Time to become involved…
As I write this blog the PA House has voted on an education bill that contains provisions for a pilot voucher program for our state; thankfully, it was defeated 90-105. The Senate earlier passed SB 1, which was not supported by the House; conversely, then, it is likely that the House plan will be rejected by the Senate. (In this case, it’s good that the Democrats and Republicans work so hard against each other instead of working for the people they represent!)
I urge you to contact your legislator to oppose any such legislation. Here are some reasons you can relate when you make contact:
• Voucher programs are unproven, unpopular, unaffordable and unconstitutional.
• Studies in other state programs show that vouchers are not a lifeline for increased student achievement.
• Remind your legislator that providing state funds for vouchers to be used at private and religious schools is unconstitutional.
• Tell your legislator to read this article - http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/13/education/online-schools-score-better-on-wall-street-than-in-classrooms.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2&hpw. This expose’, published on December 12, 2011, in the New York Times, follows months of research showing that even as charter schools are failing students academically, they are making millions of dollars in profit from taxpayers.
• The anticipated cost of a voucher program would cost the state $17 million dollars in its first year.
The link to the article posted above is a must read for anyone and everyone who is not informed about how cyber charter schools are making huge profits while many students are underperforming, not attending, or overbilling school districts. Both voucher plans, proposed by either the House or the Senate, is not about choice for all learners and their families. Rather, it is an entitlement program for a select group whose members, I can guarantee, do not include those with the greatest academic or economic need.
Enough “soap box” discourse.
Kudos to the students, music staff, stage hands and all who helped make this year’s musical, The Drowsy Chaperone, a huge success. Central Cambria has always excelled in the arts. With such dedicated advisors, teachers and family support, I’m sure this will continue for years to come.
After we return from the holiday break, PSSA preparation becomes a focus for all public educators in Pennsylvania. I ask you, when possible, to avoid appointments or take vacations during the PSSA testing windows. These are the testing dates:
Math and reading assessments, grades 3-8, 11 March 12 - 23
Writing assessments, grades 5, 8, 11 April 16-20
Science assessments, grades 4, 8, 11 April 23-27
More information will be forthcoming as March approaches.
Finally, I am so lucky to have this blog as a way to wish all students, staff, parents, and community members a Merry Christmas and Joyous New Year. Enjoy this time of year to be with family, friends, good food, and of course, college and pro football. Until next year… Dr. D.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Being successful....
Being successful…
I am sure you have read or heard about the PA Senate passing its version of a voucher system in Pennsylvania. In addition to the millions of dollars this will cost Pennsylvania taxpayers in the first year, an ancillary consequence of the law will be the reduction of state money for public education. Schools like ours will need to make increasingly painful cuts that directly affect students. This bill, in my opinion, has nothing to do with improving education for all children of Pennsylvania. It is an effort to fund private and parochial schools. I say this because students qualify for vouchers only after being accepted by private or parochial schools; it’s unlikely that the very poor or underachievers will be accepted by these schools; hence the state’s education money will go to a select group of already-successful students and families.
Another strong reason for quashing the voucher system is that studies of similar processes across the U.S. have shown that vouchers have not led to increased achievement or learning, nor have they improved outcomes for students who are underperforming in public education. Under the voucher system, public education money follows students if they go to a private or parochial school, yet the bill doesn’t demand the same performance accountability from these schools as is required of public schools. So, as the majority of students in public schools work with less to achieve more, vouchers provide funding to schools whose students may or may not achieve to state expectations.
The will of Pennsylvania voters seems to be ignored by their legislators in this situation. Almost two-thirds of Pennsylvanians disapprove of vouchers, according to recent statewide polls, yet the bill passed the Senate and awaits House approval. The House has yet to debate or vote on this Senate-approved plan. I urge you to contact our local legislators to vote NO on this voucher plan.
The link listed below will show you how each senator voted on Senate Bill 1. Please note that Senator Wozniak voted “no” on this bill. The bill is to be debated in the House and the link also shows who are our local legislators. I again urge you to contact them and request that they vote “no” on SB 1.
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/RC/Public/rc_view_action2.cfm?sess_yr=2011&sess_ind=0&rc_body=S&rc_nbr=369
Thanks to the commitment of our district’s families, teachers and students, I am proud to say that CCSD is not considered one of the 187 school districts targeted under this proposal as being low-performing. We have continued to make do with less, as evidenced by the 12% basic education cut in our state funding. Although our district did make some program changes, cuts and adjustments, none of these affected our core courses or staff. The only silver lining I see from the funding cuts is that we have demonstrated the ability to examine every aspect of our district and prioritize those programs and services that are critical to providing a top notch, quality education to kids of all needs and abilities. Needless to say, though, there will be a point beyond which cuts will harm the teaching and learning environment.
