Take Back Perry Schools
Introduction
We are a group of concerned parents, educators, teachers, students and taxpayers that are committed to taking back control of the Metropolitan School District of Perry Township from a divided school board. This division started from the actions of four individual board members with personal agendas and whose actions have put our schools in a downward spiral. Their ongoing disregard for board by-laws and state laws, as well as the flippant waste of taxpayer's dollars must be opposed in an effort to Take Back Perry Schools.Parents
This site consists of a three-prong approach to improving our schools. It will take a combination of informing and educating parents, teachers and students to what’s going on in the schools in our township.
This section will focus on resources specifically for parents of students in our township.
Posted by Admin on Nov 28 2006 under Administrative
January 23rd, 2007 at 4:26 pm
What would happen if everyone just decided to pull their kiddos and enroll in a private school, at least this way our kids would be first! NOT politics! Would these board members like a review about what happened to them “boo-hoo” or what is happening now to our children? I could complain for hours how I feel that I was threatened by a “Mr. Thompson” when trying to get answers from a certain board member. That alone would justify Perry Township School Corp. to pay my children’s cost in a private school!
January 24th, 2007 at 10:08 am
Someone has obviously worked very hard on this site. It has A LOT of information, which most of us don’t have time to read, but what I did read was helpful. Why isn’t someone doing something besides communicating these events? It seems to me that the behavior of these BOD members is grounds for dismissal from the board. If this site had a petition to sign in the most prominent spot, I would sign it and I’m sure most parents would as well. Then maybe we can do something to rectify the situation instead of complaining about it. This is by no means my area of expertise, but surely there is a way to get rid of these people, isn’t there????
January 24th, 2007 at 2:03 pm
Sadly, from the information we’ve gathered thus far, there’s really no legal avenue that we’ve found to remove these board members from office.
January 24th, 2007 at 7:03 pm
I am thinking seriously of pulling my son from Perry Meridian High School and seeking legal advise. The administration lacks concern for my son’s education evidenced by no action taking when I present my concerns. I don’t know if this school will be turned around in time for my son. Certainly, I do not have a voice! That has been proven. Teacher’s behavior I find unacceptable.
January 25th, 2007 at 7:49 pm
Can you post the MSDPT Bylaws on this site?
There is absolutely no recall provisions in the bylaws?
January 26th, 2007 at 1:27 am
Money talks!!! When families can and desire such, homeschool is always an option. It drives the public schools crazy because they aren’t getting funds for students that don’t attend. The benefits far outweigh the sacrifice…believe me!
January 26th, 2007 at 12:45 pm
What can we do. It seems like we have no legal recourse. These women seem to not care what the entire community thinks. Are they required to listen to us? What about a petition for a special school board election?
January 26th, 2007 at 1:56 pm
In speaking with a school board member from another school district, he believes their actions are illegal and if we go through the [National)School Board Association (??), we can bring about legal action. Any truth to this?
January 26th, 2007 at 10:24 pm
That’s a good question Krista. I’ll see if I can get in touch with someone with the NSBA and get an answer to that question, or maybe some insight on other options that are available to us as parents and citizens.
January 29th, 2007 at 8:00 pm
I notice that you are asking for donations on this site, perhaps you should ask the suspended superintendant for some financial assistance. Apparently he makes plenty of money.
He is probably too busy posting more political ads on the school website.
Just so the ominous makers of this site know, there are many, many of us out here who have kids getting ready to start school and are happy that the “four” are rocking the old boys network. Steve Maple and gang had there day and it is over.
January 31st, 2007 at 5:58 pm
Murphy’s Landing not allowing TBPS signs.
We live in Murphy’s Landing,(Killarney Hills), and we just received a letter stating that our TBPS sign is in violation of the homeowners association. We and everyone else with a TBPS sign in their yard has been threatened with a $50.00 a day fine unless we remove the sign immediately.
January 31st, 2007 at 6:09 pm
Janet, I’d review your covenants and find out exactly what policy your sign is violating.
January 31st, 2007 at 6:12 pm
Brett, I’m curious as to why you label me as “ominous”.
February 1st, 2007 at 10:46 pm
Janet,
Just because your homeowners association states you cannot put a sign in your yard does not mean that it is illegal. You have a right to free speech.
Did they send warnings to homeowners displaying political signs around election time? If not, they set a precedent and should be called on it!!
February 2nd, 2007 at 6:42 am
You need to contact the State mandated board that regulates those type of signs. Why do you think the larger ones were removed from the empty lots and yards? Because they ARE illegal-and they make our township look that much worse. It’s not just random people taking your signs-it is government officials.
February 2nd, 2007 at 6:44 am
By the way Ken, the political signs that come out at election time are also mandated by the same board and you have to register for them before being allowed to produce them and start handing them out. They are 100% NOT illegal. Randomly putting a sign in your yard because you are mad at the school board is illegal and somewhat childish. Actions speak louder than words.
February 2nd, 2007 at 11:37 am
Karen,
Thank you for your information. Would I be correct in saying that you feel that signs supporting the Roncalli, Perry and Southport swim teams, baseball teams, and football teams should be removed as well?
February 2nd, 2007 at 11:41 am
Karen,
Can you please provide me the law or code section which states the take back perry school signs are illegal?
February 2nd, 2007 at 12:31 pm
Absolutely not! I do not feel those SUPPORTING our schools should be removed because they UPLIFT the township as a whole. And yes those signs also have to be approved before being allowed to go all over the Township-the School Board takes care of this for the schools. I do not have the legal information in front of me, but I would be happy to get you the information and post it on this site or at least a website that you might be able to look it up fom.
February 4th, 2007 at 1:42 pm
Karen,
After reading your comments regarding the legality of the signs, I decided to do my own research regarding this issue. My research included the interpretation of the Indy Gov site sign regulations by legal council. I have been informed that the Take Back Perry School yard signs displayed by many township residents in their yards DO NOT violate any Marion County sign regulations.
I would like to make it clear to anyone reading this site that the Take Back Perry School yard signs DO NOT violate any Marion County sign regulations. As long as the signs adhere to the regulations set forth, (which they do) they may be displayed.
It would seem your issue is not with the legality of the signs, but with the cause the sign supports or the message it carries. While you are entitled to your opinion that only supportive and uplifting signs be allowed, you should also be aware that signs you may not agree with are allowed as long as they adhere to the sign regulations of Marion County.
Additionally, I would venture to say that many residents displaying the signs you question feel as if they ARE supporting our township and our school system.
February 5th, 2007 at 6:28 am
Then please explain to me why the Take Back Perry School yard signs HAVE been found to be illegal by the City Department of Compliance…which is why the larger signs have already been taken down. I spoke with someone there on Friday. They validated for me that the signs are indeed illegal-please feel free to give them a call. And please post what you found on the Indygov website because I couldn’t find anything on there regarding yard signs. Thank you.
February 5th, 2007 at 7:32 am
Karen,
The larger signs (which are no longer displayed) were taken down upon notification from the city. As for the Indy Gov website, I can give you the sections, but cannot provide legal interpertation since I am not an attorney. Please seek legal advice on these sections if you wish.
