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| Race to the Top Fund; Detroit News- November 12, 2009 | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: Nov 12 2009, 12:54 PM (4,837 Views) | |
| Hopeful | Jan 6 2010, 10:44 PM Post #61 |
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Maybe the question should be asked of the LPS BOE at the Board meeting on Monday....... let's see if they have any answers. |
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| Vanna White | Jan 7 2010, 07:32 AM Post #62 |
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I believe they may have already signed. It was discussed at monday's meeting, although I did not hear the end of the discussion. |
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| Ava | Jan 7 2010, 11:34 AM Post #63 |
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So what? Who cares?
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Liepa said the changes are going to happen anyway so they might as well try to get some money out of the deal or something to that effect. I got the impression they were going to sign on. Liepa explained to Freeman--more than once---that it's state law and they must comply with the new reforms, but he(Freeman) seemed clueless. |
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| Deleted User | Jan 7 2010, 02:04 PM Post #64 |
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Race to the Top causes friction at RU schools Teachers skeptical about new law, federal funds hang in the balance By Pat Murphy OBSERVER STAFF WRITER January 7, 2010 * Comments(2) Redford Union school officials are willing and anxious to participate in the Race to the Top program and qualify for some of the $400 million in federal funding available for Michigan. But Redford Union teachers following the lead of state Michigan Education Association officials have thus far declined to sign the memo of understanding required as a first step. Race to the Top is a federal program that provides for $100 billion nationwide to encourage and reward school districts committed to improving student achievement. Governor Jennifer Granholm on Monday signed legislation enabling state districts to compete for part of Michigan's share ($400 million). But local districts are required to obtain three signatures on memos of understanding. Those memos require signatures from the president of the school board, the superintendent and a representative of the teachers' bargaining unit, in this case the Redford Union Education Association (RUEA). Memos are supposed to be submitted by Friday, although some believe that deadline is flexible. The RU School Board has agreed to sign the district's memo. Board President Lisa Gubachy and Interim Superintendent Donna Rhodes are expected to sign the memo Thursday. We certainly don't want to miss out on any federal funding, Gubachy said Tuesday. We want to be part of the solution. The RUEA hasn't formally notified the district that it would, or wouldn't, sign the memo. But RUEA President Steve Losey said his unit on the advice of the Michigan Education Association does not intend to sign the memo. It's too much of a blank check, Losey said Wednesday. We want more details about what's involved. The MEA has told local units that state laws may be circumvented under the plan, he said, and we're not willing to do that at this point. The MEA isn't the only entity concerned about the lack of details on what the memo of understanding would require. Bay City Public Schools has also requested more information about the program and the memos of understanding. Other districts have also expressed misgivings, although the Wayne Regional Education Service Agency, the county's intermediate district, said it will sign the memo. A statement issued on behalf of the Michigan Department of Education seems to indicate that districts may not need the signature of local teachers' unions. Mike Flanagan, state superintendent of Public Instructions, notified school districts the department will accept memos of understanding signed by the local superintendent and school board president. Having only these two signatures may reduce Michigan's overall chances to get Race To The Top funds, Flanagan said in the statement issued Tuesday, so I am asking that local districts still work hard to get all three signatures. Flanagan also said he is convinced the laws signed by Granholm on Monday will change how students learn and how teachers teach in every state school district, regardless of whether Michigan qualifies for funds. http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20100107/NEWS16/1070534/1033/Race+to+the+Top+causes+friction+at+RU+schools davidr60home wrote: This seems to be the only way liberals can get anything done these days. They want us to sign off on everything before knowing the details. Would you sign a contract without reading it?? Would you vote for health care without reading the bill?? OH WAIT!! Isn't that what our Congress did??? Stabbenow? Levin?? Vote these liberal sheep out!! 1/7/2010 8:19:33 AM TheMaz wrote: The Redford Union School District doesn't need to change or advise from anyone .... they are doing fine on their own with their own program - RACE TO THE BOTTOM. R.U. Teachers be strong and follow your Union because they support you ... by the way the YOUR UNION needs an additional 6% of your pay this year too cover administration costs - did you get that memo? 1/7/2010 8:59:38 AM |