On a more cheery note, I do hope you enjoy what little of the fall season is left to us (even though it did snow in October!). As with everything, each season brings trials and tribulations, as well as beauty and wonder. It is what we do and how we enjoy each season that helps to define our lives and our happiness.
Stay safe and warm as the winter months approach, and football season winds down.
Dr. D
I am sure you have read or heard about the PA Senate passing its version of a voucher system in Pennsylvania. In addition to the millions of dollars this will cost Pennsylvania taxpayers in the first year, an ancillary consequence of the law will be the reduction of state money for public education. Schools like ours will need to make increasingly painful cuts that directly affect students. This bill, in my opinion, has nothing to do with improving education for all children of Pennsylvania. It is an effort to fund private and parochial schools. I say this because students qualify for vouchers only after being accepted by private or parochial schools; it’s unlikely that the very poor or underachievers will be accepted by these schools; hence the state’s education money will go to a select group of already-successful students and families.
Another strong reason for quashing the voucher system is that studies of similar processes across the U.S. have shown that vouchers have not led to increased achievement or learning, nor have they improved outcomes for students who are underperforming in public education. Under the voucher system, public education money follows students if they go to a private or parochial school, yet the bill doesn’t demand the same performance accountability from these schools as is required of public schools. So, as the majority of students in public schools work with less to achieve more, vouchers provide funding to schools whose students may or may not achieve to state expectations.
The will of Pennsylvania voters seems to be ignored by their legislators in this situation. Almost two-thirds of Pennsylvanians disapprove of vouchers, according to recent statewide polls, yet the bill passed the Senate and awaits House approval. The House has yet to debate or vote on this Senate-approved plan. I urge you to contact our local legislators to vote NO on this voucher plan.
The link listed below will show you how each senator voted on Senate Bill 1. Please note that Senator Wozniak voted “no” on this bill. The bill is to be debated in the House and the link also shows who are our local legislators. I again urge you to contact them and request that they vote “no” on SB 1.
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/RC/Public/rc_view_action2.cfm?sess_yr=2011&sess_ind=0&rc_body=S&rc_nbr=369
Thanks to the commitment of our district’s families, teachers and students, I am proud to say that CCSD is not considered one of the 187 school districts targeted under this proposal as being low-performing. We have continued to make do with less, as evidenced by the 12% basic education cut in our state funding. Although our district did make some program changes, cuts and adjustments, none of these affected our core courses or staff. The only silver lining I see from the funding cuts is that we have demonstrated the ability to examine every aspect of our district and prioritize those programs and services that are critical to providing a top notch, quality education to kids of all needs and abilities. Needless to say, though, there will be a point beyond which cuts will harm the teaching and learning environment.
On a more cheery note, I do hope you enjoy what little of the fall season is left to us (even though it did snow in October!). As with everything, each season brings trials and tribulations, as well as beauty and wonder. It is what we do and how we enjoy each season that helps to define our lives and our happiness.
Stay safe and warm as the winter months approach, and football season winds down.
Dr. D
Monday, October 17, 2011
Falling leaves
"Everyone must take time to sit and watch the leaves turn."
- Elizabeth Lawrence
Monday, October 10 as I drove up to work, the leaves were at their peak colors. They almost looked surreal to me. After the rain and wind on Wednesday, many of the leaves had been blown from the trees. The leaves turning colors and blowing around happens in such a short period of time, we barely notice them because of all the preparations we do for the eventual onset of winter. It’s too bad that our nature is to fully appreciate something only after it is gone. I truly miss the leaves.
Education, as a year-round “sport” that changes constantly and provides new challenges and opportunities, is similar to the fall season. We work at the start of the school “season” to prepare our students for the rigors of the curriculum in their new grade level; with no time to notice, students gain new skills and understandings to meet accountability requirements. Then they move on. And we truly miss them.
Fortunately for my love of both the fall season and the school cycle of teaching and learning, the cycle continues, and I get to experience both again. Further, to make these phenomena a little easier to take, we are fortunate to know with confidence that the trees—and our children—get taller and stronger every year, showing us that a lot of good comes with the passage of the seasons.
Teachers and administrators follow a similar but lengthier path: because CCSD staff members are actively engaged in improving their skills, they successfully respond to the changing needs of students and state and produce stellar results, as shown on state assessments and audits.
Congratulations to our Red Devils football team on their first victory; getting that first win on Homecoming Night was the icing on a great game. When I am approached about our football teams’ record, I like to ask them about what Chuck Noll’s record was at the end of his first season in 1969?” (Do you know what it was?) It was 1-13. Of course we all know he was the only coach to go on and win four Super Bowl rings. My point is that success does not usually happen overnight. I might also point to several pro football teams whose owners see fit to replace a new coach after one or two poor seasons; with little continuity in coaching, these teams don’t seem to fare much better even under “new and improved” coaches. I see our youth athletes working hard at every practice, and coaches spending more time watching films, scouting opponents and putting in extra time at practices to prepare for the next game. I applaud all of our coaches as they not only prepare our athletes for the next game, meet or tournament, but as they prepare them for a lifetime of fair play and ethics through sports.
