Articles below are exerpts from the Tacoma News Tribune, Tacoma Weekly, We Teach Tacoma/Contract News, The Seattle Times and from the Tacoma School District News Updates.
It is for informational purposes only and does not reflect the views of Tacoma Council PTA.
Annual Report: Cradle to Career
Report Release and Community Discussion Thursday - Feb 12, 2015
STAR Center - 3873 South 66th St 8:30am-10:00am Program 10:30am-Noon Breakout Discussion (Encouraged, but Optional)
As a committed membe...r of the Graduate Tacoma! movement, we invite you to join us for the release of the 2nd Annual - Impact Report: Cradle to Career.
SPACE IS LIMITED - so we encourage you to register early to ensure your space for both the main program and one of the 3 Breakout Discussions. Please be sure to identify which session you would like to attend.
Click to register - RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY!
Please be sure anyone else from your organization who is interested knows to register today, so we can reserve space. See More
Report Release and Community Discussion Thursday - Feb 12, 2015
STAR Center - 3873 South 66th St 8:30am-10:00am Program 10:30am-Noon Breakout Discussion (Encouraged, but Optional)
As a committed membe...r of the Graduate Tacoma! movement, we invite you to join us for the release of the 2nd Annual - Impact Report: Cradle to Career.
SPACE IS LIMITED - so we encourage you to register early to ensure your space for both the main program and one of the 3 Breakout Discussions. Please be sure to identify which session you would like to attend.
Click to register - RESERVE YOUR SPACE TODAY!
Please be sure anyone else from your organization who is interested knows to register today, so we can reserve space. See More
The Peer Inclusion Preschool Program
The Peer Inclusion Program is a free preschool program located at several TPS elementary schools.
In this particular program, parents can look forward to their child receiving
the same preschool curriculum that they would in other programs but also the advantage of being in a classroom with children with different disabilities and modeling classroom teacher expected behaviors.
As we know, preschool is critical in preparing students for kindergarten.
For more information, please see attached brochure.
For more information,
Christi Dabneu
Administrative Secretary
Title I/LAP and Early Learning
[email protected]
253.571.1049
In this particular program, parents can look forward to their child receiving
the same preschool curriculum that they would in other programs but also the advantage of being in a classroom with children with different disabilities and modeling classroom teacher expected behaviors.
As we know, preschool is critical in preparing students for kindergarten.
For more information, please see attached brochure.
For more information,
Christi Dabneu
Administrative Secretary
Title I/LAP and Early Learning
[email protected]
253.571.1049
parent_preschool_document_revisions_10-16.pdf | |
File Size: | 676 kb |
File Type: |
School Board says 'No' to becoming charter school authorizer
http://www.tacoma.k12.wa.us/news/Pages/Charter-School-Authorizer.aspx
May 23, 2013
Tacoma Public Schools will not apply this summer to become a charter school authorizer, the School Board decided May 23 by a 4-0 vote.
The state Board of Education set a July deadline for school districts to file an application to
become a charter school authorizer. A school district that becomes a charter school authorizer
can issue a request for proposals from non-profit organizations that want to start charter schools.
An authorizing district can set parameters and goals for the type of charter schools that it wantst to see in its community.
School Board members mentioned several reasons for not applying this summer, including:
-
The state charter commission has not completed its rule-making governing how
charter schools will operate, which leaves too many unanswered questions.
-
The charter law approved by voters targets high-poverty, underserved populations
as targets of charter schools, but evolving state rules indicate applications
from charter operators will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
-
Charter rules lack clarity around how much control a local school district will
have as an authorizer.
Some School Board Members indicated it would reserve the right to revive the issue
and decide to file an application during future application periods opened by the state charter commission.
Tacoma Public Schools will not apply this summer to become a charter school authorizer, the School Board decided May 23 by a 4-0 vote.
The state Board of Education set a July deadline for school districts to file an application to
become a charter school authorizer. A school district that becomes a charter school authorizer
can issue a request for proposals from non-profit organizations that want to start charter schools.
An authorizing district can set parameters and goals for the type of charter schools that it wantst to see in its community.
School Board members mentioned several reasons for not applying this summer, including:
-
The state charter commission has not completed its rule-making governing how
charter schools will operate, which leaves too many unanswered questions.
-
The charter law approved by voters targets high-poverty, underserved populations
as targets of charter schools, but evolving state rules indicate applications
from charter operators will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
-
Charter rules lack clarity around how much control a local school district will
have as an authorizer.
Some School Board Members indicated it would reserve the right to revive the issue
and decide to file an application during future application periods opened by the state charter commission.
Tacoma Public Schools pays for Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams for all high school students
March 15, 2013
This year for the first time in the history of Tacoma Public Schools, high school students can take all College Board Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) exams for free.
These exams typically cost between $89 and $100 each. Students often enroll in multiple AP or IB courses, but due to the cost, must choose which entrance exams to take. This should no longer be a barrier for students who want to pursue several challenging courses.
The School Board's strategic plan includes eliminating disparities – achievement gaps – among all groups of students and focusing on students meeting or exceeding academic standards. These actions reflect the district-wide commitment to both raising academic achievement and providing equity for all students.
Tracking the number of students accessing college-level courses, such as AP and IB courses, is also one of the benchmarks adopted by the School Board to gauge the success of the district’s strategic plan goal to improve academic achievement of all students.
By providing every student the chance to take the exams, the district ensures no student misses the opportunity to earn college credits due to lack of resources.
If a parent or student has made any payments toward the 2013 AP and IB exams, he or she will receive a refund. Please contact the Advanced Placement coordinator in your school to learn more about how to receive a refund for payments already made.
This year for the first time in the history of Tacoma Public Schools, high school students can take all College Board Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) exams for free.
These exams typically cost between $89 and $100 each. Students often enroll in multiple AP or IB courses, but due to the cost, must choose which entrance exams to take. This should no longer be a barrier for students who want to pursue several challenging courses.
The School Board's strategic plan includes eliminating disparities – achievement gaps – among all groups of students and focusing on students meeting or exceeding academic standards. These actions reflect the district-wide commitment to both raising academic achievement and providing equity for all students.
Tracking the number of students accessing college-level courses, such as AP and IB courses, is also one of the benchmarks adopted by the School Board to gauge the success of the district’s strategic plan goal to improve academic achievement of all students.
By providing every student the chance to take the exams, the district ensures no student misses the opportunity to earn college credits due to lack of resources.
If a parent or student has made any payments toward the 2013 AP and IB exams, he or she will receive a refund. Please contact the Advanced Placement coordinator in your school to learn more about how to receive a refund for payments already made.
Safe Learning Environments Web site goes Live!
March 14, 2013
In effort to provide greater communication, a new Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) Web site focuses on school safety and security.
One of the four strategic goals adopted by the Tacoma School Board directs all schools to create and maintain safe learning environments to promote excellent academic achievement.
Online visitors to the Safety and Security Web site can find information about:
At the middle and high schools, Campus Security Officers support students. These officers promote lawful behavior and protect the welfare of students, faculty and staff as a uniformed presence on campus.
The School Resource Officer partnership the district has with TPD exists to improve perceptions and relations between students, staff members and law enforcement. By their presence in the school, the officers’ duties extend to include prevention and early intervention activities. That partnership began in 2007, and the district pays $300,000 for five full-time, on-duty police officers.
“Law enforcement brings enhanced understanding and expertise on safety to the public school setting,” Villahermosa said. “The hope is that a police presence in schools will symbolize an active partnership with law enforcement, schools and the community working together to solve problems of a criminal nature.”
As part of the district’s 24/7 focus on safety and security, eight armed and uniformed TPS patrol officers also serve the community as they travel across the district responding to a variety of needs. These officers are in constant radio communication with TPD and respond to 911 calls related to all Tacoma schools day or night. These TPS officers serve as support for on-duty Tacoma police officers. The TPS officers help at elementary schools as needed as well as at evening school activities across the district.
An added layer of security comes in the form of off-duty TPD officers who work in a variety of supporting roles ranging from working with truant students to doing welfare checks.
As important as unarmed and armed officers are to the safety and security efforts, the district must respond to all types of events, some of which are brought on by nature. The district’s strong partnership with the Pierce County Department of Emergency Management (PCDEM) and surrounding school districts assures that it is constantly in a process of continuous improvement and meeting its ability to respond to any disasters.
To learn more about our work, please check out our new Safety & Security Web site.
In effort to provide greater communication, a new Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) Web site focuses on school safety and security.
One of the four strategic goals adopted by the Tacoma School Board directs all schools to create and maintain safe learning environments to promote excellent academic achievement.
Online visitors to the Safety and Security Web site can find information about:
- What happens during a school lockdown, evacuation or shelter-in-place emergency.
- The district partnership with the Tacoma Police Department (TPD) that assigns a full-time police officer to every comprehensive high school.
- Emergency procedures followed by schools.
- Reporting and investigations of harassment, bullying and intimidation.
- How the district deals with truant students.
- Student discipline procedures
At the middle and high schools, Campus Security Officers support students. These officers promote lawful behavior and protect the welfare of students, faculty and staff as a uniformed presence on campus.
The School Resource Officer partnership the district has with TPD exists to improve perceptions and relations between students, staff members and law enforcement. By their presence in the school, the officers’ duties extend to include prevention and early intervention activities. That partnership began in 2007, and the district pays $300,000 for five full-time, on-duty police officers.
“Law enforcement brings enhanced understanding and expertise on safety to the public school setting,” Villahermosa said. “The hope is that a police presence in schools will symbolize an active partnership with law enforcement, schools and the community working together to solve problems of a criminal nature.”
As part of the district’s 24/7 focus on safety and security, eight armed and uniformed TPS patrol officers also serve the community as they travel across the district responding to a variety of needs. These officers are in constant radio communication with TPD and respond to 911 calls related to all Tacoma schools day or night. These TPS officers serve as support for on-duty Tacoma police officers. The TPS officers help at elementary schools as needed as well as at evening school activities across the district.
An added layer of security comes in the form of off-duty TPD officers who work in a variety of supporting roles ranging from working with truant students to doing welfare checks.
As important as unarmed and armed officers are to the safety and security efforts, the district must respond to all types of events, some of which are brought on by nature. The district’s strong partnership with the Pierce County Department of Emergency Management (PCDEM) and surrounding school districts assures that it is constantly in a process of continuous improvement and meeting its ability to respond to any disasters.
To learn more about our work, please check out our new Safety & Security Web site.
Kindergarten Registration to begin March 4, 2013
Experts recommend changes to serving special education students
February 26, 2013
Faced with an unacceptable, consistent graduation rate of 65 percent for special education students, Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) called on a national collaborative of special education experts to conduct a months-long study of district practices and recommend improvements that would lead to better academic achievement of students.
The report from the Urban Special Education Leadership Collaborative, presented to the Board of Directors Feb. 21, makes 18 notable recommendations. Foremost, the collaborative said, the district should transition from its ineffective 1970s model of segregating special education students for narrow programs targeting students with similar needs to the more effective model of including the more than 4,040 special education students in general education classes in their neighborhood schools and providing varying levels of support in those classrooms.
This transition would require an extensive teacher training program to equip general education teachers with the skills to differentiate their classroom approach to reach students of varying abilities and, in some cases, to pair them up with special education teachers, according to the collaborative’s report. This transition would occur over at least five years or more to phase in all the recommendations throughout the district.
School board members welcomed the recommendations as keys to improving the district’s overall student academic performance and a step toward reaching the proposed goal of a district-wide graduation rate of 85 percent by 2020.
The district has scheduled a series of public meetings to present the findings in the collaborative’s report, describe recommendations already implemented, discuss next steps and answer questions from parents and others:
Among the collaborative’s recommendations are:
Felton also told the board that in district’s across the country that have shifted to the inclusionary model, academic achievement of both special needs and general education students increases.
Faced with an unacceptable, consistent graduation rate of 65 percent for special education students, Tacoma Public Schools (TPS) called on a national collaborative of special education experts to conduct a months-long study of district practices and recommend improvements that would lead to better academic achievement of students.
The report from the Urban Special Education Leadership Collaborative, presented to the Board of Directors Feb. 21, makes 18 notable recommendations. Foremost, the collaborative said, the district should transition from its ineffective 1970s model of segregating special education students for narrow programs targeting students with similar needs to the more effective model of including the more than 4,040 special education students in general education classes in their neighborhood schools and providing varying levels of support in those classrooms.
This transition would require an extensive teacher training program to equip general education teachers with the skills to differentiate their classroom approach to reach students of varying abilities and, in some cases, to pair them up with special education teachers, according to the collaborative’s report. This transition would occur over at least five years or more to phase in all the recommendations throughout the district.
School board members welcomed the recommendations as keys to improving the district’s overall student academic performance and a step toward reaching the proposed goal of a district-wide graduation rate of 85 percent by 2020.
The district has scheduled a series of public meetings to present the findings in the collaborative’s report, describe recommendations already implemented, discuss next steps and answer questions from parents and others:
- Wednesday, March 6, 6 to 7 p.m.
- Monday, March 11, 6 to 7 p.m.
- Tuesday, March 12, noon to 1 p.m.
Among the collaborative’s recommendations are:
- Review and refine data systems
- Embed common core standards in a multi-tiered system of support
- Create inclusive education in all schools; expand post-secondary transition support
- Reorganize the Student Services Department and use research-based experts to support student learning, review staffing ratios and align to student need
- Develop a professional learning plan to build capacity and enhance skills to implement inclusive education and a multi-tiered system of support for students
- Enhance the involvement of parents
- Build in systems of accountability
- Establish a vision for TPS that reflects high expectations for all learners
- Support a service delivery model that is proactive rather than reactive and inclusive in nature
Felton also told the board that in district’s across the country that have shifted to the inclusionary model, academic achievement of both special needs and general education students increases.
CAMPAIGN KICK OFF SATURDAY JANUARY 5, 2013
YES PROP. 1 - School Bond Campaign Kick-off
Neighborhood School Improvements and Safety Upgrades
Join our Honorary Co-Chairs and Supt. Carla Santorno
Bring your friends and family, kids welcome!
FREE Coffee and Snacks - Yard Signs will be available
10:30 a.m. - 12 noon, Saturday, January 5, 2013
Star Center, 3873 S. 66th Street Tacoma, WA
RSVP to 253 282 4937, [email protected], or join our Facebook event.
We need your help - the election is less than 2 months away! Ballots arrive in just over 1 month
Here's how you can help:
Need more information about the bond? Visit our website at http://renewourcommitment.org
Thank you for supporting our schools! Sincerely,
Willie Stewart
Tacoma Citizens for Schools
Neighborhood School Improvements and Safety Upgrades
Join our Honorary Co-Chairs and Supt. Carla Santorno
Bring your friends and family, kids welcome!
FREE Coffee and Snacks - Yard Signs will be available
10:30 a.m. - 12 noon, Saturday, January 5, 2013
Star Center, 3873 S. 66th Street Tacoma, WA
RSVP to 253 282 4937, [email protected], or join our Facebook event.
We need your help - the election is less than 2 months away! Ballots arrive in just over 1 month
Here's how you can help:
- Donate today - http://renewourcommitment.org/donate
- Endorse today - http://renewourcommitment.org/node/add/endorse-us
- Volunteer - http://renewourcommitment.org/node/add/volunteer
- Forward this email! Share with your family, friends, and co-workers.
Need more information about the bond? Visit our website at http://renewourcommitment.org
Thank you for supporting our schools! Sincerely,
Willie Stewart
Tacoma Citizens for Schools
Parent advisory meetings start Nov. 27
The Community Partnership Office will facilitate five regional partnership parent advisory meetings to engage parents and community members in the development of benchmarks for partnerships (Goal Two of four Tacoma Public Schools strategic goals).
The regional partnership parent advisory meetings will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Quad Room at the Professional Development Center, 6501 N. 23rd St. The meeting dates are:
For more information, contact Amanda Scott-Thomas, director of Community Partnerships, Academic Equity & Achievement, at 253-571-1087.
Dinner will be provided.
RSVP with Kari @ 571-1087 or [email protected]
The regional partnership parent advisory meetings will take place from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Quad Room at the Professional Development Center, 6501 N. 23rd St. The meeting dates are:
- Lincoln High School, Nov. 27
- Foss High School, Nov. 28
- Mount Tahoma High School, Dec. 5
- Stadium High School, Dec. 6
- Wilson High School, Dec. 12
- An agreed-upon definition for “partnerships.”
- Identified, measureable indicators of successful parent/community/school partnerships.
- Strategies for consistent and ongoing engagement and communication.
For more information, contact Amanda Scott-Thomas, director of Community Partnerships, Academic Equity & Achievement, at 253-571-1087.
Dinner will be provided.
RSVP with Kari @ 571-1087 or [email protected]
Bond issue would fund new schools for Tacoma
Read more here: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/11/03/2354531/bond-issue-would-fund-new-schools.html#storylink=cpy
More than a dozen new or remodeled schools could be on the drawing boards for Tacoma kids if voters approve a $500 million bond measure Feb. 12.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO Published: Nov. 3, 2012 at 12:05 a.m. PDTUpdated: Nov. 3, 2012 at 12:24 a.m. PDT
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO Published: Nov. 3, 2012 at 12:05 a.m. PDTUpdated: Nov. 3, 2012 at 12:24 a.m. PDT
Tacoma School Board told about bad facility conditions at hearing
Tacoma kids aren’t asking for much when it comes to each of their schools. But put together the requested upgrades and costs add up quickly.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO The News Tribune Published: Oct. 18, 2012 at 9:14 p.m. PDTUpdated: Oct. 18, 2012 at 9:14 p.m. PDT
Read more here: http://www.thenewstribune.com//2012/10/18/2337191/tacoma-school-board-told-about.html?storylink=fb#storylink=cpy
Read more here: http://www.thenewstribune.com//2012/10/18/2337191/tacoma-school-board-told-about.html?storylink=fb#storylink=cpy
District might seek $500M for Tacoma schools, seeks input
The Tacoma School Board is exploring asking voters next winter to approve $500 million for more than a dozen new and remodeled Tacoma schools, ranging from a permanent home for the Science and Math Institute to a completed remodel at Wilson High School.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO The News Tribune Published: Oct. 13, 2012 at 2:28 p.m. PDT— Updated: Oct. 13, 2012 at 2:57 p.m. PDT 83 Comments
Read more here: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/10/12/2330320/district-might-seek-500000-for.html#storylink=cpy
Read more here: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/10/12/2330320/district-might-seek-500000-for.html#storylink=cpy
The Tacoma School Board reads the first Innovative Policy Oct. 11
The Tacoma School Board plans to publicly review and discuss a new draft policy and guidelines on innovation that – when formally adopted – will guide the administration and staff in the pursuit of additional innovations that help all students achieve.
In March, State Superintendent Randy Dorn named Tacoma Public Schools as the state’s first-ever and only district-wide Innovation Zone for education. In the first two years of the state’s effort to identify the most innovative schools, 12 of the 33 schools statewide to earn the innovative designation are in Tacoma Public Schools.
As part of the state designation, Tacoma must adopt an innovation policy this fall.
The draft policy and guidelines include several key statements, including this one:
“The district shall strive to be on the leading edge of innovation among public schools in Washington. Innovations shall reflect best practices and be supported by a compelling theory demonstrating they will produce the expected outcomes. The district shall be fiscally responsible in supporting innovative approaches; maximize public, private and philanthropic resources; and ensure it can sustain innovative approaches shown to be successful. While flexibility and autonomy are necessary for innovation, accountability for effective implementation and results are required. Therefore, planning and implementation of innovations shall include a continuing assessment and improvement process to ensure the innovations are achieving their identified outcomes and whether improvements are needed.”
Read the entire draft policy. Innovative Policy No. 0105
The district’s overarching intent with innovation is to find ways to match students with unique schools that play to their passions and interests so they’ll be engaged learners and go on to great success.
There’s still time for citizens to take the five-minute online innovation survey, which will help guide the school board’s work. Go to: www.innovatingforachievement.com. Just by taking the survey you’re entered to win a $50 Target gift card.
In March, State Superintendent Randy Dorn named Tacoma Public Schools as the state’s first-ever and only district-wide Innovation Zone for education. In the first two years of the state’s effort to identify the most innovative schools, 12 of the 33 schools statewide to earn the innovative designation are in Tacoma Public Schools.
As part of the state designation, Tacoma must adopt an innovation policy this fall.
The draft policy and guidelines include several key statements, including this one:
“The district shall strive to be on the leading edge of innovation among public schools in Washington. Innovations shall reflect best practices and be supported by a compelling theory demonstrating they will produce the expected outcomes. The district shall be fiscally responsible in supporting innovative approaches; maximize public, private and philanthropic resources; and ensure it can sustain innovative approaches shown to be successful. While flexibility and autonomy are necessary for innovation, accountability for effective implementation and results are required. Therefore, planning and implementation of innovations shall include a continuing assessment and improvement process to ensure the innovations are achieving their identified outcomes and whether improvements are needed.”
Read the entire draft policy. Innovative Policy No. 0105
The district’s overarching intent with innovation is to find ways to match students with unique schools that play to their passions and interests so they’ll be engaged learners and go on to great success.
There’s still time for citizens to take the five-minute online innovation survey, which will help guide the school board’s work. Go to: www.innovatingforachievement.com. Just by taking the survey you’re entered to win a $50 Target gift card.
Please take survey on innovation in Tacoma Public Schools
Tacoma Public Schools issued a new survey today so parents and others can identify how innovation can help the district improve student achievement. The brief, confidential survey takes about five minutes to complete at: www.innovatingforachievement.com.
The survey results, combined with survey results from district staff and comments gleaned from future community
meetings, will help the School Board develop a new policy and guidelines aimed at expanding on the record number of innovative learning options offered to Tacoma students.
In March, State Superintendent Randy Dorn named Tacoma Public Schools as the state’s first-ever and only district-wide
Innovation Zone for education. In the first two years of the state’s effort to identify the most innovative schools, 12 of the 33 schools statewide to earn the innovative designation are in Tacoma Public Schools.
As part of Dorn’s designation of Tacoma as a district-wide innovation zone, he set three conditions:
The School Board has devoted a series of public meetings to developing an innovation policy by the end of the year.
The innovation survey is one step in the outreach effort. At www.innovatingforachievement.com,
citizens have the option of taking the survey in English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian or Vietnamese.
Tacoma’s state-designated innovative schools include: First Creek, Baker and Stewart middle schools; Geiger and Bryant
Montessori schools; an International Baccalaureate Zone including Foss High School, Giaudrone Middle School and McCarver Elementary School; School of the Arts (SOTA), Science and Math Institute (SAMI), Lincoln Center at Lincoln High
School and Stafford Elementary School. (and Grant Centerfor the Expressive Arts)
In his March announcement, Dorn explained the need for innovation: "I support teachers and administrators doing what it
takes to make kids ready for a career or college. I strongly encourage schools to be bold and creative when finding solutions that work for kids."
The survey results, combined with survey results from district staff and comments gleaned from future community
meetings, will help the School Board develop a new policy and guidelines aimed at expanding on the record number of innovative learning options offered to Tacoma students.
In March, State Superintendent Randy Dorn named Tacoma Public Schools as the state’s first-ever and only district-wide
Innovation Zone for education. In the first two years of the state’s effort to identify the most innovative schools, 12 of the 33 schools statewide to earn the innovative designation are in Tacoma Public Schools.
As part of Dorn’s designation of Tacoma as a district-wide innovation zone, he set three conditions:
- The School Board must provide direction and parameters for innovation, including policies and procedures.
- The district must develop a multi-year implementation plan.
- The district must launch a city-wide communication and community engagement plan to seek input, share information and build a broad base of support for school innovation.
The School Board has devoted a series of public meetings to developing an innovation policy by the end of the year.
The innovation survey is one step in the outreach effort. At www.innovatingforachievement.com,
citizens have the option of taking the survey in English, Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian or Vietnamese.
Tacoma’s state-designated innovative schools include: First Creek, Baker and Stewart middle schools; Geiger and Bryant
Montessori schools; an International Baccalaureate Zone including Foss High School, Giaudrone Middle School and McCarver Elementary School; School of the Arts (SOTA), Science and Math Institute (SAMI), Lincoln Center at Lincoln High
School and Stafford Elementary School. (and Grant Centerfor the Expressive Arts)
In his March announcement, Dorn explained the need for innovation: "I support teachers and administrators doing what it
takes to make kids ready for a career or college. I strongly encourage schools to be bold and creative when finding solutions that work for kids."
MSP/HSPE Test Scores from the OSPI Website
2012 Youth and Family Summit—Saturday, April 28
www.tacomaschools.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 5, 2012
Contact: Shirley Skeel, media relations, University of Puget Sound, ph 253-879-2611, cell 510-684-6715, [email protected]
and Dan Voelpel, public information, Tacoma Public Schools, 253-571-1015, [email protected]
2012 Youth and Family Summit—Saturday, April 28
Help Educators Build a Road to Success for the Young
Four Tacoma community partners offer a free event for students and parents
TACOMA, Wash. – For the first time, parents and guardians are invited to
the highly popular day of workshops, talks, and music organized by and for
Tacoma youth—the 2012 Youth and Family Summit, on Saturday, April 28, 2012, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The summit features two workshop tracks—one for youth, another for parents and guardians. The last similar event, the 2010 All City Race & Pedagogy Youth Summit, attracted more than 700 students from middle and high schools to a day of workshops aimed at empowering young people to take charge of their own education and preparing them for leadership in a diverse world. This year organizers hope to build on that empowerment.
“Young people who find themselves on the wrong side of the “achievement gap” are often there because it takes a whole community to create the learning environment needed to achieve academic success,” said Noah Prince, co-chair of the summit. “We want parents and guardians to join us in sharing ideas on how to win this success for our youth.”
Prince, partnership administrator at Tacoma 360, is the summit co-chair, alongside Ayanna Drakos, coordinator for REACH (Resources for Education and Career Help). The summit is organized by Tacoma Public Schools, The REACH Center, Tacoma 360, and University of Puget Sound’s Race and Pedagogy Initiative. The details:
2012 Youth and Family Summit
Saturday, April 28, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
Lincoln High School, 701 S. 37th Street, Tacoma
Free Breakfast and Lunch
Entrance is free. Pre-registration by youth and adults is encouraged at: www.facebook.com/2012YouthandFamilySummit or www.pugetsound.edu/raceandpedagogy
Registration forms also will be available at all Tacoma public schools.
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:
Michael Benitez Jr., social justice activist, educator, and scholar from Iowa State University, for the youth workshops track.
Ed Taylor, vice provost and associate professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at University of Washington, for the parents and guardians workshops track.
WORKSHOPS:
More than three dozen workshops will be offered. There will be a rally, music and dance performance for both youth and families.
Sample workshops:
For Students: Creative writing about race, violence toward the perceived “other,” engaging black males, civic engagement, literary diversity in the classroom, and more.
For Parents and Guardians: College preparation, bully prevention, parents as partners in education, parenting strategies, teaching black male learners, “Too Important to Fail,” and more.
For more information: [email protected] or 253.-879-2435
Youth keynote speaker Michael Benitez is a highly engaging presenter who integrates hip hop street-sense, academic inquiry, and personal experience into critiques that expose some of the hidden truths involving race, gender, and
injustice. Parents and guardians speaker Ed Taylor is a dedicated researcher and teacher focused on diversity and leadership in education, who has written on topics including the achievement gap and critical race theory.
Tacoma schools are being invited to bring busloads of students to the event. Organizers also have extensive outreach underway to parents and guardians in the region. The summit will be an event that inspires, informs, and seeks participants’ input on issues related to enhancing the learning environment and helping youth move on to college and successful careers.
“Our young people in Tacoma are their own best resource for ensuring they each achieve the education and the future they want,” said Dexter Gordon, director of the Race and Pedagogy Initiative at University of Puget Sound. “But we need their families too, if we are to shift this mountain that we call public education and make it equitable and highly effective for all. We know it can be shifted. Let’s get started.”
Dexter Gordon, professor of communication and African American studies at Puget Sound; and Pat Erwin,
co-principal of Lincoln High School, are co-advisers for the summit; with additional leadership from Karyn Osborne, director of school, family, and community partnerships at Tacoma Public Schools; Brad Brown, principal at First
Creek Middle School; and Julia Garnett, director of Tacoma 360 and Alice Coil, program specialist with the Race and Pedagogy Initiative.
Participants will engage with educators both to imagine and recognize possibilities for student success. Everyone will be invited to “look at things as if they could be otherwise” and to explore means for inventing the future. Students will be
encouraged to form youth groups that will continue to pursue the education and social justice mission.
About Race & Pedagogy Youth Summit
Press photos of the 2010 All City Race & Pedagogy Youth Summit can be downloaded
from: www.pugetsound.edu/pressphotos
For more information on participating contact the Office of Race and
Pedagogy Initiative: [email protected] or Tel. 253-879-2435.
The schedule of workshops and events will be accessible from these Web
pages: www.facebook.com/2012YouthandFamilySummit and www.pugetsound.edu/raceandpedagogy
The Race and Pedagogy Initiative Community Partners Forum is a partnership organized by the Race and Pedagogy Initiative at University of Puget Sound. It has conducted a series of community events focused on race and
education since 2005. It builds alliances and collaborates with individuals and organizations to research, develop, promote, celebrate, and support programs aimed at reducing inequities in education. To be added to the group’s email list, which includes notices of regional events and program initiatives contact: [email protected].
Tweet this: 2012 Youth & Family Summit on race, education. Free, Sat. April 28 @univpugetsound, @tacomaschools @reachtacoma http://bit.ly/HMruTl
SEE "Youth and Family" tab on this website
Tacoma Public Schools Budget Calculator
An Opportunity for Community Input
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/District-Budget-Outlook-2012.aspx
Tacoma Public Schools are facing an estimated $12 million shortfall over the next four to five years, depending on state funding. District leaders and the Tacoma Board of Directors are working to figure out how to bridge that gap right now. You can join them by using the calculator to consider the options available. The services and programs you decide to cut or keep will impact the entire Tacoma community.
In order to balance the budget, you can choose to cut positions like special education teachers or guidance counselors, eliminate professional development for teachers and principals, or even close entire schools. You can also choose to raise revenue by increasing tuition fees where allowed, selling advertising and naming rights at school athletics facilities, or asking to voters to approve a new $5 million levy.
Do your best to solve the budget deficit, then share how you did it.
Are you up to the challenge?
Try the Tacoma Public Schools Budget Calculator today.
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/District-Budget-Outlook-2012.aspx
In order to balance the budget, you can choose to cut positions like special education teachers or guidance counselors, eliminate professional development for teachers and principals, or even close entire schools. You can also choose to raise revenue by increasing tuition fees where allowed, selling advertising and naming rights at school athletics facilities, or asking to voters to approve a new $5 million levy.
Do your best to solve the budget deficit, then share how you did it.
Are you up to the challenge?
Try the Tacoma Public Schools Budget Calculator today.
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/District-Budget-Outlook-2012.aspx
Tacoma tops list of Dorn's approved innovative plans
March 1, 2012 Contact: Dan Voelpel, director, Public Information, 253-571-1015, [email protected] Tacoma tops list of Dorn's approved innovative plans Page Content Tacoma Public Schools today became the State of Washington's first-ever, district-wide Innovation Zone.
In addition, Foss High School; First Creek, Baker and Stewart middle schools; and Bryant Montessori were among the 11 schools statewide that had their applications for "innovative plans" recommended by educational service districts and approved by State Superintendent Randy Dorn. He announced the list of 12 approved innovation plans today, and the district and schools will implement the plans beginning in the 2012-13 school year.
"I support teachers and administrators doing what it takes to make kids ready for a career or college," Dorn said. "I strongly encourage schools to be bold and creative when finding solutions that work for kids." These applications are a result of E2SHB 1546, which took effect on July 22, 2011, and tasks the state superintendent "to create a process for creating innovative schools, with a priority on models focused on the arts, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (A-STEM) that partner with business, industry and higher education to increase A-STEM pathways that use project-based or hands-on learning for elementary, middle, and high school students." Schools and communities that are struggling to improve student academic outcomes and close the educational opportunity gap were especially encouraged to participate. Innovation plans recommended by educational service districts and approved by Dorn include:
In addition, Foss High School; First Creek, Baker and Stewart middle schools; and Bryant Montessori were among the 11 schools statewide that had their applications for "innovative plans" recommended by educational service districts and approved by State Superintendent Randy Dorn. He announced the list of 12 approved innovation plans today, and the district and schools will implement the plans beginning in the 2012-13 school year.