You may review the following:
I was informed to pay special attention to sections 734-201 and 734-501, definition of non-commercial signs.
CONGRATULATIONS COLTS!!!
February 5th, 2007 at 7:45 am
Thank you for the information Ken-I will review this morning. I also found a lot of information on http://www.in.gov if you look up the IC you can find more information that I didn’t know was out there. I have just gotten started in reviewing but it looks like unless Take Back Perry Schools is registered with the Secretary of State’s Office, Todd Rokita, then even this website is considered “illegal”. Let alone not being registered as a committee. If this is untrue, I would request Mr. Bean post the registration of this committee so that no confusion arises from Ken and I’s discussion. I am not in anyway trying to slam or belittle this organization but I would like some information as to the validity of it and the things that are being done by this committee or organization.
February 5th, 2007 at 7:57 am
And yes I agree! Go Peyton!
February 5th, 2007 at 9:40 am
I called the Secretary of State’s office and found that Take Back Perry Schools is registered through the SOS office…although I find it quite interesting to say the least, that J. Lee Robbins is who registered the organization under his own address and he also is who filed the 527 for the signs through the City Department of Compliance. So I say Ken you are right, the signs seem to be legal at this point. Ken-do you know where the disclaimer on the signs are? I assume you have one of course…but if not, do you know if there is one? It’s hard to see the fine print as you drive by.
February 5th, 2007 at 10:55 am
Karen,
I am not sure I understand to what disclaimer you are referring?
It appears to me that you are more intersted about finding a legal “loophole” in which to break apart Take Back Perry Schools than you are about finding out information regarding the organization. Of course this is just my opinion based upon your last several postings.
I cannot engage in a legal debate with you regarding all of the issues you raise. As I have stated before, I am not an attorney and therefore not qualified to address some of the concerns you raise. I can provide background regarding why TBPS was formed and for what puporse we exist.
I do not find it interesting that Lee Robbins registered the orgnaization. In fact, if you have specific legal questions regarding Take Back Perry Schools, I would suggest you touch base with him.
Thank you for your interest in our site.
February 6th, 2007 at 10:23 am
On all signs-as stated in the documentation that you haven provided to me-it states that there must be a disclaimer stating what committee funded the signs-which would be the committee of TBPS. If there is no disclaimer, then the signs can still be removed by state officials. The only reason that I am interested in having them removed is not to discredit your organization, but because I think they make our township look hideous and trashy and divided-which I don’t believe as a whole it is. Couldn’t the color be something a little more attractive? (joking here obviously)
The reason I find it interesting that Lee Robbins is behind the organization is because he is who was beat out twice by Barbara Thompson. Once in the general election and then again in the recount. And who has been beat out in two previous elections. Which makes me think he himself has his own personal agenda in this which is what ironically the “gang of four” are always accused of. That is what is interesting to me.
I am a law student myself so it’s not a problem for me to find legal counsel or seek legal advice if needed. I don’t feel that I need to take it to that extreme as I am just trying to do my own research here to find out why this organization needed to become an organization in the first place. It’s one thing to voice a disagreement and agree to disagree - but another thing to become more and more vindicitive and hateful with the disagreements (not you personally-the organization itself). I am not trying to find a loophole at all-but I have never seen a township so divided which leads me to believe that there is something wrong with this picture. Normal citizens and members of central Indiana townships have never behaved this way. Even the IPS citizens do not behave this way even though they disagree with their Superintedent and Board-and I think that speaks loud volumes to the people who may be sitting on the fence as to wether they are pro Williams, TBPS, or supportive of their elected board.
I am currently reasearching the Indiana School Board bylaws and policies as I think there is something wrong with having an organization against a political body such as the School Board. Maybe not, but it seems, again, like something just doesn’t fit. It doesn’t sit well with me to see a beautiful township divided as it is currently. It just doesn’t make sense.
Thank you for your time and your respectful discussion with me.
February 6th, 2007 at 1:05 pm
Karen,
Thank you for your clarification. I now have a better grasp on your intent. If you would like to sit down and have a discussion as to why our organization exists, I would be happy to meet with you and provide some background. If you have an interest in doing so, let me know and I will have the web site administrator provide you with my contact information.
I am a 31 year resident of Perry Township and a PMHS alumnus. As you, I have never witnessed such division. As you research, you will find out that Indiana has no recall provision in their election law and that there is no check and balance for any Indiana School Board in the State.
If you have not attended the board meetings beginning in September, I would urge you to visit the PTEC building and view each of the meetings. I feel this would provide you with a good background as to what lead us to this point.
I appreciate your interest and welcome further respectful discussion.
February 6th, 2007 at 5:35 pm
Murphy’s Landing not allowing TBPS signs.
We live in Murphy’s Landing,(Killarney Hills), and we just received a letter stating that our TBPS sign is in violation of the homeowners association. We and everyone else with a TBPS sign in their yard has been threatened with a $50.00 a day fine unless we remove the sign immediately.
This is Nancy Walsh’s neighborhood, I am guessing that is why the sign placement is an issue.
February 7th, 2007 at 7:12 am
Josie, this is where this discussion began. Notice January 31st. Same posting as you. And it is the HOA that sent you a letter-they are the ones with the problem with the signs. The larger ones violate State rules and regulations which is why they were removed. I doubt it has anything more to do with Nancy Walsh living in that area as this has happened in many other neighborhoods as well. This is what I don’t understand about the organization or rather the organization’s followers…it seems like everyone tries to drag people’s names through the mud - everyone in the township - supporters or non supporters -and I don’t like that at all. Unless you have proof (ironic how that is the main issue anyway!) why would you slander someone’s name when they may or may not have had anything to do with it? Why don’t you contact your HOA and ask them for detailed information before making assumptions. Or better yet, have Mr. Bean make that call for you. He seems to have a lot of background knowledge on that subject from what I have read.
February 7th, 2007 at 9:59 am
Karen,
You state: “as this has happened in many other neighborhoods as well”. If I understand you correctly, you are stating that many other homeowners associations have sent out letters to their residents stating that they must remove their signs? As a current law student, I would trust that you could provide documentation regarding those “other neighborhoods” and the claim you make.
It is my opinion, after having read your postings that you may not posses all of the information and background. You link Josie to the TBPS organization. Do you have proof that he/she is a member?
If you are truly interested in obtaining facts (as I would hope any diligent law student would be) from members of TBPS, my offer still stand to meet with you.
We do not wish to “drag people’s names through the mud”, but the sum of the parts do not equal the whole and the provided facts up to this point have been “fuzzy” at best.
February 9th, 2007 at 6:29 am
Ken,
It very nice of you to offer to meet with me, however, I am going to have to look over my schedule and find a hole somewhere in order to do that. I will get back with you and thank you for extending the courtesy.
