News-Record.com

Lets move on and just concentrate on improving all the schools and kids in High Point.

This vote is dedicated to:

THE REAL TRUTH!

TRUE CHOICE NO LOTTERY!

Could you please detail which schools are opt outs for next year? I saw in the last paragraph of the story that the board approved schools for next year, but not which schools were becoming opt-outs and which were no longer opt-outs. Thank you!

When High Point was in Market Land

Let my people go!

How many years did we wonder in the desert?

(Not as many hours as riding on the school bus)

Let my people go!

I prayed to keep my lottery number low

Let my people go!

Free me from the chains of forced redistricting for political gain

Let my people go!

Go down, families, way down in Market Land

Tell ol school board Let my people go!

Contrary to what that speaker said last night, (Vickey?) she is not "Moses". Since when can anyone get up to speak and say they represent the wishes of all the poor people of High Point and make themselves their "leader". Give me a break.

To those that say last night was a victory or loss for someone or some group I respectfully say, you do not understand what happened. If you think you won something, please understand I am not taking away from this, but you do not realize the needs of all High Point. A bandage covers and protects a wound, the body heals it. Members of the School Board gave High Point and Jamestown a bandage, now ALL must put their energies and support into ALL our schools. You have a choice, you can heal the body or you can allow it to fester and slowly tear the body apart.

I terribly regret that one of my first major actions would be to do this. Central now faces SMOD, all middle schools have major problems that need addressing as our Superintendent has chosen what I believe is a "dumbing down" path after failing at forcing advanced math onto children not prepared. We, all the community, must realize that until all our schools are performing we all loose. Kids in my Sunday school class are graduating from Andrews and Central and getting into some of the best Universities in the country. We need to build on this and expand it. The best way to integrate a community is to build pride in it�s institutions. Our Schools, all of them, must perform. When we achieve this, then we celebrate.

We close one chapter with a dangling participle...

If last night was victory, I pray defeat may never be tasted. High Point MUST never again single itself out as a bastion of difference and "special" treatments. Greensboro does not have a stepchild and Colfax and other communities are all as Paul said, "one body". When the whole body is healthy the parts are also. When one part is weak or injured, so is the whole.

When Dot kindly congratulated me I told her there was no victory and I meant it. We, the School Board, took a step that brings us closer to addressing much larger, more adult issues and I fear the first step has shown me how difficult uniting and strengthening Guilford County will be. If last night was a victory...

Garth,

Thanks for taking the time to post to this blog. I appreciate and respect your humble message. I believe that you have taken great strides toward uniting a divided High Point. But you're right, in order to be truly successful, we will need the full commitment from everyone in that community.

I see this as a start to a new day. Let's put the past behind us and get on with improving all of our schools.

We have satellite now, so I'm not able to watch the Board meetings. Would someone please let me know about:

- what was Garth's exact motion that passed? will kids that want to opt out have transportation provided by GCS?

- anything passed on proposed middle school changes? specifically proposal on limiting encore
to 90 minutes - my m/s already has 75 minutes of math and reading and I'm really concerned about losing elective time.

- last item, on opt out schools. Proposed list can be accessed thru GC website, Board meeting materials - I couldn't believe some of the options (Triangle Lake to Colfax???) If the school drops below Title I % (either thru change in student make up or thru Dr G raising % up to 75%), do all the NCLB sanctions just vanish?

Thanks for any info.

Amy,

My understanding of Garth's motion was that the children who, last year, were redistricted from Andrews/Welborn to SWH/SWM and vice versa would be allowed to choose the school they wish to attend starting next year. Transportation WILL be provided by GCS.

And regarding the NCLB/Title I question - I think that as soon as a school exits Title I status, the sanctions are dropped. A few years ago all the high schools that were Title I lost that status due to the board increasing the % to the federal mandate of 75%.

I don't think transportation was mentioned last night... but I believe the other areas have to provide their own transportation, but since the hub etc is still in use I could be wrong.

I can't tell you the exact wording of the motion.

Nothing was voted on for middle schools, alot of discussion. The board's overall impression was that they wanted children to still have arts and options. It seems that the push from staff was 2 45 min a/b days. If the staff is behind that it might work, but my son had a/b day for SS/science this year and it was hard for the kids to keep track of when work was due, what do you do when there is a snow day, do you skip the day or continue the rotation, etc. I still think that PE should be everyday for various reasons.

