know why this is the case? There is a very statistically significant reason for these findings.
I am proud to say that my children have learned FAR more from the Oley Valley education system than I learned in high school. They were able to master algebra in 7th grade and college level calculus as seniors! They took AP courses in 11th and 12th grades and went to college fully prepared with 12 college credits already completed. Failed educational system....I think not!
Yes, I heard that, too! No more coal-tar shampoo!
to 5:19
How nice! And what are their names? Lindsay and Ben?
in response to 5:14
..."does anyone know why this is the case? There is a very statistically signifigant reason for these findings..."
Okay, don't keep us hanging! Please, tell us the answer. Although I don't doubt this, I'd like to see the documentation or at least hear someone's impression of those findings.
Thank you for your answer...!
You've got 90 minutes left, if you have not yet gone to vote. Hurry!
Ed "Cap'n CheeseSteak" Rendell wins.
I, too, spoke with people in the voting line that attended school board meetings, and were not impressed. Many people were aware of the dreaded "blog" and were asking lots of questions. The general opinion was exactly as PREVIOUSLY STATED:
Keep it up, board. Your fan club is dwindling. EXACTLY.
"How nice! And what are their names? Lindsay and Ben?"
You think the Cappa kids are the only ones who took AP courses and advanced math at Oley?
Well, does anyone know why the US has dropped in their rankings? ...the real reason, not your assumptions. This is supposed to be the place for facts, so let's hear it... Or is it that you don't know the real reason? ....a prime example of how accusations are made after one has access to "a little bit of knowledge." Remember....it is a dangerous thing!
"You think the Cappa kids are the only ones who took AP courses and advanced math at Oley?"
Those classes are full of kids who are successful and smart! Oh, wait, that's right.... Oley doesn't have any successful smart kids. Sorry, I forgot!
Keep it up board, raising our taxes for sports and not education which is what our children are required to get by law. And for the Cappa kids who knows if they even took AP courses in HS. My child is taking AP courses at Oley big deal. Yes like I said before their are some great teachers at Oley as the same when I went to school. Its the parents and school together that need to help the kids achieve and become the best they can. The children are our future and education must come first. Any new sports programs need to go before the voters for them to decide if they want higher taxes for non-educational programs.
Ask the AP teachers and the Spanish 3 and 4, German 3 and 4, Latin 3 and 4 how many kids are in the classes. The classes are not all full like you posted. Go to the HS and see for yourself. Many children go down to the B track for 11th and 12th grade for their subjects. Yes each grade has a few kids that excel. I am glad my child in one of them. She works hard and takes school seriously. She wants to be very successful in the future. Hopefully the world will be peaceful in her future but I doubt it. With the way the people are voting today we are in for more hard times and unsafe times. We all better start praying more for the future of this country. God Bless America!
"Ask the AP teachers..."
I don't know which AP classes you visited, but appraently they weren't in Oley HS! Many of the AP classes are full of bright, successful students. As for foreign languages, that is a different debate. I wasn't referring to the size of those classes, and personally I don't care about the sizes of those classes.
"Yes each grade has a few kids that excel."
You've got to be kidding me!! A few!?! I know a student who has almost a 4.0 and is ranked in the upper teens. ...a stellar student and he has almost 20 kids ahead of him. Yes, I suppose there are a FEW successful kids!
Bah Humbug! Go look at yourself in the mirror and smile. Maybe you'll get a smile back and it'll make you a little more positive thinking!
OK I guess the teachers of the AP classes have invisible kids in them. The only AP class that is full this year is AP US History. And ask the kids in that class how many are going to take the AP exam?
Good night I am going to watch the returns on TV now! I do care about the country and the people that live it this wonderful country. The country that lets the people have freedom of speech except in a little town in PA called Oley.
good night, valley valley...
What a day this has been! We put an empty suit in the Senate, Fast Eddie back in as Governor and made Nancy Pelosi Speaker of the House. Mark this day, folks, because we might all live to regret it.
The volumes of information as to why American education is failing are very hard to condense. Sorry, this blog is going to be lengthy, but it will be the best I can do. (To the proof reader, if you find grammatical errors, please keep it to yourself -- It's been a very long day).
One of the reasons is that the people who developed the outcome based education models of today were behaviorial scientists, not educators.
Other countries, like Canada and Germany tried the system for awhile by abandoned it because it didn't produce good results.