"I support teachers and administrators doing what it takes to make kids ready for a career or college," Dorn said. "I strongly encourage schools to be bold and creative when finding solutions that work for kids." These applications are a result of E2SHB 1546, which took effect on July 22, 2011, and tasks the state superintendent "to create a process for creating innovative schools, with a priority on models focused on the arts, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (A-STEM) that partner with business, industry and higher education to increase A-STEM pathways that use project-based or hands-on learning for elementary, middle, and high school students." Schools and communities that are struggling to improve student academic outcomes and close the educational opportunity gap were especially encouraged to participate. Innovation plans recommended by educational service districts and approved by Dorn include:
- Tacoma Public Schools (district)
- Baker Middle School, Tacoma Public Schools
- First Creek Middle School, Tacoma Public Schools
- Stewart Middle School, Tacoma Public Schools
- Foss High School, Tacoma Public Schools
- Bryant Montessori, Tacoma Public Schools
- Riverpoint Academy, Mead School District
- Toppenish High School, Toppenish School District
- Vancouver School of STEM, Vancouver Public Schools
- River HomeLink, Battle Ground Public Schools
- Odyssey: The Essential School, Highline Public Schools
- Three Rivers HomeLink/STEM-Link Program, Richland School District
Kindergarten Registration
Tacoma Public Schools Will your child be ready to start kindergarten next fall? Kindergarten registration for the 2012-2013 school year will begin March 1 for Tacoma Public Schools. Follow this bitly link for registration information and links to necesssary forms.
http://bit.ly/AaGTwT Kindergarten www.tacoma.k12.wa.us
http://bit.ly/AaGTwT Kindergarten www.tacoma.k12.wa.us
Teacher Issues In Home Stretch
Tacoma Public Schools This collaboration of teachers and administrators has done some amazing work at designing a fair, effective, new system for governing teacher displacements, transfers and reassignments -- and building healthy new bonds of trust for the future.
Teacher issues in home stretch www.thenewstribune.com The Tacoma Public Schools committee charged with resolving one of the thorniest issues left from the September teacher strike is in the home stretch, headed for its March goal to deliver a new system for teacher transfers and reassignments.
Teacher issues in home stretch www.thenewstribune.com The Tacoma Public Schools committee charged with resolving one of the thorniest issues left from the September teacher strike is in the home stretch, headed for its March goal to deliver a new system for teacher transfers and reassignments.
The Twilight Academy – district’s first night school – opens at Foss High School
A new credit-retrieval program called Twilight Academy is now being offered to all qualified students throughout the state. The Twilight Academy is an online and classroom instructional program that provides face-to-face support and classroom instruction on core subjects to allow students who need to make up credits access those classes while staying on track to graduate. Certified instructors provide direct instruction in math and English in addition to staff-assisted online learning classes.
Attend the first student orientation to get more information on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 4 p.m. at Foss High School, Little Theater. This is the first year time Tacoma Public Schools has offered a night school. Twilight Academy aims to fulfill the needs of students who require a non-traditional learning environment. Because of the unique nature of online learning, students can work online at the Twilight Academy in a monitored environment where assistance is provided in real time. Certificated instructors provide direct instruction in math and English. Twilight Academy provides a chance for students to earn credits early and move ahead while providing an alternative for students who prefer something other than the traditional school setting. All instructors have valid state certification in their subject areas.
All Twilight Academy classes align with Tacoma Public Schools’ curriculum. All classes are taken for credit and will be reported to each student’s home high school in Tacoma or elsewhere. A student’s grade and credit will appear on his/her transcript that comes from his/her high school.
Twilight Academy provides a flexible, convenient and rich learning environment. Tacoma students and students in other districts 16 to 20 years of age may sign up for Twilight Academy classes. Each class will meet for one hour and 15 minutes, Monday through Thursday, between 4 and 8 p.m. The Twilight Academy is located at Foss High School, 2112 S. Tyler St., Tacoma. Registration starts now. Visit the Twilight Academy at Foss High School at 2112 S. Tyler St., e-mail the Twilight Academy coordinator at [email protected] or call the main office at 253-571-7300 to enroll or for more information.
February 16, 2012 Contact: Stacy Flores, Public Information Office, [email protected], 253-571-1015
Attend the first student orientation to get more information on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at 4 p.m. at Foss High School, Little Theater. This is the first year time Tacoma Public Schools has offered a night school. Twilight Academy aims to fulfill the needs of students who require a non-traditional learning environment. Because of the unique nature of online learning, students can work online at the Twilight Academy in a monitored environment where assistance is provided in real time. Certificated instructors provide direct instruction in math and English. Twilight Academy provides a chance for students to earn credits early and move ahead while providing an alternative for students who prefer something other than the traditional school setting. All instructors have valid state certification in their subject areas.
All Twilight Academy classes align with Tacoma Public Schools’ curriculum. All classes are taken for credit and will be reported to each student’s home high school in Tacoma or elsewhere. A student’s grade and credit will appear on his/her transcript that comes from his/her high school.
Twilight Academy provides a flexible, convenient and rich learning environment. Tacoma students and students in other districts 16 to 20 years of age may sign up for Twilight Academy classes. Each class will meet for one hour and 15 minutes, Monday through Thursday, between 4 and 8 p.m. The Twilight Academy is located at Foss High School, 2112 S. Tyler St., Tacoma. Registration starts now. Visit the Twilight Academy at Foss High School at 2112 S. Tyler St., e-mail the Twilight Academy coordinator at [email protected] or call the main office at 253-571-7300 to enroll or for more information.
February 16, 2012 Contact: Stacy Flores, Public Information Office, [email protected], 253-571-1015
Teacher evaluations pass Senate, 46-3
Post by Jordan Schrader / The News Tribune on Feb. 14, 2012 at 5:05 pm
Read more here: http://blog.thenewstribune.com/politics/2012/02/14/teacher-evaluations-pass-senate-46-3/#storylink=cpy
Read more here: http://blog.thenewstribune.com/politics/2012/02/14/teacher-evaluations-pass-senate-46-3/#storylink=cpy
Tacoma aims to spread innovation districtwide
Tacoma wants to capitalize on what school officials say is a growing reputation for originality by becoming Washington state’s first district-wide Innovative School Zone.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer The News Tribune Published: 02/05/12 12:05 am | Updated: 02/05/12 10:45 am
Read more here: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/02/05/2013233/city-aims-to-spread-innovation.html#storylink=cpy
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer The News Tribune Published: 02/05/12 12:05 am | Updated: 02/05/12 10:45 am
Read more here: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2012/02/05/2013233/city-aims-to-spread-innovation.html#storylink=cpy
Santorno takes over as Superintendent-Elect (Interim)
January 2, 2012 — Tacoma PublicSchools E-News www.tacomaschools.org
Today, Carla Santorno began her new appointed role as Superintendent-Elect (Interim). She will oversee the day-to-day operations of Tacoma Public Schools while Superintendent Art Jarvis completes several special projects prior to his departure at the end of the school year.
The Tacoma School Board voted Oct. 13 to appoint Deputy Superintendent Carla Santorno to lead the district for the next 18 months. Santorno has served as the district’s deputy superintendent since fall 2009.
Before coming to Tacoma, Santorno served as the chief academic officer for Seattle Public Schools for three years. Prior to that, she served in multiple roles in the Denver Public Schools system, beginning as a teacher in 1973 then later as staff developer, elementary principal and area superintendent over 34 K-12 schools.
This morning Santorno sent the following message to all school district staff members:
Dear Colleagues,
Happy New Year. I hope you had a relaxing and refreshing break.
The work we do is of the utmost importance to our students, their families and our community. As your new superintendent-elect (interim), I am committed to providing the support that you need to do your best work.
I want my tenure as your superintendent to be characterized as an era when we, as a district, worked as a finely tuned machine to:
· Improve the working conditions for all of us so we can all focus on and contribute to meeting important student outcomes;
· Significantly narrow the achievement gap between all student groups;
· Improve the performance of poorly performing and higher performing students;
· Significantly increase our high school graduation rates; and
· Increase parent and community engagement in the education of our students.
I am so looking forward to this work! My personal career experiences in complex urban systems have convinced me that accomplishing these goals is difficult but clearly achievable. Some of you have heard me say, “Hope is not a strategy.” It is not. I believe in data and data-driven decision making accompanied by culturally responsive teaching strategies adapted to the needs of each of our learners. Our strategic work plan will allow us to purposefully focus on our goals, outline objectives and continually measure our progress. All central office work will be directed toward supporting those who work closest to our students.
We have a community full of education believers who have proven they are willing to support us in achieving our goals. Mayor Strickland, as well as our city and community partners, is willing to work with us to realize the benefits of a world-class school system. Our time has come.
My first efforts will be directed toward getting to know you and Tacoma. I have scheduled city bus tours with neighborhood leaders, chats with teachers and other staff, visits to schools, small group meetings with principals and conversations with key individuals. I am looking forward to meeting with each of our division employees in your work space to get to know you and your role in our district. I will be forming several advisory groups to provide input on the progress of our work and to give me feedback on my performance and the district’s performance. Advisory groups will be role-related. Please think about your ability to donate time for this important purpose.
I expect you will find me a Superintendent with whom you can work. I have been a teacher, principal and central office administrator, and, best of all, I have raised four children – each with a different and distinct personality and outlook on life. Two made it through the traditional public school system, and two needed a different path. As a parent who believes in and preaches the power of education, I understand the importance of choice, differentiation and compassion for our students and their parents. Innovation and options must be the hallmarks of our brand.
This job at this time calls for a genuine, candid, sincere and real approach. That is me. I believe I will bring what is needed to the position. I am committed to hard work and dedication on behalf of the Tacoma community. You will find me unyielding in my convictions regarding serving our children. I will make hard decisions on behalf of students, am willing to admit my mistakes and yet confident that greater success is within our reach.
I look forward to working closely with each of you and ask that you truly, please join me in the pursuit of this important endeavor. The work is critical and urgent. It starts today.
Carla Santorno
Superintendent-Elect (Interim)
Today, Carla Santorno began her new appointed role as Superintendent-Elect (Interim). She will oversee the day-to-day operations of Tacoma Public Schools while Superintendent Art Jarvis completes several special projects prior to his departure at the end of the school year.
The Tacoma School Board voted Oct. 13 to appoint Deputy Superintendent Carla Santorno to lead the district for the next 18 months. Santorno has served as the district’s deputy superintendent since fall 2009.
Before coming to Tacoma, Santorno served as the chief academic officer for Seattle Public Schools for three years. Prior to that, she served in multiple roles in the Denver Public Schools system, beginning as a teacher in 1973 then later as staff developer, elementary principal and area superintendent over 34 K-12 schools.
This morning Santorno sent the following message to all school district staff members:
Dear Colleagues,
Happy New Year. I hope you had a relaxing and refreshing break.
The work we do is of the utmost importance to our students, their families and our community. As your new superintendent-elect (interim), I am committed to providing the support that you need to do your best work.
I want my tenure as your superintendent to be characterized as an era when we, as a district, worked as a finely tuned machine to:
· Improve the working conditions for all of us so we can all focus on and contribute to meeting important student outcomes;
· Significantly narrow the achievement gap between all student groups;
· Improve the performance of poorly performing and higher performing students;
· Significantly increase our high school graduation rates; and
· Increase parent and community engagement in the education of our students.
I am so looking forward to this work! My personal career experiences in complex urban systems have convinced me that accomplishing these goals is difficult but clearly achievable. Some of you have heard me say, “Hope is not a strategy.” It is not. I believe in data and data-driven decision making accompanied by culturally responsive teaching strategies adapted to the needs of each of our learners. Our strategic work plan will allow us to purposefully focus on our goals, outline objectives and continually measure our progress. All central office work will be directed toward supporting those who work closest to our students.
We have a community full of education believers who have proven they are willing to support us in achieving our goals. Mayor Strickland, as well as our city and community partners, is willing to work with us to realize the benefits of a world-class school system. Our time has come.
My first efforts will be directed toward getting to know you and Tacoma. I have scheduled city bus tours with neighborhood leaders, chats with teachers and other staff, visits to schools, small group meetings with principals and conversations with key individuals. I am looking forward to meeting with each of our division employees in your work space to get to know you and your role in our district. I will be forming several advisory groups to provide input on the progress of our work and to give me feedback on my performance and the district’s performance. Advisory groups will be role-related. Please think about your ability to donate time for this important purpose.
I expect you will find me a Superintendent with whom you can work. I have been a teacher, principal and central office administrator, and, best of all, I have raised four children – each with a different and distinct personality and outlook on life. Two made it through the traditional public school system, and two needed a different path. As a parent who believes in and preaches the power of education, I understand the importance of choice, differentiation and compassion for our students and their parents. Innovation and options must be the hallmarks of our brand.
This job at this time calls for a genuine, candid, sincere and real approach. That is me. I believe I will bring what is needed to the position. I am committed to hard work and dedication on behalf of the Tacoma community. You will find me unyielding in my convictions regarding serving our children. I will make hard decisions on behalf of students, am willing to admit my mistakes and yet confident that greater success is within our reach.
I look forward to working closely with each of you and ask that you truly, please join me in the pursuit of this important endeavor. The work is critical and urgent. It starts today.
Carla Santorno
Superintendent-Elect (Interim)
Tacoma School Board OKs interim leader's salary:
$225K a year When Carla Santorno gets a new job running Tacoma Public Schools’ daily operations in January, she’ll also start earning more money, members of the Tacoma School Board agreed Thursday.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO The News Tribune Published: 11/10/11 9:57 pm | Updated: 11/11/11 6:13 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/11/10/1901168/tacoma-school-board-oks-interim.html#ixzz1dnQVF9Ah
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/11/10/1901168/tacoma-school-board-oks-interim.html#ixzz1dnQVF9Ah
Public charter schools should be an option here
The state PTA has gotten tired of waiting for Superman.
THE NEWS TRIBUNE The News Tribune Published: 10/26/11 12:05 am Updated: 10/26/11 12:24 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/26/1880060/public-charter-schools-should.html#ixzz1buq94Yb2
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/26/1880060/public-charter-schools-should.html#ixzz1buq94Yb2
Tacoma teacher strike cost estimate: $566,000 The Tacoma teachers strike lasted eight days in September, but the school district is still tallying up the impacts, both financial and otherwise. Tacoma Public Schools’ most recent estimate of strike-related costs is about $566,000.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO The News Tribune Published: 10/25/11 3:25 am | Updated: 10/25/11 3:25 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/24/1878564/tacoma-teacher-strike-cost-estimate.html#ixzz1buozxX7S
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/24/1878564/tacoma-teacher-strike-cost-estimate.html#ixzz1buozxX7S
Tacoma School Board moves ahead with Santorno
The Tacoma School Board forged ahead Thursday night with a plan to name Deputy Superintendent Carla Santorno to two successive temporary posts that could put her in position to become Tacoma’s next school superintendent
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer The News Tribune Published: 10/14/11 12:05 am | Updated: 10/14/11 6:30 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/14/1864348/school-board-moves-ahead-with.html#ixzz1alnLk3TE
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/14/1864348/school-board-moves-ahead-with.html#ixzz1alnLk3TE
Tacoma deputy superintendent may get top job – temporarily
The Tacoma School District could have a new leader running day-to-day operations as early as January, if a plan favored by school board President Kurt Miller is adopted at the board's meeting Thursday.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO The News Tribune Published: 10/07/11 7:20 pm | Updated: 10/08/11 6:02 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/07/1856233/tacoma-deputy-superintendent-may.html#ixzz1afn1vhXH
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/10/07/1856233/tacoma-deputy-superintendent-may.html#ixzz1afn1vhXH
New HS Graduation Dates Announced
Tacoma Public School graduation ceremonies next spring has changed. In order to fulfill the graduation requirements of 175-instructional days for seniors, combined with the recent loss of eight school days, the district has had to push back the graduation ceremonies for all schools.
The new dates for graduations are as follows:
June 11th SOTA 6 p.m.
Pantages Theater located at 901 Broadway, Tacoma
June 12th Wilson 4:30 p.m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 12th Mount Tahoma 8 p.m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 13th Oakland 6 p. m.
Mount Tahoma located at 4634 S. 74th St., Tacoma
June 14th Foss 2:30 p. m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 14th Stadium 5:30 p. m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 14th Lincoln 8:30 p. m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
Additional information about changes to calendar dates can be found by clicking on the Calendars tab on the district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org or by calling your student’s school.
The new dates for graduations are as follows:
June 11th SOTA 6 p.m.
Pantages Theater located at 901 Broadway, Tacoma
June 12th Wilson 4:30 p.m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 12th Mount Tahoma 8 p.m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 13th Oakland 6 p. m.
Mount Tahoma located at 4634 S. 74th St., Tacoma
June 14th Foss 2:30 p. m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 14th Stadium 5:30 p. m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
June 14th Lincoln 8:30 p. m.
Tacoma Dome located at 2727 East D St., Tacoma
Additional information about changes to calendar dates can be found by clicking on the Calendars tab on the district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org or by calling your student’s school.
3-year deal ratified; Tacoma teachers will get full first paycheck
The Tacoma School Board on Wednesday ratified a three-year teacher contract in a unanimous vote, one week after leaders from the district and the teachers union reached a deal leading to the end of an eight-day strike
SARA SCHILLING; Staff writer SARA SCHILLING The News Tribune Published: 09/28/11 7:29 pm Updated: 09/28/11 7:29 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/28/1844128/3-year-deal-ratified-tacoma-teachers.html#ixzz1ZJhW2j7J
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/28/1844128/3-year-deal-ratified-tacoma-teachers.html#ixzz1ZJhW2j7J
Tacoma teachers likely will be paid on time
A special meeting of the Tacoma School Board on Wednesday will help resolve questions about pay for teachers who participated in an eight-day strike that ended Friday.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO Staff writer Published: 09/27/11 12:05 am | Updated: 09/27/11 6:51 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/27/1841465/tacoma-teachers-likely-will-be.html#ixzz1ZEBVm1fy
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/27/1841465/tacoma-teachers-likely-will-be.html#ixzz1ZEBVm1fy
Tacoma schools, union leaders look back at what prompted strike
Throughout the course of the eight-day Tacoma teachers strike, questions were raised by families, taxpayers and others about what was behind it.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer DEBBIE CAFAZZO Staff writer Published: 09/24/11 10:03 pm | Updated: 09/25/11 7:15 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/24/1838678/tacoma-schools-union-leaders-look.html#ixzz1Z7OgN7xz
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/24/1838678/tacoma-schools-union-leaders-look.html#ixzz1Z7OgN7xz
Teachers cry foul over district's delay of pay Just one day after Tacoma teachers voted to end their strike, their union and the school district were fighting again Friday
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Batch Data Processor Published: 09/24/11 12:05 am Updated: 09/24/11 12:24 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/24/1836967/teachers-cry-foul-over-districts.html#ixzz1Z7QAgbEQ
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/24/1836967/teachers-cry-foul-over-districts.html#ixzz1Z7QAgbEQ
Revised Tacoma Public Schools 2011-2012 calendar dates
Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association agreed to the following changes to the current school year calendar as part of the settlement of the collective bargaining agreement for teachers.
The strike by members of the TEA equaled the loss of eight (8) school days: (Sept. 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22). In addition, the district and TEA agreed that Nov. 23 – the day before the Thanksgiving Holiday – will now be a full day off (no school). (Prior to this change, Nov. 23 was an early release school day.) As a result of all the changes, the school year calendar required nine new school days. Those new school days are:
The strike by members of the TEA equaled the loss of eight (8) school days: (Sept. 13, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20, 21, 22). In addition, the district and TEA agreed that Nov. 23 – the day before the Thanksgiving Holiday – will now be a full day off (no school). (Prior to this change, Nov. 23 was an early release school day.) As a result of all the changes, the school year calendar required nine new school days. Those new school days are:
- Day 1 – Dec. 19
- Day 2 – Dec. 20
- Day 3 – Feb. 17
- Day 4 – May 25
- Day 5 – June 13
- Day 6 – June 14
- Day 7 – June 15
- Day 8 – June 18
- Day 9 – June 19 (early release day)
- The loss of days during first semester and the addition of days to the second semester means the start of the second semester will shift to from Jan. 27 to Feb. 6. That means Jan. 27 will now be a regular school day, and there will be no school for students on Feb. 6.
- Before these calendar changes, June 12 was an early release day because it was the last day of school. Now, June 12 will be a full day of school.
- Before these calendar changes, Dec. 16 was an early release day because it was the last day before winter break. Now that winter break starts later in December, Dec. 16 is a full day of school.
Makeup days set for Tacoma teachers, students Tacoma families with school-age kids, prepare for a shorter winter vacation and a longer wait until summer. Does it make you feel better to know you’ll get a longer Thanksgiving break?
News Tribune staff Batch Data Processor Published: 09/23/11 12:05 am | Updated: 09/23/11 4:49 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/23/1836028/makeup-days-set-hey-kids-at-least.html#ixzz1Yn3rG7me
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/23/1836028/makeup-days-set-hey-kids-at-least.html#ixzz1Yn3rG7me
Tacoma teachers, students return to class today
School resumes this morning at its regular times at more than 50 schools citywide.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Batch Data Processor Published: 09/23/11 4:33 am | Updated: 09/23/11 8:08 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/23/1836031/teachers-students-return-to-class.html#ixzz1Yn2mYhZD
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/23/1836031/teachers-students-return-to-class.html#ixzz1Yn2mYhZD
Final contract under review for approval
The final text of the new, three-year contract agreement between Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association was not released Thursday. Officials said it must still must be edited, reviewed by both sides and approved by the school board
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Batch Data Processor Published: 09/23/11 12:05 am Updated: 09/23/11 12:23 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/23/1836093/final-contract-under-review-for.html#ixzz1Yn5oor6e
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/23/1836093/final-contract-under-review-for.html#ixzz1Yn5oor6e
Comparison-TPS-TEA-bargaining-proposals
http://www.tacoma.k12.wa.us/information/Pages/A-Comparison-TPS-TEA-bargaining-proposals.aspx
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of the latest proposals offered at the bargaining table between Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association on the three main unresolved issues.
The following table provides a side-by-side comparison of the latest proposals offered at the bargaining table between Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association on the three main unresolved issues.
Striking Tacoma teachers win huge victory: 99 percent vote YES on new contract
In Contract News on September 22, 2011 at 3:28 pm
By an incredible 99 percent YES vote, Tacoma teachers have ratified a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with the Tacoma School Board. The ratification vote ends Tacoma teachers’ 10-day strike, which began Sept. 13.
The final vote was 1,683 YES, 15 NO and three invalid ballots. Classes will resume Friday throughout the Tacoma School District.
Tacoma teachers said the contract is a huge victory for them and their students. School district administrators and the Tacoma School Board proposed increasing class sizes, cutting teacher pay and imposing subjective and potentially discriminatory policies regarding teacher staffing decisions. Unwilling to continue working under an expired contract, and refusing to concede on those issues, 87 percent of Tacoma teachers voted to strike Sept. 12.
“We stood strong, we stood united and we stood for what was right,” said Andy Coons, Tacoma Education Association president. “It hasn’t been easy. It has been a long process. We’ve been on strike for 10 days. We stood up to a Tacoma School Board and central office administration that had lost respect for their teachers.”
Here are the highlights of the new contract:
Students and teachers will make up the strike days via two scheduled snow days, a shortened winter break and adding days to the end of the school year, which will end June 19.
Tacoma teachers and the school board reached a tentative contract agreement after Gov. Chris Gregoire called both sides to her office and personally facilitated negotiations. Last week, Tacoma teachers voted overwhelmingly to continue striking despite a superior court order.
www.weteachtacoma.com
The final vote was 1,683 YES, 15 NO and three invalid ballots. Classes will resume Friday throughout the Tacoma School District.
Tacoma teachers said the contract is a huge victory for them and their students. School district administrators and the Tacoma School Board proposed increasing class sizes, cutting teacher pay and imposing subjective and potentially discriminatory policies regarding teacher staffing decisions. Unwilling to continue working under an expired contract, and refusing to concede on those issues, 87 percent of Tacoma teachers voted to strike Sept. 12.
“We stood strong, we stood united and we stood for what was right,” said Andy Coons, Tacoma Education Association president. “It hasn’t been easy. It has been a long process. We’ve been on strike for 10 days. We stood up to a Tacoma School Board and central office administration that had lost respect for their teachers.”
Here are the highlights of the new contract:
- Protects existing class-size/caseload limits for all TEA certificated members
- Protects existing salary scheduling; one less building optional day
- Protects current displacement language for this year; committee with equal representation from TEA and administration will study and implement new policy using objective and appropriate criteria in the 2012-13 school year. Any new policy must be approved by two-thirds of the committee members.
Students and teachers will make up the strike days via two scheduled snow days, a shortened winter break and adding days to the end of the school year, which will end June 19.
Tacoma teachers and the school board reached a tentative contract agreement after Gov. Chris Gregoire called both sides to her office and personally facilitated negotiations. Last week, Tacoma teachers voted overwhelmingly to continue striking despite a superior court order.
www.weteachtacoma.com
Contract ratified; Tacoma teacher strike over Tacoma teachers voted today to end a strike that began last week. The vote was 98.9 percent in favor of the new contract. Classes will resume Friday.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/22/1835392/contract-ratified-tacoma-teacher.html#ixzz1YiUX5B3Z
STAFF REPORT STAFF REPORT The News Tribune Published: 09/22/11 1:18 pm | Updated: 09/22/11 1:46 pm
MAKE-UP DAYS: Tacoma School District unveils post-strike calendar
MAKE-UP DAYS: Tacoma School District unveils post-strike calendar
District, teachers' union vote to ratify new agreement; school will resume tomorrow, Fri., Sept. 23
Bargaining teams from Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association (TEA), with help from Gov. Chris Gregoire, reached a tentative agreement late Wednesday night on a new collective bargaining agreement. Today, members of the TEA met at Mount Tahoma High School and voted in favor of the new collective bargaining agreement. School will resume tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 23, at its normal schedule. All Tacoma Public Schools will be closed for students and teachers today, Sept. 22. The Tacoma School Board meeting this evening, Sept. 22, is also canceled. Click on the “Updates on Labor Negotiations with Teachers” banner for details, updates and information.
www.tacomaschools.org
www.tacomaschools.org
Gov. brokers deal to end Tacoma teachers strike
By MIKE BAKER Associated Press Published: Sep 21, 2011 at 10:41 PM PDT Last Updated: Sep 21, 2011 at 11:23 PM PDT
From left, Tacoma Public Schools Superintendent Art Jarvis, Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire, and Andy Coons, president of the Tacoma Education Association, announce Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, that a tentative agreement has been reached in the Tacoma teachers strike, following a negotiating session in Gregoire's office at the Capitol in Olympia, Wash
See Associated Press Article and KOMO News Video at : http://www.komonews.com/news/local/130329673.html
See Associated Press Article and KOMO News Video at : http://www.komonews.com/news/local/130329673.html
Tacoma teachers reach tentative agreement with Tacoma School Board
In Contract News on September 21, 2011 at 10:22 pm
Tacoma teachers have reached a tentative contract agreement with the Tacoma School Board.
Classes in Tacoma are cancelled Thursday, Sept. 22. Members of the Tacoma Education Association will be meeting at noon at Mount Tahoma High School for a ratification vote. TEA members should not attend their scheduled picket lines, nor should they go to work.
Tacoma teachers have been on strike since Sept. 13.
Classes in Tacoma are cancelled Thursday, Sept. 22. Members of the Tacoma Education Association will be meeting at noon at Mount Tahoma High School for a ratification vote. TEA members should not attend their scheduled picket lines, nor should they go to work.
Tacoma teachers have been on strike since Sept. 13.
Gregoire praises Tacoma school deal as 'innovative' but details not released
A seven-day teachers strike may be on the verge of ending as district officials and the teachers union announced an agreement shortly before 10 p.m.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/21/1834421/deal-reached-between-district.html#ixzz1Yf0q4hNS
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; staff writer The News Tribune Published: 09/21/11 9:59 pm | Updated: 09/21/11 11:04 pm
Gov. brokers deal to end Wash. teachers strike Read more: http://www.theolympian.com/2011/09/21/1808763/gov-orders-new-talks-in-tacoma.html#ixzz1YezhqWsA
By MIKE BAKER | Associated Press • Published September 21, 2011
Contract talks move to Olympia
In Contract News on September 21, 2011 at 2:56 pm
Negotiators for the Tacoma Education Association and the Tacoma School Board will be meeting with Gov. Chris Gregoire in Olympia this afternoon.
Negotiations earlier today in Tacoma did not produce a settlement. Last night, negotiators for the school district administration walked out on negotiations, even though Tacoma teachers believed a settlement was near.
Tacoma teachers continue to offer proposals involving teacher transfer policies, teacher pay and class sizes. Today is the ninth day Tacoma teachers have been on strike.
Whenever a tentative contract agreement is reached, teachers will meet to take a ratification vote.
Read The News Tribune story describing how Tacoma administration negotiators walked out of contract talks with teachers.
Watch the KOMO TV story, in which a district administrator accuses Tacoma teachers of holding their students “hostage.”
Watch the KIRO TV story.
Listen to Dori Monson on KIRO radio discuss the Tacoma teachers’ strike.
www.weteachtacoma.org
Negotiations earlier today in Tacoma did not produce a settlement. Last night, negotiators for the school district administration walked out on negotiations, even though Tacoma teachers believed a settlement was near.
Tacoma teachers continue to offer proposals involving teacher transfer policies, teacher pay and class sizes. Today is the ninth day Tacoma teachers have been on strike.
Whenever a tentative contract agreement is reached, teachers will meet to take a ratification vote.
Read The News Tribune story describing how Tacoma administration negotiators walked out of contract talks with teachers.
Watch the KOMO TV story, in which a district administrator accuses Tacoma teachers of holding their students “hostage.”
Watch the KIRO TV story.
Listen to Dori Monson on KIRO radio discuss the Tacoma teachers’ strike.
www.weteachtacoma.org
Gregoire intercedes in Tacoma teachers strike The union for striking Tacoma teachers said school district negotiators walked away from the table Tuesday night, but both sides have agreed to bargain again, Gov. Chris Gregoire said Wednesday morning.
Originally published September 21, 2011 at 4:47 AM | Page modified September 21, 2011 at 9:09 AM
The Associated Press Tacoma Wa Read More:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2016267478_apwateacherstrike.html
The Associated Press Tacoma Wa Read More:
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2016267478_apwateacherstrike.html
Volunteers make sandwiches for Tacoma students affected by teacher strike
About 20 Tacoma teachers and other striking staff joined volunteers today to prepare sandwiches for kids who depend on free and reduced-price meals at schools they’ve not attended for several days.
By Stephanie Kim; Staff writer Stephanie Kim Staff writer Published: 09/21/11 5:27 pm | Updated: 09/21/11 5:27 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/21/1834182/volunteers-make-sandwiches-for.html#ixzz1YfDK2JN3
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/21/1834182/volunteers-make-sandwiches-for.html#ixzz1YfDK2JN3
Legislature's decisions played major role in fueling schools' labor tensions
A News Tribune article (9-14) recently explored the role of legislators in the teachers’ strike in Tacoma School District. State Sen. Steve Conway, D-Tacoma, was quoted as saying, “You can’t blame the Legisla-ture.”
PATTI BANKS PATTI BANKS Batch Data Processor Published: 09/21/11 12:05 am Updated: 09/21/11 12:23 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/21/1833012/legislatures-decisions-played.html#ixzz1Yd9jMvAk
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/21/1833012/legislatures-decisions-played.html#ixzz1Yd9jMvAk
Few Tacoma students switching to different districts amid strike
School districts and private schools in the South Sound area say they have not seen a significant increase in transfer-student enrollment since Tacoma teachers went on strike Sept. 13.