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| Deleted User | Jan 7 2010, 02:17 PM Post #65 |
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In dash for funds, state overlooks real school needs January 7, 2010 It's called Race to the Top. But perhaps there's a better name. Belated Stroll to the Top, perhaps. Or, how about Mad, Aimless Dash to the Top? Whatever. Last month's show in the state Legislature is further proof that you might better watch sausage being made than laws being fashioned. We are talking about a process that preceded a deal finally reached that may allow the state to grab $400 million that is being dangled before it by the federal government in the hopes of improving public school education. In a state that is as financially damaged as Michigan, it's hard to criticize an attempt to get a chunk of our income tax dollars returned to us. Still, it's worth noting that most of the talk of wasteful federal spending disappeared when there was a chance for Michigan to belly up to the trough. In Lansing, the debate was seldom about whether the federal spending made sense. That might have been a debate worth having, since those federal expenditures only add to the federal debt. Instead, the debate centered more on how to put together a plan that met federal guidelines by the January deadline. In other words, all the talk about local control and keeping the federal government out of our lives went out the window as soon as the promised check was large enough. The Race to the Top money is only available to states that agree to meet reform standards set by the federal government. Some, perhaps many, of the guidelines make sense. Some educators in Michigan contend the state already has several in place, although perhaps not in the exact format favored by the feds. But here's the deal. If these guidelines, programs and reforms ranging from increasing charter schools to merit pay for teachers and state takeovers of failing schools are so important, then why weren't they already put in place? Instead, the measures were bounced around in a Ping Pong game in which politicians on both sides postured and politicked before finally reaching an agreement. Meaningful education reform likely won't come out of such brinkmanship and last-minute sessions. But at least there will be a shot at getting some big federal money earmarked to Michigan. Meanwhile, where is that gusto and single-mindedness on educational matters that the state lawmakers continue to duck? The state government has moved at glacier-like speed when it comes to controlling public education benefit costs that will eat up most of not all of any new funding that may someday appear. As it is, these costs continue to escalate even while the state slashes away at school funding. The most glaring example is the teachers' retirement plan, the cost of which is 100 percent controlled by state lawmakers, although it is paid out of local school budgets. Lawmakers from both parties refuse to address this issue. They have also sat by quietly while the length of a school year steadily declines. At a time when global competition requires an educated populace, we fall further behind other developed nations in the amount of time a student sits in a classroom. The quality of that time is another matter, one that deserves serious study, which wasn't the case less than two weeks ago when lawmakers threw together their compromise package for the federal government. When the feds play a fiddle, our lawmakers dance. If only they responded as quickly to the needs of Michigan residents. http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20100107/OPINION/1070307/1192/NEWS03/In-dash-for-funds-state-overlooks-real-school-needs |
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| Administrator | Jan 7 2010, 03:16 PM Post #66 |