If a school is not Title 1 then there are no sanctions as I understand the law.

Bus transportation will be provided for students and Jeff Harris, transportation director, said he didn't expect the changes to cost the district any more or less in busing costs. The opt-out list that was approved is posted online on the April 10 agenda.

It was a victory for the battle,
but we have not won the war.

Thanks Garth

As a mother...Thank you for allowing my children to return to the schools they have loved. and the schools that we moved to this area for them to attend. I agree that the return to "neighborhood" schools is not a victory for all... and that issues of school performance need to be addressed, but as a HP homeowner, off Skeet Club Road, I am grateful that the choice has been given to the family. Our house values, housing market and the ability to sell our homes in this area were greatly affected by the redistricting last year. Many people, that could not sell their homes and or move out of the area found alternative and creative ways to keep their children out of these struggling public schools,with many opting for private schools, and others opting to homeschool, or to drive to another school district. Families were truly being burdened by this situation. Now, with our children able to return to the closest school, we will have more energy and inclination to put forth our efforts in improving ALL the schools in HP. We owe it to all the children. ("It really does take a village")

Garth,

Thank you for all your hard work on the school board. You truly are an advocate for our students and schools. The battle still exists but a part has been won.........

When are we finally going to say enough is enough and get rid of Dot. I can't believe the HP representive voted against this? The old woman needs to go. She isn't affected by the vote, so she doesn't get it. Don't go away mad Dot, just GO AWAY!!!

I really find some issues with Garth. In one breath he says its "no victory" and in the next he says it was a "victory for the battle". I question his backbone quite often. For a parent whose child will be in that zone next year I say it was a victory because your colleagues are no longer telling me where and what is best for MY child. Most of the controversy on the board stems from some who are not willing to speak the truth and stand up for their own conscience. As "Sharpton" and "Skip" thinking as Deena is at least she speaks her warped mind and everyone else needs to do the same and speak just as openly, just do it with class and sensitivity.

In the heat of my comments I misread the quote "victory for the battle" and thought the writer was quoting Garth. I apologize for that, but all other comments I stand by.

Jennifer H,

I'm confused by your post. Based upon your comments, it would appear that you and your child will benefit from this proposal. I find it hard to believe that you would critize the very person who championed the cause for your family and many others.

I think Garth has quite a backbone and handled himself very well last evening. He put his proposal in simple terms, explained it clearly and spoke from his heart. In the short time he has been on the board, he has accomplished much.

What people need to realize is when you are on a school board these are your colleagues, it's give and take and you have to work together with respect. I could understand at times that it takes a lot of self-control to bite one's tongue.

I have to say after watching some heated school board meetings during the past 5 years nothing compares to the shananigans of watching a commissioner meeting.

I personally am very proud of Garth.

there was a lady that spoke at the school meeting Tuesday night. I saw on tv last night she said she was Moses. that lady does not represent me. Moses was a man doing God's bidding. I am happy to have a choice for my own child.

Terp,

Your comment to Jennifer H. pretty much sums it up! All you care about is what you perceive as a benefit (keeping them in a white school)to your own child. Its hard for you to imagine that there are people that think of others. That maybe Jennifer H's child really was never harmed. It was SW parents like Garth that made people so negative. Instead of taken a positive approach to go to Andrews and put their shoulders the wheel to improve our community for everyone they allowed the evil of racism to overtake them. With the help of Garth you have successfully taught your children that segregation is ok, racism is Ok. You win but goodness looses! You are no better than the so called "christian schools" in our community who are damaging society by preaching the gospel while not practicing it. Hypocrits!

As for redistricting, I've been concerned that minority students would be better off segreagtaed form you racists so I'm kind of indifferent to the decision. While I know its wrong I know that minority children will be better off not having to be treated like second class people as they were at SW. While I don't think I have the right to impose my values on others I do believe you are selfish and think you believe you are entitled. I'm ashamed of all of you! Chalk one up for racism and one down for social justice. Enjoy your celebration.

I suppose you will all be supporting the bond referendum now that you are segreagated?