STEPHANIE KIM; Staff writer STEPHANIE KIM Staff writer Published: 09/20/11 8:00 pm Updated: 09/20/11 8:00 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/20/1832686/few-tacoma-students-switching.html#ixzz1Yd8zyRGw
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/20/1832686/few-tacoma-students-switching.html#ixzz1Yd8zyRGw
The latest Tacoma strike news
In Contract Newson September 20, 2011 at 2:31 pm
Here’s a YouTube video showing strong student support for striking Tacoma teachers.
Read this story: “District says it has no plans to replace striking Tacoma teachers”
Watch this KOMO TV story.
The latest Associated Press story.
Tacoma School Board candidates speak out on the strike (even if the current school board members won’t).
St. Leo’s helps out our community’s kids.
Still negotiating in good faith In Contract News on September 20, 2011 at 12:40 am
Bargaining again Tuesday afternoon In Contract News on September 20, 2011 at 8:46 am
www.weteachtacoma.org
Bargaining again Tuesday afternoon In Contract News on September 20, 2011 at 8:46 am
www.weteachtacoma.org
9/20/11 Message from Tacoma Public Schools
All Tacoma Public Schools are closed for students on Wednesday, September 21st, due to insufficient school staffing. Once again, due to the strike by members of the Tacoma Education Association, there will be no school for students on Wednesday, September 21st.
Updates on Labor Negotiations with Teachers
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
Updates on Labor Negotiations with Teachers
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
Teacher talks continue Striking
Tacoma teachers pedaled around the city on a “bike strike” Monday, while a Pierce County judge threatened to authorize hiring replacement workers in an effort to end a standoff that has closed schools for a sixth day as of this morning
DEBBIE CAFAZZO AND ADAM LYNN; Staff writers Published: 09/20/1112:05 am | Updated: 09/20/11 7:33 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/20/1831602/teacher-talks-continue.html#ixzz1YYFmt5zw
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/20/1831602/teacher-talks-continue.html#ixzz1YYFmt5zw
More questions and answers about the Tacoma teacher strike
Following are questions and answers about the strike.
Has there been a decision on how students and teachers will make up for school days lost to the strike? Will teachers be paid during the strike? Are non-teaching employees being paid during the strike? How much has the district spent on bargaining assistance from a Washington Employers Association negotiator?
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 09/19/11 9:20 pm Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/19/1831484/more-questions-and-answers-about.html#ixzz1YT4BWBM7
Positive development in Tacoma schools rift: Unused perishable food will go to the needy Food workers from Tacoma Public Schools loaded up their personal cars with pounds of perishable produce and delivered them Monday to a central location for donation to the Emergency Food Network.
KATHLEEN COOPER; Staff writer Published: 09/19/11 7:08 pm | Updated: 09/19/11 9:24 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/19/1831363/positive-development-in-tacoma.html#ixzz1YT0ESFtY
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/19/1831363/positive-development-in-tacoma.html#ixzz1YT0ESFtY
Strike-breaking teachers may be OK'd in Tacoma; class canceled Tuesday
A Pierce County Superior Court judge said in court this morning he might authorize the Tacoma School District to hire replacement workers if striking teachers do not return to work as he ordered Wednesday. In the meantime, it was announced that there will be no school for Tacoma students again Tuesday.
ADAM LYNN; staff writer Published: 09/19/1110:36 am | Updated: 09/19/11 4:59 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/19/1830783/judge-might-ok-replacement-teachers.html#ixzz1YT2ZuZz2
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/19/1830783/judge-might-ok-replacement-teachers.html#ixzz1YT2ZuZz2
9/19/11: Message from Tacoma Public Schools
This is a message for parents of students in Tacoma Public Schools:
All Tacoma Public Schools are closed for students on Tuesday, September 20th, due to insufficient school staffing. Once again, due to the strike by members of the Tacoma Education Association, there will be no school for students on Tuesday, September 20th. Thank you.
All Tacoma Public Schools are closed for students on Tuesday, September 20th, due to insufficient school staffing. Once again, due to the strike by members of the Tacoma Education Association, there will be no school for students on Tuesday, September 20th. Thank you.
Updates on Labor Negotiations with Teachers
Bargaining Update for Monday, Sept. 19
Bargaining Update for Sunday, Sept. 18
See: http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
Bargaining Update for Sunday, Sept. 18
See: http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
Child care resources available in wake of teacher's strike
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/19/1830245/news-brief-19strikekidsb.html#ixzz1YPfYYz5w
Tacoma teacher union, administrators bargain late into the evening
A union bargaining team brought overnight kits to contract talks with Tacoma Public Schools on Saturday as they sought to resolve a teacher strike before it consumes a second week of class. Both sides negotiated till about midnight, and then resumed talks at 10 a.m. Sunday.
ADAM ASHTON; Staff writer Published: 09/17/11 9:19 pm | Updated: 09/18/1112:03 pm
http://weteachtacoma.org/
Update from the bargaining table
In Contract News on September 18, 2011 at 9:48 pm
Administration’s outside negotiator has no motivation to get a settlement
In Contract News on September 18, 2011 at 4:58 pm
Time to set the record straight: Current proposals
In Contract News on September 16, 2011 at 6:42 pm
In Contract News on September 18, 2011 at 9:48 pm
Administration’s outside negotiator has no motivation to get a settlement
In Contract News on September 18, 2011 at 4:58 pm
Time to set the record straight: Current proposals
In Contract News on September 16, 2011 at 6:42 pm
http://weteachtacoma.org/
Tacoma teachers offer new proposal; school board offers nothing In Contract Newson September 15, 2011 at 6:49 pm
More bad faith bargaining !In Contract News on September 16, 2011 at 5:24 pm
Do they get the message? In Contract News on September 15, 2011 at 4:29 pm
More bad faith bargaining !In Contract News on September 16, 2011 at 5:24 pm
Do they get the message? In Contract News on September 15, 2011 at 4:29 pm
Updates on Labor Negotiations with Teachers
For today, Sept. 16 Due to the TEA announcement that their members will remain on strike Monday, all Tacoma Public Schools will be closed Monday, September 19th, due to insufficient school staffing.
Statement of Superintendent Art Jarvis on Judge Chushcoff's ruling:
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
Statement of Superintendent Art Jarvis on Judge Chushcoff's ruling:
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
Striking Tacoma's teachers should be fined Tacoma teachers defying a Pierce County Superior Court judge's order to return to work should be fined until they do. It's September and the academic calendar points to the classroom, not the picket line arguing over last year's legislative budget cuts.
Defiant Tacoma teachers to stay on strike
Striking Tacoma teachers remain off the job despite a court order that told them to report for work, and schools will be closed for a fourth straight day as the teachers union and school district prepare for a courtroom faceoff on Friday By Debbie Cafazzo The News Tribune
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2016215047_teacherstrike16m.html
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2016215047_teacherstrike16m.html
Court hearing, bargaining session and rally will keep both sides in Tacoma teacher strike busy Striking Tacoma teachers remain off the job despite a court order that told them to report for work, and schools are closed for a fourth straight day. Hundreds of strike supporters are rallying outside the district headquarters this morning as the two sides prepare for a courtroom face-off today.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 09/15/1110:22 pm | Updated: 09/16/1112:17 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1826115/court-hearing-bargaining-session.html#ixzz1Y9a9618x
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1826115/court-hearing-bargaining-session.html#ixzz1Y9a9618x
Students from throughout Tacoma rally near school district building to support teachers
High school students from throughout Tacoma marched Thursday around the school district’s downtown administration building. Meanwhile, in the Hilltop neighborhood, students of all ages studied, played and went through the motions of a normal school day.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO AND STEPHANIE KIM; Staff writers Published: 09/15/11 7:04 pm | Updated: 09/15/11 8:40 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825891/students-from-throughout-tacoma.html#ixzz1Y5rt0law
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825891/students-from-throughout-tacoma.html#ixzz1Y5rt0law
Tacoma teachers offer new proposal; school board offers nothing
In Contract News on September 15, 2011 at 6:49 pm
Tacoma teachers came to the bargaining table with a new compromise contract proposal today.
After keeping teachers waiting 2.5 hours past the scheduled 1:30 pm start time, negotiators for the Tacoma School Board did not offer a proposal. They also failed to offer a response to the teachers’ proposal.
Negotiations ended at 5 pm.
The teachers offered a new proposal on the issue of teacher pay. The school board has proposed teacher pay cuts.
Wednesday, Judge Bryan Chushcoff ordered Tacoma teachers and the Tacoma School Board to negotiate in good faith as soon as reasonably possible. Tacoma teachers complied. We can’t say the same for the Tacoma School Board.
Negotiations are scheduled for 9:30 am Friday morning. Tacoma teachers and supporters will picket at the Tacoma Public Schools central administration building beginning at 6 am Friday.
After keeping teachers waiting 2.5 hours past the scheduled 1:30 pm start time, negotiators for the Tacoma School Board did not offer a proposal. They also failed to offer a response to the teachers’ proposal.
Negotiations ended at 5 pm.
The teachers offered a new proposal on the issue of teacher pay. The school board has proposed teacher pay cuts.
Wednesday, Judge Bryan Chushcoff ordered Tacoma teachers and the Tacoma School Board to negotiate in good faith as soon as reasonably possible. Tacoma teachers complied. We can’t say the same for the Tacoma School Board.
Negotiations are scheduled for 9:30 am Friday morning. Tacoma teachers and supporters will picket at the Tacoma Public Schools central administration building beginning at 6 am Friday.
Do they get the message?
In Contract News on September 15, 2011 at 4:29 pm
Will Kurt Miller and the Tacoma School Board get the message now? By a vote of 93.2 percent, Tacoma teachers voted this afternoon to continue striking.
All Tacoma Public Schools will be closed tomorrow for a fourth day.
Tacoma teachers are seeking a fair contract settlement that honors teachers and is focused on what’s best for their students.
The Tacoma School Board has proposed increasing class sizes, cutting teacher pay and implementing flawed policies for determining how teachers are assigned and transferred.
Tacoma teachers want to protect class sizes, and they have proposed staffing policies that provide flexibility for administrators but are consistent and fair to teachers. So far, the board’s negotiators have rejected the teachers’ proposals.
Yesterday, a Pierce County Superior Court judge ordered the Tacoma School Board’s negotiators to meet with teacher negotiators and to bargain in good faith as soon as possible. The two sides began meeting Thursday at 1:30 p.m. Teachers expect the Tacoma School Board and President Kurt Miller to come to the table with a compromise proposal that they can ratify.
Tacoma teachers will picket the Tacoma Public Schools Central Administration Building beginning at 8 a.m. Friday morning.
On Sept. 12, teachers voted to strike by a vote of 87 percent of the entire teacher membership of the Tacoma Education Association.
All Tacoma Public Schools will be closed tomorrow for a fourth day.
Tacoma teachers are seeking a fair contract settlement that honors teachers and is focused on what’s best for their students.
The Tacoma School Board has proposed increasing class sizes, cutting teacher pay and implementing flawed policies for determining how teachers are assigned and transferred.
Tacoma teachers want to protect class sizes, and they have proposed staffing policies that provide flexibility for administrators but are consistent and fair to teachers. So far, the board’s negotiators have rejected the teachers’ proposals.
Yesterday, a Pierce County Superior Court judge ordered the Tacoma School Board’s negotiators to meet with teacher negotiators and to bargain in good faith as soon as possible. The two sides began meeting Thursday at 1:30 p.m. Teachers expect the Tacoma School Board and President Kurt Miller to come to the table with a compromise proposal that they can ratify.
Tacoma teachers will picket the Tacoma Public Schools Central Administration Building beginning at 8 a.m. Friday morning.
On Sept. 12, teachers voted to strike by a vote of 87 percent of the entire teacher membership of the Tacoma Education Association.
9/15/11@ 4:15 pm
Tacoma Public Schools announces
School closed Friday, September 16
After learning that teachers declared their intention to remain on strike, Superintendent Art Jarvis announced that all Tacoma Public Schools will be closed tomorrow, Friday, September 16th, due to insufficient school staffing.
The Tacoma School District and TEA bargaining teams met today with a state mediator to resume negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement.
Once again, all Tacoma Public Schools will be closed tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 16 due to insufficient staffing.
Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org, follow us on facebook, or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates.
The Tacoma School District and TEA bargaining teams met today with a state mediator to resume negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement.
Once again, all Tacoma Public Schools will be closed tomorrow, Friday, Sept. 16 due to insufficient staffing.
Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org, follow us on facebook, or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates.
Metro parks offers drop-in activities, day camp during strike
Metro Parks Tacoma is offering day care options for families during the Tacoma teachers' strike
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825333/metro-parks-offers-drop-in-activities.html#ixzz1Y5vHK8nY
The News Tribune Published: 09/15/11 11:15 am
Will Kurt Miller negotiate in good faith?
In Contract News on September 15, 2011 at 10:22 am
Tacoma teachers will meet at 1:30 p.m. today at the Tacoma Dome to decide their next steps.
At the same time, as ordered by Judge Bryan Chushcoff, negotiators for the Tacoma School Board will be returning to the bargaining table with Tacoma teachers.
Tacoma teachers have been urging the board’s negotiators to bargain in good faith and propose a fair settlement since negotiations began May 31. The Tacoma School Board has proposed increasing class sizes, cutting teacher pay and implementing flawed policies for determining how teachers are assigned and transferred.
Tacoma teachers want to protect class sizes, and they have proposed staffing policies that provide flexibility for administrators but are consistent and fair to teachers. So far, the board’s negotiators have rejected the teachers’ proposals.
Yesterday, school district negotiators refused to attend a scheduled negotiation session. Now, with the judge’s order, Tacoma teachers expect the board to listen to their concerns about class sizes and school staffing policies.
Led by President Kurt Miller, the Tacoma School Board has the power and responsibility to settle this by working with Tacoma teachers on a compromise that meets the needs of our students.
As Judge Chushcoff said in court, “You gotta work with people and listen to them.”
At the same time, as ordered by Judge Bryan Chushcoff, negotiators for the Tacoma School Board will be returning to the bargaining table with Tacoma teachers.
Tacoma teachers have been urging the board’s negotiators to bargain in good faith and propose a fair settlement since negotiations began May 31. The Tacoma School Board has proposed increasing class sizes, cutting teacher pay and implementing flawed policies for determining how teachers are assigned and transferred.
Tacoma teachers want to protect class sizes, and they have proposed staffing policies that provide flexibility for administrators but are consistent and fair to teachers. So far, the board’s negotiators have rejected the teachers’ proposals.
Yesterday, school district negotiators refused to attend a scheduled negotiation session. Now, with the judge’s order, Tacoma teachers expect the board to listen to their concerns about class sizes and school staffing policies.
Led by President Kurt Miller, the Tacoma School Board has the power and responsibility to settle this by working with Tacoma teachers on a compromise that meets the needs of our students.
As Judge Chushcoff said in court, “You gotta work with people and listen to them.”
Tacoma teachers defy court order, continue strike By Patrick Oppmann, CNN cnnAuthor = "By Patrick Oppmann, CNN'September 15, 2011 -- 12:37
Lawmakers are unlikely to write a teacher-strike ban into law
The Washington Legislature in the past has looked at how to prevent teacher strikes, but hasn’t taken action to do so. And it doesn’t appear inclined now after a two-day walkout in Tacoma.
JORDAN SCHRADER; Staff writer Published: 09/14/11 9:29 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/14/1824617/lawmakers-are-unlikely-to-write.html#ixzz1Y3L5W9xF
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/14/1824617/lawmakers-are-unlikely-to-write.html#ixzz1Y3L5W9xF
September 15, 2011 School Closed Today due to Insufficient School Staffing
The decision has just been made that school has been canceled today, Thursday, September 15th. All Tacoma Public Schools are closed today due to insufficient school staffing.
Yesterday, Pierce County Superior Court Judge Bryan Chushcoff issued a temporary restraining order against the strike by members of the Tacoma Education Association – ordering teachers back into their classrooms.
We understand that this time of uncertainty has been difficult, and we ask for your patience as we work to resolve the outstanding labor issues.
Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org, follow us on Facebook or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates.
Once again, all Tacoma Public Schools are closed today due to insufficient staffing.
Yesterday, Pierce County Superior Court Judge Bryan Chushcoff issued a temporary restraining order against the strike by members of the Tacoma Education Association – ordering teachers back into their classrooms.
We understand that this time of uncertainty has been difficult, and we ask for your patience as we work to resolve the outstanding labor issues.
Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org, follow us on Facebook or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates.
Once again, all Tacoma Public Schools are closed today due to insufficient staffing.
District calls off school due to continuing strike The Tacoma School District has called off school due to insufficient staffing as teachers stay on strike despite a judge's order.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO AND ADAM ASHTON; Staff writers Published: 09/15/11 7:55 am | Updated: 09/15/11 7:59 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825089/district-calls-off-school-due.html#ixzz1Y29dg5XV
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825089/district-calls-off-school-due.html#ixzz1Y29dg5XV
Tacoma teachers on picket line despite judge's order
About 50 teachers are picketing at Wilson High School this morning despite a judge's order that they return to work today. The teachers say they expect most of their colleagues to join them on the picket lines for a third day in their standoff with Tacoma Public Schools
ADAM ASHTON; staff writer Published: 09/15/11 7:23 am | Updated: 09/15/11 7:30 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825065/teachers-on-picket-line-despite.html#ixzz1Y284v7Fm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825065/teachers-on-picket-line-despite.html#ixzz1Y284v7Fm
WA teachers defy judge orders, continue to strike
Teachers in Washington state's third-largest school district are defying a judge's order and will continue to strike, forcing the cancellation of classes.
By DONNA GORDON BLANKINSHIP; Associated Press Published: 09/15/11 7:52 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825099/wa-teachers-defy-judge-orders.html#ixzz1Y2BobqqS
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/15/1825099/wa-teachers-defy-judge-orders.html#ixzz1Y2BobqqS
Tacoma teachers: Report to your picket locations Thursday morning
In Contract News on September 14, 2011 at 7:22 pm
Tacoma teachers are meeting at their regular picket line locations as scheduled Thursday morning. They will receive additional information in the morning from their picket captains regarding contract negotiations.
Tacoma teachers will decide for themselves what to do next.
Today, Judge Bryan Chushcoff ordered, “The parties (the TEA and administration bargaining teams) are ordered to return as soon as practical to collectively bargain and should continue to bargain in good faith throughout the term of this temporary restraining order.”
“This is great news,” said TEA President Andy Coons. “As we’ve said all along, the settlement has to occur at the bargaining table. Negotiations are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. tomorrow. We urge the Tacoma School Board and President Kurt Miller to direct their negotiators to settle a fair contract with Tacoma teachers as soon as possible.”
Tacoma teachers will decide for themselves what to do next.
Today, Judge Bryan Chushcoff ordered, “The parties (the TEA and administration bargaining teams) are ordered to return as soon as practical to collectively bargain and should continue to bargain in good faith throughout the term of this temporary restraining order.”
“This is great news,” said TEA President Andy Coons. “As we’ve said all along, the settlement has to occur at the bargaining table. Negotiations are scheduled for 1:30 p.m. tomorrow. We urge the Tacoma School Board and President Kurt Miller to direct their negotiators to settle a fair contract with Tacoma teachers as soon as possible.”
Judge to issue restraining order in strike
September 14, 12:43 PM - Superior Court Judge Bryan Chushcoff said he intends to issue a temporary restraining order on striking Tacoma teachers until a hearing is held on the issue of the strike's legality. No word yet on whether school will resume Thursday.
• DISPUTE: Tacoma teacher strike will go to court today
• PICKET LINE: Teachers and families have mixed emotions about strike
• Q&A: Negotiations, makeup days, teacher pay, strike legality
• REASONS: Contract rift hinges on teacher reassignments
• SPORTS: School district says strike won't affect high school athletics
• PHOTO GALLERY: Tacoma teachers walk the line; school canceled
• VIDEO: Teachers take to the picket lines Tuesday morning
http://www.thenewstribune.com/
• DISPUTE: Tacoma teacher strike will go to court today
• PICKET LINE: Teachers and families have mixed emotions about strike
• Q&A: Negotiations, makeup days, teacher pay, strike legality
• REASONS: Contract rift hinges on teacher reassignments
• SPORTS: School district says strike won't affect high school athletics
• PHOTO GALLERY: Tacoma teachers walk the line; school canceled
• VIDEO: Teachers take to the picket lines Tuesday morning
http://www.thenewstribune.com/
9/13 Message from Tacoma Schools
The superintendent has made the decision to cancel school on Wednesday, Sept. 14. Earlier today, the school district's General Counsel Shannon McMinimee filed paperwork in Pierce County Superior Court seeking a court injunction to declare the strike by teachers illegal and asking the court to order teachers back to work. There’s a court hearing on this issue Wednesday at 9 a.m.
Athletic practices and games for high school students will continue at this time. Practice times may be altered, and students participating in athletics should expect to receive further information from their coaches.
Please note: Middle school student athletics and activities, such as Back-to-School events, will be postponed.
We understand that this time of uncertainty has been difficult, and we ask for your patience as we work to resolve this labor issue. As you can see from today's actions, The Tacoma School District will use all available remedies to bring a speedy end to this strike.
Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates. Thank you.
Athletic practices and games for high school students will continue at this time. Practice times may be altered, and students participating in athletics should expect to receive further information from their coaches.
Please note: Middle school student athletics and activities, such as Back-to-School events, will be postponed.
We understand that this time of uncertainty has been difficult, and we ask for your patience as we work to resolve this labor issue. As you can see from today's actions, The Tacoma School District will use all available remedies to bring a speedy end to this strike.
Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates. Thank you.
Youth clubs offer child care at 5 sites, but will it be enough?
Two of Tacoma’s largest youth-service organizations will expand their hours for as long as Tacoma Public Schools teachers are on strike and some 28,000 students are not in school buildings.
STEPHANIE KIM; Staff writer Published: 09/13/1112:05 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/13/1821882/youth-clubs-offer-child-care-at.html#ixzz1XquCTtqN
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/13/1821882/youth-clubs-offer-child-care-at.html#ixzz1XquCTtqN
Q&A: Tacoma teacher pay, strike legality Questions and answers about the Tacoma teacher contract dispute and the legality of teacher strikes.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; staff writer Published: 09/12/1111:28 am | Updated: 09/12/1111:32 am
How much do Tacoma teachers earn? How does this compare to other districts?
What kind of pay increases have Tacoma teachers and administrators experienced in recent years?
Are teacher strikes legal?
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/12/1821031/qa-tacoma-teacher-pay-strike-legality.html#ixzz1XqyELtOC
How much do Tacoma teachers earn? How does this compare to other districts?
What kind of pay increases have Tacoma teachers and administrators experienced in recent years?
Are teacher strikes legal?
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/12/1821031/qa-tacoma-teacher-pay-strike-legality.html#ixzz1XqyELtOC
Tacoma wants judge to make striking teachers return
By an 87 percent margin, the Tacoma Education Association voted Monday night to go out on strike starting at midnight, and about 100 teachers started picketing outside Lincoln High School around 6 a.m. Tuesday. Schools Superintendent Art Jarvis says the district will go to court immediately to stop what it considers an illegal strike.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 09/13/11 6:47 am | Updated: 09/13/11 6:49 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/12/1821503/tacoma-teachers-to-strike-no-school.html#ixzz1Xqso427m
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/12/1821503/tacoma-teachers-to-strike-no-school.html#ixzz1Xqso427m
TACOMA TEACHERS GO ON STRIKE
Tacoma Public Schools officials plan to go to court this morning to ask a judge to force striking teachers back to work.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO AND SARA SCHILLING; Staff writers Published: 09/13/1112:05 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/13/1821881/tacoma-teachers-go-on-strike.html#ixzz1XqrrWGFM
Updates on Labor Negotiations with Teachers September 12, 2011
http://tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
The Tacoma Education Association has informed us of their intent to strike starting tomorrow, September 13th. Therefore, school will be cancelled.
Middle School athletics and activities will be cancelled, but all high school athletic practices and games will continue at this time. Practice times may be altered, and students participating in athletics should expect to receive further information soon.
We understand that this time of uncertainty has been difficult, and we ask for your patience as we work to resolve this labor issue. The Tacoma School District will use all available remedies to bring a speedy end to this strike. Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates. Following the strike vote Monday evening, the School Board met and passed a series of four resolutions aimed at bringing a quick end to the strike and streamlining district operations during the work stoppage. The resolutions included:
See:http://tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
The Tacoma Education Association has informed us of their intent to strike starting tomorrow, September 13th. Therefore, school will be cancelled.
Middle School athletics and activities will be cancelled, but all high school athletic practices and games will continue at this time. Practice times may be altered, and students participating in athletics should expect to receive further information soon.
We understand that this time of uncertainty has been difficult, and we ask for your patience as we work to resolve this labor issue. The Tacoma School District will use all available remedies to bring a speedy end to this strike. Please visit our district’s Web site at tacomaschools.org or call the Labor Negotiations Hotline at 253-571-1302 for regular updates. Following the strike vote Monday evening, the School Board met and passed a series of four resolutions aimed at bringing a quick end to the strike and streamlining district operations during the work stoppage. The resolutions included:
- Authorizing the initiation of legal action to terminate the strike, which the School Board finds unlawful and will irreparably harm and disrupt the education program of the district.
- Limiting access to school grounds by striking teachers who are unlawfully withholding their services from the district.
- Authorizing the superintendent to close schools during the work stoppage.
- Suspending certain district policies, rules and regulations, transferring some School Board powers to the superintendent and suspending regular School Board activities.
See:http://tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/Updates-on-Labor-Negotiations-with-Teachers.aspx
Teachers should vote – to remain in their classrooms
Both sides in the contract dispute between the Tacoma School District and its teachers claim to want what’s best for the kids.
THE NEWS TRIBUNE Published: 09/12/1112:05 am
http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/12/1820337/teachers-should-vote-to-remain.html
http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/12/1820337/teachers-should-vote-to-remain.html
Will Tacoma teachers strike?
We'll likely know Monday night Contract talks between the Tacoma School District and its teachers union ended Saturday night without a tentative agreement. No negotiations took place Sunday, and none were set for Monday.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 09/11/11 9:29 pm | Updated: 09/12/11 4:16 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/11/1820246/will-tacoma-teachers-strike-well.html#ixzz1XqpzY1rr
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/11/1820246/will-tacoma-teachers-strike-well.html#ixzz1XqpzY1rr
Tacoma teachers continue push for contract Tacoma teachers continued to pressure the Tacoma School Board Thursday for a contract settlement as talks between the school district and the teachers’ union continued.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 09/08/11 8:50 pm | Updated: 09/10/11 1:48 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/08/1815320/tacoma-teachers-continue-push.html#ixzz1Xqni0uRV
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/08/1815320/tacoma-teachers-continue-push.html#ixzz1Xqni0uRV
School Board President Kurt Miller reads
public statement on labor negotiations
at Thursday board meeting Sept. 9, 2011
School Board President Kurt Miller read the following statement at the beginning of the Sept. 8 School Board meeting: We greatly respect and appreciate our teachers. We are charged with our role - as a School Board - to provide the best possible education for all children in this community. We understand that we can best achieve that mission by selecting, retaining and supporting the best staff possible. The right way to do that is to have a fair and equitable labor agreement that balances the interests and needs of our students, staff, and community. Obviously, collective bargaining can be very challenging to reach agreement, especially when the process is impacted by change and extraordinarily difficult economic times. Yet we believe in and support this process. I want to set the record straight with some facts and context to correct misinformation we have heard about these labor negotiations: First, some have alleged our teachers are working without any collective bargaining agreements, that the district can do whatever it wants and teachers have no right to grievance. By state law, the district and our teachers continue to operate and work under the terms and conditions of the collective bargaining agreement that expired on August 31 while we continue to work toward a new agreement. Second, it's an indisputable fact that the state Legislature cut what it allocates for teachers' pay and left us and other districts to figure out how to deal with that cut locally. Our district cannot afford to take on an unfunded, ongoing state mandate that equals, for us, about $1.7 million a year. For the average teacher, that comes out to roughly $860 a year. At the bargaining table we have offered a variety of options for recovering that funding without decreasing student learning time in the classroom. Third, some have alleged that our district has the highest class sizes in the state. That's not true. We don't even have the highest class sizes among districts in the region. Bethel, Peninsula, Lake Washington all have some class sizes larger than ours. And North Thurston schools just approved an agreement that far exceeds our limits. We have asked for support in the area of class size. The evidence is clear - Tacoma has carefully protected our class size and we will continue to do so. We also recognize that some of the "limits" force us into staffing increases that work against our financial stability. Our last package proposal included staying at the current class sizes. The fact is - on average - our actual class sizes at every grade level fall 2 to 5 students below the contracted class size limits in the existing contract every year for the last five years. Even if we incrementally increased our class size limits, the actual average class sizes would still fall below our current contracted limits. I also want everyone to understand this is an economic issue for the district. The state, through voter and legislative action, used to provide Tacoma with up to $13 million a year to hire more than 125 extra teachers to maintain sizes at their current limits. That extra money is gone, yet we have kept our commitment and kept those teachers employed. Even so, as a school board, we've said we'd look at keeping class sizes where they're at for now. Fourth, some have alleged that we're sitting on a $45 million reserve fund. Resources are scarce. And yet we are proud that we have collectively managed to expand savings over the last few years to prevent major program losses and staff layoffs over the next two or three years. While other districts had had to RIF or worse become insolvent altogether, we have a $39 million reserve fund as we enter this school year. And we have budgeted to draw down that reserve fund by $15.4 million this year, $7.6 million next year and another $1.6 million in 2013 to offset much deeper cuts in teachers jobs and student programs. Even as we draw down those reserves, the state government is talking about another $1.5 billion in state cuts that most certainly affect our students and our district. We are facing a reality that forces us to absorb additional unfunded liabilities on behalf of our staff or ask them to share in the salary losses handed to our employees by the state legislature. A graphic example would be our painful decision to close two schools this spring. The savings of $1.1 million now appear as a source of savings to make up for teacher salary cuts that would cost $1.7 million. Fifth, we want to work with our teachers' union to give more flexibility to principals to make the best matches between an individual teacher's skill set and the unique needs of a specific classroom. This will help us promote and maintain innovation in our culture and ultimately serve our students. We are proud that we have been able to move ahead strongly to make school improvements in low-performing schools and create exemplary schools and programs. Across the district are programs like Lincoln Center, Geiger Montessori, turnaround schools like Giaudrone and Stewart, SAMI, SOTA and many, many more. However, those programs also challenge the system to change traditional staffing patterns both in selection and in displacements or layoffs. Automatic layoff of the most junior staff - as requested by the union - would devastate these and other unique programs throughout the district. More than ever, we must have the flexibility to make the best match between a teacher's skill set and the unique needs of the students in each classroom. I and my fellow board members have continued to voice strong support for a student-centered approach that includes expanding the teacher evaluation process to include principal and peer observation, cultural competency, professional development, and multiple measures of student learning versus the traditional method of principal observation only. There are national models for this endorsed by the National Education Association that will ensure a fair and equitable process. Finally, bargaining is about compromise. The district fully intends to bargain until we reach a settlement, but we will not just walk away from our commitments to students and our community in reaching that settlement. I would encourage our teachers to seek clarity and specifics from their own union president by asking the following questions: Question 1: Is the collective bargaining agreement, including its grievance terms and conditions, still in effect? Question 2: Where did the TEA get its information about Tacoma's class sizes being the largest in the state? Question 3: Why have you not received a clear and unbiased briefing on the district's proposal to discuss options for assignments and reassignments to classrooms? The information regarding class size, teacher compensation, a Q&A sheet, and other items will be posted on the district Web site. We want to make sure our community understands the issues and make sure our teachers have the materials to make an informed decision on Monday. The Board of Directors of Tacoma Public Schools will continue to have faith in the professionalism of our teachers to understand the proposals before them and join us in negotiating a contract in the best interest of the students and families that we both serve. Thank you.
http://www.tacomaschools.org/Pages/default.aspx
http://www.tacomaschools.org/Pages/default.aspx
Same-sex classes about achievement, not overreaching laws
A state constitutional amendment and subsequent laws designed to protect women from discrimination are now being used to stop programs aimed at helping those same people.