The goal of the new education system is not for each individual student to attain excellence according to their personal abilities and natural inclinations. Every schools goals statement says: All children can learn. What they don't say is that the goal of outcomes based education, is that "all children can learn to the same level in all subjects." Common sense tells us this is just not realistic. Furthermore, the target level is mediocre. That's why the schools are falling all over themselves bragging about the PSSA test scores ... which are all mediocre. If you compare Oley's scores (where there are very few drastic socioeconomic issues) to those of the entire state (which include tough inner city kids), our scores are deplorable. But, hey, we sure are just about average and so proud of it.
This also creates frustration in the best and the brightest - who are often used as peer teachers in elementary grades in many schools to the slower students in the class. They should be working ahead at their level of excellence, not held back to that of the slower learners. And what parent pays these kinds of taxes to have their children taught by a peer. At the time my nephew was in 3rd grade at Schuylkill Valley, he was a peer teacher ... and that was when my sister and her husband pulled him out of public school.
Many kids do excel inspite of the new system -- mostly because they have parents who work with them and have extra enrichment programs throughout the school year and in summer programs, or parents often hire tutors.
The new education models are about "training" individuals to fit into a new kind of working society. The School to Work Program was designed by the Department of Labor -- there is a manual from the Dept. of Labor from the 1980's outlining the program. Today's education goals are driven by the department of commerce's estimates of what kind of workers will be needed in future decades. This was much the same premise as the Soviet Polytechnical system of education which, of course, failed.
The shift in education was so drastic that PA's Chapter 4 regulations and some other chapter sections, had to be rewritten and a small army of parents, ethical educators, a host of principled legislators and caring citizens delayed the passage of the changes for 3-1/2 years. PA was a test state to enact the regulation changes. The thinking was, if they could get it into Pennsylvania, they could get it into any other state. They were right.
The research indicates that very soon students as early as the 3rd grade will be evaluated toward various career tracks. The most intelligent kids -- who also are identified as the most politically malleable -- join the gifted programs. When children are "educated" within career tracks, they are not not given the fundamental basic education as a foundation to then branch out into more specialized fields at a later date. This new way keeps them from having "all the education they need" to later on make a sharp career path change. The masses will be given "just enough" education -- not more, not less.
Just as the entire state started to be entrenched in outcome based education at all schools, that's when the more senior teachers were given the early retirement enticements. I believe the powers that be knew teachers of integrity, called to their profession, and wanting excellence for all students would balk at the new system and probably create waves or blow the whistle.
This is not to say that the new crop of teachers are not caring or wanting to do a good job. They were just trained under a completely new system (backed by no longitudinal studies), and honestly don't know any other kind of teaching systems.
At the time of the revamping of Americas education system, that is also the time when there was a mass exodus of children from public to private and home schools. Those parents were very aware of the dramatic philosophical changes to education and wanted nothing to do with it. Studies of pilot projects using this system in Johnson City, New York, Michigan and Maryland show many of the problems with the system. A Johns Hopkins University Study debunks many aspects of the system.
You won't find this kind of education at Phillips Exeter Academy, The Hill School, Choate and other elite private schools of our country's leaders. They mandate for our children, but won't have it for their own.
Finally, the PSSA "assessments" -- not tests, measure how well the schools are teaching to the goals. This is the linchpin that holds it all together. This is a high stakes test because Federal and State funding is tied to how well schools perform "according to the PSSA results;" and if they don't, the State Dept. of education can declare them "academically bankrupt" and take over the school. So much for local control. That's it in a nutshell.
Just look up outcomes based education on the internet and you'll find lots of commentary and background information.
LB:
Well stated, as usual. Thank you for your "late night" efforts!
As far as those who believe our school is doing great, or even okay, we agree with your thinking, 100%
The children that excell in all sujbects(or any) are, and always were, the children whose parents are working along with them DAILY, often hiring tutors to insure that these students are getting the best of ALL facets of education. It's probably not a popular opinion to state that our school can't produce volumes of top notch graduates on their own, but it surely is realistic.
Let's see now what the DEM's are going to do to better the country. They said the same things the REPUBLICIANS want to do and are doing. I guess the people want a different face in Washington not a different agenda. Time will tell what these people are going to do for us. We need change also at the local level. May is coming quick. Think about running for the board.
It doesn't matter which party nationally holds the majority. The same puppeteers control all of them when they reach a certain level of political office.