Mark your calendars: the official dedication of our middle school will be held Tuesday, October 25 at 6pm. The event will showcase how proud we are of this building as a safe environment in which our students blossom and grow.
Until next month’s blog, enjoy each day, each season and each Steeler game (I had to put in a plug for the Steelers as they need all the help they can get).
Dr. D
- Elizabeth Lawrence
Monday, October 10 as I drove up to work, the leaves were at their peak colors. They almost looked surreal to me. After the rain and wind on Wednesday, many of the leaves had been blown from the trees. The leaves turning colors and blowing around happens in such a short period of time, we barely notice them because of all the preparations we do for the eventual onset of winter. It’s too bad that our nature is to fully appreciate something only after it is gone. I truly miss the leaves.
Education, as a year-round “sport” that changes constantly and provides new challenges and opportunities, is similar to the fall season. We work at the start of the school “season” to prepare our students for the rigors of the curriculum in their new grade level; with no time to notice, students gain new skills and understandings to meet accountability requirements. Then they move on. And we truly miss them.
Fortunately for my love of both the fall season and the school cycle of teaching and learning, the cycle continues, and I get to experience both again. Further, to make these phenomena a little easier to take, we are fortunate to know with confidence that the trees—and our children—get taller and stronger every year, showing us that a lot of good comes with the passage of the seasons.
Teachers and administrators follow a similar but lengthier path: because CCSD staff members are actively engaged in improving their skills, they successfully respond to the changing needs of students and state and produce stellar results, as shown on state assessments and audits.
Congratulations to our Red Devils football team on their first victory; getting that first win on Homecoming Night was the icing on a great game. When I am approached about our football teams’ record, I like to ask them about what Chuck Noll’s record was at the end of his first season in 1969?” (Do you know what it was?) It was 1-13. Of course we all know he was the only coach to go on and win four Super Bowl rings. My point is that success does not usually happen overnight. I might also point to several pro football teams whose owners see fit to replace a new coach after one or two poor seasons; with little continuity in coaching, these teams don’t seem to fare much better even under “new and improved” coaches. I see our youth athletes working hard at every practice, and coaches spending more time watching films, scouting opponents and putting in extra time at practices to prepare for the next game. I applaud all of our coaches as they not only prepare our athletes for the next game, meet or tournament, but as they prepare them for a lifetime of fair play and ethics through sports.
Mark your calendars: the official dedication of our middle school will be held Tuesday, October 25 at 6pm. The event will showcase how proud we are of this building as a safe environment in which our students blossom and grow.
Until next month’s blog, enjoy each day, each season and each Steeler game (I had to put in a plug for the Steelers as they need all the help they can get).
Dr. D
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
The first day of Fall....
The first day of Fall…
As I have stated in the past, autumn is one of my favorite seasons, partly because I’m fortunate enough to live in Pennsylvania. Here we experience the beautiful leaf changes, the crisp mornings, and the brilliant blue skies of the new season. (More later about the second reason that I love this time of year.) I have even greater appreciation for the beautiful setting of our district as I look out over the well-kept facilities we maintain for our students and our community.
There are many days and evenings that I see members of the community walking around the track or the school grounds, watching soccer, football games, cross country meets, etc. It is important to know that CCSD is a viable and accessible part of the community.
There are many area groups who request the use of our facilities; they seem to truly appreciate the effort we put into providing clean and contemporary buildings for our students and for our community. Our schools are the meeting place for Girl Scouts, youth basketball practices, Basket Bingo for our boosters, and many other community activities. As evidence of the collaborative relationship we are proud to foster, we have gotten a favorable public response to the plan for the YMCA to manage our pool schedule this school year.
My point in all of this seemingly random rambling is this: those who live in and around our district, who do not have any children in our schools, reap many benefits from the fine facilities we work hard to maintain. By adhering to our five-year maintenance schedule, we address upkeep issues in a timely fashion, thereby preventing buildings from lapsing into expensive disrepair. Keeping the district in top shape is much less costly than fixing emergencies that come from years of neglect or oversight.
I commend the men and women who maintain the fields, parking lots, buildings, classrooms, etc. They do this on a daily basis with no regard for recognition, but their dedication allows so many to enjoy our district and all its activities and facilities.
What would my blog be without some mention of my second (primary? I’ll never tell…) reason for loving the fall season? Now that the Steelers have actually decided to play football (note Game #1) rather than just participate, fall is in full swing at my house.