Yes, there have been other HOA’s in Perry Township that have asked their neighbors to remove the signs. Huddleston Estates, Emerald Highlands, Murphy’s Landing, and the condos that are off of 37 and Southport (cannot think of the name for the life of me-sorry). I have relatives and friends in all of these neighborhoods which would back up my claim.
February 9th, 2007 at 8:48 am
Karen,
Thank you for the information. I find it very interesting that the only HOA’s that have asked their neighbors to remove the signs are neighborhoods in which a current board member resides. As for the condos, that does not surprise me as the condo owners/renters do not typically have an actual “yard” in which to display such material.
If you refer back to your posting above (numbered 30) you state that you “doubt it (the removal of the signs) has anything to do with Nancy Walsh living in that area….” Logical reasoning would only lead one to conclude that your statement is not true given the fact that the only “many other neighborhoods” you refer to are ones in which a current board member resides.
Please note that Emerald Highlands and Murphy’s Landing are the same HOA. Therefore, only 2 HOA’s have requested signs be removed.
February 11th, 2007 at 8:25 am
Karen states in her comment on 2/6 10:23am [EMPHASIS ADDED by ME]:
. . . The only reason that I am interested in having them removed is not to discredit your organization, but because I think they *MAKE OUR TOWNSHIP LOOK hideous and trashy and DIVIDED-WHICH I DON’T BELIEVE AS A WHOLE IT IS.*
[And later in the same post]
I am not trying to find a loophole at all-but *I HAVE NEVER SEEN A TOWNSHIP SO DIVIDED* which leads me to believe that there is something wrong with this picture. Normal citizens and members of central Indiana townships have never behaved this way. Even the IPS citizens do not behave this way even though they disagree with their Superintedent and Board-and I think that speaks loud volumes to the people who may be sitting on the fence as to whether they are pro Williams, TBPS, or supportive of their elected board.
—–
Several thoughts:
1) Does anybody know “how divided” the township is? LOUD groups do not always mean LARGE groups. I HAVE SEEN LARGE GROUPS appear to be opposed to the board actions and have ‘heard of’ a large silent majority in support…any way to see proof? (PS: My inclination is to discount the ‘majority’ of the board represents a majority of the township since about 6,000 people actually voted - but then again, shame on you - you get who you DON’T vote against).
2) “Normal citizens and members of central Indiana townships have never behaved this way” - THIS is an odd statement. I think there have been hundreds of ocassions when this type of frustration and supsequent action has occured. Unfortunately, we ONLY pay attention when it affects ourselves. This country was FOUNDED by frustrated citizens who forced change on the established government. I don’t hear much in the manner of ‘call to arms’ - but I hear people angry that their government isn’t doing the will of the people (at least the people comprised of THEMSELVES).
3) “…I think there is something wrong with having an organization against a political body such as the School Board.” THE FREEDOM of speach provisions IN THE CONSTITUTION are SPECIFICALLY FOR PROTEST and GRIEVANCE with the ‘political bodies’ of this nation: “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
February 12th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
Is this how tax dollars are being spent? I support funding education in every way possible, but not on nonsense investigations, lawyers who do not agree with current board members and especially buying out existing superintedent contracts. These elected officials have failed the people, students and teachers of Perry township. With continuing cuts in education funding, it amazes me the money spent for political nonsense.
February 15th, 2007 at 6:08 pm
I don’t know how many of you would agree with me on this but I’m going to voice my opinion anyway.
Monday is President’s Day, no school, but it was a snow make-up day if needed. We need it, so I think the kids should go to school. Now they’ll have to go in April 27 AND May 27.
Personally, I think this is stupid. Why can’t the kids go to school Monday? My daughter told me that she heard it’s because “there isn’t enough time to make plans.” Make plans? Make plans for what? Make plans to let their child sleep all day? Make plans to find a sitter because it’s yet another day of no school? It clearly states on the school calendar each of us received at the beginning of school that Monday is a snow make-up day (if needed).
Okay, for those of you who have made doctor, dentist, etc., appointments for Monday thinking we wouldn’t need to make up school (I am one of those parents), either cancel or re-schedule the appointments or keep the appointments anyway (which I planned on doing).
What if school needs to be cancelled again? Our kids will have to go to school TWO extra days after the end of school. Will the seniors ever be able to graduate?
Sounds to me like this is another “four irresponsible women and now one irresponsible man” thing?
February 15th, 2007 at 6:41 pm
I’m not sure who’s directly responsible for snow day decisions, but I wouldn’t expect it to be the school board. However, with the school board I’m sure they’d enjoy being the ones to make that decision as well. I think the kids should go to school on Monday. I’m sure all of them would rather go to school on a cold, snowy day than a nice, warm, sunny, spring day.
February 15th, 2007 at 8:16 pm
First off, Nancy and I are not realted, thank the Lord. Secondly, my family and I are new move ins to this district and I think that we made a huge mistake. Being a father of two boys, I need to think about their educational well-being and fiscal responsibility as paying taxes into this district seems to be the equivalent to setting it on fire. I just do not understand that if Dr. Williams is such a villian, then why do they not just fire him? If they have not, it seems to any rational, educated human that this GANG OF FOUR seem to have a personal agenda. From what I have read, it seems the grounds they are looking at do amount to a hill of shite. (Sorry). This is why they are wasting A LOT of money paying his salary, the salary of a new acting Super, and another ATTY. This seems to be a COLOSSAL waste of valuable dollars that could be used elsewhere. I did not know I would be moving into HIlljack Fema-Nazi politics world. I will be putting my house up for sale this spring
February 16th, 2007 at 10:09 am
I have read many people mentioning this and maybe I missed the answer so I’m asking again. If we can impeach the President of the United States, why can’t we get rid of these four women?
February 16th, 2007 at 10:26 am
Karen,
In reference to #32 above, maybe if you took the time you’re spending on this site, you could find time to meet with Ken.
February 16th, 2007 at 12:55 pm
Admin-
This is what I was told regarding school days:
Perry Township is not making the kids go to school on Monday, nor are they tacking on days at the end of the year. They will turn a couple of teacher in-service days this spring into the make up days.
Can you confirm or deny this? If this is the case, is that so horrible? I remembered having flex days built into the school year when I went to Perry. Why is this not the case anymore? I also do not believe it is JUST the School Board’s decision. I think it is the whole administration’s decision. And this right here, ” However, with the school board I’m sure they’d enjoy being the ones to make that decision as well.” Is one of your snide comments that you would like me to point out to you. Like I said on the other website, why not keep stating the facts for everyone? You started that way and I believe you should continue that way.
Kim: A. you have no idea what my schedule is B. Ken has an idea of what my schedule is and is perfectly fine waiting for me to find a day to meet with him so why is that any of your business? I spend a total of 30 minutes a day on the websites-1/2 of my lunch break usually so I don’t know why you think I spend a lot of time on here. And if you really want to know my schedule, here it is:
I work a full time job at a law firm 50-55 hours a week, I am also a newlywed, and am enrolled currently in 32 credit hours at law school. So please tell me when I am to make time to meet with Ken? You seem to think I have all the time in the world so please tell me when exactly you want me to meet with him.