PETER CALLAGHAN; STAFF WRITER Published: 09/08/1112:05 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/08/1814068/same-sex-classes-about-achievement.html#ixzz1XTPiNngg
Tacoma teachers union, district resume contract talks after break
Negotiations between members of the Tacoma Education Association (TEA) and the Tacoma School District resumed Tuesday afternoon, following a break over the long Labor Day weekend.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 09/06/11 7:05 pm | Updated: 09/07/11 8:22 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/06/1812209/tacoma-teachers-union-district.html#ixzz1XKUwl09N
Put single-sex education in principals' tool box
Pardon Jon Kellett for assuming Washington state was as interested in educational innovation as the federal government.
THE NEWS TRIBUNE Published: 09/07/1112:05 am cational innovation as the federal government.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/07/1812545/put-single-sex-education-in-principals.html#ixzz1XKWQEiLv
Tacoma schools should follow Seattle, speak up on big issues
The issues that keep Tacoma teachers and school administrators apart are mostly financial with a bit of seniority tossed in.
PETER CALLAGHAN; STAFF WRITER Published: 09/04/1112:05 am | Updated: 09/04/11 3:15 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/04/1809253/tacoma-schools-should-follow-seattle.html#ixzz1XEnJWQZ1
State nixes Tacoma's gender-divided classrooms
A bold educational program at Jason Lee Middle School has ended after Tacoma Public Schools officials learned that it violated state education regulations.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 09/05/1112:05 am | Updated: 09/05/11 6:44 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/05/1810156/gender-division-in-classrooms.html#ixzz1XElq9m6A
The Tacoma School Board postpones Meet & Greet, interview with superintendent candidate
September 1, 2011 -
The Tacoma School Board has postponed the Sept. 6 Meet & Greet with superintendent candidate Carla Santorno and the scheduled Sept. 7 interview with the board.
Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association (TEA) have not reached an agreement on the teachers' collective bargaining agreement and the board members would prefer to focus energy and attention on a resolution to the labor issues.
The Tacoma School Board has postponed the Sept. 6 Meet & Greet with superintendent candidate Carla Santorno and the scheduled Sept. 7 interview with the board.
Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association (TEA) have not reached an agreement on the teachers' collective bargaining agreement and the board members would prefer to focus energy and attention on a resolution to the labor issues.
Teacher pay cuts vary by district; many ‘fortunate'
Teachers in many school districts have avoided the 1.9 percent pay cuts that were prescribed in Olympia and are on the table in Tacoma
JORDAN SCHRADER; Staff writer Published: 09/01/1112:05 am
JORDAN SCHRADER; Staff writer Published: 09/01/1112:05 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/01/1804515/teacher-pay-cuts-vary-by-district.html#ixzz1Wo5Bsldz
Tacoma teachers do not approve strike; school starts today
Tacoma teachers will be in their classrooms welcoming students today. But they will be working under an expired contract and waiting for contract talks between their union and Tacoma Public Schools to resume.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO AND SARA SCHILLING; Staff writers Published: 09/01/11 3:08 am | Updated: 09/01/11 9:33 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/09/01/1804438/tacoma-teacher-strike-vote-fails.html#ixzz1Wik89tR3
August 31
Message from Tacoma Public Schools
Beginning of School
This is an important message from Tacoma Public Schools regarding the start of school.
School will start as scheduled tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1.
As of 2 p.m. today, Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association have not reached an agreement on the teachers' contract, so labor negotiations between the school district and the teachers' union will continue.
Earlier this evening, the Tacoma Education Association asked teachers to vote to strike. However, the teachers voted against a strike. That means school will start as scheduled tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1.
This is good news for Tacoma's students and their families. We are pleased that the teachers have chosen to put Tacoma's school children first, even while their union bargaining team and the district bargaining team will continue to negotiate on a collective bargaining agreement.
We regret this time of uncertainty has been difficult for so many in our community, and we ask for your continued patience as we work to resolve all the labor issues.
We are proud of our teachers, who have worked hard, along with their principals and other staff members, to prepare our schools to welcome students to the start of another exciting year. And we are pleased that they will indeed welcome students back tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1, for the start of school. Thank you.
School will start as scheduled tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1.
As of 2 p.m. today, Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association have not reached an agreement on the teachers' contract, so labor negotiations between the school district and the teachers' union will continue.
Earlier this evening, the Tacoma Education Association asked teachers to vote to strike. However, the teachers voted against a strike. That means school will start as scheduled tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1.
This is good news for Tacoma's students and their families. We are pleased that the teachers have chosen to put Tacoma's school children first, even while their union bargaining team and the district bargaining team will continue to negotiate on a collective bargaining agreement.
We regret this time of uncertainty has been difficult for so many in our community, and we ask for your continued patience as we work to resolve all the labor issues.
We are proud of our teachers, who have worked hard, along with their principals and other staff members, to prepare our schools to welcome students to the start of another exciting year. And we are pleased that they will indeed welcome students back tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1, for the start of school. Thank you.
Message from Tacoma Public Schools
Labor Negotiations August 31, 2011
District makes significant modifications to proposals in labor negotiations with teachers' union in hopes of reaching settlement in time to start school Thursday
Tacoma Public Schools made major changes to its proposals at the bargaining table with teachers this morning that will keep class sizes unchanged and continue to base layoff decisions on the current system that relies on seniority while retaining flexibility in the assignment and reassignment of teachers.
The district made the significant modifications - despite the worsening economy and loss of state revenue to keep class sizes low - in hopes of reaching a collective bargaining agreement with teachers and avoid a teachers' strike that would have devastating effects on our community, Superintendent Art Jarvis announced this morning.
Despite the district's new proposal, the two sides still do not have a tentative collective bargaining agreement and continue to negotiate today. The Tacoma Education Association (TEA) will meet with its members at 4:30 this afternoon to determine a course of action.
"We simply cannot afford a strike right now," Jarvis said. "No one wins in a strike; everybody loses - especially our students and their families. We hope our teachers can see for themselves how much I, our school board and our district value their contributions in the classroom on behalf of the students," he said.
While the district and TEA have agreed to approximately 80 provisions in the collective bargaining agreement, they still have not agreed on three main issues: class sizes, teachers' pay and whether seniority alone should determine which teachers get open jobs.
Here's a summary of the differences of opinion on each issue:
Class size
District position: Keep class size limits the same as in the previous collective bargaining agreement, which means a range from a maximum of 24 in kindergarten to a maximum of 30 in high school with some exceptions.
TEA position: Reduce class size limits by one student at all grade levels.
Explanation: The state Legislature reduced sources of funding for school district's to hire more teachers that would keep class sizes low. Under the district's proposal, Tacoma Public Schools will absorb the cost - approximately $1.8 million a year.
"The district will maintain the present class size as best as possible in the short term," Jarvis said, "but we simply can't do that over the long term. Eventually, we need some assistance from the union to deal with this issue and with the additional cuts that will come our way in the next year from the Legislature."
Teachers' pay
District position: Maintain the current salary schedule for teachers - with no cut in base salary. Teachers will continue to work the same number of days they did under the previous collective bargaining agreement. To make up for the 1.9 percent legislative cut, teachers would give up an opportunity to earn two days of extra pay for professional development and give up one day of paid, personal leave.
TEA position: Maintain the current salary schedule for teachers - with no cut in pay. But teachers will reduce their work year by the equivalent of two fewer days by taking four early-release days on currently scheduled full school days. This would mean students would receive the equivalent of two fewer days of classroom instruction.
Explanation: The district will absorb the 1.9 percent cut the state Legislature made in the state's contribution to teachers' pay. For the individual teacher in Tacoma, a cut would have equaled a 1.35 percent pay reduction. The difference in the two proposals is that the TEA wants to reduce instructional time in the classroom for students to give its members time off for the same amount of money.
"The Legislature knew when they passed the cuts to education and teachers' salaries that districts would have to the bear the brunt of the labor strife to deal with it," Jarvis said. "We're simply not in a position to offer wage increases, but we have agreed to maintain teachers at their current pay rates and allow them to get their earned step increases. But we do not believe - for the same pay - the TEA should shift the impact of the Legislative mandated cuts onto the backs of students and their time in the classroom."
Seniority
District position: In cases where the district has displacements (assignment and reassignment of teachers), decisions will be made based on an assessment of a teacher's credentials, performance and individual school needs - rather than the traditional method that relies on reassigning the least senior teachers first. If a teacher disagrees with an assignment, a peer review team would review the case and make recommendations to the superintendent.
TEA position: Maintain the traditional system that, in most cases, seniority is the sole factor in decision-making if a teacher is minimally qualified to teach.
Explanation: The district withdrew its proposal that would have removed seniority as the criterion for layoffs and built the new proposal that assignment and reassignment of teachers be based on credentials, performance and school needs. The district recognizes that with 55 schools, including many specialty schools, innovative programs and high-needs schools, the single most significant way to increase academic achievement for students is to match the needs of a class with the best, highest-quality teacher possible. To do so requires considering a wider range of qualifications than the traditional method of seniority alone as the TEA still demands in most cases.
"We built our proposals on set of assessment methods proposed by TEA to assist in assignment and reassignment of staff," Jarvis said. "While we understand that experience has value in any profession, we must have the ability to look at a range of qualifications; otherwise, we'll face a revolving door of skilled but less senior teachers who might be the best match for open positions."
At the bargaining table today, the parties continue to work on the proposals in an effort to ensure that school starts on time for Tacoma students.
The district made the significant modifications - despite the worsening economy and loss of state revenue to keep class sizes low - in hopes of reaching a collective bargaining agreement with teachers and avoid a teachers' strike that would have devastating effects on our community, Superintendent Art Jarvis announced this morning.
Despite the district's new proposal, the two sides still do not have a tentative collective bargaining agreement and continue to negotiate today. The Tacoma Education Association (TEA) will meet with its members at 4:30 this afternoon to determine a course of action.
"We simply cannot afford a strike right now," Jarvis said. "No one wins in a strike; everybody loses - especially our students and their families. We hope our teachers can see for themselves how much I, our school board and our district value their contributions in the classroom on behalf of the students," he said.
While the district and TEA have agreed to approximately 80 provisions in the collective bargaining agreement, they still have not agreed on three main issues: class sizes, teachers' pay and whether seniority alone should determine which teachers get open jobs.
Here's a summary of the differences of opinion on each issue:
Class size
District position: Keep class size limits the same as in the previous collective bargaining agreement, which means a range from a maximum of 24 in kindergarten to a maximum of 30 in high school with some exceptions.
TEA position: Reduce class size limits by one student at all grade levels.
Explanation: The state Legislature reduced sources of funding for school district's to hire more teachers that would keep class sizes low. Under the district's proposal, Tacoma Public Schools will absorb the cost - approximately $1.8 million a year.
"The district will maintain the present class size as best as possible in the short term," Jarvis said, "but we simply can't do that over the long term. Eventually, we need some assistance from the union to deal with this issue and with the additional cuts that will come our way in the next year from the Legislature."
Teachers' pay
District position: Maintain the current salary schedule for teachers - with no cut in base salary. Teachers will continue to work the same number of days they did under the previous collective bargaining agreement. To make up for the 1.9 percent legislative cut, teachers would give up an opportunity to earn two days of extra pay for professional development and give up one day of paid, personal leave.
TEA position: Maintain the current salary schedule for teachers - with no cut in pay. But teachers will reduce their work year by the equivalent of two fewer days by taking four early-release days on currently scheduled full school days. This would mean students would receive the equivalent of two fewer days of classroom instruction.
Explanation: The district will absorb the 1.9 percent cut the state Legislature made in the state's contribution to teachers' pay. For the individual teacher in Tacoma, a cut would have equaled a 1.35 percent pay reduction. The difference in the two proposals is that the TEA wants to reduce instructional time in the classroom for students to give its members time off for the same amount of money.
"The Legislature knew when they passed the cuts to education and teachers' salaries that districts would have to the bear the brunt of the labor strife to deal with it," Jarvis said. "We're simply not in a position to offer wage increases, but we have agreed to maintain teachers at their current pay rates and allow them to get their earned step increases. But we do not believe - for the same pay - the TEA should shift the impact of the Legislative mandated cuts onto the backs of students and their time in the classroom."
Seniority
District position: In cases where the district has displacements (assignment and reassignment of teachers), decisions will be made based on an assessment of a teacher's credentials, performance and individual school needs - rather than the traditional method that relies on reassigning the least senior teachers first. If a teacher disagrees with an assignment, a peer review team would review the case and make recommendations to the superintendent.
TEA position: Maintain the traditional system that, in most cases, seniority is the sole factor in decision-making if a teacher is minimally qualified to teach.
Explanation: The district withdrew its proposal that would have removed seniority as the criterion for layoffs and built the new proposal that assignment and reassignment of teachers be based on credentials, performance and school needs. The district recognizes that with 55 schools, including many specialty schools, innovative programs and high-needs schools, the single most significant way to increase academic achievement for students is to match the needs of a class with the best, highest-quality teacher possible. To do so requires considering a wider range of qualifications than the traditional method of seniority alone as the TEA still demands in most cases.
"We built our proposals on set of assessment methods proposed by TEA to assist in assignment and reassignment of staff," Jarvis said. "While we understand that experience has value in any profession, we must have the ability to look at a range of qualifications; otherwise, we'll face a revolving door of skilled but less senior teachers who might be the best match for open positions."
At the bargaining table today, the parties continue to work on the proposals in an effort to ensure that school starts on time for Tacoma students.
Strike would create unconscionable family distress
Decisions to strike are made by unions, so the responsibility for opening Tacoma’s schools on time Thursday rests squarely on the Tacoma Education Association.
THE NEWS TRIBUNE Published: 08/31/1110:01 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/31/1802829/strike-would-create-unconscionable.html#ixzz1Wo6liFE2
Down to the wire: Teachers, parents talk
One night before the Tacoma teachers’ contract expires, the union representing them brought its budget analyst to a union-hosted public forum Tuesday to say the school district should save less and spend more.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 08/31/1112:05 am | Updated: 08/31/11 6:51 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/31/1802773/down-to-the-wire-teachers-parents.html#ixzz1WdTj0vnN
Tacoma teachers make their own decisions, do what's best for students
I have taught Tacoma’s children for 22 years. I attended Tacoma Public Schools, as did my daughters. I live here. This is my community.
ADRIENNE DALE Published: 08/31/1112:05 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/31/1802835/tacoma-teachers-make-their-own.html#ixzz1WdT8FoPp
Student math scores give some hope
After years of sliding math scores during which fewer than half of high school students could pass the state test, Washington families and schools were given a ray of hope with the release of the latest results Tuesday.
SARA SCHILLING; Staff writer Published: 08/31/1112:05 am | Updated: 08/31/11 6:53 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/31/1802774/math-scores-give-some-hope.html#ixzz1WdShLcQD
Message From Tacoma Public Schools
Labor Negotiations August 30, 2011
This is an important message from Tacoma Public Schools regarding labor negotiations between the school district and the teachers' union.
As you have probably heard, Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association have been negotiating since May on a new collective bargaining agreement for teachers.
Both sides continued to meet throughout the day today, August 30th, but did not reach agreement. We are committed to continuing the negotiations in earnest so we can reach an agreement before the start of school for students on Thursday, September first.
The Tacoma Education Association members plan to meet at 4:30 Wednesday evening to review the negotiations and determine their course of action. Whatever happens tomorrow, we will notify you as soon as possible of the results and the potential effect on the start of school.
Please remember: the teachers in our district are among the best in the state; they embrace innovation and excellence; and they care deeply about the students they teach. This month, throughout our district, teachers, principals and staff members have worked hard to prepare their classrooms and schools to welcome students back to school.
We recognize this period of uncertainty is distressing for everyone in our community - students, parents, teachers and staff members. Once again, we sincerely hope to resolve all the labor issues in time to start school on Thursday. Thank you.
As you have probably heard, Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association have been negotiating since May on a new collective bargaining agreement for teachers.
Both sides continued to meet throughout the day today, August 30th, but did not reach agreement. We are committed to continuing the negotiations in earnest so we can reach an agreement before the start of school for students on Thursday, September first.
The Tacoma Education Association members plan to meet at 4:30 Wednesday evening to review the negotiations and determine their course of action. Whatever happens tomorrow, we will notify you as soon as possible of the results and the potential effect on the start of school.
Please remember: the teachers in our district are among the best in the state; they embrace innovation and excellence; and they care deeply about the students they teach. This month, throughout our district, teachers, principals and staff members have worked hard to prepare their classrooms and schools to welcome students back to school.
We recognize this period of uncertainty is distressing for everyone in our community - students, parents, teachers and staff members. Once again, we sincerely hope to resolve all the labor issues in time to start school on Thursday. Thank you.
Tacoma teachers watching, waiting on contract negotiations
Some members of the Tacoma Education Association (TEA) who gathered Monday at Mount Tahoma High School sounded doubtful that their union and the Tacoma School District will be able to come to a contract agreement by Wednesday.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 08/30/11 2:25 am | Updated: 08/30/11 6:46 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/29/1801256/tacoma-teachers-watching-waiting.html#ixzz1WdS3YIoh
Tacoma teacher negotiations to continue today Members of the Tacoma Education Association, which represents teachers and other employees of Tacoma Public Schools, plan to gather this afternoon to hear an update on the state of contract talks between the union and the school district
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; staff writer Published: 08/29/1112:05 am | Updated: 08/29/1111:59 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/29/1800072/tacoma-teacher-negotiations-to.html#ixzz1WTwu0k40
Lame-duck school board shouldn't rush to hire next chief
Tacoma School Superintendent Art Jarvis has announced that he’s retiring, but he’ll stick around until the end of the school year.
THE NEWS TRIBUNE Published: 08/29/1112:05 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/29/1800092/lame-duck-school-board-shouldnt.html#ixzz1WTw9BN7w
Tacoma principals' concession emerges in heat of teacher contract talks
Talks between Tacoma Public Schools and the union that represents its teachers were continuing this weekend, but as of Saturday night no significant progress on a new contract had been reported.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 08/28/11 1:08 am | Updated: 08/28/11 1:08 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/27/1798614/tacoma-principals-announce-concession.html#ixzz1WTvOethi
Tacoma board action moves towards sale, leasing of McKinley, Wainwright
A divided Tacoma School Board has agreed to declare two recently closed schools surplus, clearing the way for McKinley and Wainwright elementary schools to be either sold or leased in the future.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 08/27/1112:05 am | Updated: 08/27/11 4:41 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/27/1797850/1st-step-for-closed-schools.html#ixzz1WTtvU9cE
Letter to the Editor
Tacoma News Tribune August 25, 2011
Deb J. Blakeslee and Janet Stewart, Tacoma Published August 25, 2011
Members of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) are anxiously watching the various moves and countermoves by both parties in the contract negotiations between Tacoma Public Schools and Tacoma Education Association, the teachers' union.
The fate and trust of 29,000 children and their families rest with both sides in this process. When a strike forces parents to miss work or scramble to find emergency child care, families and children are negatively impacted.
While we may personally sympathize with either side in this negotiation process, the bottom line is that strikes hurt kids and will not be supported by Washington State Parent Teacher Association (WSPTA) or its members.
WSPTA members adopted a resolution titled, "Uninterrupted Operation of Public Schools." We resolve to "work to produce conditions with regard to the collective bargaining process which will consistently produce, in a timely manner, labor agreements negotiated and fully embraced by the direct parties thereto and which will not cause disruption to the school calendar" and "not support work stoppages and/or strikes which interrupt or disrupt the educational day."
TPS and TEA need to agree that a strike is not the answer. PTA parents and families anxiously urge another option.
(Blakeslee is the legislative chair and Stewart is president of the Tacoma Council PTA.)
Read more: http://blog.thenewstribune.com/letters/#ixzz1WAzT3wk6
Members of the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) are anxiously watching the various moves and countermoves by both parties in the contract negotiations between Tacoma Public Schools and Tacoma Education Association, the teachers' union.
The fate and trust of 29,000 children and their families rest with both sides in this process. When a strike forces parents to miss work or scramble to find emergency child care, families and children are negatively impacted.
While we may personally sympathize with either side in this negotiation process, the bottom line is that strikes hurt kids and will not be supported by Washington State Parent Teacher Association (WSPTA) or its members.
WSPTA members adopted a resolution titled, "Uninterrupted Operation of Public Schools." We resolve to "work to produce conditions with regard to the collective bargaining process which will consistently produce, in a timely manner, labor agreements negotiated and fully embraced by the direct parties thereto and which will not cause disruption to the school calendar" and "not support work stoppages and/or strikes which interrupt or disrupt the educational day."
TPS and TEA need to agree that a strike is not the answer. PTA parents and families anxiously urge another option.
(Blakeslee is the legislative chair and Stewart is president of the Tacoma Council PTA.)
Read more: http://blog.thenewstribune.com/letters/#ixzz1WAzT3wk6
Teachers, supporters plead their case to Tacoma School Board
Hundreds of teachers and their supporters packed a meeting of the Tacoma School Board on Thursday to plead for a contract settlement.
Debbie Cafazzo; Staff writer Published: 08/25/1111:01 pm | Updated: 08/26/11 6:40 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/25/1796081/teachers-supporters-plead-their.html#ixzz1WAumVKKu
Hundreds of teachers and their supporters packed a meeting of the Tacoma School Board on Thursday to plead for a contract settlement.
Those who couldn't make it into the filled-to-capacity board room rallied outside in the parking lot, chanting and cheering throughout the meeting.
"We want to teach," Toni Moore, a teacher at Washington-Hoyt Elementary School, told the board. "I love my job. I love my children. I love working with families."
She said teachers want to return to school on time for the first day Sept. 1. Many have been working this week to prepare their classrooms, she added.
Board President Kurt Miller told the crowd that the board is just as committed to having school start next week for the sake of students.
"We cannot spend one extra day talking about issues that affect adults," he said.
The district's three-year contract with the teachers union, the Tacoma Education Association, expires Wednesday. If there's no agreement, teachers could vote to strike, or they could continue working under their expired contract while negotiations continue.
Superintendent Art Jarvis, during his report to the board, offered this brief comment: "School starts Sept. 1." He thanked maintenance workers, teachers and others for working hard in recent weeks to prepare for that.
On Wednesday, Jarvis sent a message to families in the school district expressing his frustration with contract negotiations and criticizing teachers for asking for more money.
But both TEA President Andy Coons and teachers on Thursday said money is not the union's top issue. Coons scolded Jarvis for "disparaging teachers and questioning our motives."
Coons told The News Tribune later that teachers did not ask for across-the-board salary increases. He said they do want to maintain the existing salary schedule that pays teachers more for added education and years of experience.
"I don't want a pay raise," Stewart Middle School teacher Damond Crump said outside the meeting. "I'm not sure where the superintendent got that idea."
He said teachers realize the district is caught in tough economic times. But he pointed out that Tacoma is also "sitting on a large reserve" of cash that could be used to cushion teachers from the 1.9-percent salary funding cuts that came down from the state this year.
District officials acknowledge the fund balance ñ although their estimate of $39 million is about $6 million less than the union's. But they say they already have plans to spend down reserves over the next several years to stave off other budget cuts.
After the public meeting Thursday, the board went into an executive session to discuss labor negotiations. Bargaining was scheduled to continue late Thursday.
While teachers spoke loudest Thursday, members of the Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition continued to hit their themes, such as the desire for a contract with more effective teacher evaluations, more multicultural training for teachers, and help in closing the achievement gap for minority kids.
"Currently, negotiations are taking on a 'he said-she said' tone," said coalition member Bill Hanawalt. He urged the board and teachers to adopt a "student-centered" contract and start school on time.
While teacher negotiations were front and center Thursday, several people also said they're worried about how the board is conducting a search for a new superintendent to replace Jarvis, who retires at the end of the school year.
The board sought internal candidates first, and only one ñ Deputy Superintendent Carla Santorno ñ applied. Board members are scheduled to interview her in a public meeting Sept. 7 and vote Sept. 8 on whether to hire her or widen their search. The district announced Thursday that Santorno will also meet with the public at 6 p.m. Sept. 6 at the district administration building downtown.
Parent Tom Rickey urged the board to conduct a wider search with regional and national recruiting.
"A comparison with her and other candidates Ö would do Ms. Santorno more justice, as she could win the position on her own comparable merits versus just a rubber stamp that might leave us wondering," he said.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Those who couldn't make it into the filled-to-capacity board room rallied outside in the parking lot, chanting and cheering throughout the meeting.
"We want to teach," Toni Moore, a teacher at Washington-Hoyt Elementary School, told the board. "I love my job. I love my children. I love working with families."
She said teachers want to return to school on time for the first day Sept. 1. Many have been working this week to prepare their classrooms, she added.
Board President Kurt Miller told the crowd that the board is just as committed to having school start next week for the sake of students.
"We cannot spend one extra day talking about issues that affect adults," he said.
The district's three-year contract with the teachers union, the Tacoma Education Association, expires Wednesday. If there's no agreement, teachers could vote to strike, or they could continue working under their expired contract while negotiations continue.
Superintendent Art Jarvis, during his report to the board, offered this brief comment: "School starts Sept. 1." He thanked maintenance workers, teachers and others for working hard in recent weeks to prepare for that.
On Wednesday, Jarvis sent a message to families in the school district expressing his frustration with contract negotiations and criticizing teachers for asking for more money.
But both TEA President Andy Coons and teachers on Thursday said money is not the union's top issue. Coons scolded Jarvis for "disparaging teachers and questioning our motives."
Coons told The News Tribune later that teachers did not ask for across-the-board salary increases. He said they do want to maintain the existing salary schedule that pays teachers more for added education and years of experience.
"I don't want a pay raise," Stewart Middle School teacher Damond Crump said outside the meeting. "I'm not sure where the superintendent got that idea."
He said teachers realize the district is caught in tough economic times. But he pointed out that Tacoma is also "sitting on a large reserve" of cash that could be used to cushion teachers from the 1.9-percent salary funding cuts that came down from the state this year.
District officials acknowledge the fund balance ñ although their estimate of $39 million is about $6 million less than the union's. But they say they already have plans to spend down reserves over the next several years to stave off other budget cuts.
After the public meeting Thursday, the board went into an executive session to discuss labor negotiations. Bargaining was scheduled to continue late Thursday.
While teachers spoke loudest Thursday, members of the Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition continued to hit their themes, such as the desire for a contract with more effective teacher evaluations, more multicultural training for teachers, and help in closing the achievement gap for minority kids.
"Currently, negotiations are taking on a 'he said-she said' tone," said coalition member Bill Hanawalt. He urged the board and teachers to adopt a "student-centered" contract and start school on time.
While teacher negotiations were front and center Thursday, several people also said they're worried about how the board is conducting a search for a new superintendent to replace Jarvis, who retires at the end of the school year.
The board sought internal candidates first, and only one ñ Deputy Superintendent Carla Santorno ñ applied. Board members are scheduled to interview her in a public meeting Sept. 7 and vote Sept. 8 on whether to hire her or widen their search. The district announced Thursday that Santorno will also meet with the public at 6 p.m. Sept. 6 at the district administration building downtown.
Parent Tom Rickey urged the board to conduct a wider search with regional and national recruiting.
"A comparison with her and other candidates Ö would do Ms. Santorno more justice, as she could win the position on her own comparable merits versus just a rubber stamp that might leave us wondering," he said.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Tacoma School District, union spar
Talk from the Tacoma School District and the union that represents its teachers heated up Wednesday, after the School District broadcast an electronic message to the community.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 08/25/1112:05 am | Updated: 08/25/1111:45 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/25/1794889/school-district-union-spar.html#ixzz1WAxnClzR
Talk from the Tacoma School District and the union that represents its teachers heated up Wednesday, after the School District broadcast an electronic message to the community.
The message from Superintendent Art Jarvis spoke of a “frustrating week” of labor negotiations that have seen little progress. Jarvis criticized the union for asking for a pay raise for its members in tough economic times.
In response, Andy Coons, president of the Tacoma Education Association, said the union asked for a raise but only after the district asked the union to take a pay cut.
He said the pay raise proposal was part of the back-and-forth that happens during negotiations.
“It’s bargaining,” Coons said.
The money talk isn’t the top issue, he said.
Rather, he said, his membership – which includes about 2,100 teachers, librarians, therapists, school nurses, counselors, office professionals and technology experts – is more concerned about the School District’s plan to increase class size.
“Teachers need to be able to give students individualized attention,” he said. “They are trying to impose a ‘one size fits all’ approach.”
But teachers want to be paid, he said, and the district should pay enough to “attract good teachers and keep them.” He said too many of the district’s proposed cutbacks are aimed at individual schools and teachers instead of at the school system as a whole.
Coons said the School District is “sitting on a $45 million surplus.” The union wants the district to use some of its surplus funds to offset a loss in state funding for teacher salaries.
That’s happened already in some surrounding school districts. Other districts have asked teachers to sacrifice pay, but work fewer extra days outside the classroom.
District officials say Tacoma Public Schools will enter the school year with an estimated fund balance of $39 million. It plans to spend nearly $15.4 million of that in the coming school year to avoid further cuts. It also plans to spend $7.6 million from the fund balance in the 2012-13 school year to avoid more cuts.
Tacoma, like school districts around the state, had to absorb mid-year state funding cuts during the 2010-11 school year.
The Legislature has cut funds for keeping class size small. It also reduced funding for teacher pay by 1.9 percent and for other school employees by 3 percent.
This spring, the School Board agreed – despite public protests – to close two elementary schools to save a little over $1 million.
Jarvis said in his Wednesday message that the district cut $11.2 million from the budget by eliminating about 100 positions, shuttering some programs and making cuts in administration.
Jarvis also noted that the district has been building its reserves in anticipation of tough budget times. He said the union knows the district did so to offset shortfalls over the next three years and to “preserve jobs and our investments in innovative programs.”
“Now the union leadership wants to draw down our reserves for increased salaries for their members, thereby creating a bow-wave of higher, unfunded costs in each succeeding year,” Jarvis wrote.
He said union proposals could add “at least $5.8 million per year in unfunded costs” for the district.
Coons said the School District also has proposed what he termed “micro-management” of what teachers teach.
“Our members are the ones in the classroom,” he said, adding that they want the freedom to use whatever techniques and materials will help their students learn.
Coons said both sides have been bargaining late into the evening in an attempt to come up with a contract before the current one expires Aug. 31.
Union members plan to meet Monday for a progress report. Coons said he would love to have a proposed contract in his hand. But if there is no agreement, union members will have to choose their next steps.
The union’s bylaws require 80 percent approval for a strike authorization vote. The union also could agree to continue working under the expired contract while bargaining continues.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 debbie.cafazzo@thenews tribune.com
School board meeting
The Tacoma School Board has finances and more on its agenda for tonight’s meeting.
5:45 p.m. A public hearing to consider declaring McKinley and Wainwright elementary schools as surplus property to save money. Both schools were closed this year.
6 p.m. A public hearing on the district’s 2011-12 budget. The board must adopt a budget by Aug. 31.
The board will meet at the school district Central Administration Building, 601 S. Eighth St., in the fourth floor auditorium.
Following the public hearings, the board will meet in regular session.
Debbie Cafazzo, staff writer
The message from Superintendent Art Jarvis spoke of a “frustrating week” of labor negotiations that have seen little progress. Jarvis criticized the union for asking for a pay raise for its members in tough economic times.
In response, Andy Coons, president of the Tacoma Education Association, said the union asked for a raise but only after the district asked the union to take a pay cut.
He said the pay raise proposal was part of the back-and-forth that happens during negotiations.
“It’s bargaining,” Coons said.
The money talk isn’t the top issue, he said.
Rather, he said, his membership – which includes about 2,100 teachers, librarians, therapists, school nurses, counselors, office professionals and technology experts – is more concerned about the School District’s plan to increase class size.
“Teachers need to be able to give students individualized attention,” he said. “They are trying to impose a ‘one size fits all’ approach.”