Take time to enjoy the season and the region; perhaps the grounds of CCSD would be the perfect Fall walk. Whatever you do this season, I encourage all of you who read my blog to be proud of CCSD and what we have to offer.
I hesitate to bring this up at the start of this wonderful season, but now is the time to clean that snow shovel, tune up the snow blower and get an extra bag of salt…we all know what follows Fall. Enjoy the season!!
DR. D
As I have stated in the past, autumn is one of my favorite seasons, partly because I’m fortunate enough to live in Pennsylvania. Here we experience the beautiful leaf changes, the crisp mornings, and the brilliant blue skies of the new season. (More later about the second reason that I love this time of year.) I have even greater appreciation for the beautiful setting of our district as I look out over the well-kept facilities we maintain for our students and our community.
There are many days and evenings that I see members of the community walking around the track or the school grounds, watching soccer, football games, cross country meets, etc. It is important to know that CCSD is a viable and accessible part of the community.
There are many area groups who request the use of our facilities; they seem to truly appreciate the effort we put into providing clean and contemporary buildings for our students and for our community. Our schools are the meeting place for Girl Scouts, youth basketball practices, Basket Bingo for our boosters, and many other community activities. As evidence of the collaborative relationship we are proud to foster, we have gotten a favorable public response to the plan for the YMCA to manage our pool schedule this school year.
My point in all of this seemingly random rambling is this: those who live in and around our district, who do not have any children in our schools, reap many benefits from the fine facilities we work hard to maintain. By adhering to our five-year maintenance schedule, we address upkeep issues in a timely fashion, thereby preventing buildings from lapsing into expensive disrepair. Keeping the district in top shape is much less costly than fixing emergencies that come from years of neglect or oversight.
I commend the men and women who maintain the fields, parking lots, buildings, classrooms, etc. They do this on a daily basis with no regard for recognition, but their dedication allows so many to enjoy our district and all its activities and facilities.
What would my blog be without some mention of my second (primary? I’ll never tell…) reason for loving the fall season? Now that the Steelers have actually decided to play football (note Game #1) rather than just participate, fall is in full swing at my house.
Take time to enjoy the season and the region; perhaps the grounds of CCSD would be the perfect Fall walk. Whatever you do this season, I encourage all of you who read my blog to be proud of CCSD and what we have to offer.
I hesitate to bring this up at the start of this wonderful season, but now is the time to clean that snow shovel, tune up the snow blower and get an extra bag of salt…we all know what follows Fall. Enjoy the season!!
DR. D
Friday, August 19, 2011
Back to School
Giving thanks….
Giving thanks for going back to school?! Why?! I could cite many reasons, but I will limit myself to a select few.
I am thankful and proud that our district will start the school year on the positive coattails of having once again met and/or exceeded AYP last year. Kudos to all the staff and students for the hard work and preparation that went into the pre-PSSA classroom activities.
I am thankful that Jackson Elementary has a beautiful multipurpose room and an elevator. The staff and students will get many years of use from this room.
I am thankful that we have a new middle school. It is truly breathtaking when one first walks in the main entrance. Renovations of rooms in the high school are also done and offer a very nice learning environment.
I am also thankful when I see so many student athletes and band members practicing on school grounds. I am always amazed at the commitment shown by these young adults who practice unflaggingly regardless of extreme heat, drenching rain, and numbing cold.
I am thankful for the efforts of our regular maintenance staff and summer help. Moving furniture and materials from the previous middle school to the new building more than doubled the workload for these people. We should all take time to thank Greg Shaffer and his staff for the extra effort they expended this summer in preparing for the opening day of school.
So, even though some may not be thankful for this time of year (kids, you know who you are), there are many reasons to return with a smile on your face. I do know some parents are beginning to smile a little more broadly as we approach the opening day of school.
Not to disappoint, what would my blog be without some mention of football at this time of year? With the NFL lockout ending (thankfully), I can now begin to look forward to my gridiron fanaticism with glee. As I had said last year at this time, “for me, the anticipation of the season is in some ways better than the season itself: once it starts I know it will end in a couple months.” But I am still thankful that, as we start another year of education, football is finally here.
I wish each student and staff member a wonderful, productive and safe school year. Let’s hope we have a beautiful fall with vibrant colors and that the winter snows take their time getting here.
DR. D
Giving thanks for going back to school?! Why?! I could cite many reasons, but I will limit myself to a select few.
I am thankful and proud that our district will start the school year on the positive coattails of having once again met and/or exceeded AYP last year. Kudos to all the staff and students for the hard work and preparation that went into the pre-PSSA classroom activities.
I am thankful that Jackson Elementary has a beautiful multipurpose room and an elevator. The staff and students will get many years of use from this room.
I am thankful that we have a new middle school. It is truly breathtaking when one first walks in the main entrance. Renovations of rooms in the high school are also done and offer a very nice learning environment.