February 16th, 2007 at 1:13 pm
Karen, I am not a reporter. Never claimed to be on this site. I’m actually quite bold in my stance against the board on this site (hence the title) and my stance in support of Dr. Williams (hence the title). I do have to agree with you though, by it’s very definition it is a snide comment. However, I believe there is a difference between a smart aleck comment and a disrespectful one. I also believe, as has been stated, you don’t have much room to point out flaws in other people’s comments when you proceed to speak “snidely” in response to other people’s questions about your time. What’s the difference? Seems to me like it’s your side that can dish-it-out-but-can’t-take-it.
February 17th, 2007 at 11:45 am
Hello all. I have done some research regarding using Monday as a snow day. I agree with what I have been told and have summarized below:
If the snow days would have occurred earlier in the year, the plan was to use Presidents day as a make up. Since the snow days occurred later (about 1 1/2 weeks before Presidents day) the decision was made to use alternate days since many Parents, Teachers and Staff had made plans for a 3 day weekend. Some were using Presidents day to catch up on Dr.’s appointments, Dental appointments and some have made travel plans for a short “get away”. While we have no specific plans, I personally appreciate the fact that the administration took this information into consideration prior to making their decision.
February 17th, 2007 at 12:36 pm
I agree with Ken. Our family had made plans and had other members of our family coming in this weekend with plans for Monday. We probably would have kept our son out of school on Monday anyway if they had decided to schedule a make-up day for President’s Day.
February 17th, 2007 at 4:21 pm
Janet-
Regarding your “take back Perry School” signs in yard in Murphy’s Landing. Leave them up….I am on the Homeowners Board and we had a Homeowner call about the signs saying “our property value will decrease”. You can have signs during the elections, but about your kids diving team or this they have to go… I think its to important to remove. So leave them up………..
February 17th, 2007 at 4:29 pm
The person that complained about the TBPS was [NOTE BY ADMIN: I try not to allow people to share names of people on this site that haven't offered up there names already on the site or in board meetings] in your neighborhood. She complains about everything. Just some inside stuff for you.
February 17th, 2007 at 5:31 pm
Dear MLHOA
Thank you.
We still have our sign up. As soon as we received the letter, I put the sign on my front porch but as soon as my husband got home, he put it right back out in the yard. Many if not most of our neighbors took them down. I immediately called the number on the letter that we received and left a message including my phone number asking for a return call about my sign. I never received a call back. Thus…my sign stays!
February 17th, 2007 at 8:20 pm
“Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”-Maria Robinson
February 21st, 2007 at 11:15 am
I have had my signs stolen from my yard TWICE! This is illegal…you know, it’s called “theft”. I live in SouthCreek and have been notified by the Home Owner’s Assoc. as the rest of the neighborhood has, that we are unable to post signs in our neighborhood as well. And yes, our covenants do state that….as well as no basketball goals at the front of the house, no businesses run from the home AND no privacy fence without the benefit of a pool. This is politically motivated and if they enforce this, they better be ready to enforce the other violations. Thank god my child is out of school!
February 21st, 2007 at 11:21 am
Responding to some of the above comments #33 etc….I don’t think a board member lives in my neighborhood, SouthCreek, and we have been asked to remove signs.
February 23rd, 2007 at 12:25 pm
These board members(and Spouses) are employed elsewhere right? Stop doing business with them and the companies they are associated with. If they are wasting our money, send them a message where it counts!
February 23rd, 2007 at 3:55 pm
Good luck with all of your hostility and childishness Perry Homeowner.
February 23rd, 2007 at 4:24 pm
“There was never a decision; it was the right thing to do. Each year I talk to 300,000 middle high school and college students about my research in the tobacco industry, and I’m often asked, “Was it hard to make the decision to testify in Congress against the tobacco industry?” The answer is always the same: “There are some events in life that don’t need a decision-just action.”-Victor J. DeNoble, Ph.D.
February 23rd, 2007 at 4:30 pm
Karen the only problem with your recent quote is that there are plenty of dead people, facts, studies and research that has been completed and confirmed that tobacco use leads to death. Trust me, if there were overwhelming evidence of the allegations that Dr. Williams was guilty of doing ANYTHING worth the action taken by the board I would have setup a http://www.wesupporttheboard.com website instead.
February 23rd, 2007 at 9:58 pm
Actually I found the quote (this part- “There are some events in life that don’t need a decision-just action”)interesting because it could apply to both sides. Whichever side of the fence you are on in this situation.
February 26th, 2007 at 9:20 am
Karen,
Wow,
I’m hostile and childish? We don’t agree with what the board is doing with our hard earned dollars. We can’t remove them from office at this time. The only message we can send them is to not do business with them or their employers. They are not listening to us at meeting or via normal correspondence. I’m pretty sure when the commission checks start shrinking they will see the message. Until then, they will plot along with their personal agenda’s. I’ve had enough of this nonsense!
February 27th, 2007 at 8:04 pm
Laurie….Don’t worry at all about the sign police. The board meeting in Southcreek is in a few weeks and we will deal with this issue then. Please come and join us. They cannot force us to remove our signs as they never enforce these issues. The board cannot pick and choose when they want to enforce bylaws based on their own views. By the way, do you need another sign? Just let me know…I am in the neighborhood directory! Thanks for your support!
March 1st, 2007 at 9:10 am
Isn’t there a way for the city or state to get involved in this matter? Shouldn’t the Mayor be concerned and involved in this board destroying our schools?
March 1st, 2007 at 11:14 pm
I am asking the same question that Mrs. Luksic asks, IS there anything that taxpayers in the Township can do to impeach this “Gang of Four?” I will donate money, manpower or anything else I can to get rid of these parasites.
March 2nd, 2007 at 3:51 pm
Response from the Mayor:
Thank you for contacting Mayor Peterson’s Office. He appreciates your
correspondence and I am responding on his behalf.
This is a school board issue in which Mayor Peterson has no authority.
Again, thank you for contacting Mayor Peterson.
Elizabeth Gerwels
Constituent Services
March 5th, 2007 at 11:44 am
Standard political response from the Mayor. He may not have any authority, but I am sure he would have some influence.
March 5th, 2007 at 4:28 pm
WOW! You just gotta love the freedom of speech, that is, as long as you say the right thing. I can honestly say that it is true that if we [voting-abled residents of Perry Township] did not vote for or against these board members then how can we complain about them, right? Well, as someone who has lived in Perry Township nearly all of my life I will personally make the effort to let them [the control-minded foursome] know just how I feel come next election.
From a parents standpoint, it is greatly disheartening to see such negativity thrust upon our school district. We have one of the top districts in the state, and look at us!
What example are we setting for our kids? Stand up for what you believe in, don’t back down, and keep pushing forward. Maybe if the board gets pushed enough WE can move forward towards educational excellence, and ‘the board’ can set personal agendas aside.
What example is the board setting for our schools? With positions of power and taxpayer money we can throw our weight around and bully those that don’t agree with us, or give us what we want?