They are allowed their pet projects and interests; but when it comes to international trade, finance and diplomacy, they all report to the same elite group.
what we need on the local level is more information made available concerning the persons on the ballot for school board...not just a list of names a week before the vote
10:43 am...
right on the money...
...the third obelisk is the Washington Monument....
Top guy at the Pentagon is gone, Top guy at Oley gets a big raise! We dump the little people when things are not going good, Washington dumps the head of the troops.
zackfeld?
"...what we need on the local level is more information made available concerning the persons on the ballot for school board...not just a list of names a week before the vote..."
This is the voters responsibilility. It is for someone or group to organize a 'meet the candidate' night where the voters can meet and greet and ask questions of the candidates.
This is not a role that school board, etc. has any action in organizing.
Every election cycle the Boyertown times sends an ambigeous question to all candidates. The problem is, nobody reads the boyertown times.
Please stand corrected! I read the Boyertown times, and so do many other "locals..." It's OUR only local newspaper. Although, the Sentinel could provide some "honest" interviews...!
Four years ago the Oley Business Association held a "meet the candidates" night. We advertised it all over the district. About 15 people showed up to hear the candidates. I participated in other candidate forums over the years and the attendance has always been mediocre. The bottom line is that most people just don't care and next year will probably be no different.
You're right, RS, Most people don't care...until a new board of equally unsuitable members embark on a journey to attempt to better our school system. If nobody shows up to question the candidates, then we get what we get. People often vote for a last name they recognize, or someone who looks honest & trustworthy. They also vote for someone if they are cute or handsome. Well, with few exceptions, cute and/or handsome have gotten us into a real hole.
We are not allowed to talk anymore so why would anyone waste their time trying to ask a potential board member any questions. Also I have been to meetings when we had nobody there and meetings when the room was packed and it does not matter the board will do what they want and any new board member that is only running for their own agenda I rather not meet. Voting for people that you recongize their last name is not a wise choice. You need to know their background, but then again I thought I knew someone very well but when they got on the board they changed.
"cute and/or handsome"
I gotta say it because most people are thinking it...Russ, how did you and Heckman ever get elected?
(relax, just a joke) I haven't seen a handsome man on the board yet, well at least not since that hotty Hottenstine was on!
Come on, guys! What about those handsome doctors?
Thats Hottenstein. Heckman or Tomato Bob and Rob the X-Doctor are enough to look at especially when they make faces at you and then when they talk to you like dirt that is the ultimate! Good Night Hotties!
I've been away for awhile, but I see nothing has changed. I think you all still need to smile and have a pickle! ;) ...then again, maybe that pickle will cause the scowls to wrinkle even deeper. ...better approach the pickle idea with caution.
Do you have a burger for the pickles? Sounds good to me I am hungry! The truth again is critized and you say we need pickles. You need a check-up! We have 2 Dr's on the board that are your friends ask them to give you an exam. You are the one that twists things up and when the facts are put on this blog, Oh! we are the ones that are wrong. The meetings tonight is one that many people showed up to express their desire for more sports programs in this little district that has no business to help with the taxes. Football is in Wilson, Wyo and the big towns that have business. Fleetwood board members have said that they wish they never voted for football. It is very expensive.
Football No.
Girls volleyball Yes.
"Russ, how did you and Heckman ever get elected?"
I always thought that in my case it was the three "B's": Beauty, Brains and BS but I see now that the first B (and some of you are also going to include the second "B") was only my imagination. I guess that just leaves the third "B" that got both Heckman and me elected.
Good Night Everyone!
Swisher's a good looking man, and he's smart. On top of that he's got class. Those three factors are feared by many.
Skip the pickles...now we're offering crowns!?!?!
Oh, stop with the beauty contest already! Talking about people's appearances is juvenile.
Sorry to offend you, Linda. Just trying to end a lousy day on a humorous note. I guess that fell flat. I should have known better...
On a more somber note: How about that new football progam??? Only $57,000 a year. Believe that and you are even dumber than they think you are.
Oh sure, $57,000 a year for a football program. And the moon is made of cheese. The coaches salaries will be more than that.
$57,000 and much more a year for football a year on top of everything else. Oh well, we are all just made of money and can't wait to have more extorted from us for a wasteful, out of control school system.
If all goes well, we will be out of here in 8 months. Borrowing words from that famous old sailor, "We just can't stands it no more!."