I am also thankful when I see so many student athletes and band members practicing on school grounds. I am always amazed at the commitment shown by these young adults who practice unflaggingly regardless of extreme heat, drenching rain, and numbing cold.
I am thankful for the efforts of our regular maintenance staff and summer help. Moving furniture and materials from the previous middle school to the new building more than doubled the workload for these people. We should all take time to thank Greg Shaffer and his staff for the extra effort they expended this summer in preparing for the opening day of school.
So, even though some may not be thankful for this time of year (kids, you know who you are), there are many reasons to return with a smile on your face. I do know some parents are beginning to smile a little more broadly as we approach the opening day of school.
Not to disappoint, what would my blog be without some mention of football at this time of year? With the NFL lockout ending (thankfully), I can now begin to look forward to my gridiron fanaticism with glee. As I had said last year at this time, “for me, the anticipation of the season is in some ways better than the season itself: once it starts I know it will end in a couple months.” But I am still thankful that, as we start another year of education, football is finally here.
I wish each student and staff member a wonderful, productive and safe school year. Let’s hope we have a beautiful fall with vibrant colors and that the winter snows take their time getting here.
DR. D
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Ah, yes, Summertime is here...
“Summertime is finally here....”
Yes, summer is here and the summer solstice has come and gone. June 21 is when the sun is at its peak in North America. From this point, until winter solstice in December, the sun will leave us a few minutes earlier each day.
All buildings are now being cleaned, arranged and organized prior to the arrival of staff and students; records are maintained/updated and distributed. The construction and renovation activities will cause some added work for our summertime workers, as we prepare to move into our new MS. After taking a local TV station through the building yesterday, it is clear that all will be please with the facilities. July 8 is the official move-in date. Greg Shaffer and his staff work very hard to get buildings and grounds in top shape for the beginning of the school year. I wish to note the efforts of our corps of summer workers as they work tirelessly in the heat of the summer, inside and outside the buildings.
As the building projects at Jackson and the Middle School near completion I encourage you to log onto the district’s web site and check out the “Construction Pictures” section to see how the projects are progressing. I continue to meet with the contractors and clerk of the works, coordinating the final details of each project. However, the minor inconveniences we face now will fade from our thoughts when our students—the reason for our existence! - enjoy the result of our efforts. I want to reiterate my appreciation for the efforts of our district’s committed families and school board members.
As she does every year, my wonderful wife Judy, who is by nature an early-to-bed person, makes it a point to stay up as late as possible (for her) on June 21. She is determined to catch the last glimpse of daylight on the longest day of the year. I believe this helps her cope with how quickly summer fades into fall. She knows that autumn is my favorite time of year but I’m careful to keep talk of football, leaves, hunting, etc., to a minimum until after June 21.
Enjoy what is left of June, and have a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday!
Dr. D.
Yes, summer is here and the summer solstice has come and gone. June 21 is when the sun is at its peak in North America. From this point, until winter solstice in December, the sun will leave us a few minutes earlier each day.
All buildings are now being cleaned, arranged and organized prior to the arrival of staff and students; records are maintained/updated and distributed. The construction and renovation activities will cause some added work for our summertime workers, as we prepare to move into our new MS. After taking a local TV station through the building yesterday, it is clear that all will be please with the facilities. July 8 is the official move-in date. Greg Shaffer and his staff work very hard to get buildings and grounds in top shape for the beginning of the school year. I wish to note the efforts of our corps of summer workers as they work tirelessly in the heat of the summer, inside and outside the buildings.
As the building projects at Jackson and the Middle School near completion I encourage you to log onto the district’s web site and check out the “Construction Pictures” section to see how the projects are progressing. I continue to meet with the contractors and clerk of the works, coordinating the final details of each project. However, the minor inconveniences we face now will fade from our thoughts when our students—the reason for our existence! - enjoy the result of our efforts. I want to reiterate my appreciation for the efforts of our district’s committed families and school board members.
As she does every year, my wonderful wife Judy, who is by nature an early-to-bed person, makes it a point to stay up as late as possible (for her) on June 21. She is determined to catch the last glimpse of daylight on the longest day of the year. I believe this helps her cope with how quickly summer fades into fall. She knows that autumn is my favorite time of year but I’m careful to keep talk of football, leaves, hunting, etc., to a minimum until after June 21.
Enjoy what is left of June, and have a safe and happy Fourth of July holiday!
Dr. D.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Rain, rain and more rain....
Rain, Rain and more rain…
If April showers bring May flowers, what do May showers bring? After so many days of rainy, inclement weather in May, I am sure everyone would like to conjure up an answer to that question. For my part, “all rain and no sun” have led to a quieter-than-usual ending to the school year.