How sad it is that our kids have to pay the price for all of this. I don’t think I am the only one that feels this way.
March 10th, 2007 at 12:02 pm
I am a single parent of an 8th grader, who has recieved the bulk of his education at Perry Schools. I have always taken great pride in the fact that he is able to learn in a school system that has the public perception of being one of the best in the state, as public schools go.
I have read with interest about the “Take Perry Schools
Back” controversy. It has obviously cost a great deal of time, energy and resources to start up and maintain this campaign, meant to put the power back into the hands of parents. Yet the controversy is laden with political implications and propoganda that is based more on opinion and less on real life factual information.
If Douglas Williams and his reputation or actions is at the heart of this controversy, and from what I have read, it seems to be, then perhaps a step back is needed to look at the reputation of a man who has led our fine schools for many years with integrity, honesty and a genuine interest in the educational welfare of each and every student within our huge Perry School System. Perry Meridian Middle and Southport Middle Schools are two of the largest, if not the largest, or most populated schools in Indiana. Mr. Williams has always had his work cut out for him.
It is my studied opinion that this man, whose career has earned him many awards and accolades for his work, has had his job turned into a two fold obligation, complicating an already difficult and challenging position as leader of our schools. He is now forced to prove his competency and intentions, despite years of successful leadership, and he must also continue to follow his theoretical orientation that the students come first.
I feel I am compelled to support Mr. Williams efforts, to applaud his courage in the face of hostile animosity from school board members, and to admire his willingness to see this through to the end. His resignation is something I wish never to see.
I feel it is within my resources and within my ability to send my child to a parochial school. I have often contemplated the benefits of doing just that. But I realize that should I choose to do that, I am then rejecting a school system that has always treated him with dignity, respect and that has come forward with innovative ideas and plans to meet his special needs. I have attended meetings concerning my son’s education in which at least 10 school employees were present, sometimes more. Each of these employees had but one mission: to find the best way to educate my son and help him become a success.
My son had to spend a brief and disturbing time at an IPS School. I attended a meeting there in which the school administrators had their feet upon the desk tops, joked frequently, and seemed only mildly interested in what the meeting was intended for. In short, I was forced to do their jobs, come up with an IEP, which I felt my son would benefit from, only for them to fail to follow through with our agreed course of action. My son left that school feeling confused, uncared for and he is bright enough to know that no one at that school was truly working on his behalf. This experience only helped reinforce my committment to Perry Schools, and to the competent, eager, concerned teachers and administrators who had worked so hard to help my son at every turn all through his Perry experience. I support Perry Schools and feel there is no need to “take them back”, as they are already ours. I have often told my son, “This is your school. This is where people care for you and want nothing but the best for you. This is where you truly belong”.
After our sometimes frightening experience with IPS, I am even more deeply committed to Perry Township Schools and am in support of every teacher, administrator, security officer and lunch personnell that is employed within our system.
Thank you Douglas Williams for leading our schools to the best of your highly considered ability. You have my unwavering support.
My involvement with my son and within the school is what makes the difference. I will continue to let the school do their job and be in the school whenever and wherever I can with the goal of promoting the school’s philosophy and instilling those principles within my son.
Thank you for the opportunity to share my opinion
Tammy Mercer
March 10th, 2007 at 8:30 pm
Can someone tell me when the next school board meeting is? I encourage anyone that is unhappy with the actions of these 4 members to show up at the next meeting and bring other parents and neighbors. This will be my first meeting and I want to come along with 5 neighbors that are now interested.
March 10th, 2007 at 10:52 pm
Ted, the next board meeting is this Monday night, March 12th at 6:30pm at the PTEC building.
March 11th, 2007 at 9:43 pm
My husband and I plan on attending the Wed. meeting at PMHS.
March 11th, 2007 at 10:13 pm
What meeting is happening Wednesday at PMHS?
March 12th, 2007 at 9:58 am
My child will be a student next year at Southport High. I WILL sit in his classrooms from time to time to make sure things are running smoothly. If I don’t like what I see, I WILL be talking with the priciple/dean/board members. I WILL NOT sit back and let things go on that shouldn’t. The teachers/staff are the adults and need to remind the students of that!! If for some reason my child gets hurt over anything that shouldn’t be, you can GUARANTEE that there will be charges and someone WILL be punished. If not, I WILL have a lawyer be in contact with the school and the school board. So I hope by next August Southport High has everything under control. Watch out…here comes an involved parent!!!
March 12th, 2007 at 10:09 am
It is the board of education meeting regarding redistricting and facility expansion. The meeting is at 7pm. There are also meetings at SHS on March 15th and Winchester Village on March 22 at 7pm. They say that community input is welcomed. Too bad community input is not welcomed at school board meetings in regards to Dr. Williams and hiring attorneys!!!
March 18th, 2007 at 11:13 am
One thing I’ve learned over my years in education…if a school board or administrative circle didn’t think they could get away with something, they wouldn’t have tried. These ladies have done their homework, made the decision, successfully removed Williams from the helm, and now it’s time to move on. This site provides a good way to vent, but no one in control is reading a single word printed. It’s done. Now it’s time to move on because it’s been long enough. BTW…stop the long postings!
March 18th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
Mike, sadly you’re wrong as well. The four board members have only put Dr. Williams on paid administrative leave. They haven’t “successfully removed” him from his position. They’ve successfully put him on a paid vacation. If they could have removed him for reason, they would have already done it. Why waste the money if you actually have fact to back-up your decision. Sorry you get tired of reading long posts.
March 22nd, 2007 at 8:43 am
Admin,
I don’t understand how this problem with the 4 is being delt with, is there a trail pending? Is there a petition that parents can sign that show support for Dr. Williams and getting our school system back on track for the children and teachers sakes, and to show people that an overwelming majority are not being represented?
I pray this will get over with soon and that whatever higher system is over seeing this mess will realize that the 4 are wasting alot of tax dollars and put a stop to it.
March 29th, 2007 at 10:02 am
This is an email I sent to ALL board members. I am posting it here because I am trying to reach as many parents as possible.
To All Board Members,
As a Perry parent I am very concerned that all this arguing over Dr. Williams has sidetracked the Board from more important issues. What happens to Dr. Williams will be decided by the outcome of the audit. The fate of one administrator should not cause such hate and animosity between board member, or the board and parents. He is only one man, what is important is the kids!
I would like all 7 members, and Perry parents to remember that the children and their education should be TOP priority. The bigger picture of our children should be what is important. There are many other issues in Perry schools that need to be addressed. Such as: Why is there so much excess busing, why is there not an opt out option in the uniform for special needs children, why is the school district so poor academically,(a year behind a small Michigan town I moved from). These are the issues, and others, that should be the agenda for meetings.
Personal feelings need to be set aside, the board needs to come together as one to do what is best for our children!!!
P.S. Please fell free to read this at the beginning of the next meeting so that all can hear it. I would do it myself, but parents are rarely heard lately.
Please think about it.