"If all goes well, we will be out of here in 8 months."
I won't be far behind. I am looking at about 12 months. I know that will make many on here very happy to have us gone. Then they can go back into their shells and pretend everything is wonderful.
Reading the article this morning about the football program I couldn't help but wonder what the final vote will be. I predict 9-0. I was given solid (HA!) promises by certain board members that they would never vote for football. They don't have the guts! From what was in the paper, the board threw softball questions at the Alliance. No, I see this as a done deal. They will certainly approve it before the next election.
gee, then can the oley pool be far behind?
Sorry, LB, there are some bored old retirees that have longed for the opportunity to state something good about Oley School Board. And this is it. There's been some good lookin' people on that board, and as far as I recall, it's never been against the law to be considered good lookin', or to state the fact.
I didn't mind the "good looking" comments. Just don't like making fun of people who can't help what they look like, no matter if they dislike me or not.
Our society is in tough shape when games and egos are more important than the well being of our elderly and less fortunate.
Actually Russ the board did not except the $41,000 check the football people wanted to give to them. They did fundraisers to raise that money. You will see the football people running for the 5 openings next May. Change is sure on the horizon.
To nobody’s surprise the board approved the Policy to increase the cost of Public Records to the community.
The concern is that they could charge an hourly rate on top off the per copy charge. This would make the cost of a document prohibitive.
They could not describe when they would initiate this surcharge or at what fee.
The vote for this effort that could restrict public information to taxpayers was unanimous, Robert Heckman, Mary Ann McCarthy, Ralph C. Richard, Barbara M. Bieber, Robert J. Cappa, Scarlette Z. Gotwals, Kerry Madeira, David M. Maloney, Sr., Christopher M. Hannum.
The same board approved a policy that tramples on the First Amendment and violates the state Sunshine Law. The Reading Eagle wrote several editorials that were critical of the board’s actions.
These individuals are building a resume for the constituents to review at the next school board elections.
"These individuals are building a resume for the constituents to review at the next school board elections."
I'm sure most of those school board members who have already devoted too much of their time would be more than happy to have replacements! Step right up complainers! Put your money where your mouth is!
"
" You will see the football people running for the 5 openings next May. Change is sure on the horizon."
Go football people!! Rah rah rah! If it becomes the football people vs. the complainers, I'll put my money on the football people winning!
"They don't have the guts!"
Speak for yourself about whether or not you have "guts" but don't take the privelege of deciding that for someone else. That's arrogant.
I hope the 5 football people running for the board next May have more than just the football issue to run on. It's not beneficial to the taxpayers, students or staff to have one issue candidates winning elections. After they get football into the school then what? People who vote for candidates based on one issue are equally to blame. What is their position on taxes, spending, educational funding? Are they prepared or qualified to run a school district after they get their football program?
You might just be hurting the district more than you think by voting for one issue candidates.
I apologize for saying "they don't have the guts" You are right, it was arrogant and unnecessary.
...Our society is in tough shape when games and egos are more important than the well being of the elderly and less fortunate...."
Is this about Oley, Pa., or Washington, D.C.? It sounds like it could be either one.
"The concern is that they COULD charge an hourly rate on top of the per copy charge. This would make the cost of a copy of a document prohibitive."
Attention truth seekers, this is not a change, they always could charge and never have.
An explination was given that in a case where the business office and administration found the request to be exorbitant, an estimate of cost would be provided before the request was fulfilled
Do we really want the empolyees of the district spending hours satisfying a huge request on the taxpayers dime?
There's really no way to put an exact cost to it in advance. The variable is who's time would be necessary: the business manager, the assistant, or a secretary. Each case could be different.
If some arbitrary cost was listed, Al wouldn't be satisfied with that either. There's just no pleasing some people and a policy or administrative regulation should not be written to satisfy one individual.
He should be glad he's not charged for the electricity he uses when he actually wheels in his own photocopier to the administration office. (not a joke)
Say what you wish about Al, above blogger. Fact is, until he became actively involved with the Oley School Board, those that could not attend meetings had no way of knowing what the board was doing...good, bad, or indifferent. Another fact, when you talk to different crowds of taxpayers in our area, there's no giant list of pro-boarders out there. You can think what you want to, but you're truly not aware of the undercurrent of unhappy local residents, of every age and every income level.