This is the time of the school year during which I conduct senior exit interviews and gather information for my graduation speech. I truly enjoy sitting down with a cadre of seniors to ask them about their time at Central Cambria, I hear what they liked, didn’t like, how the pork chopettes and Hollywood squares were, and many other tidbits that I really should put in a book some day. Soon to leave the district for good, seniors feel no need to hold back on their opinions and comments.
Many had questions of their own: about the middle school students coming into their building next year, how the cafeteria will be structured to handle the larger number of students, even about budgetary issues (I knew these kids were sharp). The majority of the people who met with me said that they feel well-prepared for life after high school. Many expressed sadness that their time at CCSD was coming to a rapid end (sorry, teachers, they specifically named their friends as being the people they will miss the most). I interview 20-25% of the senior class for two reasons: first, of course, I want to share their responses with their parents, teachers, relatives and friends during my graduation speech. The second reason for the interviews is actually much more important: I want to know, from their own perspective, how our students rate our performance as educators and mentors.
Many thanks to those who took the budget survey on our district homepage. Almost 800 respondents provided insight into common priorities and concerns as we work through our budget for next year and the years to come. Again, I encourage you to contact our local legislators to let them know how the governor’s cut in funding to basic education will have a negative impact on young people across the state. I believe that our solidarity is one very important reason that Harrisburg is at least now listening to the concerns of constituents associated with education as families, community members, taxpayers, and educators.
Congratulations to all graduating seniors, as well as to their parents, relatives and friends on their achievements as they move forward. June 9th will mark the start of their journey into the “real world.” All of us at Central Cambria wish them happiness and satisfaction in their future endeavors.
Dr. D.
If April showers bring May flowers, what do May showers bring? After so many days of rainy, inclement weather in May, I am sure everyone would like to conjure up an answer to that question. For my part, “all rain and no sun” have led to a quieter-than-usual ending to the school year.
This is the time of the school year during which I conduct senior exit interviews and gather information for my graduation speech. I truly enjoy sitting down with a cadre of seniors to ask them about their time at Central Cambria, I hear what they liked, didn’t like, how the pork chopettes and Hollywood squares were, and many other tidbits that I really should put in a book some day. Soon to leave the district for good, seniors feel no need to hold back on their opinions and comments.
Many had questions of their own: about the middle school students coming into their building next year, how the cafeteria will be structured to handle the larger number of students, even about budgetary issues (I knew these kids were sharp). The majority of the people who met with me said that they feel well-prepared for life after high school. Many expressed sadness that their time at CCSD was coming to a rapid end (sorry, teachers, they specifically named their friends as being the people they will miss the most). I interview 20-25% of the senior class for two reasons: first, of course, I want to share their responses with their parents, teachers, relatives and friends during my graduation speech. The second reason for the interviews is actually much more important: I want to know, from their own perspective, how our students rate our performance as educators and mentors.
Many thanks to those who took the budget survey on our district homepage. Almost 800 respondents provided insight into common priorities and concerns as we work through our budget for next year and the years to come. Again, I encourage you to contact our local legislators to let them know how the governor’s cut in funding to basic education will have a negative impact on young people across the state. I believe that our solidarity is one very important reason that Harrisburg is at least now listening to the concerns of constituents associated with education as families, community members, taxpayers, and educators.
Congratulations to all graduating seniors, as well as to their parents, relatives and friends on their achievements as they move forward. June 9th will mark the start of their journey into the “real world.” All of us at Central Cambria wish them happiness and satisfaction in their future endeavors.
Dr. D.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Budget woes....
There are approximately 30+ days of school left and I along, with the Board, continue to work on ways to cover the anticipated budget shortfall of $1.1 million and $500,000 in increased costs for the 2011-12 school year.
Mrs. Kaschalk, our business manager, presented a very pointed, user-friendly budget outline for the public on April 13. Her presentation detailed how almost 70% of our district’s budget is a fixed cost. Each line item was scrutinized to see if a reduction or elimination was warranted, with a list of recommendations presented to the Board. These recommendations have been posted on our district’s web site for your review.
To take this one step further, InShore, our outsourced tech provider is developing an online survey with which the general public can offer input about our fiscal trimming. The survey will be live in the near future; with a click of the mouse, you can let us know what is and isn’t important to you. The goal is to gauge what should or should not be considered to make up our budget shortfall, for next year and beyond. The survey site will be live April 25 and will close May 6.
As I have continually said, this is just the beginning of belt tightening for many districts across the Commonwealth. Our district continues to do wonderful things for our students, with less money. This is commendable, but how long can any district do this?