But teachers want to be paid, he said, and the district should pay enough to “attract good teachers and keep them.” He said too many of the district’s proposed cutbacks are aimed at individual schools and teachers instead of at the school system as a whole.
Coons said the School District is “sitting on a $45 million surplus.” The union wants the district to use some of its surplus funds to offset a loss in state funding for teacher salaries.
That’s happened already in some surrounding school districts. Other districts have asked teachers to sacrifice pay, but work fewer extra days outside the classroom.
District officials say Tacoma Public Schools will enter the school year with an estimated fund balance of $39 million. It plans to spend nearly $15.4 million of that in the coming school year to avoid further cuts. It also plans to spend $7.6 million from the fund balance in the 2012-13 school year to avoid more cuts.
Tacoma, like school districts around the state, had to absorb mid-year state funding cuts during the 2010-11 school year.
The Legislature has cut funds for keeping class size small. It also reduced funding for teacher pay by 1.9 percent and for other school employees by 3 percent.
This spring, the School Board agreed – despite public protests – to close two elementary schools to save a little over $1 million.
Jarvis said in his Wednesday message that the district cut $11.2 million from the budget by eliminating about 100 positions, shuttering some programs and making cuts in administration.
Jarvis also noted that the district has been building its reserves in anticipation of tough budget times. He said the union knows the district did so to offset shortfalls over the next three years and to “preserve jobs and our investments in innovative programs.”
“Now the union leadership wants to draw down our reserves for increased salaries for their members, thereby creating a bow-wave of higher, unfunded costs in each succeeding year,” Jarvis wrote.
He said union proposals could add “at least $5.8 million per year in unfunded costs” for the district.
Coons said the School District also has proposed what he termed “micro-management” of what teachers teach.
“Our members are the ones in the classroom,” he said, adding that they want the freedom to use whatever techniques and materials will help their students learn.
Coons said both sides have been bargaining late into the evening in an attempt to come up with a contract before the current one expires Aug. 31.
Union members plan to meet Monday for a progress report. Coons said he would love to have a proposed contract in his hand. But if there is no agreement, union members will have to choose their next steps.
The union’s bylaws require 80 percent approval for a strike authorization vote. The union also could agree to continue working under the expired contract while bargaining continues.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 debbie.cafazzo@thenews tribune.com
School board meeting
The Tacoma School Board has finances and more on its agenda for tonight’s meeting.
5:45 p.m. A public hearing to consider declaring McKinley and Wainwright elementary schools as surplus property to save money. Both schools were closed this year.
6 p.m. A public hearing on the district’s 2011-12 budget. The board must adopt a budget by Aug. 31.
The board will meet at the school district Central Administration Building, 601 S. Eighth St., in the fourth floor auditorium.
Following the public hearings, the board will meet in regular session.
Debbie Cafazzo, staff writer
Will contract talks delay start of school?
Contract talks between the Tacoma School District and its teachers union were scheduled to continue this weekend in an effort to reach an agreement before the start of school Sept. 1.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 08/20/1112:05 am | Updated: 08/20/11 2:16 pm
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/20/1789049/will-contract-talks-delay-start.html#ixzz1WAvtruOl
Contract talks between the Tacoma School District and its teachers union were scheduled to continue this weekend in an effort to reach an agreement before the start of school Sept. 1.
Two mediators from the state Public Employment Relations Commission are sitting in, following an Aug. 8 request from the School District. The Tacoma Education Association and the School District reportedly are exchanging bargaining proposals.
Both the weekend talks and the planned exchange represent progress in what has been a tense summer.
Some teachers have hinted about the possibility of a strike in an online forum. The TEA asked its members in the spring whether they would support a strike if a contract isn’t ready for their review by Aug. 31, when the current three-year agreement expires.
TEA President Andy Coons declined earlier this summer to say what the results of that spring survey were.
TEA – which represents about 2,100 teachers, librarians, therapists, school nurses, counselors, office professionals and technology experts – plans a membership meeting the week of Aug. 29.
The union has complained for months about the district’s decision to hire an outside negotiator who was not able to reach a settlement, and about what it says is foot-dragging on the part of the district during negotiations.
So far, the district estimates it has spent about $37,500 on a contract with Washington Employers, which is helping the district negotiate. Once bargaining reaches a threshold of 27 sessions, at $1,500 per session, the district will pay $195 per hour for the consultant’s assistance. The district said it turned to the contractor because several years ago it eliminated the position of in-house labor negotiator to save money. Public Employment Relations Commission mediators serve at no cost to either side.
While union complaints have focused on the contractor and the schedule, school district officials have griped about the influence of TEA’s parent organization, the Washington Education Association. They also have accused the union of being unavailable at times and of setting unilateral deadlines. Coons wrote in an online forum that while the WEA is providing help with bargaining, budget research and other issues, “TEA members make their own decisions.”
The district and the TEA, which includes more than 1,500 classroom teachers, have engaged in an exchange of words, with written website statements from Superintendent Art Jarvis and Coons. Coons wrote an op-ed piece for The News Tribune. Jarvis’ own opinion piece is scheduled for publication in the paper Sunday.
Both Jarvis and Coons declined to be interviewed by a News Tribune reporter this week.
Members of the Tacoma School Board also declined to comment publicly on the contract talks.
“I thought Art’s response was wonderful,” said school board President Kurt Miller, referring to a statement Jarvis posted on the School District website.
The district said in its Aug. 8 request for mediation that issues included wages, teacher evaluations, teacher transfers and assignments, class size and more. But TEA’s Coons said at the time that he was confused about the need for a mediator. He said then that negotiations hadn’t hit an impasse. Rather, he said, they had barely begun.
Jarvis said in his web statement that the district must deal with the 1.9-percent loss in funding for teacher salaries handed down by the Legislature.
“Facing this challenge involves difficult bargaining,” he wrote.
The district also has proposed increasing class size as a way to cope with other state budget cuts.
Teachers in the Bethel School District have approved a tentative agreement that cushions them from the 1.9-percent pay cut through the use of district savings. The Bethel School Board is scheduled to vote on the contract agreement Tuesday.
Teachers in the Peninsula School District approved an agreement in June that will pass along the state pay cuts in exchange for teachers working fewer days.
A coalition of community, minority and faith-based groups called Vibrant Schools Tacoma has asked for “transparency” in the bargaining process. The coalition wanted the School District and the union to post proposals online during negotiations. That happened in both the Bethel and Bellevue school districts.
But Jarvis, in his letter to the community, noted that transparency isn’t a magic bullet. While Bethel teachers have approved a contract, Bellevue also has called on state mediators for help.
But now, Vibrant Schools is worried about whether Tacoma negotiations will produce the type of reforms that it supports – reforms it says could boost achievement for minority students who lag behind.
“We simply cannot go through another three years with these results,” said coalition leader Bill Hanawalt, director of Peace Community Center in Tacoma. “Nor can our kids afford to miss any days of instruction. On behalf of our students, we’d like to be very clear: school should start on time with a contract aimed at increasing student learning and closing the achievement gap.”
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/20/1789049/will-contract-talks-delay-start.html#ixzz1WAwdK3lJ
Two mediators from the state Public Employment Relations Commission are sitting in, following an Aug. 8 request from the School District. The Tacoma Education Association and the School District reportedly are exchanging bargaining proposals.
Both the weekend talks and the planned exchange represent progress in what has been a tense summer.
Some teachers have hinted about the possibility of a strike in an online forum. The TEA asked its members in the spring whether they would support a strike if a contract isn’t ready for their review by Aug. 31, when the current three-year agreement expires.
TEA President Andy Coons declined earlier this summer to say what the results of that spring survey were.
TEA – which represents about 2,100 teachers, librarians, therapists, school nurses, counselors, office professionals and technology experts – plans a membership meeting the week of Aug. 29.
The union has complained for months about the district’s decision to hire an outside negotiator who was not able to reach a settlement, and about what it says is foot-dragging on the part of the district during negotiations.
So far, the district estimates it has spent about $37,500 on a contract with Washington Employers, which is helping the district negotiate. Once bargaining reaches a threshold of 27 sessions, at $1,500 per session, the district will pay $195 per hour for the consultant’s assistance. The district said it turned to the contractor because several years ago it eliminated the position of in-house labor negotiator to save money. Public Employment Relations Commission mediators serve at no cost to either side.
While union complaints have focused on the contractor and the schedule, school district officials have griped about the influence of TEA’s parent organization, the Washington Education Association. They also have accused the union of being unavailable at times and of setting unilateral deadlines. Coons wrote in an online forum that while the WEA is providing help with bargaining, budget research and other issues, “TEA members make their own decisions.”
The district and the TEA, which includes more than 1,500 classroom teachers, have engaged in an exchange of words, with written website statements from Superintendent Art Jarvis and Coons. Coons wrote an op-ed piece for The News Tribune. Jarvis’ own opinion piece is scheduled for publication in the paper Sunday.
Both Jarvis and Coons declined to be interviewed by a News Tribune reporter this week.
Members of the Tacoma School Board also declined to comment publicly on the contract talks.
“I thought Art’s response was wonderful,” said school board President Kurt Miller, referring to a statement Jarvis posted on the School District website.
The district said in its Aug. 8 request for mediation that issues included wages, teacher evaluations, teacher transfers and assignments, class size and more. But TEA’s Coons said at the time that he was confused about the need for a mediator. He said then that negotiations hadn’t hit an impasse. Rather, he said, they had barely begun.
Jarvis said in his web statement that the district must deal with the 1.9-percent loss in funding for teacher salaries handed down by the Legislature.
“Facing this challenge involves difficult bargaining,” he wrote.
The district also has proposed increasing class size as a way to cope with other state budget cuts.
Teachers in the Bethel School District have approved a tentative agreement that cushions them from the 1.9-percent pay cut through the use of district savings. The Bethel School Board is scheduled to vote on the contract agreement Tuesday.
Teachers in the Peninsula School District approved an agreement in June that will pass along the state pay cuts in exchange for teachers working fewer days.
A coalition of community, minority and faith-based groups called Vibrant Schools Tacoma has asked for “transparency” in the bargaining process. The coalition wanted the School District and the union to post proposals online during negotiations. That happened in both the Bethel and Bellevue school districts.
But Jarvis, in his letter to the community, noted that transparency isn’t a magic bullet. While Bethel teachers have approved a contract, Bellevue also has called on state mediators for help.
But now, Vibrant Schools is worried about whether Tacoma negotiations will produce the type of reforms that it supports – reforms it says could boost achievement for minority students who lag behind.
“We simply cannot go through another three years with these results,” said coalition leader Bill Hanawalt, director of Peace Community Center in Tacoma. “Nor can our kids afford to miss any days of instruction. On behalf of our students, we’d like to be very clear: school should start on time with a contract aimed at increasing student learning and closing the achievement gap.”
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/20/1789049/will-contract-talks-delay-start.html#ixzz1WAwdK3lJ
Tacoma school records will get update
Parents of students in Tacoma Public Schools next year will be able to check their children’s attendance, grades, homework assignments and discipline records, and communicate with teachers in a new way – largely in real time.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/16/1784127/school-records-will-get-update.html#ixzz1VOhZFcDk
STEPHANIE KIM; Staff writer Published: 08/16/1112:05 am | Updated: 08/16/11 2:01 pm
Parents of students in Tacoma Public Schools next year will be able to check their children’s attendance, grades, homework assignments and discipline records, and communicate with teachers in a new way – largely in real time.
The student-information technology set to launch in the 2012-13 school year is touted as less expensive in the long run than the current system; the Tacoma School Board approved the change last month.
The district signed a five-year contract with a company called SunGard, which provides software services to education, financial and public sectors.
The new system will cost about $3.7 million, which includes staff training and implementation, said Shaun Taylor, the district’s executive director of technology services.
After that, the yearly cost will be about $100,000, he said – compared with $255,000 a year for the current system, known as eSIS.
More than 2,200 district employees will be trained on the new software starting next month, Taylor said.
Many school districts have technologies in place that allow parents to check on their children’s school records via computer without having to wait for the next report card or parent-teacher conference.
Tacoma’s new system is designed to improve the flow of information.
For one thing, the system will be linked directly with teachers’ grade books, Taylor said. That’s a change from the current software, which doesn’t update grades as frequently.
Under the current system, “these updates are once or twice a week, depending on the school,” he said.
The eSIS software also does not show homework assignments, discipline reports or real-time attendance, he said.
In addition, the current system requires parents to have a login for each individual child. After the change, only one login account will be necessary per family, even if parents have more than one child attending Tacoma schools.
The real-time functionality will let parents and students see updates as soon as teachers submit them.
“I think it’s going to be good for the district,” Taylor said. “It’ll help parents be engaged with teachers.”
SunGard was one of three finalists reviewed by a team of 25 district employees, including nine teachers. The district has been using eSIS since 2000, but it was recently bought out by another company and won’t be supported after June 30.
Capital project funds will pay for most of the software cost, said Ron Hack, the district’s chief financial officer. Some funding also will come from the general fund.
Puyallup, Everett and Bellevue are among the Washington districts using the SunGard software.
Debra Aungst of the Puyallup School District said her district has been using versions of the software since the 1990s and began using the package Tacoma will use about four years ago.
“With conversions of any kind, you’re going to run into problems,” said Aungst, the district’s deputy superintendent. “As a whole, we think this is a good product for us.”
Stephanie Kim: 253-597-8692
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/16/1784127/school-records-will-get-update.html#ixzz1VOhzwzW1
Parents of students in Tacoma Public Schools next year will be able to check their children’s attendance, grades, homework assignments and discipline records, and communicate with teachers in a new way – largely in real time.
The student-information technology set to launch in the 2012-13 school year is touted as less expensive in the long run than the current system; the Tacoma School Board approved the change last month.
The district signed a five-year contract with a company called SunGard, which provides software services to education, financial and public sectors.
The new system will cost about $3.7 million, which includes staff training and implementation, said Shaun Taylor, the district’s executive director of technology services.
After that, the yearly cost will be about $100,000, he said – compared with $255,000 a year for the current system, known as eSIS.
More than 2,200 district employees will be trained on the new software starting next month, Taylor said.
Many school districts have technologies in place that allow parents to check on their children’s school records via computer without having to wait for the next report card or parent-teacher conference.
Tacoma’s new system is designed to improve the flow of information.
For one thing, the system will be linked directly with teachers’ grade books, Taylor said. That’s a change from the current software, which doesn’t update grades as frequently.
Under the current system, “these updates are once or twice a week, depending on the school,” he said.
The eSIS software also does not show homework assignments, discipline reports or real-time attendance, he said.
In addition, the current system requires parents to have a login for each individual child. After the change, only one login account will be necessary per family, even if parents have more than one child attending Tacoma schools.
The real-time functionality will let parents and students see updates as soon as teachers submit them.
“I think it’s going to be good for the district,” Taylor said. “It’ll help parents be engaged with teachers.”
SunGard was one of three finalists reviewed by a team of 25 district employees, including nine teachers. The district has been using eSIS since 2000, but it was recently bought out by another company and won’t be supported after June 30.
Capital project funds will pay for most of the software cost, said Ron Hack, the district’s chief financial officer. Some funding also will come from the general fund.
Puyallup, Everett and Bellevue are among the Washington districts using the SunGard software.
Debra Aungst of the Puyallup School District said her district has been using versions of the software since the 1990s and began using the package Tacoma will use about four years ago.
“With conversions of any kind, you’re going to run into problems,” said Aungst, the district’s deputy superintendent. “As a whole, we think this is a good product for us.”
Stephanie Kim: 253-597-8692
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/16/1784127/school-records-will-get-update.html#ixzz1VOhzwzW1
Tacoma teachers want a contract that puts needs of students first
As a Tacoma parent, I want the best public education for my daughter and son.
FACEBOOK ACTIVITY ANDY COONS Published: 08/16/1112:05 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/16/1784178/tacoma-teachers-want-a-contract.html#ixzz1VOgThiAR
As a Tacoma parent, I want the best public education for my daughter and son.
They deserve schools staffed with experienced, highly trained teachers and support professionals.
They deserve uncrowded classrooms stocked with adequate supplies and modern equipment and technology. They deserve the opportunity to become readers and learn to love math and science – and music and art and all the other subjects that make a well-rounded education.
As a Tacoma resident, teacher and the elected president of the Tacoma Education Association, I want these things for all 28,000 students enrolled in Tacoma Public Schools.
The current collective bargaining agreement between TEA and the Tacoma School Board expires Aug. 31. This is a great opportunity to negotiate an innovative, progressive agreement that focuses on what matters most: Tacoma’s children.
Merely maintaining the status quo isn’t an option. That’s what I tell my students, and it’s what I believe as TEA president.
The opportunity to be a part of contract negotiations was one of the major reasons I ran for union president. I believed my practical classroom experience, as well as my professional expertise, would help our school board and teachers negotiate a new student-focused agreement based on research and what we know helps kids learn.
The two sides have met 20 times to negotiate a new contract. Disappointingly, the problem-solving approach we’ve been using hasn’t produced a settlement. Led by a highly paid outside negotiator, the administration’s bargaining team simply hasn’t shared TEA’s commitment to negotiating a new contract before school starts.
So as Tacoma teachers and the administration’s negotiators meet again this week, we’ll take a more traditional approach, offering proposals back and forth until we have an agreement.
We’re hoping to negotiate a collective bargaining agreement that strengthens student learning, one that supports Tacoma educators so they can meet the needs of all students.
Specifically, we need a student-focused collective bargaining agreement that:
• Maintains reasonable class sizes so teachers can provide the individual help and attention their students need to excel. Overcrowded classes hurt student learning.
• Provides teachers training that will strengthen their teaching skills. Ongoing training is an important part of being an effective, highly qualified teacher.
• Strengthens the way we evaluate teachers, including the use of student learning data to improve teaching. TEA has been at the forefront of efforts to improve teacher evaluations. I’m especially proud of a new evaluation model we are piloting at Jason Lee, which has the potential to shape a new district-wide model.
• Provides compensation that allows Tacoma to attract and keep the best educators for our children. The state cut funding for educator salaries by 1.9 percent, although many local school districts have agreed to make up the cut with local funding. Those districts recognize cutting teacher pay is not the way to attract and keep a highly qualified, effective teaching staff.
• Makes student learning the top budget and administrative priority. We must provide the resources and administrative support educators need to help every child succeed.
The TEA bargaining team, made up of teacher volunteers, is prepared to negotiate every day until the start of school. TEA members are meeting Aug. 29, and I hope we’ll have a tentative agreement to review. If not, we will meet again Aug. 31 to decide our next steps.
Until we have a settlement, TEA will continue providing regular updates about negotiations at www.WeTeachTacoma.org.
Our children deserve dedicated, caring, highly trained educators who have adequate support. That’s what it takes to ensure all children have the opportunity for success. And for members of the Tacoma Education Association, that is the ultimate goal.
Andy Coons is a national board certified teacher and president of the Tacoma Education Association, which represents 2,400 classroom teachers, counselors, librarians, therapists, nurses, technology professionals and school secretaries.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/16/1784178/tacoma-teachers-want-a-contract.html#ixzz1VOgrX2RH
They deserve schools staffed with experienced, highly trained teachers and support professionals.
They deserve uncrowded classrooms stocked with adequate supplies and modern equipment and technology. They deserve the opportunity to become readers and learn to love math and science – and music and art and all the other subjects that make a well-rounded education.
As a Tacoma resident, teacher and the elected president of the Tacoma Education Association, I want these things for all 28,000 students enrolled in Tacoma Public Schools.
The current collective bargaining agreement between TEA and the Tacoma School Board expires Aug. 31. This is a great opportunity to negotiate an innovative, progressive agreement that focuses on what matters most: Tacoma’s children.
Merely maintaining the status quo isn’t an option. That’s what I tell my students, and it’s what I believe as TEA president.
The opportunity to be a part of contract negotiations was one of the major reasons I ran for union president. I believed my practical classroom experience, as well as my professional expertise, would help our school board and teachers negotiate a new student-focused agreement based on research and what we know helps kids learn.
The two sides have met 20 times to negotiate a new contract. Disappointingly, the problem-solving approach we’ve been using hasn’t produced a settlement. Led by a highly paid outside negotiator, the administration’s bargaining team simply hasn’t shared TEA’s commitment to negotiating a new contract before school starts.
So as Tacoma teachers and the administration’s negotiators meet again this week, we’ll take a more traditional approach, offering proposals back and forth until we have an agreement.
We’re hoping to negotiate a collective bargaining agreement that strengthens student learning, one that supports Tacoma educators so they can meet the needs of all students.
Specifically, we need a student-focused collective bargaining agreement that:
• Maintains reasonable class sizes so teachers can provide the individual help and attention their students need to excel. Overcrowded classes hurt student learning.
• Provides teachers training that will strengthen their teaching skills. Ongoing training is an important part of being an effective, highly qualified teacher.
• Strengthens the way we evaluate teachers, including the use of student learning data to improve teaching. TEA has been at the forefront of efforts to improve teacher evaluations. I’m especially proud of a new evaluation model we are piloting at Jason Lee, which has the potential to shape a new district-wide model.
• Provides compensation that allows Tacoma to attract and keep the best educators for our children. The state cut funding for educator salaries by 1.9 percent, although many local school districts have agreed to make up the cut with local funding. Those districts recognize cutting teacher pay is not the way to attract and keep a highly qualified, effective teaching staff.
• Makes student learning the top budget and administrative priority. We must provide the resources and administrative support educators need to help every child succeed.
The TEA bargaining team, made up of teacher volunteers, is prepared to negotiate every day until the start of school. TEA members are meeting Aug. 29, and I hope we’ll have a tentative agreement to review. If not, we will meet again Aug. 31 to decide our next steps.
Until we have a settlement, TEA will continue providing regular updates about negotiations at www.WeTeachTacoma.org.
Our children deserve dedicated, caring, highly trained educators who have adequate support. That’s what it takes to ensure all children have the opportunity for success. And for members of the Tacoma Education Association, that is the ultimate goal.
Andy Coons is a national board certified teacher and president of the Tacoma Education Association, which represents 2,400 classroom teachers, counselors, librarians, therapists, nurses, technology professionals and school secretaries.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/16/1784178/tacoma-teachers-want-a-contract.html#ixzz1VOgrX2RH
Tacoma students deserve more than the status quo in teaching
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/12/1779831/tacoma-students-deserve-more-than.html#ixzz1VOdYw6si
LORI GOODRICH Published: 08/12/1112:05 am
I’ve been teaching in Tacoma Public Schools for 30 years. When I was asked to help draft the Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition Platform, I saw it as an opportunity to make sure that it was drafted with a positive approach for teachers in hopes that it would become a document that would respect the teaching craft.
Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition’s short-term goal is to focus on those areas of the Tacoma Public Schools/Tacoma Education Association’s collective bargaining agreement that can lead to increasing student achievement and closing the achievement gap. The platform that Vibrant Schools Tacoma has laid out offers a positive approach and is supported by the great majority of Tacoma residents (vibrantschoolstacoma.org).
While many are quick to say what’s wrong with education, I would suggest that maybe the reason is because we continue “the status quo.” As an educator I’ve always been proud of the many ways our district has been on the cutting edge.
With the founding of the Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition and the negotiation of a new collective bargaining agreement for teachers, we now have another chance to go beyond the status quo and make a real difference for students.
I believe that everyone would agree the most important factor in student achievement is effective teaching. I believe the best way to reach that goal is by expanding the teacher evaluation process.
Couldn’t we develop an evaluation system that provides a clear path for teachers to hone their effectiveness? With a robust evaluation system, we will be able to ensure the best teachers are in the classroom.
I also think the evaluation needs to be a significant factor in staffing decisions. Just like any successful business puts its talent where it best fits its needs, so should we as educators. If we continue to allow seniority to rule without any consideration as to how well one teaches, we are saying it is OK to allow ineffective teachers to remain in our classrooms. This is not what we want for Tacoma.
We should have an evaluation tool that highlights an educator’s skills and also facilitates placement at a school that aligns with the teacher’s talents. Never should teachers be assigned to a school because of a bureaucratic rule or because no other school wants them.
Good teachers expect support. I have spent a decade at McCarver Elementary School, seeing staff come and go. If the evaluation system was overhauled, McCarver would be a different school. We would have the most experienced teachers teaching the students who need it most, and those teachers would be appropriately compensated.
No longer would McCarver be a big revolving door where once you attained some years toward your seniority, you left to greener pastures. You would find experienced staff trained in accelerating learning. You wouldn’t find teachers teaching their whole career at the same grade level. You would find staff that knew more about working with kids in poverty than anywhere else.
You would offer appropriate, targeted professional development to help teachers hone their craft. You would not see forced teacher placements but staff placed because they are the best for this “high needs” school.
Can you begin to picture Tacoma becoming a school district that chose and supported the best placements for their teachers rather than ones that placed staff depending upon mandatory rules without students’ best interests in mind? Tacoma could be a school district where every classroom is led by an effective teacher.
Or, conversely, we could choose to stay with the status quo and continue to allow seniority to dictate staffing decisions, rather than the actions, words or skill of the teachers.
I know which Tacoma I would choose to work in. Which Tacoma do you want?
Lori Goodrich is a teacher in Tacoma Public Schools and member of Stand for Children’s Tacoma chapter.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/12/1779831/tacoma-students-deserve-more-than.html#ixzz1VOeVcgw9
I’ve been teaching in Tacoma Public Schools for 30 years. When I was asked to help draft the Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition Platform, I saw it as an opportunity to make sure that it was drafted with a positive approach for teachers in hopes that it would become a document that would respect the teaching craft.
Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition’s short-term goal is to focus on those areas of the Tacoma Public Schools/Tacoma Education Association’s collective bargaining agreement that can lead to increasing student achievement and closing the achievement gap. The platform that Vibrant Schools Tacoma has laid out offers a positive approach and is supported by the great majority of Tacoma residents (vibrantschoolstacoma.org).
While many are quick to say what’s wrong with education, I would suggest that maybe the reason is because we continue “the status quo.” As an educator I’ve always been proud of the many ways our district has been on the cutting edge.
With the founding of the Vibrant Schools Tacoma Coalition and the negotiation of a new collective bargaining agreement for teachers, we now have another chance to go beyond the status quo and make a real difference for students.
I believe that everyone would agree the most important factor in student achievement is effective teaching. I believe the best way to reach that goal is by expanding the teacher evaluation process.
Couldn’t we develop an evaluation system that provides a clear path for teachers to hone their effectiveness? With a robust evaluation system, we will be able to ensure the best teachers are in the classroom.
I also think the evaluation needs to be a significant factor in staffing decisions. Just like any successful business puts its talent where it best fits its needs, so should we as educators. If we continue to allow seniority to rule without any consideration as to how well one teaches, we are saying it is OK to allow ineffective teachers to remain in our classrooms. This is not what we want for Tacoma.
We should have an evaluation tool that highlights an educator’s skills and also facilitates placement at a school that aligns with the teacher’s talents. Never should teachers be assigned to a school because of a bureaucratic rule or because no other school wants them.
Good teachers expect support. I have spent a decade at McCarver Elementary School, seeing staff come and go. If the evaluation system was overhauled, McCarver would be a different school. We would have the most experienced teachers teaching the students who need it most, and those teachers would be appropriately compensated.
No longer would McCarver be a big revolving door where once you attained some years toward your seniority, you left to greener pastures. You would find experienced staff trained in accelerating learning. You wouldn’t find teachers teaching their whole career at the same grade level. You would find staff that knew more about working with kids in poverty than anywhere else.
You would offer appropriate, targeted professional development to help teachers hone their craft. You would not see forced teacher placements but staff placed because they are the best for this “high needs” school.
Can you begin to picture Tacoma becoming a school district that chose and supported the best placements for their teachers rather than ones that placed staff depending upon mandatory rules without students’ best interests in mind? Tacoma could be a school district where every classroom is led by an effective teacher.
Or, conversely, we could choose to stay with the status quo and continue to allow seniority to dictate staffing decisions, rather than the actions, words or skill of the teachers.
I know which Tacoma I would choose to work in. Which Tacoma do you want?
Lori Goodrich is a teacher in Tacoma Public Schools and member of Stand for Children’s Tacoma chapter.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/12/1779831/tacoma-students-deserve-more-than.html#ixzz1VOeVcgw9
Tacoma schools should let public in on talks Exactly how far apart are the Tacoma School District and its teachers union on the issues most likely to create an impasse in contract negotiations?
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/11/1778535/tacoma-schools-should-let-public.html#ixzz1VOev1nZN
Exactly how far apart are the Tacoma School District and its teachers union on the issues most likely to create an impasse in contract negotiations?
Apparently, not even they know.
That should rattle anyone who is counting on school to begin as scheduled Sept. 1.
The parties have met 20 times over two months, and yet – according to the union’s characterization of the sessions – have not broached such topics as wages, evaluations, professional development and class size.
You know, the contract’s minor details.
District officials won’t say what is bogging down teacher talks. The Tacoma school board has resisted a request by a good-school group to post information about the bargaining sessions like the Bethel and Bellevue districts have done, citing the importance of maintaining its long-term relationship with the union.
The silence is one-sided. The Tacoma Education Association has openly criticized the district for hobbling progress by hiring outside negotiators who have a financial incentive to prolong negotiations and for repeatedly refusing to discuss the most crucial elements of the contract.
Sussing out how large of a gulf separates the two sides – and whether the district is headed for a strike – is complicated by a nontraditional form of bargaining the parties originally agreed to use.
Under “interest-based bargaining,” the union doesn’t begin by saying that it’s a no-go for the district to pass along the teacher pay cut approved by the Legislature.
Rather, teacher representatives say they “have an interest” in “compensation so that staff members do not have to work more than one job to support themselves and their families.”
The collaborative approach works if the two sides are talking. Tellingly, negotiators have now switched to the traditional, position-based form of bargaining.
The district is also bringing in a state mediator. Union officials say they are confused by the move because the bargaining teams haven’t spent enough time on the nitty-gritty of the contract to have a dispute to mediate.
The Tacoma Education Association is primarily concerned with advocating for its members, not playing nice with the district. No surprise there – that’s its job.
District officials, on the other hand, owe a loyalty to the students, families, businesses and other community members who are depending on Tacoma schools to deliver a quality education.
The teacher contract is a key factor in whether scarce resources will be spent on the status quo or on greater student achievement over the next three years. It’s worth going to the mat if the result is a school system that fails fewer kids. But the public has no way to gauge whether the district is fighting the right fight without more transparency in the bargaining process.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/11/1778535/tacoma-schools-should-let-public.html#ixzz1VOfNUrQG
Apparently, not even they know.
That should rattle anyone who is counting on school to begin as scheduled Sept. 1.
The parties have met 20 times over two months, and yet – according to the union’s characterization of the sessions – have not broached such topics as wages, evaluations, professional development and class size.
You know, the contract’s minor details.
District officials won’t say what is bogging down teacher talks. The Tacoma school board has resisted a request by a good-school group to post information about the bargaining sessions like the Bethel and Bellevue districts have done, citing the importance of maintaining its long-term relationship with the union.
The silence is one-sided. The Tacoma Education Association has openly criticized the district for hobbling progress by hiring outside negotiators who have a financial incentive to prolong negotiations and for repeatedly refusing to discuss the most crucial elements of the contract.
Sussing out how large of a gulf separates the two sides – and whether the district is headed for a strike – is complicated by a nontraditional form of bargaining the parties originally agreed to use.
Under “interest-based bargaining,” the union doesn’t begin by saying that it’s a no-go for the district to pass along the teacher pay cut approved by the Legislature.
Rather, teacher representatives say they “have an interest” in “compensation so that staff members do not have to work more than one job to support themselves and their families.”
The collaborative approach works if the two sides are talking. Tellingly, negotiators have now switched to the traditional, position-based form of bargaining.
The district is also bringing in a state mediator. Union officials say they are confused by the move because the bargaining teams haven’t spent enough time on the nitty-gritty of the contract to have a dispute to mediate.
The Tacoma Education Association is primarily concerned with advocating for its members, not playing nice with the district. No surprise there – that’s its job.
District officials, on the other hand, owe a loyalty to the students, families, businesses and other community members who are depending on Tacoma schools to deliver a quality education.