The Real Truth

To The Real Truth,
I am 10 years old and I want to go to middle school with my friends. Why should I have to ride a bus to Welborn instead of to Southwest middle school? Why do you call my parnets racists just because I want to do that? why do you call Southwest segregated? Have you eer been to Southwest? How does goodness loose if every body gets to choose there school? What is wrong with christain schools? They teach about the bible. What do you want me to do to fix Welborn I am only 10? If a school has problems shoudln't adults fix them? What are you doing to fix Welborn? What is Terry Grier doing to fix Welborn. Do you think the only way to fix it is to make white people go there? That sounds like you are racist against black people. Please answer my questions.

From: Taylor D.

PS I am glad I get to go to Southwest Middle school next year and stay with my friends that I have known since kindergarden. We are going to celebrate this weekend with a sleepover at my house. Yay for us!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

RT,

I'm going to have to call you on your lack of factual data again. Please, please try to get your facts straight before you post.

SW's enrollment is approximately 50%/50%. What about that is segregated?

Have fun Taylor D! You and your friends deserve to be happy. That is what childhood should be. You shouldn't have to stress over losing your friends or long bus rides and neither should the children who had a VERY LONG bus ride to SW schools.

Now everyone has a TRUE CHOICE which is their right without the school board or Moses telling them what to do! You can go to school close to home, choose a magnet theme or ride a long bus.

Enjoy your youth! And your parents are not racists. We all know this. Just ignore RT because she has warped thoughts.

TRT

I would hardly call 50/50 segregated. You must have your head in the sand!

"I suppose you will now be supporting the bond referendum now that you are segregated" TRT

well we aren't segregated (and never were) but now that there is a real choice and not a fixed lottery or coercion, one never knows.....

we might even shop in the Mayor Becky's city (what's left of Oak Hollow) but I am not getting a tattoo!

TRT

Once again, as Quest has stated many times, GET YOUR FACTS STRAIGHT. This is not a "redistricting". In case you missed it, the board said you cannot redistrict but every four years. No lines have changed. It is simple proposal for open choice as many other schools in have in Greensboro. This is no different.

Real Truth, the bond referendum is a totally different issue. There are long-standing School Board members and an administrative staff that have clearly proven they are not capable of handling the funds generated by the prior two bond referendums.

Has Dot become any smarter? I doubt it.

Has Mr. Grier and his staff become any more honest? I doubt that too.

Have Mr. Childs and Ms Hayes become any more open minded? I doubt that as well.

Is Ms. Cooke suddenly anyting more than a sock-puppet? I also doubt this.

Am I going to support the current bond referendum? Not if the people mentioned above have any input over the funds.

"the minority children will be better off not having to be treated like second class citizens at SW" by TRT

First (like all your other rants and wrong data, i.e. Andrews and Central are not Title I schools, SWH is not segregated and never was) so where is your proof of this statement? I am serious.

Second, please let's see who can answer the following question:

A. I want to be your friend because I accidently bumped you and you said "I will be you up white girl"

B. I want to be your friend because I was chased in the woods by three boys, beat up, had my wallet stolen so please let me reach out and invite you to my hosue to hang out. Hey my parents will come and pick you guys up if you can't get rides. We'll order pizza. And I am so happy the K 9s didn't hurt you.

C. I want to be your friend so you won't threaten me in the bathroom.

D. All of the above because I just want to mind my own business, be in school to learn and just need to accept you as a friend even if you threaten me, attack me or take my wallet.

The real truth is all children of all races, income levels, class or whatever are welcome in all our PUBLIC schools if they follow the rules of the PUBLIC school system. Go to a football game or event at SWH. Everyone of all races get along just great. Children who cannot conform to the rules of public schools need an alternative setting. I support Dr. Grier in the Community Service for these offenders and the Twilight School idea. Children should not just be suspended out of school. This is just what many of them would love.

Taylor D,

You are a child, you cannot be expected to understand. Your parents on the other hand should know better!

Quest,

You are using data based on today's #'s not the new segregated #'s based on the Grand Dragon's Choice Proposal. You also are quoting race and not economic diversity. Your numbers may be correct but you aren't telling the whole story. I know who lies its you!

Buckmtn,

Glad to hear it, I'm considering opposing the bond referendum as well. I don't want one dime of my tax $ to pay for an expansion out SW so you people can achieve your racist agenda!

Real Simple,
Your post says it all! What I hear you saying is children with discipline issues should all be sent to Andrews and not allowed to go to school with white children. What does discipline have to do with attendance zones? Answer... Nothing! You are a racist plain and real simple! Discipline is a different issue and segregating minoroity children won't fix it.