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School districts may see finished Race to the Top plan before they have to commit By Dave Murray | The Grand Rapids Press January 06, 2010, 2:56PM School districts might get a chance to see a finished Race to the Top plan before committing to it after all. State Superintendent Mike Flanagan on Wednesday issued another bulletin to school districts, now telling them they can sign a "letter of intent" -- which he said is less binding than a "memorandum of understanding" -- by Thursday's deadline, then potentially get a look at a finished plan on Friday evening. Districts then have until next Tuesday to send the form committing them to the plan -- which could include controversial reforms for evaluations and control of failing schools -- before the state Board of Education votes on the state's formal application that day. A signature from teachers union representatives still isn't needed -- a decision handed down by Flanagan on Tuesday -- but he said Wednesday's changes are intended to address union concerns and possibly bring its leaders on board. State educators are hoping for a $400 million slice of the $4 billion Race to the Top plan, the Obama administration's attempt to spur school innovation, and need to have an application on a desk at the U.S. Education Department by Jan. 19. The state Education Department told districts it wanted them to commit to the plan by Thursday, with the superintendent, Board of Education president and union representative all signing the memorandum of understanding. The Michigan Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers on Monday told representatives they shouldn't sign the documents, calling it a "blank contract" since the state plan only exists in draft form. Flanagan responded with an alert telling districts signatures from the superintendent and board president would suffice, angering union leaders. Flanagan's Wednesday note indicates the non-binding "letter of intent" removes the greatest concern raised by the union, as well as some school boards. Both Comstock Park and Byron Center approved the memorandum this week, each expressing reservations. Flanagan said unions also feared provisions in the memorandum would trump local contracts. He told schools that wasn't the case, but the language wasn't clear and has been amended. "We are appreciative that State Superintendent Mike Flanagan has agreed to the reasonable request that districts and their employees get to read a final plan before signing on to it," MEA President Iris K. Salters said in a release following the state letter. Local educators are frustrated by the flurry of changes, but understand the position the state Education Department is in, said Ron Koehler, assistant superintendent for the Kent Intermediate School District. Koehler said the timeline is tight, but the Education Department had to wait until the Legislature approved a series of reforms, which Gov. Jennifer Granholm didn't sign into law until Monday. "There's plenty of frustration, but I think we realize the state can't control the federal guidelines, or the Legislature's inactivity," he said. http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2010/01/school_districts_may_see_finis.html |
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| Administrator | Jan 7 2010, 03:18 PM Post #67 |
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Editorial: Teachers union jeopardizes state Race to the Top application The Detroit News Having lost the battle in the Legislature to defeat the education reforms required by the federal Race to the Top program, the Michigan Education Association has switched to guerrilla warfare. The teacher union is sabotaging the proposal at the local level, refusing to add its signature to the memorandums of understanding required of school districts that hope to receive a portion of the $400 million in grants Michigan could win. The memos are required by the Obama administration as confirmation that all parties in a school district have bought into education improvements. The memos must be signed by the school superintendent, school board and local teachers union. But state school Superintendent Mike Flanagan this week announced he could be forced to forward Michigan's application without the union signatures because the MEA is refusing to cooperate. That puts Michigan's bids in jeopardy. Michigan already was at a disadvantage because union lobbying resulted in a watered down legislative reform package. Other states have done far more to enhance their applications. The application is due to the White House next week. Michigan will be lucky if it isn't returned with a big red "rejected" stamp on the front. Of course, that's what the MEA wants. On Wednesday, the state made another concession, allowing districts to turn in "letters of intent" -- an even weaker sign of interest -- in lieu of the memorandums. The state's largest teacher and school employee union argues that local school control and collective bargaining are at risk. But that ship has sailed. The legislation is passed, and the reforms requiring teacher accountability and flexibility will go into effect even if Michigan doesn't get a dime in Race to the Top funds. Sabotaging the application is little more than vindictiveness by the union. "It's very short-sighted on the part of the union," says Sharif Shakrani, co-director of the Education Policy Center at Michigan State University. "Michigan will not receive millions if it doesn't win Race to the Top at a time when public schools really need the money." Other teacher unions around the country have not only supported their states' Race to the Top applications, but have helped build local support for them. The MEA is digging its own grave. The education funding crisis in Michigan is weakening public schools. If their quality diminishes, parents will seek other alternatives for their children, resulting in fewer MEA jobs. Michigan is desperate for the Race to the Top funds. The MEA's agenda should not be allowed to deprive schools of these resources. http://www.detnews.com/article/20100107/OPINION01/1070349/1007/rss07 |