The teacher contract is a key factor in whether scarce resources will be spent on the status quo or on greater student achievement over the next three years. It’s worth going to the mat if the result is a school system that fails fewer kids. But the public has no way to gauge whether the district is fighting the right fight without more transparency in the bargaining process.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/08/11/1778535/tacoma-schools-should-let-public.html#ixzz1VOfNUrQG
Foss shake-up meets backlash
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 05/14/1112:05 am | Updated: 05/14/11 6:02 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/14/1664901/foss-shake-up-meets-backlash.html#ixzz1MXvOQC7u
Movement of school leaders is a spring ritual for most large school districts, but a change in principals planned for Foss High School is already causing a backlash.
Tacoma Superintendent Art Jarvis announced Thursday that Thu Ament, a Foss alumnus in his fourth year as principal of the school, will be reassigned next fall as principal of Oakland, one of the district’s alternative high schools.
Bonnie McGuire, the current principal at Oakland, will move to Foss as its principal.
Some Foss High School supporters say they believe their school is being punished for their vocal opposition earlier this year to save Foss from closure.
“I would suggest that this move is retaliatory for the push-back that Dr. Jarvis and (central administrative) staff received from Foss staff, students and PTSA,” said Michelle Bullinger, secretary of the Foss Parent Teacher Student Association.
District officials say the transfer of Ament and two assistant principals from Foss is not related to that controversy.
“It clearly has absolutely nothing to do with school closure issues,” said district spokesman Dan Voelpel. “The changes are based on the best match between each principal’s strengths and assessment of each school’s needs.”
In January, Jarvis proposed closing the smallest of the city’s five comprehensive high schools to save money. The School District needs to cut about $23 million from its 2011-12 budget.
The School Board backed away from closing Foss in the face of public protests. On Thursday, it approved plans to close two elementary schools, McKinley and Wainwright.
Jarvis said in a news release announcing school administrator changes that “with a district our size, we have many more opportunities and options to make beneficial match-ups that will lead to innovative changes.”
The district hopes to launch an evening program at Foss that would allow students to earn credits outside the traditional school day. It also plans to use Foss as the site of the district’s online program, which opened this year.
In other changes at Foss, current assistant principal Bryon Bahr will trade places with Wilson High School assistant principal Christine Brandt. Foss’ other assistant principal, Norma Barrineau, will also have a new assignment, which has not yet been announced.
Linda Braddy moves from Oakland to become assistant principal at Foss.
Ament said Friday that he had no comment on the moves.
But Foss parents had plenty to say. And Wilson students staged a walkout Friday over the transfer of Brandt from their school to Foss.
Dave Medina, parent of a Foss junior, said a total makeover of Foss’ administration is a bad idea. He called the transfer of Ament one in a continuing series of leadership changes that has hurt the South Tyler Street campus.
“We will have had each one of our four children graduate from Foss with a different principal,” he said. “What’s the reasoning behind it? What do we stand to gain from continually mixing things up?”
Medina said that many in the Foss community still have “a bad taste in their mouth from the way the whole Foss closure thing went down.”
He urged Foss supporters to contact Jarvis about their feelings.
“Everyone should be calling his office, giving him their thoughts and demanding that he answer to us,” Medina said.
Bullinger said she and other families in her neighborhood were affected by Hunt Middle School’s closure last year, then the near-closure of Foss this year.
“It’s too much for me as a parent,” she said.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/14/1664901/foss-shake-up-meets-backlash.html#ixzz1MXvBEIB5
OTHER SCHOOL LEADERSHIP MOVES ANNOUNCED THIS WEEK IN TACOMA SCHOOLS INCLUDE
• Kevin Ikeda moves from principal at Meeker Middle School to principal at Gray Middle School.
• Anita Roth moves from principal at McKinley Elementary, scheduled for closure in the fall, to Lyon Elementary, where some McKinley students will also move.
• Rue Palmer will serve in a dual role as assistant principal at Oakland alternative school and head of the education program at Remann Hall, Pierce County’s juvenile detention facility.
Three middle schools have leadership positions open for next year: Meeker, due to Ikeda’s transfer; First Creek, due to the retirement of Principal Delores Beason; and an assistant principal position at Baker Middle School.
The school district will post those vacancies for both internal and external applicants. A committee of staff members and parents from each school will provide feedback to the superintendent.
Debbie Cafazzo, staff writer
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/14/1664901/foss-shake-up-meets-backlash.html#ixzz1MXvwRYDh
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/14/1664901/foss-shake-up-meets-backlash.html#ixzz1MXvOQC7u
Movement of school leaders is a spring ritual for most large school districts, but a change in principals planned for Foss High School is already causing a backlash.
Tacoma Superintendent Art Jarvis announced Thursday that Thu Ament, a Foss alumnus in his fourth year as principal of the school, will be reassigned next fall as principal of Oakland, one of the district’s alternative high schools.
Bonnie McGuire, the current principal at Oakland, will move to Foss as its principal.
Some Foss High School supporters say they believe their school is being punished for their vocal opposition earlier this year to save Foss from closure.
“I would suggest that this move is retaliatory for the push-back that Dr. Jarvis and (central administrative) staff received from Foss staff, students and PTSA,” said Michelle Bullinger, secretary of the Foss Parent Teacher Student Association.
District officials say the transfer of Ament and two assistant principals from Foss is not related to that controversy.
“It clearly has absolutely nothing to do with school closure issues,” said district spokesman Dan Voelpel. “The changes are based on the best match between each principal’s strengths and assessment of each school’s needs.”
In January, Jarvis proposed closing the smallest of the city’s five comprehensive high schools to save money. The School District needs to cut about $23 million from its 2011-12 budget.
The School Board backed away from closing Foss in the face of public protests. On Thursday, it approved plans to close two elementary schools, McKinley and Wainwright.
Jarvis said in a news release announcing school administrator changes that “with a district our size, we have many more opportunities and options to make beneficial match-ups that will lead to innovative changes.”
The district hopes to launch an evening program at Foss that would allow students to earn credits outside the traditional school day. It also plans to use Foss as the site of the district’s online program, which opened this year.
In other changes at Foss, current assistant principal Bryon Bahr will trade places with Wilson High School assistant principal Christine Brandt. Foss’ other assistant principal, Norma Barrineau, will also have a new assignment, which has not yet been announced.
Linda Braddy moves from Oakland to become assistant principal at Foss.
Ament said Friday that he had no comment on the moves.
But Foss parents had plenty to say. And Wilson students staged a walkout Friday over the transfer of Brandt from their school to Foss.
Dave Medina, parent of a Foss junior, said a total makeover of Foss’ administration is a bad idea. He called the transfer of Ament one in a continuing series of leadership changes that has hurt the South Tyler Street campus.
“We will have had each one of our four children graduate from Foss with a different principal,” he said. “What’s the reasoning behind it? What do we stand to gain from continually mixing things up?”
Medina said that many in the Foss community still have “a bad taste in their mouth from the way the whole Foss closure thing went down.”
He urged Foss supporters to contact Jarvis about their feelings.
“Everyone should be calling his office, giving him their thoughts and demanding that he answer to us,” Medina said.
Bullinger said she and other families in her neighborhood were affected by Hunt Middle School’s closure last year, then the near-closure of Foss this year.
“It’s too much for me as a parent,” she said.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/14/1664901/foss-shake-up-meets-backlash.html#ixzz1MXvBEIB5
OTHER SCHOOL LEADERSHIP MOVES ANNOUNCED THIS WEEK IN TACOMA SCHOOLS INCLUDE
• Kevin Ikeda moves from principal at Meeker Middle School to principal at Gray Middle School.
• Anita Roth moves from principal at McKinley Elementary, scheduled for closure in the fall, to Lyon Elementary, where some McKinley students will also move.
• Rue Palmer will serve in a dual role as assistant principal at Oakland alternative school and head of the education program at Remann Hall, Pierce County’s juvenile detention facility.
Three middle schools have leadership positions open for next year: Meeker, due to Ikeda’s transfer; First Creek, due to the retirement of Principal Delores Beason; and an assistant principal position at Baker Middle School.
The school district will post those vacancies for both internal and external applicants. A committee of staff members and parents from each school will provide feedback to the superintendent.
Debbie Cafazzo, staff writer
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/14/1664901/foss-shake-up-meets-backlash.html#ixzz1MXvwRYDh
McKinley, Wainwright elementary schools to close – at least for now
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/12/1663168/mckinley-wainwright-elementaries.html#ixzz1MXt5QhBX
The Tacoma area will have two fewer elementary schools this fall, the Tacoma School Board decided Thursday amid tears and protests from parents, staff members and students.
Both McKinley Elementary, on the city’s East Side, and Wainwright Elementary, in Fircrest, will close – at least for the time being. Board members said the schools could reopen in the future, when the district’s elementary school enrollment is expected to rise.
They said the closures are necessary now to help plug a $23 million budget shortfall the district faces in the coming school year.
And they warned that more budget cuts will be coming in future years.
“I feel sad, but what can we do?” said Hilda Soltero, whose three children attend McKinley. “Our kids are crying.” But she said she is hopeful that teachers will support her children when they move to Blix Elementary.
Other McKinley students will attend Lyon Elementary, while some Blix students will move to Roosevelt Elementary to accommodate the student shift. Wainwright students who live in the school’s attendance area will be assigned to DeLong Elementary. Students in Wainwright’s program for highly capable children, SAIL, will move to Point Defiance Elementary.
Letters notifying parents of the changes will be sent out soon. Parents can choose to enroll their children at other elementary schools under the district’s optional enrollment program, on a space-available basis.
McKinley graduate Vanessa Baltazar, now a student at First Creek Middle School, wanted to send a message to board members: “If they had children, what would they feel if their school was going to shut down?”
Stephenie Middleton, who works as a crossing guard and recess helper at Wainwright, burst into tears when board members said her school would close.
“I’m so heartbroken,” said Middleton, who also has two children who attend Wainwright. “We fought so hard to keep our school open.”
She said one of her children came from a suburban school district but did better at Wainwright. She said Wainwright has a family atmosphere, that “everybody knows everybody.”
Wainwright’s relatively small size is one reason district officials chose to close it. The school board started its review months ago with a list of six elementary schools that had enrollments of fewer than 300 students, but eventually whittled the closure list to just the two that were closed Thursday.
What will happen to the closed buildings is still to be determined.
Early plans to move specialty programs from other locations in the district to closed school buildings were put on hold. Board members wanted to focus first on which schools would be closed.
“We will revisit it,” district chief operations officer Sam Bell said.
Board member Catherine Ushka-Hall responded to public comments at a board hearing last week that implied the board chose McKinley – where about 40 percent of students are Hispanic – for racial reasons.
“That is certainly not our intent,” she said. “It is nothing to do with the Hispanic community. It has to do with enrollment and budget, just as it does for Wainwright.”
Board member Debbie Winskill said she wants to ensure that kids and teachers from the closed schools move to new schools together when possible.
Board President Kurt Miller said the board will begin working on its budget strategy for upcoming school years. District officials estimated that state and other funding cuts will leave additional shortfalls of $17.5 million in the 2012-13 school year and $16 million the year after that.
Some protesters outside the board meeting Thursday night criticized the school closures, saying the district should spend money from its reserve account before closing schools. The board has indicated it plans to spend $10 million from reserves over the next three school years.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/12/1663168/mckinley-wainwright-elementaries.html#ixzz1MXsEy7VX
Both McKinley Elementary, on the city’s East Side, and Wainwright Elementary, in Fircrest, will close – at least for the time being. Board members said the schools could reopen in the future, when the district’s elementary school enrollment is expected to rise.
They said the closures are necessary now to help plug a $23 million budget shortfall the district faces in the coming school year.
And they warned that more budget cuts will be coming in future years.
“I feel sad, but what can we do?” said Hilda Soltero, whose three children attend McKinley. “Our kids are crying.” But she said she is hopeful that teachers will support her children when they move to Blix Elementary.
Other McKinley students will attend Lyon Elementary, while some Blix students will move to Roosevelt Elementary to accommodate the student shift. Wainwright students who live in the school’s attendance area will be assigned to DeLong Elementary. Students in Wainwright’s program for highly capable children, SAIL, will move to Point Defiance Elementary.
Letters notifying parents of the changes will be sent out soon. Parents can choose to enroll their children at other elementary schools under the district’s optional enrollment program, on a space-available basis.
McKinley graduate Vanessa Baltazar, now a student at First Creek Middle School, wanted to send a message to board members: “If they had children, what would they feel if their school was going to shut down?”
Stephenie Middleton, who works as a crossing guard and recess helper at Wainwright, burst into tears when board members said her school would close.
“I’m so heartbroken,” said Middleton, who also has two children who attend Wainwright. “We fought so hard to keep our school open.”
She said one of her children came from a suburban school district but did better at Wainwright. She said Wainwright has a family atmosphere, that “everybody knows everybody.”
Wainwright’s relatively small size is one reason district officials chose to close it. The school board started its review months ago with a list of six elementary schools that had enrollments of fewer than 300 students, but eventually whittled the closure list to just the two that were closed Thursday.
What will happen to the closed buildings is still to be determined.
Early plans to move specialty programs from other locations in the district to closed school buildings were put on hold. Board members wanted to focus first on which schools would be closed.
“We will revisit it,” district chief operations officer Sam Bell said.
Board member Catherine Ushka-Hall responded to public comments at a board hearing last week that implied the board chose McKinley – where about 40 percent of students are Hispanic – for racial reasons.
“That is certainly not our intent,” she said. “It is nothing to do with the Hispanic community. It has to do with enrollment and budget, just as it does for Wainwright.”
Board member Debbie Winskill said she wants to ensure that kids and teachers from the closed schools move to new schools together when possible.
Board President Kurt Miller said the board will begin working on its budget strategy for upcoming school years. District officials estimated that state and other funding cuts will leave additional shortfalls of $17.5 million in the 2012-13 school year and $16 million the year after that.
Some protesters outside the board meeting Thursday night criticized the school closures, saying the district should spend money from its reserve account before closing schools. The board has indicated it plans to spend $10 million from reserves over the next three school years.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/12/1663168/mckinley-wainwright-elementaries.html#ixzz1MXsEy7VX
Tacoma votes to close McKinley, Wainwright schools next year
by KING 5 News KING5.com
Posted on May 12, 2011 at 5:37 PM
Updated yesterday at 10:36 PM
TACOMA, Wash. -- Tacoma Public Schools will close two elementary schools next year in order to help make up a budget deficit.
At a meeting Thursday, board members voted to close Wainwright Elementary and McKinley Elementary schools.
Tacoma Public Schools is facing a $23 million budget shortfall heading into next year.
"How can you close a school with such an amazing reputation that works so hard to make their kids succeed?" Stephanie Middleton asked, who has two children who attend Wainwright. "When I think of these kids who are crying at the idea of their school not being there anymore or having to explain to them tomorrow why they are all going to be separated, it just breaks my heart."
Teachers and administrators were just as shocked to hear the news.
"This is a fabulous community," said McKinley Principal Anita Roth. "If I could do anything to dispell the myth that parents of high poverty schools don't care about their children, this is it."
View King 5 Interview: http://www.king5.com/news/education/Tacoma-votes-to-close-Wainwright-Elementary-next-year-121745204.html
Posted on May 12, 2011 at 5:37 PM
Updated yesterday at 10:36 PM
TACOMA, Wash. -- Tacoma Public Schools will close two elementary schools next year in order to help make up a budget deficit.
At a meeting Thursday, board members voted to close Wainwright Elementary and McKinley Elementary schools.
Tacoma Public Schools is facing a $23 million budget shortfall heading into next year.
"How can you close a school with such an amazing reputation that works so hard to make their kids succeed?" Stephanie Middleton asked, who has two children who attend Wainwright. "When I think of these kids who are crying at the idea of their school not being there anymore or having to explain to them tomorrow why they are all going to be separated, it just breaks my heart."
Teachers and administrators were just as shocked to hear the news.
"This is a fabulous community," said McKinley Principal Anita Roth. "If I could do anything to dispell the myth that parents of high poverty schools don't care about their children, this is it."
View King 5 Interview: http://www.king5.com/news/education/Tacoma-votes-to-close-Wainwright-Elementary-next-year-121745204.html
Boosters urge against possible closure of McKinley Elementary School Teenage alumni of McKinley Elementary School told the Tacoma School Board on Thursday how the school helped launch them on the path to academic success.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/06/1654619/mckinley-boosters-plead-case.html#ixzz1LaqZg8qg
Teenage alumni of McKinley Elementary School told the Tacoma School Board on Thursday how the school helped launch them on the path to academic success.
Members of Tacoma’s Hispanic community explained that the school – whose student body is more than 40 percent Hispanic – occupies a special place in their Spanish-speaking world.
And parents of McKinley students said they value the school’s small size because it allows teachers to give their special-needs students extra help.
Ironically, it is the school’s small size that could put its future in jeopardy as the school board seeks ways to cut spending. The school district faces a projected budget shortfall of $23 million in the coming school year. District officials estimate they will need to cut an additional $17.5 million the following year, and $16 million the next year, due to drastic budget reductions coming from state and federal sources. They estimate they can save about $500,000 by closing an elementary school.
Several speakers told the board at a public hearing Thursday that the small amount that will be saved by closing McKinley isn’t worth it.
“This is not the right way to solve this problem,” said Antonio Flores, who represents a reform group called El Comite.
The district also plans to cut administrative expenses, increase elementary school class size by an average of one student per class, and eliminate 56 positions.
The board has been looking at low-enrollment schools for possible closure in the fall. An initial list of six Tacoma elementary schools with fewer than 300 students has been whittled to two that could be closed: McKinley, on the city’s East Side, and Wainwright, in Fircrest.
The board held public hearings about Wainwright on Wednesday.
Board members are scheduled to vote on the proposal to close the schools at their meeting May 12.
At McKinley on Thursday, community members spoke out about their frustration over language barriers that they say have muffled their voices during the school closure debate. Liesl Santkuyl of the Latino Action Group said there has been a lack of interpreters at several previous meetings.
An interpreter was late arriving to Thursday’s meeting, which board President Kurt Miller said was due to a mix-up in communications. But several in the crowd said they felt left out, and one woman held a sign that read “institutional racism.”
“Let us participate in the education of our kids,” said Martha Mendoza, the mother of three McKinley students. “Because we are Latinos, we don’t count? Because we don’t speak English, we don’t count? Please don’t close this school.”
Several speakers held back tears as they spoke.
McKinley kindergarten teacher Marian Barker was one of them.
“It’s not the building,” said Barker, who has taught at McKinley for more than 24 years. “It’s the staff and the principal and the leadership.”
She described an educational team that works collaboratively. She said she visited one of the schools that would take McKinley students, should it close.
“You don’t get the feeling you get here,” she said.
If McKinley closes, students will would be bused to either Blix or Lyon Elementary School. And some Blix students would move to Roosevelt Elementary to make room for incoming McKinley kids.
The district is looking not only at enrollment numbers, but at the age and condition of schools. McKinley is one of the oldest schools in Tacoma; it opened as a two-room schoolhouse in a different location in 1906. The current building on McKinley Avenue opened in 1908 and has undergone several updates, most recently in 1967. But it does not meet handicap-accessibility requirements.
Despite its physical shortcomings, parents and students said Thursday that there’s no place like McKinley.
They said they value the special services the school offers Spanish speakers. The school operates a volunteer-staffed hotline that answers questions from Spanish-speaking parents. Last year, McKinley recruited Spanish-speaking students from Lincoln High School to help teach McKinley parents who wanted to learn about computers. McKinley offers parenting classes in both English and Spanish.
“When I came to school, I knew barely any English,” said 14-year-old Erik Zuniga, a Lincoln student who attended McKinley from kindergarten through fifth grade. “With the attention the teachers gave us, I was able to understand and speak English. Sometimes I wonder, what would I do without McKinley and its staff?”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/06/1654619/mckinley-boosters-plead-case.html#ixzz1LaqvFOEW
Members of Tacoma’s Hispanic community explained that the school – whose student body is more than 40 percent Hispanic – occupies a special place in their Spanish-speaking world.
And parents of McKinley students said they value the school’s small size because it allows teachers to give their special-needs students extra help.
Ironically, it is the school’s small size that could put its future in jeopardy as the school board seeks ways to cut spending. The school district faces a projected budget shortfall of $23 million in the coming school year. District officials estimate they will need to cut an additional $17.5 million the following year, and $16 million the next year, due to drastic budget reductions coming from state and federal sources. They estimate they can save about $500,000 by closing an elementary school.
Several speakers told the board at a public hearing Thursday that the small amount that will be saved by closing McKinley isn’t worth it.
“This is not the right way to solve this problem,” said Antonio Flores, who represents a reform group called El Comite.
The district also plans to cut administrative expenses, increase elementary school class size by an average of one student per class, and eliminate 56 positions.
The board has been looking at low-enrollment schools for possible closure in the fall. An initial list of six Tacoma elementary schools with fewer than 300 students has been whittled to two that could be closed: McKinley, on the city’s East Side, and Wainwright, in Fircrest.
The board held public hearings about Wainwright on Wednesday.
Board members are scheduled to vote on the proposal to close the schools at their meeting May 12.
At McKinley on Thursday, community members spoke out about their frustration over language barriers that they say have muffled their voices during the school closure debate. Liesl Santkuyl of the Latino Action Group said there has been a lack of interpreters at several previous meetings.
An interpreter was late arriving to Thursday’s meeting, which board President Kurt Miller said was due to a mix-up in communications. But several in the crowd said they felt left out, and one woman held a sign that read “institutional racism.”
“Let us participate in the education of our kids,” said Martha Mendoza, the mother of three McKinley students. “Because we are Latinos, we don’t count? Because we don’t speak English, we don’t count? Please don’t close this school.”
Several speakers held back tears as they spoke.
McKinley kindergarten teacher Marian Barker was one of them.
“It’s not the building,” said Barker, who has taught at McKinley for more than 24 years. “It’s the staff and the principal and the leadership.”
She described an educational team that works collaboratively. She said she visited one of the schools that would take McKinley students, should it close.
“You don’t get the feeling you get here,” she said.
If McKinley closes, students will would be bused to either Blix or Lyon Elementary School. And some Blix students would move to Roosevelt Elementary to make room for incoming McKinley kids.
The district is looking not only at enrollment numbers, but at the age and condition of schools. McKinley is one of the oldest schools in Tacoma; it opened as a two-room schoolhouse in a different location in 1906. The current building on McKinley Avenue opened in 1908 and has undergone several updates, most recently in 1967. But it does not meet handicap-accessibility requirements.
Despite its physical shortcomings, parents and students said Thursday that there’s no place like McKinley.
They said they value the special services the school offers Spanish speakers. The school operates a volunteer-staffed hotline that answers questions from Spanish-speaking parents. Last year, McKinley recruited Spanish-speaking students from Lincoln High School to help teach McKinley parents who wanted to learn about computers. McKinley offers parenting classes in both English and Spanish.
“When I came to school, I knew barely any English,” said 14-year-old Erik Zuniga, a Lincoln student who attended McKinley from kindergarten through fifth grade. “With the attention the teachers gave us, I was able to understand and speak English. Sometimes I wonder, what would I do without McKinley and its staff?”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/05/06/1654619/mckinley-boosters-plead-case.html#ixzz1LaqvFOEW
Franklin Elementary likely will remain open; public hearings set on McKinley, Wainwright
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/04/14/1626748/franklin-elementary-likely-will.html#ixzz1Jc1QtvZU
Franklin Elementary School – one of three schools that had been targeted for closure in Tacoma to save money – likely will remain open this fall following action Thursday by the Tacoma School Board.
FACEBOOK ACTIVITY DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 04/15/11 6:35 am | Updated: 04/14/11 9:57 pm 12 Comments Franklin Elementary School – one of three schools that had been targeted for closure in Tacoma to save money – likely will remain open this fall following action Thursday by the Tacoma School Board.
The board did vote to hold public hearings on the proposed closure of two other elementary schools, McKinley and Wainwright. Those hearings have not been scheduled; they must be held within the 90 days prior to a final board decision on closures.
All three schools have enrollments of less than 300. Franklin is the only one to have undergone extensive rebuilding, in 1997. That was one reason board members cited for taking it off the closure list.
Tacoma is grappling with a potential budget gap for the coming school year that began at $13 million in January. Administrators fear the gap could grow wider, based on cuts proposed recently by the Legislature.
“I’m happy – overjoyed,” Franklin Principal Tracye Ferguson said after the board vote. “We feel blessed.”
“You feel bad for (the other schools),” said Franklin teacher Brandy McCollim. “But I feel elated and excited for us.” Board president Kurt Miller said the board will continue to talk about ways to save money until budget approval. The board has until the end of August to adopt a final budget for the coming school year.
Miller emphasized several times throughout the meeting that the board was not voting to close schools Thursday. Instead, he said, the board voted to authorize public hearings on the proposed closures.
But closing smaller schools has been a part of Superintendent Art Jarvis’ plan to trim costs since bad budget news emerged in January. A proposal to close the city’s smallest comprehensive high school, Foss, was floated but withdrawn following protests.
Kim Golding – the only one of four board members present Thursday who wanted to press ahead with the Franklin closure – said she wasn’t happy to close schools. But she said that not doing so will mean “we are taking the hits somewhere else.”
“Very few school districts can afford to operate schools with fewer than 300 students,” she said. “We are facing a situation where our budget no longer supports that.”
With just two elementary closures now on the table, school officials will have to find another way to save the estimated $500,000 to $600,000 that would have come from closing Franklin and eliminating the positions of a principal, librarian, nurse, counselor and other school support staff.
Other budget-reduction measures given the green light Thursday include:
• An estimated $2 million in administrative and operational cuts. This measure involves cutting more than nine positions, including an executive secretary, two custodians and a painter. The highest-paid administrative position – with a total cost of slightly more than $100,000 – is that of the coordinator of grants management. That position is being vacated by a retirement and will not be filled. This category also includes reductions in food-service and transportation spending.
• Nearly $8 million in savings from eliminating more than 56 full-time-equivalent positions, including 20.5 instructional coaches.
• Increasing class size by an average of one student in elementary schools. This will reduce the teaching staff by 20 to 25 positions, saving an estimated $2 million. But increases in class size must also be negotiated with the teachers’ union.
The school board is wrestling with budget cuts primarily because of reductions coming at them from Olympia.
The state budget proposed last week in the House would cost Tacoma an estimated $6.2 million, while the Senate version of the budget that emerged this week would slash $9.4 million. Both those budgets outstrip the governor’s proposed budget cuts, which would cost Tacoma $5.3 million.
The spending cuts recommended by Tacoma school administrators were calculated based on only the governor’s proposal. They must wait to see how legislators reconcile their budget-reduction plans to determine whether they need to propose further cuts.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/04/14/1626748/franklin-elementary-likely-will.html#ixzz1Jc1jphI0
FACEBOOK ACTIVITY DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 04/15/11 6:35 am | Updated: 04/14/11 9:57 pm 12 Comments Franklin Elementary School – one of three schools that had been targeted for closure in Tacoma to save money – likely will remain open this fall following action Thursday by the Tacoma School Board.
The board did vote to hold public hearings on the proposed closure of two other elementary schools, McKinley and Wainwright. Those hearings have not been scheduled; they must be held within the 90 days prior to a final board decision on closures.
All three schools have enrollments of less than 300. Franklin is the only one to have undergone extensive rebuilding, in 1997. That was one reason board members cited for taking it off the closure list.
Tacoma is grappling with a potential budget gap for the coming school year that began at $13 million in January. Administrators fear the gap could grow wider, based on cuts proposed recently by the Legislature.
“I’m happy – overjoyed,” Franklin Principal Tracye Ferguson said after the board vote. “We feel blessed.”
“You feel bad for (the other schools),” said Franklin teacher Brandy McCollim. “But I feel elated and excited for us.” Board president Kurt Miller said the board will continue to talk about ways to save money until budget approval. The board has until the end of August to adopt a final budget for the coming school year.
Miller emphasized several times throughout the meeting that the board was not voting to close schools Thursday. Instead, he said, the board voted to authorize public hearings on the proposed closures.
But closing smaller schools has been a part of Superintendent Art Jarvis’ plan to trim costs since bad budget news emerged in January. A proposal to close the city’s smallest comprehensive high school, Foss, was floated but withdrawn following protests.
Kim Golding – the only one of four board members present Thursday who wanted to press ahead with the Franklin closure – said she wasn’t happy to close schools. But she said that not doing so will mean “we are taking the hits somewhere else.”
“Very few school districts can afford to operate schools with fewer than 300 students,” she said. “We are facing a situation where our budget no longer supports that.”
With just two elementary closures now on the table, school officials will have to find another way to save the estimated $500,000 to $600,000 that would have come from closing Franklin and eliminating the positions of a principal, librarian, nurse, counselor and other school support staff.
Other budget-reduction measures given the green light Thursday include:
• An estimated $2 million in administrative and operational cuts. This measure involves cutting more than nine positions, including an executive secretary, two custodians and a painter. The highest-paid administrative position – with a total cost of slightly more than $100,000 – is that of the coordinator of grants management. That position is being vacated by a retirement and will not be filled. This category also includes reductions in food-service and transportation spending.
• Nearly $8 million in savings from eliminating more than 56 full-time-equivalent positions, including 20.5 instructional coaches.
• Increasing class size by an average of one student in elementary schools. This will reduce the teaching staff by 20 to 25 positions, saving an estimated $2 million. But increases in class size must also be negotiated with the teachers’ union.
The school board is wrestling with budget cuts primarily because of reductions coming at them from Olympia.
The state budget proposed last week in the House would cost Tacoma an estimated $6.2 million, while the Senate version of the budget that emerged this week would slash $9.4 million. Both those budgets outstrip the governor’s proposed budget cuts, which would cost Tacoma $5.3 million.
The spending cuts recommended by Tacoma school administrators were calculated based on only the governor’s proposal. They must wait to see how legislators reconcile their budget-reduction plans to determine whether they need to propose further cuts.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/04/14/1626748/franklin-elementary-likely-will.html#ixzz1Jc1jphI0
Tacoma district leans toward closing Franklin, Wainwright, McKinley
Tacoma likely will operate with three fewer elementary school communities beginning this fall, based on discussions among members of the Tacoma School Board.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO Published: 03/10/1110:39 pm | Updated: 03/11/11 3:30 am
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/03/10/1579446/tacoma-district-leans-toward-closing.html#ixzz1GJovpt00
Tacoma likely will operate with three fewer elementary school communities beginning this fall, based on discussions among members of the Tacoma School Board.
Although no formal vote was taken during Thursday night’s meeting, a majority of board members appear ready to support a plan proposed by Superintendent Art Jarvis to close Wainwright, Franklin and McKinley elementary schools. All have enrollments below 300.
An earlier proposal to save $2 million by closing Foss High School met with stiff public opposition; board members backed off of that plan.
The goal is to help trim more than $13 million from district programs – reductions that are needed to cope with expected state budget cuts and the loss of an estimated $8 million in federal stimulus dollars. Even with the cuts, the district will also have to spend an additional $10 million from its reserve fund to prevent further program losses.
The school district also foresees the need to cut $7.5 million in the 2012-13 school year and an additional $6 million in 2013-14. Jarvis has proposed a budget plan that includes spending $10 million in reserves in each of those two years as well to avoid further program cuts.
For next year, the superintendent proposes increasing elementary class size by an average of one student – a proposal subject to contract negations with the teachers’ union – as well as increasing administrative and operational efficiency. The class-size increase, which would require fewer teachers, would save an estimated $2 million.
Jarvis – who was ill and not at Thursday’s meeting – has said that savings of about $500,000 per closed elementary school will come not from mothballing buildings but primarily from reducing the need for a principal and support staff in each of the three schools.
Most board members Thursday agreed that small-school closures are painful, but necessary.
“We are backed into this corner,” said board member Kim Golding.
But longtime board member Debbie Winskill said she is not a fan of closing schools.
“I think we are trying to do this on the backs of students,” she said. She said she worries that the elementary school population might bounce back sooner than expected, or that schools that receive new students as a result of the changes will become crowded.