March 31st, 2007 at 11:07 pm
Where can I get a sign for my yard? I would like to put it right out front to voice my opinion also.
April 1st, 2007 at 11:56 am
as i have posted previously, maybe john smith should think before he types, as a former student of SHS, i first hand saw teachers, deans, and principals take swift action against violence, drugs, and bad grades. they were always trying to do what was best for the student. And anyone caught violating these policies was remanded appropriately, so i have no idea where his information comes from. for reference, i attended as a freshman in 96 which means he was suppoedly teaching there when i attended, so he should be aware that they had police officers readily available for such violent situations
john smith, whoever you are, quit lying to the public, and quit trying to ruin or school system
April 3rd, 2007 at 2:49 pm
To Perry resident:
To obtain a sign, please send a request to signs@takebackperryschools.com.
Thank you
April 7th, 2007 at 3:55 pm
Well, maybe I can help by telling you that this mess is not about Dr. Williams only. As a matter of fact, he is just the most obvious problem the board has. His suspension is really just a symptom of a much larger disease which is affecting the entire workings of the school district. Those entire workings include all of the items you mentioned and many more. If you think about this board as a disease, you will realize that it affects everyone and everything that is the business of the district; likewise a disease affects the workings of many,if not all, of the other parts of the body.
Consequently, we must cure the diseased part so that the healthy parts will run smoothly and efficiently again.
As you are, many of us in this township are also most concerned about issues other than Dr. Williams. That is exactly why we must do our best to do whatever we legally can to restore our district to competent, honest, and responsible leadership. These 4 women are none of those, and that’s why they are the disease.
We don’t want them making decisions for our children now or ever because their motives and goals seem to be personal and vindictive and have little to do with bettering education for our children. Furthermore, they do not have the background, the education, the know-how, or the common sense to run our schools. So, let’s be glad that they aren’t moving ahead. Goodness only knows where in the world they would take us and our children!
I guess that old saying, “Be careful what you wish for,” is indeed true for you and the rest of us who are also “Fed Up.”
April 9th, 2007 at 10:01 pm
The sign thief strikes again! Mine is gone, but not for long!!
April 10th, 2007 at 12:35 am
roncalli for my chil starting next year rather spend the money on an education than a school board with four people with personal agendas hope the one doesn’t teach her students like she acts at the board meetings,if so i feel sorry for those children
April 17th, 2007 at 11:43 am
Is there an e-mail or mailing address so we can contact Dr. williams with our support? I came to the meeting last night and want to thank all who are involved in this process. I am going to call all of the parents of my childrens friends to get them involed in this great action of taking our school back. Our schools belong to the citizens of Perry Township not the school board.
April 21st, 2007 at 12:34 am
Well, Well, Well………
Does anyone think that the beloved Dr. Williams will ever come back? I have heard that the”MUTUAL” negotiations have been going on unofficially. Really all they have to do is: Up a date on it and sign it.
Just GLAD that it’s over. Again NOBODY wins in this situation, and I mean no one.
April 21st, 2007 at 1:49 am
Welcome back Dic Tator.
April 21st, 2007 at 11:40 am
Is “wesupportwilliams” down by choice? It seems it’s been “under repair” for quite a while now.
April 23rd, 2007 at 8:49 am
Thank you so much for my sign!
I support you 100%!
April 23rd, 2007 at 4:47 pm
John and everyone. The We Support Williams site is back up now.
http://www.wesupportwilliams.com
June 17th, 2007 at 1:12 pm
I am not from Perry Township however I have been following this story through family. It is my understanding during these board meeting the Board will have anyone removed that attempts to express their views or concerns. May I ask why nobody challenges our First Amendment Rights to Freedom of Speech without censorship? As long as this does not include profanity and defamation members of the township or employees of Perry have every RIGHT to communicate themselves. Cops cannot remove a person for this if they are not being violent or inappropriate with language. When a cop attempts to remove someone per the Boards requests everyone should hold up a sign “Board trying to now strip our First Amendment Rights”! Pass flyers out. The utter power these women feel they have is disgusting. Furthermore, the children aren’t the focus, their arrogance is! Good Luck Perry in getting Williams reinstated and having justice served.
June 27th, 2007 at 10:16 am
I am a VERY concerned Perry tax payer that is completely outraged at the lack of maturity in all of this squabbling. Can’t you people just get on with it?!? You are supposed to be professionals, yet you act worse than little children. I for one do not want to see my taxes raised to support your stupidity! I will recommend that no one move to Perry township. Our school board can’t even work together. What does that mean for my future children? I am ashamed to say I live here!
June 27th, 2007 at 11:49 am
Just a few here Amy G. Perry Township is not about this organization. Stop by and visit our Administration Building. I am sure you will see what I am talking about.
June 28th, 2007 at 9:44 am
William-ized, the township may not be all about the organization, but that is all everyone sees on the news. Maybe the news cameras should visit the admin building so everyone can see this
so-called postive spin on the situation.
June 28th, 2007 at 1:59 pm
Did Nancy Walsh finally keep her word about something? Did she tender her resignation as well so we as a community can move forward?
June 28th, 2007 at 5:43 pm
I am seriously thinking about running for school board against Nancy Walsh.
First I want to clear my family name even though we are not related. I am a new move in (two years) and I have two sons. I plan on living in this area for a long time.
This shamockery that these 4 “women” caused on this township is an outrage.
I am a business professiona with an MBA. I want to set this township back on the right fiscal track. First off is to get rid of those four “ladies”.
July 9th, 2007 at 9:58 am
Well I heard this morning from another Jeremiah Grey parent that we lost the best school principal you could ever want to another township. Can’t blame her…who would want to work for the current school board !!! How much loss will we have to suffer until we can a new board ??????
July 10th, 2007 at 7:55 am
Supt. Williams is not a HERO. That term is best used for those rising their lives to protect us from criminals, fire or erving in military action areas. Further, Mr. Williams gave up any chance to be a “hero” when he chose to take big bucks for doing nothing. Does anyone think he can’t get another job immediately. A real hero would have said only pay me for my time here this year and I leave to bring sanity back, then go get the well paying job he can easily get (go to IN Dept of Ed’s website - look at “teaching jobs” and click on admin to see all the openings out there). But, like so many CEO’s the golden parachute works for him. Take $470,000 from the children of Perry T. No a hero to me. Yes, he was good, yes our board is crazy but the HERO label is certainly not for Mr. Williams. If anyone deserves it in a school setting, it should go to the 40 year teacher who really taught well, the janitor who cleaned up vomit for 40 years, the secretary who handles so many rude people every day for 40 years or the cooks, drivers, maintenance guys who get so little pay during their work live that Mr. Williams BUYOUT is more than they took home for their entire work life in Perry. Just think - at 5% interest, Mr. Williams BUYOUT will give him $25,000 a year interest - that is more than teachers get for retirement pay per year, more than janitors, cooks, bus drivers, etc. take home for a year of hard work. Sorry, Mr. Williams is no hero. A good supt. but no hero. By the way, isn’t it interesting that school principals a fired every day with no buyout but the Supt.’s almost always get one (even in Lawrence when they have affairs with an employee and get caught) or Ron Boyd who went from Indiana to Cleveland, and was fired after about 9 months then got a buyout of about $360,000 well over a decade ago. Wonder if Dr. Williams will be another Indiana Supt who goes to Florida, gets another job and another retirement check in addition to his Indiana Teacher Retirement Fund Check. Hero - no, not really. Heroes give up greatly. Dr. Williams will live better than 95% of those he “served”.