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| Ms. AK | Jan 7 2010, 07:42 PM Post #68 |
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http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20100107/NEWS10/1070569/1027/Local+school+districts+apply+for+federal+Race+to+Top+funds Local school districts apply for federal Race to Top funds BY KAREN SMITH OBSERVER STAFF WRITER JANUARY 7, 2010 Livonia school board members agreed Monday to apply for up to $563,000 in federal funds to implement educational reforms, figuring they'll be required by law to implement the reforms with or without the financial help. Superintendent Randy Liepa recommended he and school board president Lynda Scheel sign a memorandum of understanding with the state for Race to the Top funding because of reforms signed into law earlier in the day by Gov. Jennifer Granholm. We'll be implementing this one way or the other, Liepa said of the list of reforms. Clarenceville school board members approved the same memorandum of understanding Dec. 10 in the hopes of getting up to an estimated $140,875 to implement the reforms, Superintendent Pamela Swert said. By signing the memorandum, the school districts have agreed to support and collaborate with the state's efforts to implement educational reforms under its Race to the Top grant application. The memorandum also calls for the signature of the local teachers union leader, but neither Livonia's nor Clarenceville's teachers union presidents had signed it as of Tuesday. Livonia Education Association President Joanmary Menninger could not be reached for comment. On Tuesday, state Superintendent Mike Flanagan said the Michigan Department of Education will accept memorandums from districts without signatures from their teachers unions. The Race to the Top program makes $4.35 billion in federal education funding available to states that have raised student performance and show a commitment to making continued improvements by establishing innovative reforms. Michigan is competing to receive up to $400 million in federal funds. Livonia's share, if approved, is estimated at up to $563,000 over four years, Liepa said. Clarenceville's would be up to $140,875, Swert said. The state needs memorandums of understanding from local school districts to complete its application. Granholm signed into law on Monday several bills for educational reform that include annual teacher/administrator evaluations based in part on student growth, merit pay, alternative teacher certification, and raising the age of compulsory education from 16 to 18. On Monday the Michigan Education Association and AFT-Michigan urged Granholm and State School Board President Kathleen Straus to extend the local sign-off deadline until a final education reform plan by the state is in place and the agreeing parties know what they are supporting. But the state has federal application deadlines to meet, Liepa said. Local school officials expressed concerned about signing the memorandum of understanding, saying there were too many unknowns with the state's Race to the Top plan. Still in draft form, the plan is largely based on the state reforms approved in December and signed into law by Granholm Monday, Liepa and Swert said. We are concerned with accepting something when we really don't know what the plan is, Swert said. Some officials, including Livonia Trustee Steve King, said they don't agree with some of the reforms. Livonia school board Secretary Rob Freeman said changes to teacher evaluations will mean changes to teachers' contracts. We're going to be out of the business of negotiating teachers contracts. Now the state is going to do it, he said. He who has the gold makes the rules. Livonia Trustee Dan Lessard said he doubts Michigan will get a dime because it doesn't usually do well competing for federal funding. But let's put our name in, he said. Liepa said the district will be allowed to opt out later if it decides it doesn't want to participate, per a letter by Flanagan. He said it couldn't opt in after Thursday's deadline, however. The Livonia board planned to adopt a resolution at a special meeting Wednesday reiterating its opportunity to opt out. ksmith@hometownlife.com | (313) 222-2098 |
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| Deleted User | Jan 7 2010, 11:48 PM Post #69 |