She suggested looking at cuts in areas such as instructional coaches and staff-development funding instead.
Board President Kurt Miller said the goal is to make the district more efficient for all students.
“We have schools that are under-enrolled,” he said.
Board member Catherine Ushka-Hall said she wants to make sure that even with closures and consolidations, students are able to attend a neighborhood school.
Board member Jim Dugan said that if enrollment projections are correct, it will take more than a decade for elementary schools to fill up again. He said he is more worried now about enrollment trends at the district’s five comprehensive high schools, which indicate that several will drop below the 1,000-student mark in the next four to six years.
Without a critical mass, smaller high schools will have to cut back on class offerings, he said.
“We will cannibalize to the point where we have nothing to sell,” said Dugan, who wants to develop a marketing plan to sell Tacoma Public Schools’ strengths to families.
Winskill said that if elementary schools do close as proposed, she wants to cushion the blow by ensuring, for example, that fifth-graders are able to move to a new location together.
The proposed school closures, along with the movement of smaller programs into some of the vacated buildings, would set off a sort of domino effect in student reassignments. District officials estimate the movement will also add about $150,000 in transportation costs – but that about half that amount will be reimbursed by the state.
Under the plan, Wainwright’s building would be closed, while Franklin would house students from the Montessori program now at Bryant Elementary. A variety of programs, including Head Start and others, would move from the old Madison School site to the Bryant Elementary site. The district would vacate and close the Madison building.
A program for students with behavioral and severe emotional problems now housed at the old Park Avenue School would move into the McKinley building. The district would vacate and close the Park Avenue site.
The proposed school closures and consolidations were the subject of a series of community meetings held recently by district officials. Some changes to the original school closure and consolidation plans emerged from those meetings as a result of public comments, said district Chief Operations Officer Sam Bell.
They include:
• Moving Bryant’s sixth- through eighth-graders to Geiger Elementary, instead of to Franklin.
• Merging the easternmost portion of Whittier Elementary’s attendance area with DeLong.
• Creating a new preschool-through-grade-eight Montessori school at the old Hunt Middle School, which closed this year.
Among the administrative cuts on the table:
• No salary increases for some administrative staff.
• A reduction of positions from central administration and support.
The school board will resume budget discussions at its March 24 meeting.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/03/10/1579446/tacoma-district-leans-toward-closing.html#ixzz1GJp9MWZe
Although no formal vote was taken during Thursday night’s meeting, a majority of board members appear ready to support a plan proposed by Superintendent Art Jarvis to close Wainwright, Franklin and McKinley elementary schools. All have enrollments below 300.
An earlier proposal to save $2 million by closing Foss High School met with stiff public opposition; board members backed off of that plan.
The goal is to help trim more than $13 million from district programs – reductions that are needed to cope with expected state budget cuts and the loss of an estimated $8 million in federal stimulus dollars. Even with the cuts, the district will also have to spend an additional $10 million from its reserve fund to prevent further program losses.
The school district also foresees the need to cut $7.5 million in the 2012-13 school year and an additional $6 million in 2013-14. Jarvis has proposed a budget plan that includes spending $10 million in reserves in each of those two years as well to avoid further program cuts.
For next year, the superintendent proposes increasing elementary class size by an average of one student – a proposal subject to contract negations with the teachers’ union – as well as increasing administrative and operational efficiency. The class-size increase, which would require fewer teachers, would save an estimated $2 million.
Jarvis – who was ill and not at Thursday’s meeting – has said that savings of about $500,000 per closed elementary school will come not from mothballing buildings but primarily from reducing the need for a principal and support staff in each of the three schools.
Most board members Thursday agreed that small-school closures are painful, but necessary.
“We are backed into this corner,” said board member Kim Golding.
But longtime board member Debbie Winskill said she is not a fan of closing schools.
“I think we are trying to do this on the backs of students,” she said. She said she worries that the elementary school population might bounce back sooner than expected, or that schools that receive new students as a result of the changes will become crowded.
She suggested looking at cuts in areas such as instructional coaches and staff-development funding instead.
Board President Kurt Miller said the goal is to make the district more efficient for all students.
“We have schools that are under-enrolled,” he said.
Board member Catherine Ushka-Hall said she wants to make sure that even with closures and consolidations, students are able to attend a neighborhood school.
Board member Jim Dugan said that if enrollment projections are correct, it will take more than a decade for elementary schools to fill up again. He said he is more worried now about enrollment trends at the district’s five comprehensive high schools, which indicate that several will drop below the 1,000-student mark in the next four to six years.
Without a critical mass, smaller high schools will have to cut back on class offerings, he said.
“We will cannibalize to the point where we have nothing to sell,” said Dugan, who wants to develop a marketing plan to sell Tacoma Public Schools’ strengths to families.
Winskill said that if elementary schools do close as proposed, she wants to cushion the blow by ensuring, for example, that fifth-graders are able to move to a new location together.
The proposed school closures, along with the movement of smaller programs into some of the vacated buildings, would set off a sort of domino effect in student reassignments. District officials estimate the movement will also add about $150,000 in transportation costs – but that about half that amount will be reimbursed by the state.
Under the plan, Wainwright’s building would be closed, while Franklin would house students from the Montessori program now at Bryant Elementary. A variety of programs, including Head Start and others, would move from the old Madison School site to the Bryant Elementary site. The district would vacate and close the Madison building.
A program for students with behavioral and severe emotional problems now housed at the old Park Avenue School would move into the McKinley building. The district would vacate and close the Park Avenue site.
The proposed school closures and consolidations were the subject of a series of community meetings held recently by district officials. Some changes to the original school closure and consolidation plans emerged from those meetings as a result of public comments, said district Chief Operations Officer Sam Bell.
They include:
• Moving Bryant’s sixth- through eighth-graders to Geiger Elementary, instead of to Franklin.
• Merging the easternmost portion of Whittier Elementary’s attendance area with DeLong.
• Creating a new preschool-through-grade-eight Montessori school at the old Hunt Middle School, which closed this year.
Among the administrative cuts on the table:
• No salary increases for some administrative staff.
• A reduction of positions from central administration and support.
The school board will resume budget discussions at its March 24 meeting.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/03/10/1579446/tacoma-district-leans-toward-closing.html#ixzz1GJp9MWZe
Tacoma school closure concerns expressed
http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/03/04/1569346/school-closure-concerns-expressed.html
FACEBOOK ACTIVITY DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 03/04/1112:05 am | Updated: 03/04/11 8:19 am 2 Comments Franklin Elementary School teacher Tracy Knight spent hundreds of dollars of her own money last year on a schoolyard garden. Her students – part of a special program for autistic kids – love working in the dirt, watering the budding plants and watching their garden grow.
Now Knight fears the relationships the garden has helped cultivate will be uprooted.
Franklin, in central Tacoma, is one of three low-enrollment elementary schools being considered for closure by Tacoma Public Schools in the fall. The other two are McKinley, on the East Side, and Wainwright, in Fircrest.
The move is part of a plan to shrink the district’s budget as a result of state cuts to education that are likely to emerge from the current legislative session.
At a community meeting this week, Knight urged school officials to search for ways to bridge the budget gap “to make less of an impact on our children.”
An earlier proposal to close Foss High School was met with stiff public opposition, and the school district appears to have taken it off the table. Now elementary school advocates are starting to rally in hopes their programs also can be saved.
School officials project they will face a $13.1 million budget shortfall next year stemming from the state budget crisis and the end of federal stimulus funding. Superintendent Art Jarvis has proposed spending a portion of district savings, slashing spending by at least $1 million, increasing elementary school class sizes and consolidating elementary schools.
District officials estimate they will save $1.5 million by closing three elementary schools, each with an enrollment of fewer than 300 students. Jarvis says the savings will come not from mothballing buildings, but from eliminating administrative and support jobs.
The district plan would send students from Franklin, McKinley and Wainwright to nearby schools. It would also move the Bryant Montessori program, which has children preschool through eighth grade, from a school on Tacoma’s Hilltop to the newer Franklin building.
Bryant, a magnet school that draws students from throughout the district, had 336 students as of October.
Some Bryant parents say they like the idea because it would move their children from an older building to a school that was built about a decade ago.
Franklin students could apply for the Montessori program, but it has a waiting list. Otherwise, they would be divided between DeLong and Stanley elementary schools.
Reaction to the elementary closure plan has come from both staff and parents at the affected schools.
At Wainwright, a historic school in that opened in 1911, backers say it’s wrong to close their successful school. They met this week with school board member Debbie Winskill.
“We are one of the few schools in the district that has met our AYP continually,” said teacher Jane Wyckoff. She was referring to Adequate Yearly Progress, a measurement required by federal law based on how well schools improve on reading and math test scores from year to year.
Only 13 of Tacoma’s 37 elementary schools reached their AYP targets in the 2009-10 school year. Wainwright and Franklin were among them.
Wainwright teachers say part of their student population is a shifting one, with children arriving and leaving during the school year. But they say other students come from other parts of the school district because they like Wainwright’s warm atmosphere and academic record.
The school also houses a program for highly capable fourth- and fifth-graders. Many come from Tacoma’s North End.
“We have parents choose us because we are small and because they want a strong academic program,” said first grade teacher Darlene Wiggins.
“Our kids are soaring in this school,” said second-grade teacher Nancy Berggren. “To hurt our school and take our children, I think would be devastating.”
Winskill said the district has looked at small schools for closure, but the school board also wants to ensure that one part of the district doesn’t bear the brunt of cuts. That’s why school officials pulled back from an original list of six low-enrollment schools. Several of them serve the city’s East Side, where elementary populations are predicted to grow in the future.
Tim Herron, a parent of students at Bryant who lives in the neighborhood, said he’s concerned about how all the movement of students around the city under the proposed plan would affect students.
He says enrollment policies at Bryant limit access to the program by neighborhood children.
Even if the district guaranteed transportation for all current Bryant-area students to Franklin, he said, he worries the disruption would accelerate the decline of both minority and low-income kids that Tacoma’s only public Montessori school has seen over the past decade.
“I think there are some very important conversations to be had about the equity of these plans and whether they align with the district’s stated goals of closing the achievement gap,” he wrote in an e-mail to The News Tribune. “I am not hearing conversations around the decisions in light of these objectives.”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 debbie. [email protected]
Voice your opinions
Two more community meetings are set to discuss possible Tacoma school closures and consolidations. The Tacoma School Board meets next on Thursday.
Monday, 6-7:30 p.m., at First Creek Middle School Commons. Aimed at McKinley, Blix, Lyon, Roosevelt and Park Avenue school communities. Under the district proposal, McKinley would close and its students reassigned to Blix and Lyon. A small part of the northeast Blix attendance area would shift to Roosevelt. The special programs now at Park Avenue Center would move to the McKinley building. (A concurrent meeting with a Spanish language interpreter will be held in the school’s art room.)
March 15, 6-7:30 p.m., at Geiger Elementary. Aimed at Geiger, Hunt and Foss school communities. The district plan proposes several options:
(1) Temporary relocation of Geiger to the former Hunt Middle School site while a new Geiger is built. (2) Postpone construction of a new Geiger; consider building a preschool-through-grade -eight Montessori school on the vacant Hunt site. (3) Do not build a new Hunt as planned. Instead, expand Foss High School to serve grades six through 12.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/03/04/1569346/school-closure-concerns-expressed.html#ixzz1Fflwdvo9
Now Knight fears the relationships the garden has helped cultivate will be uprooted.
Franklin, in central Tacoma, is one of three low-enrollment elementary schools being considered for closure by Tacoma Public Schools in the fall. The other two are McKinley, on the East Side, and Wainwright, in Fircrest.
The move is part of a plan to shrink the district’s budget as a result of state cuts to education that are likely to emerge from the current legislative session.
At a community meeting this week, Knight urged school officials to search for ways to bridge the budget gap “to make less of an impact on our children.”
An earlier proposal to close Foss High School was met with stiff public opposition, and the school district appears to have taken it off the table. Now elementary school advocates are starting to rally in hopes their programs also can be saved.
School officials project they will face a $13.1 million budget shortfall next year stemming from the state budget crisis and the end of federal stimulus funding. Superintendent Art Jarvis has proposed spending a portion of district savings, slashing spending by at least $1 million, increasing elementary school class sizes and consolidating elementary schools.
District officials estimate they will save $1.5 million by closing three elementary schools, each with an enrollment of fewer than 300 students. Jarvis says the savings will come not from mothballing buildings, but from eliminating administrative and support jobs.
The district plan would send students from Franklin, McKinley and Wainwright to nearby schools. It would also move the Bryant Montessori program, which has children preschool through eighth grade, from a school on Tacoma’s Hilltop to the newer Franklin building.
Bryant, a magnet school that draws students from throughout the district, had 336 students as of October.
Some Bryant parents say they like the idea because it would move their children from an older building to a school that was built about a decade ago.
Franklin students could apply for the Montessori program, but it has a waiting list. Otherwise, they would be divided between DeLong and Stanley elementary schools.
Reaction to the elementary closure plan has come from both staff and parents at the affected schools.
At Wainwright, a historic school in that opened in 1911, backers say it’s wrong to close their successful school. They met this week with school board member Debbie Winskill.
“We are one of the few schools in the district that has met our AYP continually,” said teacher Jane Wyckoff. She was referring to Adequate Yearly Progress, a measurement required by federal law based on how well schools improve on reading and math test scores from year to year.
Only 13 of Tacoma’s 37 elementary schools reached their AYP targets in the 2009-10 school year. Wainwright and Franklin were among them.
Wainwright teachers say part of their student population is a shifting one, with children arriving and leaving during the school year. But they say other students come from other parts of the school district because they like Wainwright’s warm atmosphere and academic record.
The school also houses a program for highly capable fourth- and fifth-graders. Many come from Tacoma’s North End.
“We have parents choose us because we are small and because they want a strong academic program,” said first grade teacher Darlene Wiggins.
“Our kids are soaring in this school,” said second-grade teacher Nancy Berggren. “To hurt our school and take our children, I think would be devastating.”
Winskill said the district has looked at small schools for closure, but the school board also wants to ensure that one part of the district doesn’t bear the brunt of cuts. That’s why school officials pulled back from an original list of six low-enrollment schools. Several of them serve the city’s East Side, where elementary populations are predicted to grow in the future.
Tim Herron, a parent of students at Bryant who lives in the neighborhood, said he’s concerned about how all the movement of students around the city under the proposed plan would affect students.
He says enrollment policies at Bryant limit access to the program by neighborhood children.
Even if the district guaranteed transportation for all current Bryant-area students to Franklin, he said, he worries the disruption would accelerate the decline of both minority and low-income kids that Tacoma’s only public Montessori school has seen over the past decade.
“I think there are some very important conversations to be had about the equity of these plans and whether they align with the district’s stated goals of closing the achievement gap,” he wrote in an e-mail to The News Tribune. “I am not hearing conversations around the decisions in light of these objectives.”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 debbie. [email protected]
Voice your opinions
Two more community meetings are set to discuss possible Tacoma school closures and consolidations. The Tacoma School Board meets next on Thursday.
Monday, 6-7:30 p.m., at First Creek Middle School Commons. Aimed at McKinley, Blix, Lyon, Roosevelt and Park Avenue school communities. Under the district proposal, McKinley would close and its students reassigned to Blix and Lyon. A small part of the northeast Blix attendance area would shift to Roosevelt. The special programs now at Park Avenue Center would move to the McKinley building. (A concurrent meeting with a Spanish language interpreter will be held in the school’s art room.)
March 15, 6-7:30 p.m., at Geiger Elementary. Aimed at Geiger, Hunt and Foss school communities. The district plan proposes several options:
(1) Temporary relocation of Geiger to the former Hunt Middle School site while a new Geiger is built. (2) Postpone construction of a new Geiger; consider building a preschool-through-grade -eight Montessori school on the vacant Hunt site. (3) Do not build a new Hunt as planned. Instead, expand Foss High School to serve grades six through 12.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/03/04/1569346/school-closure-concerns-expressed.html#ixzz1Fflwdvo9
Tacoma Schools considers program shifts, closures
Tacoma Schools considers program shifts, closures The Tacoma School Board took another look Thursday at possible school closures and program shifts as part of a solution to a budget gap that could materialize next year if anticipated state funding cuts occur.
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 02/25/1112:05 am | Updated: 02/25/11 6:00 am 21 Comments The Tacoma School Board took another look Thursday at possible school closures and program shifts as part of a solution to a budget gap that could materialize next year if anticipated state funding cuts occur.
The potential deficit for next year is now estimated at $13.1 million. More budget cuts will be needed in the next two school years if expected state cuts happen.
District administrators suggested a plan Thursday that would shutter Wainwright Elementary School, move the kindergarten-through-grade-eight Bryant Montessori program to the newer Franklin Elementary School and move students from McKinley Elementary to other schools next year.
Current students from Franklin would go to other schools. Or they could join the Montessori program that would be housed at Franklin.
The Bryant building would be used to house a variety of programs, including Head Start and other early-childhood programs that now are at Madison School near the Tacoma Mall. And the Park Avenue alternative school, now in the south Tacoma area, with about 20 students, would move to the McKinley building.
The proposals also would involve redrawing attendance boundaries for several of the city’s elementary schools, and adding portable classrooms to some school campuses. The changes would leave Tacoma with 34 elementary schools, compared with its current 37.
Board president Kurt Miller said there will be a series of public meetings in the affected school communities. Board members took no vote on the ideas Thursday, but they do face a decision deadline.
By law, school districts must inform teachers by mid-May if they will be employed in the fall. That means the district must have an idea of a budget plan and whether schools will be closed before then.
Superintendent Art Jarvis said that of the estimated $500,000 savings from closing an elementary program, most of the saved money comes from reduced staffing, rather than from mothballing a building. That’s why he has proposed moving programs from elsewhere in the city to buildings such as Bryant and McKinley.
Another suggestion is to build a preschool-through-eighth-grade school at the old Hunt Middle School site, which closed this year. The district had planned to phase in a Montessori program at Geiger Elementary, which is also slated for a new building.
School district operations director Sam Bell told board members that the district must balance the need to consolidate elementary schools that now have small enrollments with projected future needs. While the school district had initially focused on possibly closing more smaller schools on Tacoma’s East Side, Bell told the board that those schools may be needed in the near future as students begin to re-populate the new Salishan development and the surrounding area.
“We want to leave space to grow into,” he said.
One final idea put forward by Jarvis is to transform Foss High School into a sixth-through-12th-grade facility to serve the former Hunt Middle School population along with high school students. An earlier suggestion to close Foss – the city’s smallest comprehensive high school – ran into steep public opposition.
Thursday’s discussion left board members asking for more answers.
Several board members said they want to talk to families in the Geiger and Hunt areas before making changes to plans for those schools.
Board member Kim Golding said she wants to hear from the Foss and Hunt communities about the idea of merging those schools on the Foss campus.
Board member Jim Dugan said he worries about closing the budget gap by spending down district reserves over the next three years – an integral part of the plan administrators have suggested.
He also said he worries about the effects of a declining high school population on the kinds of curricula that can be offered. He suggested developing a plan to boost the city’s high school enrollment.
“We have a great story to tell,” he said. “We need students. We need families to choose Tacoma.”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/25/1558999/tacoma-schools-considers-closures.html#ixzz1F0oWv1GJ
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 02/25/1112:05 am | Updated: 02/25/11 6:00 am 21 Comments The Tacoma School Board took another look Thursday at possible school closures and program shifts as part of a solution to a budget gap that could materialize next year if anticipated state funding cuts occur.
The potential deficit for next year is now estimated at $13.1 million. More budget cuts will be needed in the next two school years if expected state cuts happen.
District administrators suggested a plan Thursday that would shutter Wainwright Elementary School, move the kindergarten-through-grade-eight Bryant Montessori program to the newer Franklin Elementary School and move students from McKinley Elementary to other schools next year.
Current students from Franklin would go to other schools. Or they could join the Montessori program that would be housed at Franklin.
The Bryant building would be used to house a variety of programs, including Head Start and other early-childhood programs that now are at Madison School near the Tacoma Mall. And the Park Avenue alternative school, now in the south Tacoma area, with about 20 students, would move to the McKinley building.
The proposals also would involve redrawing attendance boundaries for several of the city’s elementary schools, and adding portable classrooms to some school campuses. The changes would leave Tacoma with 34 elementary schools, compared with its current 37.
Board president Kurt Miller said there will be a series of public meetings in the affected school communities. Board members took no vote on the ideas Thursday, but they do face a decision deadline.
By law, school districts must inform teachers by mid-May if they will be employed in the fall. That means the district must have an idea of a budget plan and whether schools will be closed before then.
Superintendent Art Jarvis said that of the estimated $500,000 savings from closing an elementary program, most of the saved money comes from reduced staffing, rather than from mothballing a building. That’s why he has proposed moving programs from elsewhere in the city to buildings such as Bryant and McKinley.
Another suggestion is to build a preschool-through-eighth-grade school at the old Hunt Middle School site, which closed this year. The district had planned to phase in a Montessori program at Geiger Elementary, which is also slated for a new building.
School district operations director Sam Bell told board members that the district must balance the need to consolidate elementary schools that now have small enrollments with projected future needs. While the school district had initially focused on possibly closing more smaller schools on Tacoma’s East Side, Bell told the board that those schools may be needed in the near future as students begin to re-populate the new Salishan development and the surrounding area.
“We want to leave space to grow into,” he said.
One final idea put forward by Jarvis is to transform Foss High School into a sixth-through-12th-grade facility to serve the former Hunt Middle School population along with high school students. An earlier suggestion to close Foss – the city’s smallest comprehensive high school – ran into steep public opposition.
Thursday’s discussion left board members asking for more answers.
Several board members said they want to talk to families in the Geiger and Hunt areas before making changes to plans for those schools.
Board member Kim Golding said she wants to hear from the Foss and Hunt communities about the idea of merging those schools on the Foss campus.
Board member Jim Dugan said he worries about closing the budget gap by spending down district reserves over the next three years – an integral part of the plan administrators have suggested.
He also said he worries about the effects of a declining high school population on the kinds of curricula that can be offered. He suggested developing a plan to boost the city’s high school enrollment.
“We have a great story to tell,” he said. “We need students. We need families to choose Tacoma.”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/25/1558999/tacoma-schools-considers-closures.html#ixzz1F0oWv1GJ
Tacoma Elementary School Closures on Docket
Tacoma elementary school closures on docket The Tacoma School Board will hear a proposal on possible elementary school closures at its regular meeting this evening.
SDEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 02/24/1112:05 am | Updated: 02/24/1112:23 pm 6 Comments The Tacoma School Board will hear a proposal on possible elementary school closures at its regular meeting this evening.
Six elementary schools have been identified as possible closure candidates: Franklin, Lyon, McKinley, Roosevelt, Stanley and Wainwright. Each had an enrollment of fewer than 300 students at the beginning of this year, and projected enrollments next year are fewer than 250 per school. One likely scenario, according to district officials, would consolidate three or four elementary schools next year.
Superintendent Art Jarvis in January put forward the idea of closing schools as a way to balance the district budget in the wake of major cuts expected from the state.
But the district must weigh the urgency of trimming next year’s budget with future needs. Tacoma currently has the capacity to house 3,000 more elementary students than it has today, according to budget information on the district website. Over the next five years, however, projections indicate elementary enrollment will increase. Some of those small schools might have to reopen.
The school board will hear a report Thursday from Jarvis on the possibility of elementary school closures. He will also update the board on other cost-saving measures, including increasing class sizes and potential administrative savings. Increasing class size would likely mean a decrease in teaching positions districtwide.
Jarvis estimates the budget gap for the coming school year will be around $13.5 million. He has proposed an estimated $5 million in cuts to ongoing programs, along with about $8 million in cuts to programs paid for with one-time funding, including federal stimulus dollars. More budget slashing would follow in the next two school years, if anticipated state cuts materialize.
Jarvis originally suggested closing Foss High School – the city’s smallest comprehensive high school – as part of the $5 million in ongoing cuts, but public opposition helped take the Foss idea off the table.
The district estimates closing an elementary school would save about $500,000 per school. It has not yet been said how many of next year’s closures would be permanent, and how many might be temporary.
One low-enrollment elementary campus that officials don’t want to close is Geiger. The school is in the process of transforming itself into a Montessori school, which officials believe will boost enrollment.
The district plans a series of community meetings on the subject of the elementary closures. Dates and locations could be announced after tonight. The school board’s regular meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the district’s central administration building.
Also during the regular meeting, the board will hold a public hearing on a proposal to declare three properties surplus: the unused Willard School site on South D Street, undeveloped property located at the intersection of Cirque Drive West and Alameda Avenue West, and Camp Joshua Taylor in Longbranch.
Before the regular meeting, the board will hold a 5:15 p.m. study session, where no votes will be taken. That session will focus on methods for evaluating the effectiveness of a variety of district programs.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/24/1557408/school-closures-on-docket.html#ixzz1Ewz0qk6l
SDEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 02/24/1112:05 am | Updated: 02/24/1112:23 pm 6 Comments The Tacoma School Board will hear a proposal on possible elementary school closures at its regular meeting this evening.
Six elementary schools have been identified as possible closure candidates: Franklin, Lyon, McKinley, Roosevelt, Stanley and Wainwright. Each had an enrollment of fewer than 300 students at the beginning of this year, and projected enrollments next year are fewer than 250 per school. One likely scenario, according to district officials, would consolidate three or four elementary schools next year.
Superintendent Art Jarvis in January put forward the idea of closing schools as a way to balance the district budget in the wake of major cuts expected from the state.
But the district must weigh the urgency of trimming next year’s budget with future needs. Tacoma currently has the capacity to house 3,000 more elementary students than it has today, according to budget information on the district website. Over the next five years, however, projections indicate elementary enrollment will increase. Some of those small schools might have to reopen.
The school board will hear a report Thursday from Jarvis on the possibility of elementary school closures. He will also update the board on other cost-saving measures, including increasing class sizes and potential administrative savings. Increasing class size would likely mean a decrease in teaching positions districtwide.
Jarvis estimates the budget gap for the coming school year will be around $13.5 million. He has proposed an estimated $5 million in cuts to ongoing programs, along with about $8 million in cuts to programs paid for with one-time funding, including federal stimulus dollars. More budget slashing would follow in the next two school years, if anticipated state cuts materialize.
Jarvis originally suggested closing Foss High School – the city’s smallest comprehensive high school – as part of the $5 million in ongoing cuts, but public opposition helped take the Foss idea off the table.
The district estimates closing an elementary school would save about $500,000 per school. It has not yet been said how many of next year’s closures would be permanent, and how many might be temporary.
One low-enrollment elementary campus that officials don’t want to close is Geiger. The school is in the process of transforming itself into a Montessori school, which officials believe will boost enrollment.
The district plans a series of community meetings on the subject of the elementary closures. Dates and locations could be announced after tonight. The school board’s regular meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the district’s central administration building.
Also during the regular meeting, the board will hold a public hearing on a proposal to declare three properties surplus: the unused Willard School site on South D Street, undeveloped property located at the intersection of Cirque Drive West and Alameda Avenue West, and Camp Joshua Taylor in Longbranch.
Before the regular meeting, the board will hold a 5:15 p.m. study session, where no votes will be taken. That session will focus on methods for evaluating the effectiveness of a variety of district programs.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/24/1557408/school-closures-on-docket.html#ixzz1Ewz0qk6l
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/Pages/District-Budget-Outlook.aspx
VOICE YOUR OPINION
Tacoma Public Schools officials plan a series of five meetings to discuss budget issues and the possibility of school closures, both at Foss High School and at several elementary schools.
District officials say the meetings are not public hearings or town hall forums. Instead, administrators will take questions and members of the public can fill out comment cards. Comments will be consolidated and sent to school board members.
The special community meetings, to run from 6-7:30 p.m., are scheduled for:
• Tuesday, First Creek Middle School (1/25)
• Wednesday, Giaudrone Middle School (1/26)
• Feb. 1, Jason Lee Middle School
• Feb. 2, Truman Middle School
• Feb. 3, Meeker Middle School.
Comments and questions can also be submitted to the school district Web page at www.tacoma.k12.wa.us. Click on District Budget Outlook, then on “ask a budget question.”
The next meeting of the Tacoma School Board is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 27 at the district office, 601 S. Eighth St., Tacoma.
Debbie Cafazzo, staff writer
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/19/1509242/foss-students-fret-over-possible.html#ixzz1BeIS4hl5
District officials say the meetings are not public hearings or town hall forums. Instead, administrators will take questions and members of the public can fill out comment cards. Comments will be consolidated and sent to school board members.
The special community meetings, to run from 6-7:30 p.m., are scheduled for:
• Tuesday, First Creek Middle School (1/25)
• Wednesday, Giaudrone Middle School (1/26)
• Feb. 1, Jason Lee Middle School
• Feb. 2, Truman Middle School
• Feb. 3, Meeker Middle School.
Comments and questions can also be submitted to the school district Web page at www.tacoma.k12.wa.us. Click on District Budget Outlook, then on “ask a budget question.”
The next meeting of the Tacoma School Board is scheduled for 6 p.m. Jan. 27 at the district office, 601 S. Eighth St., Tacoma.
Debbie Cafazzo, staff writer
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/19/1509242/foss-students-fret-over-possible.html#ixzz1BeIS4hl5
Budget cuts for Tacoma schools go beyond closure of Foss High
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/01/1525447/budget-cuts-for-tacoma-schools.html#ixzz1CpVpzUjN
ART JARVIS Published: 02/01/1112:05 am | Updated: 02/01/1112:20 am 5 Comments You’ve read the headlines about the potential closure of Foss High School. Yes, I proposed that drastic measure as an option for the Tacoma School Board to consider.
During Thursday’s school board meeting at Foss, we heard from many who oppose the idea. As I listened, I felt pride in a district where the students, parents and others who make up the Foss community would speak so passionately about their school. We can only hope all our schools generate that kind of passion and loyalty.
Sitting there, you may have thought the only budget cut I proposed was to close Foss. But that’s not the case.
Tacoma Public Schools faces a serious budget problem. Dramatic cuts in state funding for education and federal economic stimulus funding mean staggering budget cuts of $25 million over the next three years.
Since 2008, we built reserves to carry us through the economic crisis. Reserves can provide $10 million each year for the next three years to offset deeper cuts. But we still must find ways to cut $13 million for the coming school year, $7 million the following year and $6 million more in 2013-2014.
We can’t spend our resources or energy complaining how the state and nation got in this financial mess. Collectively, we have work to do. We must make do with much less without shortchanging the children.
Consider the words of a great leader during a time of national crisis: “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew and act anew. We must disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save our country.”
That was Abraham Lincoln, in his second State of the Union Address. Our crisis doesn’t compare with the terrible prospects that faced Lincoln, but his message has relevance as we face an unprecedented financial meltdown with no easy choices.
The magnitude of the cuts by the state and federal governments outstrips our ability to solve the entire budget crisis simply by making many small cuts as we have over the last three years.
We must consider major reductions and efficiencies. I do not want to nickel-and-dime programs throughout the district and dilute their effectiveness. I do not want to pit music against arts against athletics against highly capable programs. I believe we must offer all those programs and many others to keep students in school with many ways to learn.
So I recommended to the school board we consider big-ticket reductions aimed partly at eliminating costly overhead, including:
• Continue pursuing administrative and operational efficiencies, deferred hiring, leaving positions vacant and reallocating resources.
• Increase class sizes in grades K-5 (eliminates 25 teaching jobs).
• Temporary closures of low-enrollment schools: Foss (projected 2011-2012 enrollment of 1,088) and one or more elementary schools – Franklin, Lyon, Roosevelt, Stanley, McKinley, Wainwright (enrollments below 300).
• Elimination of 75 to 100 positions throughout the district due to loss of federal stimulus funds.
• Drawing down the district’s reserve funds by $10 million each year for the next three years to avoid additional budget cuts.
These options would help us maintain programs and student support through these critical next two or three years before – I hope – the economy recovers.
Our governor said, “I hate my budget.” I would add, “Me too.” In education, it means we look at sacrifices in good schools and good programs and move ahead – even if that means we consolidate temporarily to protect the depth and breadth of our programs.