The Real Truth

Sorry when someone threatens by naming the color of one's skin it's racial.

TRT

At least they wouldn't be able to say "I will beat you up white girl"

Discipline is next issue, sadly many think it is racist as well and they are so wrong and so right at the same time. Discipline and punishment must be separated for the next real debate on race. Men/boys are singled out for punishment more than Women/girls. Girls tend to be more disciplined (self motivated and controlled) than boys and when we become adults it appears to become more equal. Sadly with race this does not appear to be the case. Harsher punishments appear to be racially motivated, but sadly it appears that minority women and men will punish more severely behavior out of the norm against their own race.

Caveat: Discipline is a state of mind and activity not a reaction to behavior varying from the "norm". Punishment, though often defined as discipline, is a response to behaviors varying from the expected "norm".

My question is simple, how does one teach/train self discipline/esteem and pride? When we say a child has a discipline problem, is it the same as saying they have a problem with "self control" and "self esteem", understanding and adhering to the expected "norms", or just acting out for attention/recognition, acceptance or just help (they do not know what they need)?

Now, where do punishment and incentive verses training and reinforcement come to play? How does suspension fit into the mix?

Now all you adults out there, address this in a way that leaves the race issue out of it first, then after you have addressed it for your own race (whatever it is) address it for other races as well.

It's now time for real adults with real answers to step up.

"Societies out of balance can't expect schools to do better."

This is a quote from Fridays editorial in the News and Record. I think this is the root of the probelm with educational issues in Guilford County. Expect little, receive little...... expect much and great things will happen.

If we keep lowering the standards, whether it be academic or discipline related, we will continue to struggle as a school system.

With regards to discipline..... have a county wide policy for offenses and carry it out consistently. Each offense has a consequence and regardless of who commits that offense or at what school they commit it, the punishment is the same. Consistency is the answer.

At one school in our county, a student was suspended for 3 days for denting a locker. At another school, I watched 3 students involved in a fight. One threw a punch and the other two shoved someone. There were no consequences for either of these 3 students.

Lets set a standard and expect excellence in all areas from everyone!

How do you improve self-esteem and motivate children? By a certain age this becomes more difficult. How you undo a negative home environment for any child and how it affects that child? Great teachers, SROs and counselors can help but there they are limited in their time and efforts. We continue to lose our best teachers because they just can't take it anymore. They cannot teach if they spend all day dealing with discipline issues.

We still have a responsibility to provide a safe, healthy learning environment for all children in our public schools. We need to allow those children who desire an education to have one. If there are other children who just don't want to be in school, in many cases, you cannot change that by high school. If children repeatedly fail a grade or can't read and their peers are passing them up, they will not remain in school. In the future children will have all the new requirements to pass for graduation, making it more difficult to prevent drop-outs.

We need alternative schools and programs for any child who cannot function in accepted manners of polite society. The programs should include tough love and building of self-esteem and reward systems, making earning your way into the regular classroom a privilege.

As Kay states consequences, punishment or whatever you need to call it need to be enforced uniformly across the board for all races and sexes. If rules are broken the punishment needs to be the same for the offense.

Unfortunately, in some circumstances, race cannot be left out of it if we have these social issues in all our schools. If someone says, "I am going to beat you up because you are (fill in the color of skin)" this becomes a social, racial issue. If someone says, "Look at that tan white girl, she just wants to be black" by a group of black boys, it could be simple flirting but race is thrown into this. If new children arrive at a school and in the girls' bathroom on dress up day say "Look at those senior girls, they think they are so cool" (while addressing a white group of older girls) and another black girl says "that's okay there are more of us. We can beat them up" is this not racial??? I wish this was not the case but these incidences are happening. Whether it is anger at being bused or racial, these problems do currently exist.

We need to address the issues of "racism" from all sides in all of our schools for all races. Along with that there needs to be discussion on bullying in general whether it is because you are white, black, little, fat, nerdy or whatever, there needs to be a serious discussion on tolerance for each other.

IMO,

Why do you even mention racism? Your post is filled with black/white. You sound like Deena Hayes. Are you?

My post is filled with black/white to tell a story and make a point. By ignoring racism in our schools and not dealing with what is going on does not make it go away. This would never be Deena because in her mind and with her group "black people cannot be racists". IMO if someone refers to the color of one's skin in a verbal threat, that is racism.