Like many area districts, our budget was cut by 13%. At the same time, the state’s prison budget was increased by 11%. Hmm…. It seems to me that putting money into education that supports the development of responsible, self-sufficient adults is a far better use of taxpayer money than supporting the undereducated, irresponsible citizens who find themselves behind bars. Still, once the effects of limited education are felt, and more young people enter adulthood without the skills to support themselves, an increase in the state’s prison system budget may be warranted. This is a downward spiral that would best be reversed by education, not by imprisonment. As caring parents, educators, and community members, we owe it to ourselves and to our progeny to fight this trend of cutting educational opportunities of our young people.
I urge you to contact the governor and/or local legislators to make your voice heard and let them know that public education is an important investment in our children. As costs continue to go up, and districts look to make ends meet, the lack of funding will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the youth of our society, and on our own well-being and safety.
Dr. D.
Mrs. Kaschalk, our business manager, presented a very pointed, user-friendly budget outline for the public on April 13. Her presentation detailed how almost 70% of our district’s budget is a fixed cost. Each line item was scrutinized to see if a reduction or elimination was warranted, with a list of recommendations presented to the Board. These recommendations have been posted on our district’s web site for your review.
To take this one step further, InShore, our outsourced tech provider is developing an online survey with which the general public can offer input about our fiscal trimming. The survey will be live in the near future; with a click of the mouse, you can let us know what is and isn’t important to you. The goal is to gauge what should or should not be considered to make up our budget shortfall, for next year and beyond. The survey site will be live April 25 and will close May 6.
As I have continually said, this is just the beginning of belt tightening for many districts across the Commonwealth. Our district continues to do wonderful things for our students, with less money. This is commendable, but how long can any district do this?
Like many area districts, our budget was cut by 13%. At the same time, the state’s prison budget was increased by 11%. Hmm…. It seems to me that putting money into education that supports the development of responsible, self-sufficient adults is a far better use of taxpayer money than supporting the undereducated, irresponsible citizens who find themselves behind bars. Still, once the effects of limited education are felt, and more young people enter adulthood without the skills to support themselves, an increase in the state’s prison system budget may be warranted. This is a downward spiral that would best be reversed by education, not by imprisonment. As caring parents, educators, and community members, we owe it to ourselves and to our progeny to fight this trend of cutting educational opportunities of our young people.
I urge you to contact the governor and/or local legislators to make your voice heard and let them know that public education is an important investment in our children. As costs continue to go up, and districts look to make ends meet, the lack of funding will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the youth of our society, and on our own well-being and safety.
Dr. D.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Finances
I want to start by recognizing the achievement of our science team at a recent competition, three wrestlers who placed at the state meet, and a swimmer who earned a place at states. While I really like using my blogs to highlight district successes and awards, I believe that it is my responsibility to discuss the governor’s proposed budget and how it will affect our district.
Let me begin by stating that this blog is not a complaint session; I speak from the perspective of a realist. The governor’s budget is what it is. Proposed cuts to the state budget mean that we face a $1.06 million dollar deficit for next year. The Board, my administrators and I have been diligently seeking ways to reduce this deficit. Making up for a thirteen percent cut in our funding—in one year—is a daunting task. The goal is to pare our budget without sacrificing programs that enhance our children’s academics or the curriculum.
All areas are being scrutinized: extra-curricular activities, conferences, out-of-district travel, staff alignment, class size, staff reduction through attrition, activity buses, AmeriCorps workers, paid student workers, technology, building budgets, dual enrollment and maintenance.
One item cut from our budget is the Block Grant money (about $246,000); this loss could affect our full day kindergarten program. I say “could” because no decision has been made as to the continuance of full- vs. half-day kindergarten. The Board has agreed to meet in an executive session to review next year’s proposed budget. It is my hope that the Board will act promptly on decisions affecting current programs, so as to save parents from scrambling at the start of the next school year.
Although this budget dilemma has caused considerable anxiety for all educators, parents, and communities, we at Central Cambria are dealing with it in the best way possible: while it would be great if the problem would just disappear, we know the wiser course of action is to take steps to both prepare for the deficit for next year, and plan for our future in a way that maximizes opportunities for our students.
One final thought: take the time to contact your local legislator to ask for Block Grant monies to be renewed, as well as to rescind the other cuts in the proposed budget. Thank you for supporting Central Cambria and public education.
Dr. D
Let me begin by stating that this blog is not a complaint session; I speak from the perspective of a realist. The governor’s budget is what it is. Proposed cuts to the state budget mean that we face a $1.06 million dollar deficit for next year. The Board, my administrators and I have been diligently seeking ways to reduce this deficit. Making up for a thirteen percent cut in our funding—in one year—is a daunting task. The goal is to pare our budget without sacrificing programs that enhance our children’s academics or the curriculum.
All areas are being scrutinized: extra-curricular activities, conferences, out-of-district travel, staff alignment, class size, staff reduction through attrition, activity buses, AmeriCorps workers, paid student workers, technology, building budgets, dual enrollment and maintenance.