July 10th, 2007 at 2:26 pm
When is Walsh fulfilling her part of agreement to resign when Williams leaves? Her resignation is the only way the healing process can begin.
July 10th, 2007 at 3:02 pm
I believe the agreement was if he resigned. He didn’t resign did he? He settled (huge difference) and took the township payer’s money. And would only settle in front of a Magistrate who told him the whatfor. Therefore I believe that agreement is null and void.
July 10th, 2007 at 3:13 pm
R2D2 is my understanding he was willing to leave at a much smaller cost if the two would resign also, but guess what they refused.
July 10th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
Words for reflection -for a divided school board and community:
Jesse Jackson
Leadership has a harder job to do than just choose sides. It must bring sides together.
Unknown
Blessed is the leader who seeks the best for those he serves.
Life is change. Growth is optional. Choose wisely.
- Karen Kaiser Clark
July 10th, 2007 at 4:34 pm
R2D2,
The SENTIMENT Mrs. Walsh expressed was that peace and healing in the Twp. is more important than 2 people, herself and Dr. Williams. He is now gone. She should do one honorable thing in her life and keep her word AND resign. The tension, conflict, and bitterness would drop considerably if she would do that.
You are playing the semantics game but know the main idea of Mrs. Walsh’s comment. She is the lightning rod of much of this negativity. What is more important to her? Nancy Walsh and her ego OR Perry Township. If she would resign, I’d say the latter. Otherwise, she will prove herself to be the snake that many already claim her to be. It’s her choice. You have every right to defend her and support her. Have a lot of fun with that for three years and then she’ll get squashed like a bug at the polls. But better yet, after next May’s elections, she will be just as powerless and feel just as helpless as Maple, Houchin, and Buffie do now. You, R2D2, need to look at things a little more objectively. If you did, you would agree that Walsh quitting is the next big step in some healing in Perry.
July 13th, 2007 at 5:30 pm
Lou-
Rock on!!!
August 16th, 2007 at 7:41 pm
I would like to know how to get the township boards to have more checks and balances so that this does not happen again. It seems to me that the President of the United States has more checks and balances then Perry township board members do. I mean how in the world did they get away with this!!!
September 21st, 2007 at 2:02 pm
I agree with Lou. I am also wondering if this “Mr. Thompson” is the ex-husband I have heard about threating to make people leave from the board meetings? Is he the same “Mr. Thompson” who is trying to get elected as a constable?
September 21st, 2007 at 4:48 pm
Same guy. Same bully.
October 23rd, 2007 at 12:00 pm
As a mom that has only experienced perry township for a short time I must say that the student seems to be the last concern when it comes to this present board or the administration. I have a child with special needs, and I have asked many questions that have never been answered and no one seems to know where I get these answers.My husband and I considered private school for our son but after what we believed to be careful consideration I wonder of his future with Perry. He currently attends one of the edison schools which is why we stayed in the public school system. He is doing well there. But after fifth grade we already know he will be pulled and put in private school. I have heard or read some parents comments on different sights about how the township gets upset when they loose a student because of the money they loose with them . Because of my son being Autistic they recieve approximately 8,500.00 extra dollars a year for this. No one can seem to show me how these funds are spent for his education. But after reading up on some of this I wonder how much of this money is going towards this effort of the school board that fired Mr. Williams. Even though I am new to this township I love the fact that he supported the edison schools I believe there is alot to learn from them.And for 8,500.00 a year I could pay for private school, outside 1 on 1 therapies and still save him money for his future.And because of the future of perry is so uncertain his younger sister will follow to private school. I think if there was actually even support for special needs as much as other students you would find you would have an even larger group of support. If you had child with special needs you would understand that the fight for there rights are ongoing . And the more we have to fight on an individual basis for our own as much as we or most would like to there just isn’t enough time for both fights. I admire what you are doing and hope someday the school systems will wake up with special needs as well as for all students in general.Then maybe I can spend as much time and effort to help. And believe me if I were not in my personal battle that would be a whole lot of time and energy. Maybe God willing the next board will understand that this is about giving our children the education and guidance that they are entitlied.
October 24th, 2007 at 8:51 pm
My child is 17 and a junior at Perry High. He also happens to be autistic. I believe that my son has received a superior education through out his time in MSDPT. It began at Douglas MacArthur Elementary (totally awesome environment for an autistic child - Thank you Mr. Craig and faculty). This continued though PMMS (except for 8th grade, I am not sure we could have asked for better service from the Special Education folks and the classroom teachers). This superior service continues to be delivered to my son who is now in his 3rd year at PMHS. It has not been perfect, but I cannot see how it could have been better. Kudos to the dedicated educators that have helped my son grow academically and have gone the extra mile to ensure a child that did not quite fit in was still served effectively.
Every year we considered home schooling or private schooling, but determined that we were best served in MSDPT. We just have some great teachers in our schools. This is in spite of the “Gang of Four” and definitely not because of their actions.
October 25th, 2007 at 10:52 am
Mr. Taylor I appreciate the information and input it is nice to hear of success for your child . As I said before we are just beginning our journey. I should correct or clarify what I meant by administration, when I say that I mean the people I have read about on this current board not the fine people at JGE. They as well have been super to my son and have helped me bring him a long way from where he started. Even his time in pre-school at Glenns Valley. Most of any problem I have had came from pre-school with a person whom I no longer deal with. My point is that it sounds like this board is spending our childrens money on things not to do with there education . And if this was to continue I question how many of our educators will lose monies for resources and other things they need to do there job. I to am very thankful for our teachers and help them anyway that I can. My graditude goes to each and every one of them . My sons life will forever be changed because of them. And it nice to hear something positive . and hopefully when the time comes we will make the right choice, But I must say that your statement reminds me not to jump to quick and be sure to careful look at all options, and to make sure I vote.
October 25th, 2007 at 9:45 pm
New Mom,
You are right to evaluate how your child is being served by MSDPT. Involved parents are a tremendous help to teachers. Your child will grow and learn because you care for him. You and parents like you are part of what makes MSDPT a good school system. If you keep in mind what is best for your child, things will work out for you regardless of where he attends school.
I just wish the “Gang of Four” cared about our sons as much as they love wasting money on witch hunts and attorneys.
Thank you for sharing.