I thought Al has a steam driven photo copier. It burns coal. Emits greenhouse gasses. Global warming blah blah blah...looks like snow this winter aint?
Hey Cappa, to tell anyone you could of been a Doctor is a joke. You manners on this blog are disgusting and to keep talking nasty about Al is terrible. How old are you anyway? You have ruined this district with your big mouth and changing any policy to shut up the people that pay the bills. Go retire somewhere and get the heck out of Oley!!! How can your wife live with you day in and day out. I have heard some stories about your past that would make the hairs on the back of anyones neck stand up. Al knows the facts and you cannot stand that. He has been the backbone of all the taxpayers of this district. He cares for all the people and children. Go crawl in a hole and stay away. I do not blame Al for taking his own copy machine to run copies. With the cost you charge it could break anyones bank.
OK 8:41
Let's see your name on the ballot this time. You may have to give up some of your precious blog time but it will be for the good of the community and "for the children".
I have your campaign slogan ready for you - "I"ll VOTE NO FOR EVERYTHING"
Hey Al, Nice personal attack on Cappa by one of your blog monkeys. You trained her well.
Isn't it funny how there's never a report from the Concerned Citizens about what happens at a Curriculum meeting. For those who "truely care about the children" and the education, don't you think that would be an obvious place to start?
...Trained HER well? What do you have....some special computer talent...I thought the keptops were of a neutral gender.
Been there, done that....like it did any good?
At least Al writes his blogs as Al Jacobs, not as a mystery blogger.
So then, we hear there was a "packed house" at the board meeting last night. How many HUNDRED people...all new fans of the board????
Oley Football is a great idea! Since we're not going the extra mile for test scores, the players can have their IQ's for their player numbers.....
Go 88 Go....hold that line...
If the school board and administration are truly proud of their efforts, why do they worry about people like Al checking documents? What's the big concern? Do they have something to worry about?
...Trained HER well? What do you have....some special computer talent...I thought the keptops were of a neutral gender.
9:09 PM
Anyone who has been reading this blog for a while can easily identify the unique and spirited writing style of Mary Swartz.
At least Al writes his blogs as Al Jacobs, not as a mystery blogger.
9:12 PM
Yes. Mary Swartz could at least sign her name calling insults that she posts. LB, can you give her a Miss Manners lesson?
The truth is the truth! I think after lasts night meeting and all the folks that came out to see the board in action, I have spoken to many football families today and you did not get a good grade. Sorry to tell you but the football, volleyball, cheerleaders got to see how the board treats the public and now we have many more people of this district in agreement with the concern citizens. Thanks for the eye opener.
Good to see you can spell Mary's whole name, but opt for the initials when you get to Linda's name.
What are you an eye spy? I better get a security guard to follow me for protection. Wait a minute, isn't that what you want for our buildings for the nighttime, a security guard? Now, now Cappa, you continue to bash my friends and myself, sorry that I sometimes fall into your trap and get upset. I will start taking deep breaths and not rush to write. I tell it like it is and the facts are the facts. You are on the board for the people but the people are the ones you continue to hurt.
Who needs good manners? This is Oley! Big bucks incomes warrant lax manners.
And when it comes to big money and little manners...you're a doggone star!
Good night...
Sleep tight...
But first, check out the number of hits on this blog. Starting to look like Al's onto something here. Could just be that Jane and John Citizen are not as content as the good 'ole board thinks they are.
Numbers of hits on a site can be very very misleading. One person can hit a site an unlimited number fo times a day. So if Mary and Cindy and Al and Linda B. and Russ all hit this blog 8 times each every day you can see how quickly the numbers go up with just a few people. That is why on-line polls are worthless.
The football crowd made their presentation and left, however some of the volleyball group did get to see Al and Cindy in action. Ask them what they thought. One told me that Al seemed "creepy", kept asking the same question, and just "didn't get it" when they answered him.
Football people stayed to hear about the lawsuit and what a look of their face. Al was not getting answers again from this board. You are the ones that look guilty when you all just sit there not saying a word.
Al didn't seem to get it! You are the ones that do not get it! When you did answer Al sure he had the look of you got to be kidding me!
My volleyball friend was referring to the policy questions.
Numerous law suit questions were answered by the attorney, "Legally they can't answer that, it's in litigation." Certainly Mr. Jacobs doesn't want to compromise the district's position in this case, or does he?
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