One item cut from our budget is the Block Grant money (about $246,000); this loss could affect our full day kindergarten program. I say “could” because no decision has been made as to the continuance of full- vs. half-day kindergarten. The Board has agreed to meet in an executive session to review next year’s proposed budget. It is my hope that the Board will act promptly on decisions affecting current programs, so as to save parents from scrambling at the start of the next school year.
Although this budget dilemma has caused considerable anxiety for all educators, parents, and communities, we at Central Cambria are dealing with it in the best way possible: while it would be great if the problem would just disappear, we know the wiser course of action is to take steps to both prepare for the deficit for next year, and plan for our future in a way that maximizes opportunities for our students.
One final thought: take the time to contact your local legislator to ask for Block Grant monies to be renewed, as well as to rescind the other cuts in the proposed budget. Thank you for supporting Central Cambria and public education.
Dr. D
Monday, January 31, 2011
Quite a time of year...
Snow is once again falling as I sit in my office and look out at the mountains. It is a harsh time of year for many animals—and for school superintendents.
Have I piqued your curiosity? Let me explain myself with four words: delay, cancellation, early dismissal. The unpredictable weather of this season leads to a flurry of phone calls between areas superintendents as we weigh the pros and cons of adjusting the school schedule.
The process used to make a snow event decision involves checking weather forecasts from multiple sources, making back-and-forth phone calls to neighboring superintendents, and even traversing the district’s rural roads. I rely heavily on my transportation coordinator’s assessment of road conditions, how much snow/ice has fallen, how long plows have been out, what township/county supervisors have to say, and input from the district’s bus contractor. Once I receive that information I consult with other area superintendents to come to consensus about a possible delay or cancellation; while it does not have to be an “all or none” decision, weather conditions are often similar among adjacent school districts.
I try to make the decision for a delayed start before 5:30 a.m.; I try to announce a cancellation no later than 7:30 a.m. An early dismissal is a decision based on projected weather and the possibility that deteriorating conditions (visibility, drifting or accumulating snow, etc.) will render buses unable to deliver students to their homes safely and at a reasonable time. We try to make that decision around noon. All such decisions are relayed to all district parents, staff, and drivers via our Global Connect system.
I realize that my decisions about weather-related schedule changes will not please everyone. However, when it comes to our children, student safety is a far greater priority than convenience! I have worked to make district policies, decisions and programs transparent to parents, staff and community members; with this in mind, it should be evident that decisions to delay, cancel or dismiss early from school are based on the best interest of our students. As always, my phone, door and email system remain open and available for any concerns, issues or suggestions.
In the meantime, keep gas in your snow blower and ATV, have your shovel at the ready until that first sighting of a robin. Stay safe and warm.
(I can’t write a blog without referencing football – but my superstitious nature makes me stay low-key as the Big Event draws near. Suffice to say that, right now, my favorite song is “Stairway to Seven – I mean Heaven!!”)
Dr. D.
Have I piqued your curiosity? Let me explain myself with four words: delay, cancellation, early dismissal. The unpredictable weather of this season leads to a flurry of phone calls between areas superintendents as we weigh the pros and cons of adjusting the school schedule.
The process used to make a snow event decision involves checking weather forecasts from multiple sources, making back-and-forth phone calls to neighboring superintendents, and even traversing the district’s rural roads. I rely heavily on my transportation coordinator’s assessment of road conditions, how much snow/ice has fallen, how long plows have been out, what township/county supervisors have to say, and input from the district’s bus contractor. Once I receive that information I consult with other area superintendents to come to consensus about a possible delay or cancellation; while it does not have to be an “all or none” decision, weather conditions are often similar among adjacent school districts.
I try to make the decision for a delayed start before 5:30 a.m.; I try to announce a cancellation no later than 7:30 a.m. An early dismissal is a decision based on projected weather and the possibility that deteriorating conditions (visibility, drifting or accumulating snow, etc.) will render buses unable to deliver students to their homes safely and at a reasonable time. We try to make that decision around noon. All such decisions are relayed to all district parents, staff, and drivers via our Global Connect system.
I realize that my decisions about weather-related schedule changes will not please everyone. However, when it comes to our children, student safety is a far greater priority than convenience! I have worked to make district policies, decisions and programs transparent to parents, staff and community members; with this in mind, it should be evident that decisions to delay, cancel or dismiss early from school are based on the best interest of our students. As always, my phone, door and email system remain open and available for any concerns, issues or suggestions.
In the meantime, keep gas in your snow blower and ATV, have your shovel at the ready until that first sighting of a robin. Stay safe and warm.
(I can’t write a blog without referencing football – but my superstitious nature makes me stay low-key as the Big Event draws near. Suffice to say that, right now, my favorite song is “Stairway to Seven – I mean Heaven!!”)
Dr. D.
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