October 30th, 2007 at 9:27 pm
New mom - I also have a special needs child on the autism spectrum. We journeyed through JGE w/much success. We have also done the same with SMS, and we’re currently in our first year at SHS. I say (we) because it is a joint effort. We approach each year only looking for the good. We’ve never been disappointed. I’ve never requested a teacher, but each year, I feel my daughter’s teachers have been hand-picked. They have all been wonderful! I do believe you will find that also. My advice would be to not worry about what’s down the road. Take it year by year. There’s no perfect school, but I’ve found some very amazing teachers so far.
November 2nd, 2007 at 8:29 am
To those who are running for the school board in the Spring:
I would like to bring a situation in our school system that needs attention by our soon to be new board after elections….
We have a tiered bus system for our junior and senior schools. This is totally wrong for our younger students.
My daughter started at Southport 6th grade academy in the fall and rides the bus.
Her bus is too full and she now gets to hear language and behavior from kids who are 5 and 6 years older than her. She is not allowed to watch rated R movies but hears way worse than that on a daily basis.
Our children grow up to fast as it is and I would really support canidates who would be willing to at least investigate seperating these schools on the buses.
November 2nd, 2007 at 9:15 am
Thank you for sharing that Cathy. I agree, raising two small kids, trying to maintain their exposure to things I’d prefer them not to hear and see at their age is always a challenge. In fact that’s one of the reasons we drive our kids to school instead of letting them ride the bus. I grew up in a small town though and my school bus had kindergarten to senior on it.
November 2nd, 2007 at 10:03 am
In fairness to all taxpayers in the district, I believe the consolidation of bus routes is probably the most economical use of our transit system, especially with today’s cost of fuel. However, I do believe there should be a code of conduct for all students on the buses as well as at school. Students that use foul language or otherwise intimidate or abuse other students on the buses should be reported to the school administration. The first incident should be a warning to the offender’s parents and suspension from bus service for a pre-determined number of days. Once the student is allowed the privilege of riding the bus again, any further violation of the code of conduct should result in suspension from the transit system for the balance of the school year along with in-school suspension. I strongly encourage any parent that has a student being offended by behavior on the bus system to contact the school administration. Disrespectful, offensive behavior by any student, whether on a bus or on school property, should be handled according to school policy. If the bus drivers don’t report it, the parents should. If the school administration fails to act, then the district administration should be notified. There has to be accountability for misbehavior, whether by students, teachers, administrators or bus drivers. Children of Perry Twp. should not be subjected to foul language, intimidation or abuse on the property of the school district.
November 2nd, 2007 at 12:02 pm
Ms. Freeman, thank you for clarifying that need to balance spending with what’s right and wrong. I had meant to mention that in my response. Obviously to have multiple sets of buses going to the same neighborhoods would be too cost prohibitive to implement.
November 7th, 2007 at 2:07 pm
I would like to see if you would post a blurb on the page about an upcoming legislative breakfast with our local representatives and senators along with Perry Township Trustee and the Mayor of Southport. They will be taking questions and answering questions directly-so far we have 8 people committed to coming and are waiting to hear from four more. The breakfast is going to take place on 12/8/07 at 9:00 a.m. at the PTEC building in the gym so there will be room for everyone. Please email me at mhammond1972@yahoo.com or call me at 697-0468. Thank you.
November 7th, 2007 at 3:16 pm
I actually complained several time at the beginning of the school year to our transportation supervisor Mike Blue and that was when I was told it was an on going problem with the school system and he really had no control of the tierd bus system. He recomended I contact the school board to get this policy changed. I unfortunately don’t have the luxury of taking my daughter to school since I run a daycare in my home and need to be there for drop-offs. It is very scary when you are 11 years old to tell on someone who is 17 for saying the f word or other vulgaritys. I really don’t want my daughter to become a target for the older kids to tease and make fun of. I understand it is a financial decision but as a parent we would like to think our children’s safety and well being would come first.
December 13th, 2007 at 3:13 pm
I agree that the tiered bus system is not a good idea. The busdriver cannot hear every word on the bus. Especially, the kids in the back…
I grew up in Fort Wayne and we had a bus that ran to the elementary, another ran to the middle school, and yet another one ran to the high school.
Perry also needs to realize that if they would run separate buses, more students would be allowed to ride the bus. Therefore, reducing the congestion at the middle schools, as there would be fewer car riders.
December 20th, 2007 at 12:59 pm
Actually, that’s not how it worked. MSDPT did run three separate routes at one time, but there were so few students on the busses they had to combine because continuing to operate with three separate routes was extremely cost-prohibitive - and that was before fuel was $300 a gallon. All students are allowed to ride the bus now, there’s plenty of room - that parents just need to stop driving them to school.
December 29th, 2007 at 3:29 pm
NCD, I don’t know where you get your info, but the bus that runs to Meridian woods is in fact overcrowded. You need to check your facts before you make statements like that!
December 30th, 2007 at 1:09 pm
You’re right then, they need to address that - there are probably neighborhoods that have crowded buses, but others that do not. It probably needs to be taken on a case by case basis, and maybe split the route differently, not necessarily go back to the three-tiered system. I was speaking more in general - sorry.
December 31st, 2007 at 6:59 pm
NCD I don’t think there’s any need to apologize. When you were on the school board is when I was enrolled in PT schools. I did everything I could to not ride the bus. I know from those days-when I had to ride the bus-there was MORE than enough room for any child. I agree that it varies by neighborhood and route. Perrydad I think you overreated a lil. Not a big deal though—but NCD does know her stuff in re to the school system/school board/bylaws, etc so I think she should be given respect and credit.
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:30 am
NCD:
Haven’t we had two-tiered busing since 1997 or so? Seems like this issue was decided a long time ago.
January 4th, 2008 at 3:34 pm
Sorry Jennifer, I was just stating facts from my children’s experience. I know it takes them at least 30 mins to ride home from school, and according to them it’s an hour. I know from my days in school ( and that was a long time ago), I certainly don’t like 11 year old sixth grader on the same bus as a 17 year old high school student. I can only imagine what is said/heard on today’s school buses. I do believe one of the reasons for the sixth grade academy was to separate the sixth graders from the eight graders for various reasons? Now we have 11 and 17 year olds spending almost an hour a day together on the bus? So how much will we save the taxpayers after the first lawsuit is settled? It’s really not a matter of if it happens, but when.
That’s my two cents worth.
January 4th, 2008 at 6:50 pm
No trust me Perry Dad—I completely agree with you on your two cents. ;) That’s exactly why I wanted to carpool or get a ride home because a. it took too long to get home and b. the older kids always made fun of or picked on the younger kids. I was just pointing out the Nancy really does know her stuff in regards to her information. I agree that the time it takes a child to get home is out of control–I wonder what other districts bus times are running? Does anyone know where that info could be found? or if other districts use the same system? It would be interesting to compare the information.
January 4th, 2008 at 10:58 pm
I think there are too many students on our buses who trip others and get slapped.
July 3rd, 2008 at 6:29 pm
I am writing in regards to the suspension of Connie Heerman. What can we do to either reverse this decision or draw a line in the sand against censorship of teachers trying to help students access material in a relevant way? This is an outrage. More people should be up in arms about this.