Longer term, I ask you to remember the pain of our losses and join us in demanding state policymakers provide adequate resources to operate our schools as demanded in the state constitution.
For now, I ask you to join the conversation while understanding that no school board member or staff member has done other than attempt to find ways to make the system work with reduced revenues – and rise with the occasion, think anew and act anew.
Art Jarvis is the superintendent of Tacoma Public Schools.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/01/1525447/budget-cuts-for-tacoma-schools.html#ixzz1CpX0gSBe
During Thursday’s school board meeting at Foss, we heard from many who oppose the idea. As I listened, I felt pride in a district where the students, parents and others who make up the Foss community would speak so passionately about their school. We can only hope all our schools generate that kind of passion and loyalty.
Sitting there, you may have thought the only budget cut I proposed was to close Foss. But that’s not the case.
Tacoma Public Schools faces a serious budget problem. Dramatic cuts in state funding for education and federal economic stimulus funding mean staggering budget cuts of $25 million over the next three years.
Since 2008, we built reserves to carry us through the economic crisis. Reserves can provide $10 million each year for the next three years to offset deeper cuts. But we still must find ways to cut $13 million for the coming school year, $7 million the following year and $6 million more in 2013-2014.
We can’t spend our resources or energy complaining how the state and nation got in this financial mess. Collectively, we have work to do. We must make do with much less without shortchanging the children.
Consider the words of a great leader during a time of national crisis: “The dogmas of the quiet past are inadequate to the stormy present. The occasion is piled high with difficulty, and we must rise with the occasion. As our case is new, so we must think anew and act anew. We must disenthrall ourselves, and then we shall save our country.”
That was Abraham Lincoln, in his second State of the Union Address. Our crisis doesn’t compare with the terrible prospects that faced Lincoln, but his message has relevance as we face an unprecedented financial meltdown with no easy choices.
The magnitude of the cuts by the state and federal governments outstrips our ability to solve the entire budget crisis simply by making many small cuts as we have over the last three years.
We must consider major reductions and efficiencies. I do not want to nickel-and-dime programs throughout the district and dilute their effectiveness. I do not want to pit music against arts against athletics against highly capable programs. I believe we must offer all those programs and many others to keep students in school with many ways to learn.
So I recommended to the school board we consider big-ticket reductions aimed partly at eliminating costly overhead, including:
• Continue pursuing administrative and operational efficiencies, deferred hiring, leaving positions vacant and reallocating resources.
• Increase class sizes in grades K-5 (eliminates 25 teaching jobs).
• Temporary closures of low-enrollment schools: Foss (projected 2011-2012 enrollment of 1,088) and one or more elementary schools – Franklin, Lyon, Roosevelt, Stanley, McKinley, Wainwright (enrollments below 300).
• Elimination of 75 to 100 positions throughout the district due to loss of federal stimulus funds.
• Drawing down the district’s reserve funds by $10 million each year for the next three years to avoid additional budget cuts.
These options would help us maintain programs and student support through these critical next two or three years before – I hope – the economy recovers.
Our governor said, “I hate my budget.” I would add, “Me too.” In education, it means we look at sacrifices in good schools and good programs and move ahead – even if that means we consolidate temporarily to protect the depth and breadth of our programs.
Longer term, I ask you to remember the pain of our losses and join us in demanding state policymakers provide adequate resources to operate our schools as demanded in the state constitution.
For now, I ask you to join the conversation while understanding that no school board member or staff member has done other than attempt to find ways to make the system work with reduced revenues – and rise with the occasion, think anew and act anew.
Art Jarvis is the superintendent of Tacoma Public Schools.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/02/01/1525447/budget-cuts-for-tacoma-schools.html#ixzz1CpX0gSBe
School cuts worry Tacoma parents
http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/26/1517312/school-cuts-worry-parents.html
DEBBIE CAFAZZO; Staff writer Published: 01/26/1112:05 am | Updated: 01/26/11 4:09 am
Anger, Worry. Confusion.
Those were some of the emotions that surfaced among parents and teachers at a Tuesday night community meeting that gave them a glimpse into Tacoma Public Schools’ grim budget outlook. Like other school districts around the state, Tacoma faces big dollar losses from proposed state spending cuts resulting from the economic downturn.
The gloomy fiscal outlook has prompted district proposals to increase elementary school class sizes, cut 20 or 25 teaching positions and temporarily close schools with lower enrollments. Superintendent Art Jarvis recently outlined a plan to school board members that would mothball Foss High School, as well as several elementary schools. The school closures have parents and teachers worried.
“I understand that we have all got money problems,” said Tara King, parent of a second-grader at Roosevelt Elementary School. “But closing schools is only going to make matters worse. It’s going to damage education. It’s not good for kids this age to be moved around.”
Roosevelt is one of seven Tacoma elementary schools with enrollments below 300 – a number the district is using to define small schools. As many as four of them could be closed temporarily during the budget crisis. The other small schools are Franklin, Lyon, Stanley, McKinley, Wainwright and Geiger. But because Geiger has been growing and is planned for a Montessori school, the district is not considering closing it.
Luis Millan, a third-grader at McKinley, has written a letter to Jarvis in an attempt to keep his school open.
“McKinley is important to me because the teachers are really nice,” Luis said Tuesday night. “Mr. Cooper is the best teacher ever.”
His mom, Maria Alegria, said she has had to reassure her son that things are going to be OK. She’s impressed with the level of compassion for kids that she sees in staff members at McKinley.
“The teachers really care about kids,” she said.
Tuesday night’s meeting was a chance for parents to learn more about the budget picture and to offer written comments that will be given to school board members. One commenter said that if money can be saved by increasing class sizes by one or two students, that’s the right thing to do. But another wanted to know how closely the district would monitor classroom growth.
Foss faculty members said they want to ensure that the school’s International Baccalaureate program – known for its academic rigor – stays intact if students move to another school. They also point out that the school – the smallest of Tacoma’s five comprehensive high schools – has one of the strongest special-education programs in the district.
Tacoma school officials say they have lost nearly $20 million in revenue over the past three years – losses that have forced them to leave jobs open, reallocate resources and spend savings. They project an additional $25 million shortfall over the next three years if proposed state cuts materialize.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
WHAT’S NEXT
Thursday: The Tacoma School Board is set to meet at 5 p.m. at Foss High School.
Feb. 10: A school board budget study session is planned.
Anger, Worry. Confusion.
Those were some of the emotions that surfaced among parents and teachers at a Tuesday night community meeting that gave them a glimpse into Tacoma Public Schools’ grim budget outlook. Like other school districts around the state, Tacoma faces big dollar losses from proposed state spending cuts resulting from the economic downturn.
The gloomy fiscal outlook has prompted district proposals to increase elementary school class sizes, cut 20 or 25 teaching positions and temporarily close schools with lower enrollments. Superintendent Art Jarvis recently outlined a plan to school board members that would mothball Foss High School, as well as several elementary schools. The school closures have parents and teachers worried.
“I understand that we have all got money problems,” said Tara King, parent of a second-grader at Roosevelt Elementary School. “But closing schools is only going to make matters worse. It’s going to damage education. It’s not good for kids this age to be moved around.”
Roosevelt is one of seven Tacoma elementary schools with enrollments below 300 – a number the district is using to define small schools. As many as four of them could be closed temporarily during the budget crisis. The other small schools are Franklin, Lyon, Stanley, McKinley, Wainwright and Geiger. But because Geiger has been growing and is planned for a Montessori school, the district is not considering closing it.
Luis Millan, a third-grader at McKinley, has written a letter to Jarvis in an attempt to keep his school open.
“McKinley is important to me because the teachers are really nice,” Luis said Tuesday night. “Mr. Cooper is the best teacher ever.”
His mom, Maria Alegria, said she has had to reassure her son that things are going to be OK. She’s impressed with the level of compassion for kids that she sees in staff members at McKinley.
“The teachers really care about kids,” she said.
Tuesday night’s meeting was a chance for parents to learn more about the budget picture and to offer written comments that will be given to school board members. One commenter said that if money can be saved by increasing class sizes by one or two students, that’s the right thing to do. But another wanted to know how closely the district would monitor classroom growth.
Foss faculty members said they want to ensure that the school’s International Baccalaureate program – known for its academic rigor – stays intact if students move to another school. They also point out that the school – the smallest of Tacoma’s five comprehensive high schools – has one of the strongest special-education programs in the district.
Tacoma school officials say they have lost nearly $20 million in revenue over the past three years – losses that have forced them to leave jobs open, reallocate resources and spend savings. They project an additional $25 million shortfall over the next three years if proposed state cuts materialize.
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
WHAT’S NEXT
Thursday: The Tacoma School Board is set to meet at 5 p.m. at Foss High School.
Feb. 10: A school board budget study session is planned.
Foss students fret over possible closure
Students at Tacoma’s Foss High School returned from a four-day weekend Wednesday to news that the future of their school was in doubt.
Tacoma School Board members on Saturday heard a proposal from Superintendent Art Jarvis for dealing with anticipated state budget cuts.
One part of his solution – a move that could save the school district an estimated $2 million of the $5 million Jarvis said is needed next year – would temporarily mothball Foss beginning next fall.
Like a lot of Falcons, 16-year-old Foss junior Tori Agnew initially got the news on Facebook, followed by a text message. She didn’t believe it at first.
“You’re in high school – how many rumors go around?” she said Wednesday after school.
But when she arrived on campus that morning, she learned that closure was a real possibility.
Students and teachers gathered for an all-school assembly, where the mood was subdued and full of uncertainty, students said. After the assembly ended, the discussion was on.
“It’s all we talked about all day,” Tori said.
Students at the school, located in the shadow of the Cheney Stadium reconstruction project, were busy creating posters protesting the idea. One student made a video. Others planned to circulate petitions to the school board.
Derek McKee, a 15-year-old sophomore, switched to Foss this year from the Franklin Pierce School District.
“I’m still kind of trying to get used to a new school,” he said. “Why shut the school down based on population, instead of importance?”
School board members have taken no action on the proposal.
Additional savings under Jarvis’ plan could come from temporarily shuttering several small elementary schools, increasing class sizes and asking administrators to find more cuts.
Although the district hasn’t said for sure which elementary schools might be targeted, a memo from Jarvis to school staff members lists seven with enrollments below 300: Franklin, Lyon, Roosevelt, Stanley, McKinley, Wainwright and Geiger. But because Geiger has been growing and is planned for a kindergarten-through-eighth-grade Montessori school, the district is not considering closing it, the memo said.
Middle schools are full and likely won’t be closed. The district already closed Hunt Middle School this year – another temporary move.
Jarvis and the school board are reacting to some drastic state cuts aimed at education in the governor’s proposed budget. But the Legislature must debate and act on that budget before it impacts school districts across the state. That discussion is now under way in Olympia.
Tacoma school administrators say they want to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Of Tacoma’s five comprehensive high schools, enrollment at Foss is the lowest. District officials say there’s room for Foss’ 1134 students at the other schools. As of Oct. 1, Stadium had 1,682 students, Mount Tahoma 1,602, Lincoln 1,513 and Wilson 1,440.
Details of the district’s proposal have yet to emerge. Among them:
• How would Foss students be divided among Tacoma’s remaining four high schools?
• Can Foss’ prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program be transplanted wholesale to another school, or must it undergo a recertification process first?
• How would the move affect teachers and other staff members at Foss? Would they simply follow the Foss students to other schools?
• What happens to special education students?
Jarvis said the district must either make some large cuts or it will be forced to cut programs districtwide.
Shuttering Foss for the duration of the budget crisis, he maintains, means students will still be able to get a comprehensive high school education; they’ll just attend school in another building.
But the big question on the lips of Foss students and parents Wednesday was this: Why us?
Parents are swinging into action. The PTA is holding a meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the school’s Little Theater.
“We are certainly not going down without a fight,” said PTA President Chris Hall, who said she’s heard from many parents. “We do not intend to just sit back and let them close our school.”
Foss attracts families from all over the city, parents say.
Darla Medina is in her 11th year as a Foss parent. Her son, a junior, is her fourth child to attend.
“We live in Northeast Tacoma,” she said. She said her family opted out of attending Stadium – a school often sought out by parents citywide – because of the IB program, which is recognized worldwide.
She said her son also values Foss’ racial diversity and relaxed atmosphere: “He says the nerd table is right next to the cool table (in the cafeteria).”
Medina said that if she and other families can’t save Foss, she will likely send him to school in another district.
Other Foss students also say that if they can’t return to Foss next year, they won’t be back in Tacoma schools.
Tori Agnew said she’ll likely check into online school options – even though she’s a social person.
Dre Hardy, a 17-year-old Foss junior, believes his school isn’t as “rowdy” as the schools some of his friends attend.
He lives on the city’s East Side, but chose to attend Foss.
Moving to a new school, he said, “would be harder on my parents.”
Foss has been through a lot, parents say. In the last decade alone, the school has weathered a bitter debate over changes in IB and in how grant money from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation was spent.
In 2007, there was a fatal shooting at the school.
And despite it all, said Medina, “the community at Foss kept coming back stronger.”
To close the school now, she said, “is really sad.”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/19/1509242/foss-students-fret-over-possible.html#ixzz1BeIBI1S9
Tacoma School Board members on Saturday heard a proposal from Superintendent Art Jarvis for dealing with anticipated state budget cuts.
One part of his solution – a move that could save the school district an estimated $2 million of the $5 million Jarvis said is needed next year – would temporarily mothball Foss beginning next fall.
Like a lot of Falcons, 16-year-old Foss junior Tori Agnew initially got the news on Facebook, followed by a text message. She didn’t believe it at first.
“You’re in high school – how many rumors go around?” she said Wednesday after school.
But when she arrived on campus that morning, she learned that closure was a real possibility.
Students and teachers gathered for an all-school assembly, where the mood was subdued and full of uncertainty, students said. After the assembly ended, the discussion was on.
“It’s all we talked about all day,” Tori said.
Students at the school, located in the shadow of the Cheney Stadium reconstruction project, were busy creating posters protesting the idea. One student made a video. Others planned to circulate petitions to the school board.
Derek McKee, a 15-year-old sophomore, switched to Foss this year from the Franklin Pierce School District.
“I’m still kind of trying to get used to a new school,” he said. “Why shut the school down based on population, instead of importance?”
School board members have taken no action on the proposal.
Additional savings under Jarvis’ plan could come from temporarily shuttering several small elementary schools, increasing class sizes and asking administrators to find more cuts.
Although the district hasn’t said for sure which elementary schools might be targeted, a memo from Jarvis to school staff members lists seven with enrollments below 300: Franklin, Lyon, Roosevelt, Stanley, McKinley, Wainwright and Geiger. But because Geiger has been growing and is planned for a kindergarten-through-eighth-grade Montessori school, the district is not considering closing it, the memo said.
Middle schools are full and likely won’t be closed. The district already closed Hunt Middle School this year – another temporary move.
Jarvis and the school board are reacting to some drastic state cuts aimed at education in the governor’s proposed budget. But the Legislature must debate and act on that budget before it impacts school districts across the state. That discussion is now under way in Olympia.
Tacoma school administrators say they want to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
Of Tacoma’s five comprehensive high schools, enrollment at Foss is the lowest. District officials say there’s room for Foss’ 1134 students at the other schools. As of Oct. 1, Stadium had 1,682 students, Mount Tahoma 1,602, Lincoln 1,513 and Wilson 1,440.
Details of the district’s proposal have yet to emerge. Among them:
• How would Foss students be divided among Tacoma’s remaining four high schools?
• Can Foss’ prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) program be transplanted wholesale to another school, or must it undergo a recertification process first?
• How would the move affect teachers and other staff members at Foss? Would they simply follow the Foss students to other schools?
• What happens to special education students?
Jarvis said the district must either make some large cuts or it will be forced to cut programs districtwide.
Shuttering Foss for the duration of the budget crisis, he maintains, means students will still be able to get a comprehensive high school education; they’ll just attend school in another building.
But the big question on the lips of Foss students and parents Wednesday was this: Why us?
Parents are swinging into action. The PTA is holding a meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the school’s Little Theater.
“We are certainly not going down without a fight,” said PTA President Chris Hall, who said she’s heard from many parents. “We do not intend to just sit back and let them close our school.”
Foss attracts families from all over the city, parents say.
Darla Medina is in her 11th year as a Foss parent. Her son, a junior, is her fourth child to attend.
“We live in Northeast Tacoma,” she said. She said her family opted out of attending Stadium – a school often sought out by parents citywide – because of the IB program, which is recognized worldwide.
She said her son also values Foss’ racial diversity and relaxed atmosphere: “He says the nerd table is right next to the cool table (in the cafeteria).”
Medina said that if she and other families can’t save Foss, she will likely send him to school in another district.
Other Foss students also say that if they can’t return to Foss next year, they won’t be back in Tacoma schools.
Tori Agnew said she’ll likely check into online school options – even though she’s a social person.
Dre Hardy, a 17-year-old Foss junior, believes his school isn’t as “rowdy” as the schools some of his friends attend.
He lives on the city’s East Side, but chose to attend Foss.
Moving to a new school, he said, “would be harder on my parents.”
Foss has been through a lot, parents say. In the last decade alone, the school has weathered a bitter debate over changes in IB and in how grant money from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation was spent.
In 2007, there was a fatal shooting at the school.
And despite it all, said Medina, “the community at Foss kept coming back stronger.”
To close the school now, she said, “is really sad.”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635
[email protected]
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/19/1509242/foss-students-fret-over-possible.html#ixzz1BeIBI1S9
Close Tacoma's Foss High School in fall?
Tacoma Public Schools officials are considering the temporary closure of Foss High School, larger elementary schools class sizes and administrative cost-cutting as options to deal with looming state budget cuts.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/16/1504182/close-foss-in-fall.html#ixzz1BRStPWiT
Tacoma Public Schools officials are considering the temporary closure of Foss High School, larger elementary schools class sizes and administrative cost-cutting as options to deal with looming state budget cuts.
In a study session with the School Board on Saturday, Superintendent Art Jarvis outlined a plan to save the district about $5 million in the 2011-12 school year. The plan would also require the district to dip into about $10 million in savings.
Similar plans would be in place for the following two school years.
The school board took no action Saturday.
“I don’t have a good way to ‘nickel and dime’ the system,” Jarvis said, noting that the district has been pinching pennies and leaving positions open for several years already. “I’ve got to look for fairly large blocks of dollars.”
Closing Foss – which has the smallest enrollment (1,066) among the city’s five comprehensive high schools – would save the school district at least $2 million next year, Jarvis said. He said the district would consider keeping the school closed for at least three years to help weather the fiscal storm. Foss students would be reassigned and offered transportation to one of the city’s other high schools.
School board members suggested that the closure, if approved, could be phased in over several years rather than taking effect immediately in the fall.
Foss is home to the district’s prestigious International Baccalaureate program, known for its global focus and rigorous academics. That program, which attracts students from throughout the city, would move to another high school if Foss closes.
Increasing elementary school class sizes by an average of one student per classroom would save an additional $2 million, Jarvis estimated. The state has already cut some dollars that help hire teachers to reduce class size in kindergarten through fourth grade. That will cost Tacoma about $3 million this school year. And Gov. Chris Gregoire has proposed cuts that would knock nearly another $3 million from the program next school year.
Other state budget cuts are anticipated as well.
Jarvis said he would ask his administrators to find another $1 million in cuts.
Jarvis said he can operate high schools efficiently at enrollments of about 1,500, give or take 250.
Exceptions include the district’s smaller alternative high schools, such as Tacoma School of the Arts and the newer Science and Math Institute. Those schools lack some of the administrative support, sports and other programs found at larger schools. That allows them to operate at lower per-pupil costs, Jarvis said.
Currently, SOTA has around 460 students and SAMI, in its second year, has around 150.
“If you close SOTA or SAMI, you would close schools that run the most efficiently with the least support,” Jarvis said.
Even with more elementary students arriving in the coming years, the superintendent also suggested the board look at temporary closure of some smaller elementary schools – those with fewer than 300 students. That could include Roosevelt, Lyon, McKinley and Franklin.
Board President Kurt Miller said that as the School Board considers the financial costs of closing a school, it must also think about community impact.
Board member Catherine Ushka-Hall said many of the smaller elementary schools are on the city’s south and east sides.
“You take a school out of a neighborhood, and the long-term economic effect on the neighborhood is devastating,” she said. “I don’t want to create a permanent urban abyss anywhere in Tacoma.”
Ushka-Hall said she would favor evaluating district programs to see whether they’re effective. “If there are savings to be had there, let’s do that first,” she said.
Board member Jim Dugan said that if the board is not willing to consider other kinds of cuts, then it must look at school closures.
Foss PTA vice president Patti Derusha has already lived through one school closure. Her son attended Hunt Middle School last year before starting at Foss this year. The school district closed Hunt temporarily as part of a plan to improve the school. A new Hunt building is scheduled to reopen, possibly for the 2014-15 school year.
“The writing was on the wall,” said the 1981 Foss alum. “They closed Hunt, and what feeds Foss?”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Staff writer Steve Maynard contributed to this report.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/16/1504182/close-foss-in-fall.html#ixzz1BRTERdNq
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/16/1504182/close-foss-in-fall.html#ixzz1BRStPWiT
Tacoma Public Schools officials are considering the temporary closure of Foss High School, larger elementary schools class sizes and administrative cost-cutting as options to deal with looming state budget cuts.
In a study session with the School Board on Saturday, Superintendent Art Jarvis outlined a plan to save the district about $5 million in the 2011-12 school year. The plan would also require the district to dip into about $10 million in savings.
Similar plans would be in place for the following two school years.
The school board took no action Saturday.
“I don’t have a good way to ‘nickel and dime’ the system,” Jarvis said, noting that the district has been pinching pennies and leaving positions open for several years already. “I’ve got to look for fairly large blocks of dollars.”
Closing Foss – which has the smallest enrollment (1,066) among the city’s five comprehensive high schools – would save the school district at least $2 million next year, Jarvis said. He said the district would consider keeping the school closed for at least three years to help weather the fiscal storm. Foss students would be reassigned and offered transportation to one of the city’s other high schools.
School board members suggested that the closure, if approved, could be phased in over several years rather than taking effect immediately in the fall.
Foss is home to the district’s prestigious International Baccalaureate program, known for its global focus and rigorous academics. That program, which attracts students from throughout the city, would move to another high school if Foss closes.
Increasing elementary school class sizes by an average of one student per classroom would save an additional $2 million, Jarvis estimated. The state has already cut some dollars that help hire teachers to reduce class size in kindergarten through fourth grade. That will cost Tacoma about $3 million this school year. And Gov. Chris Gregoire has proposed cuts that would knock nearly another $3 million from the program next school year.
Other state budget cuts are anticipated as well.
Jarvis said he would ask his administrators to find another $1 million in cuts.
Jarvis said he can operate high schools efficiently at enrollments of about 1,500, give or take 250.
Exceptions include the district’s smaller alternative high schools, such as Tacoma School of the Arts and the newer Science and Math Institute. Those schools lack some of the administrative support, sports and other programs found at larger schools. That allows them to operate at lower per-pupil costs, Jarvis said.
Currently, SOTA has around 460 students and SAMI, in its second year, has around 150.
“If you close SOTA or SAMI, you would close schools that run the most efficiently with the least support,” Jarvis said.
Even with more elementary students arriving in the coming years, the superintendent also suggested the board look at temporary closure of some smaller elementary schools – those with fewer than 300 students. That could include Roosevelt, Lyon, McKinley and Franklin.
Board President Kurt Miller said that as the School Board considers the financial costs of closing a school, it must also think about community impact.
Board member Catherine Ushka-Hall said many of the smaller elementary schools are on the city’s south and east sides.
“You take a school out of a neighborhood, and the long-term economic effect on the neighborhood is devastating,” she said. “I don’t want to create a permanent urban abyss anywhere in Tacoma.”
Ushka-Hall said she would favor evaluating district programs to see whether they’re effective. “If there are savings to be had there, let’s do that first,” she said.
Board member Jim Dugan said that if the board is not willing to consider other kinds of cuts, then it must look at school closures.
Foss PTA vice president Patti Derusha has already lived through one school closure. Her son attended Hunt Middle School last year before starting at Foss this year. The school district closed Hunt temporarily as part of a plan to improve the school. A new Hunt building is scheduled to reopen, possibly for the 2014-15 school year.
“The writing was on the wall,” said the 1981 Foss alum. “They closed Hunt, and what feeds Foss?”
Debbie Cafazzo: 253-597-8635 [email protected]
Staff writer Steve Maynard contributed to this report.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2011/01/16/1504182/close-foss-in-fall.html#ixzz1BRTERdNq
Teacher Quality Initiative: See Tacoma Public Schools Website: http://www.tacomaschools.org/teacherquality/Pages/default.aspx
2 Forums for Parents - January 6th & 20th
Superintendent Art Jarvis and Teacher Union President Andy Coons invite you to attend one of two forums for parents and the community to share your thoughts on ways to ensure your children get a quality education.
The forums are Jan. 6 and Jan. 20 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Lincoln High School cafeteria.
During the moderated forums, you will be asked to respond to a series of questions, including:
1. What's the most effective and fairest way to link a teacher's evaluation to your student's performance?
2. What types of criteria would be best for Tacoma schools to use to determine compensation for teachers? Should the district use seniority and advanced degrees as traditionally has been the case or something else?
3. What criteria would you like to see used in Tacoma to determine how teachers are assigned to specific schools? And should the criteria be different for low-performing schools?
The forums are part of a Teacher Quality Listening Tour that the Superintendent and Union President are conducting to get valuable input that will influence bargaining that begins in the spring for the next union contract.
Again, you can attend either forum -- Jan. 6 or Jan. 20 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Lincoln High School, 701 S. 37th St.
If you can't attend but would like to share your thoughts on teacher quality, please visit the district Web site at tacomaschools.org and click on the link titled Teacher Quality Initiative.
You also can call the Public Information Office at 253-571-1015 for more information beginning Monday.
The forums are Jan. 6 and Jan. 20 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Lincoln High School cafeteria.
During the moderated forums, you will be asked to respond to a series of questions, including:
1. What's the most effective and fairest way to link a teacher's evaluation to your student's performance?
2. What types of criteria would be best for Tacoma schools to use to determine compensation for teachers? Should the district use seniority and advanced degrees as traditionally has been the case or something else?
3. What criteria would you like to see used in Tacoma to determine how teachers are assigned to specific schools? And should the criteria be different for low-performing schools?
The forums are part of a Teacher Quality Listening Tour that the Superintendent and Union President are conducting to get valuable input that will influence bargaining that begins in the spring for the next union contract.
Again, you can attend either forum -- Jan. 6 or Jan. 20 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Lincoln High School, 701 S. 37th St.
If you can't attend but would like to share your thoughts on teacher quality, please visit the district Web site at tacomaschools.org and click on the link titled Teacher Quality Initiative.
You also can call the Public Information Office at 253-571-1015 for more information beginning Monday.
Teacher Quality Listening Tour meets with PTA December 13th 5:30-7:30 p.m. CAB
Superintendent Art Jarvis and Tacoma Education Association President Andy Coons invite all PTA members in Tacoma to share their perspective on improving teacher quality in Tacoma schools.
Jarvis and Coons recently announced a joint initiative focusing on teacher quality. This initiative includes a Listening Tour with a series of Listening Meetings for a wide range of stakeholders and the community.
Each Listening Meeting will include a moderated, recorded discussion designed to draw out your thoughts on a series of topics related to teacher quality:
· Professional practice, instruction and accountability
· Professional development and support
· Enhanced flexibility, creativity and innovation for schools and teachers
· Career ladders, compensation and incentives
Results of the Listening Tour will provide valuable data for the Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association to develop a new teacher quality component in the next labor agreement.
The Listening Meeting exclusively for PTA members is scheduled for:
· Monday, Dec. 13 from 5:30—7:30 p.m., at the Central Administration Building (4th Floor Auditorium), 601 S. Eighth St.
In addition, there are several other meetings scheduled for educators, the general public and specific stakeholder groups. More information, including a meeting schedule and joint statement from Jarvis and Coons, is available at www.tacomaschools.org/teacherquality.
If you have any questions about the meetings or the schedule, please contact the Public Information Office at 253-571-1015.
Jarvis and Coons recently announced a joint initiative focusing on teacher quality. This initiative includes a Listening Tour with a series of Listening Meetings for a wide range of stakeholders and the community.
Each Listening Meeting will include a moderated, recorded discussion designed to draw out your thoughts on a series of topics related to teacher quality:
· Professional practice, instruction and accountability
· Professional development and support
· Enhanced flexibility, creativity and innovation for schools and teachers
· Career ladders, compensation and incentives
Results of the Listening Tour will provide valuable data for the Tacoma Public Schools and the Tacoma Education Association to develop a new teacher quality component in the next labor agreement.
The Listening Meeting exclusively for PTA members is scheduled for:
· Monday, Dec. 13 from 5:30—7:30 p.m., at the Central Administration Building (4th Floor Auditorium), 601 S. Eighth St.
In addition, there are several other meetings scheduled for educators, the general public and specific stakeholder groups. More information, including a meeting schedule and joint statement from Jarvis and Coons, is available at www.tacomaschools.org/teacherquality.
If you have any questions about the meetings or the schedule, please contact the Public Information Office at 253-571-1015.
TNT Article: Tacoma Schools to Study Teacher Quality
Top Tacoma Public Schools and teachers union leaders announced Tuesday that they’re launching a joint initiative on teacher quality, teacher evaluations and more.
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2010/11/17/1427854/teacher-quality-to-be-studied.html#ixzz15b4DeWi5
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2010/11/17/1427854/teacher-quality-to-be-studied.html#ixzz15b4DeWi5
TNT Article: Tacoma teachers say performance evaluations must be fair December 1, 2010
Read more: http://www.thenewstribune.com/2010/12/01/1446772/tacoma-teachers-say-performance.html#ixzz16tgHWZ9X
Tacoma Public Schools Strategic Plan
http://www.tacomaschools.org/information/schoolboard/Documents/20101028-A-7.pdf
School Improvement Information Visit the Tacoma Schools Website www.tacomaschools.org
See Video Message from Superintendent Dr. Art Jarvis
News Releases
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask A Question
Send A Comment
Read about 4 School Improvement Models
News Releases
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask A Question
Send A Comment
Read about 4 School Improvement Models
Link to TNT article 2/24/10 Tacoma Shakes Up Middle Schools
Tacoma School Board Meeting February 25th
Thursday the school board will conduct a study session on the school improvement issue from 5 to 6 p.m. This study session will involve a staff presentation to the board and a discussion by board members. At the board’s regular meeting, which immediately follows the study session at 6 p.m., the board will open a public comment period for citizens to speak on this issue. Comment cards also will be available for citizens to write their comments to the board if they choose.
Separately, on Monday, March 1, the district will host an open house on this school improvement process from 5 to 7 p.m. at Lincoln High School. The open house will feature four separate stations – one for each of the middle schools – so members of the public can get their questions answered. The district will collect written comment cards from attendees to provide to the school board.
In addition, on the district’s Web site – www.tacomaschools.org – we have set up banner at the top of the page with several buttons related to this issue. One of the buttons allows citizens to send in their comments. We’re collecting all those comments and forwarding them to the Superintendent and School Board.
Dan Voelpel Director of Public Information Tacoma Public Schools
(253) 571-1007 - office (253) 576-4201 - cell DANIEL VOELPEL <[email protected]>
Separately, on Monday, March 1, the district will host an open house on this school improvement process from 5 to 7 p.m. at Lincoln High School. The open house will feature four separate stations – one for each of the middle schools – so members of the public can get their questions answered. The district will collect written comment cards from attendees to provide to the school board.
In addition, on the district’s Web site – www.tacomaschools.org – we have set up banner at the top of the page with several buttons related to this issue. One of the buttons allows citizens to send in their comments. We’re collecting all those comments and forwarding them to the Superintendent and School Board.
Dan Voelpel Director of Public Information Tacoma Public Schools
(253) 571-1007 - office (253) 576-4201 - cell DANIEL VOELPEL <[email protected]>