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Below is a quick synopsis of Thurs., Nov. 21, 2013's BOE meeting.
*Presentation on Summer Music Program & All-State Selections by Anissa Arnold, Director of Music
*Discussion of Commissioner King's Forum in Mineola last week which was moderated by Senator Jack Martins. Attendees voiced concern over Commissioner's refusal to listen to what parents, teachers, students and administrators stated regarding C.C., APPR, Testing and Privacy of information (InBloom). Senator Martins continued to question King and hold him accountable to respond to questions that were asked. Board is in agreement with opinions voiced at Forum. The rollout of C.C., Testing, APPR and InBloom are unacceptable and change must happen now.
*BOE President met with Senator Martins & Assemblywoman Schimel and requested that they ask for Commissioner King's resignation.
* Discussion of In Bloom.
* BOE President read a statement that will be sent to Governor Cuomo, Chancellor Tisch, Commissioner King, Senator Martins and Assemblywoman Schimel requesting the termination of In Bloom's contract in NY. Further info will be sent out on Fri. Nov. 22nd through district listserve by BOE.
*Discussion of Elementary School enrollment - Enrollment now at
"critical threshold numbers". Denton - 616
-Elementary buildings are imbalanced.
-Strain is made on staff, infrastructure, etc.
- Board asked Admin. to look into possible options to alleviate enrollment problems. Look for solutions that would "redirect future growth. Look for gentle changes that would not be disruptive to families and neighborhoods."
-Timeline- by Kindergarten registration- Spring 2014.
- Questions asked by audience regarding impact of L.I. classes on high enrollment numbers.
-Response: They do have an impact, but they are not the only reason.
*Discussion regarding State shortening this year's test by 20 minutes.
Response: They did this by taking out the field test questions. This does not provided dramatic positive impact.
*Discussion over Commissioner King now blaming the school districts for the over testing.
Response: "Testing has no intellectual integrity."
Supt. will attend meeting on Fri., Nov 22, 2013 with other district supts. to discuss recent developments, etc.
Hope this was enlightening, as I firmly believe that keeping you informed strengthens our membership.
In unity,
Nidya Degliomini
President
Herricks Teachers' Association