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Freeman's family ties to education explains his reluctance for any changes to contracts. From his website RobFreeman.net Serve on the Livonia Public Schools School Board for a 4-year term to provide a positive influence for our children, our classrooms, and our community. School Experience * Churchill High School o PTSA: Treasurer (2002-2003), Arts & Craft Show volunteer, web master, 4 year member o Churchill Athletic Patrons: Charter member, membership committee, banner and button design, golf outing volunteer o Senior All Night Party: Security chairperson (2001 - 2003) o Web Committee: Design masthead, assist in start-up o Athletic Department: Authored the "Schedules and Scores" and "Today's Events" program for the Churchill web site o Wrestling Team: Digital photographer, web master, produce season summary CD (2001 - 2003) o Cross Country Team: Digital photographer (2002) o Reality Store Volunteer (2001 - 2003) o Career Day Speaker (2001) o Senior Marching Breakfast server (2001 - 2003) * Frost Middle School o Steps of Success (S.O.S): Mentor (2001 - 2003) o Halloween Activity Night: Haunted House Sponsor (1998 - present) with Boy Scout Troop 742 o Ski Club: Bus captain and chaperone (1999 - 2002) o PTSA: Craft Show volunteer, 5 year member o Numerous classroom activities * Roosevelt Elementary School o Early Literacy Volunteer (ELVs): Read to first graders that need additional help (2000 - 2003) o PTA: Member * Webster Elementary School o Numerous classroom activities o Field Trip and Camp chaperone o PTA: Member * District-wide o Superintendent Search Forums: Provided list of qualifications in the PTSA and Franklin High School forums o Ad Hoc Athletic Council Committee: Investigate adding other sports to existing programs o Reinstatement Committee: Consider requests by former students to be re-enrolled after 180 day suspensions o Communication Forum: Provide input to consultants about ways the district can improve communication to parents and the community o Board Meetings: Regular attendance at board and committee meetings since May, 2002 Education * University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI - Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, 1982. Cum Laude. * Garden City East High School (grades 10 - 12), Garden City, MI. 1975. * Vogel Junior High School (grades 7 - 9), Garden City, MI. 1972. * St. Dunstan Elementary School (grades 1 - 6), Garden City, MI. 1969. Family Ties to Education * Father: Retired High School Biology teacher, cross country coach (Kennedy High School. Taylor, MI) * Mother: Retired Third grade teacher (Henry Ruff Elementary, Garden City, MI) * Brother: Principal (Pioneer Middle School, Plymouth, MI), Teacher (Garden City Middle School, Garden City, MI), wrestling coach (Garden City High School, Garden City, MI) * Sister-in-law: Teacher (Garden City Middle School, Garden City, MI) * Brother-in-law: Principal (L'Anse Cruese High School, Harrison Twp., MI) * Brother-in-law: Teacher (Prescott Valley, AZ) Other Volunteer Activities * Boys Scout Troop 742 * Detroit Institute of Arts Guest Services (Van Gogh exhibit) Hobbies * University of Michigan Football: Season ticket holder * Pencil puzzles: Games Magazine, World of Puzzles * Vacationing in Gaylord, MI: water skiing, fishing, outdoor activities * Surfing the Internet * Road Rallies: Hosted Roosevelt Elementary Road Rally (1993, 1997) and Webster Elementary Road Rally (2000) Work Experience * Information Builders, Inc. 2 Penn Plaza, New York, NY (1986 - present) o As a telecommuter from a home office, requires personal motivation and honesty to do a full days work and allows a flexible schedule. o As CUSTOMER SUPPORT TECHNICAL ANALYST (2000 - present), responsible for maintaining the Technical Support web site. Activities include authoring web content, designing for web usability, responding to customer questions, performing quality assurance, maintaining the search engine and e-mail mailing lists, and writing programs to extract data from enterprise data. Personal skills include teamwork, collaboration, excellent writing and verbal communications, creativity, flexibility to adapt to constant changes, and analysis of customer requirements. Technical skills include programming in HTML, JavaScript, XML, Java, FOCUS, and REXX using software such as Front Page, Word, and Paint Shop Pro, FTP, in Microsoft Windows and IBM VM/CMS and zOS. o As PRODUCT MANAGER (1997 - 2000), responsible for new product development. Activities included developing product specifications and QA test plans; writing documentation and marketing collateral; monitoring programmer progress and the QA test cycle; and giving technical and marketing seminars to staff and customers. o As PRODUCT SPECIALIST (1994 - 1997), responsible for designing, programming and implementing tests to measure product performance and identifying areas for improvement (reporting directly to the vice president); designing new products; maintaining current features; assisting Customer Support; and presenting at seminars. o As PROJECT LEADER (1991 - 1994), responsible for programming new products and maintaining current features; teaching software courses; and presenting at seminars. o As SENIOR CONSULTANT (1986 - 1991), responsible for developing a wide range of applications at customer sites, including the automotive, insurance, utility, and architect industries. Responsible for teaching software courses. * Ciber, Inc. Three Parklane Boulevard 1120 West, Dearborn, MI (1985 - 1986) o As CONSULTANT, responsible for developing applications at customer sites in the automotive industry. * Stone & Webster Engineering 245 Summer, Boston, MA (1982 - 1984) o As SYSTEMS ANALYST, responsible for developing, programming, and maintaining applications to track engineering, construction, and inspection phases in power plants; training users; teaching seminars; and supervising two analyst/programmers. o As CAREER DEVELOPMENT ENGINEER, responsible for researching and publishing a paper on contamination in power plants; and preparing engineering calculations, proposals, and project procedures. |
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| Administrator | Jan 7 2010, 11:58 PM Post #70 |
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Click here to watch the meeting video Livonia Public Schools School District Special Meeting Wednesday, January 6, 2010 6:00 PM Board Room, 15125 Farmington Road, Livonia I. ROLL CALL: Colleen Burton, Robert Freeman, Steve King, Daniel Lessard, Patrice Mang, Gregory Oke, Lynda Scheel II. AUDIENCE COMMUNICATIONS III. APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION FOR RACE TO THE TOP MEMO OF UNDERSTANDING ITEM III Race to the Top--AS.pdf ITEM III Race to the Top--AT.pdf IV. ADJOURNMENT |
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| Ms. AK | Jan 8 2010, 03:30 PM Post #71 |
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http://www.detnews.com/article/20100108/METRO02/1080421/8-Oakland-school-districts-may-opt-out-of-Race-to-the-Top-grant Last Updated: January 08. 2010 2:02PM 8 Oakland school districts may opt out of Race to the Top grant Karen Bouffard / Detroit News Lansing Bureau Lansing -- On the eve of a deadline for Michigan in the federal competition for $400 million in federal education reform money, eight Oakland County school districts Thursday night decided not to participate. Bloomfield Hills, Berkley, Birmingham, Novi, Lake Orion, Walled Lake, Madison and South Lyon districts will refuse to turn in Memoranda of Understanding agreeing to participate in the Race to the Top program. The districts not participating were named in a memo e-mailed to Bloomfield Hills parents and staff this morning from Superintendent Steve Gaynor. The memo stated, in part: "The (Race to the Top) grant directly ties teacher evaluations to student achievement, yet there is very little evidence that doing so actually improves achievement. We worry that, if their jobs are at stake, teachers will be forced to teach to the test to the exclusion of all other worthwhile instruction now going on in Bloomfield Hills Schools." The memoranda are key because the Obama administration has been clear that the money will go to states with significant buy-in from their local districts on comprehensive reforms the money will be used to implement. Also, districts that don't sign on won't receive any of the federal money, half of which would go to local school districts with the other half going to the stateDepartment of Education. Districts are required to inform their local intermediate school districts by noon today whether they will participate. The state's application will be posted online tonight and must be in the hands of the U.S. Department of Education by 4:30 p.m. Jan. 19. kbouffard@detnews.com (517) 371-3660 |
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| Administrator | Jan 8 2010, 07:28 PM Post #72 |
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Some Oakland school districts opt out of Race to the Top grant Karen Bouffard / Detroit News Lansing Bureau Lansing -- On the eve of a critical deadline for Michigan in the competition for federal education reform money at least seven Oakland County school districts Thursday decided not to sign on to the initiative. The move means the districts would be bypassing about $1 million total their districts would receive if Michigan's application in the Race To The Top competition is approved. Bloomfield Hills, Berkley, Birmingham, Novi, Lake Orion, Walled Lake and South Lyon districts will refuse to turn in Memoranda of Understanding agreeing to participate in the Race to the Top program. Michigan's share in the $4.3 billion federal program would total $400 million or more. The districts not participating were named in a memo e-mailed to Bloomfield Hills parents and staff this morning from Superintendent Steve Gaynor. "Our relatively good financial position, for the time being, allows us to 'Just Say No' to the so-called experts in Lansing and Washington who would force our teachers to drop all the excellent work they do and instead teach to the MEAP (Michigan Education Assessment Program test)," Gaynor wrote. "We are a high-performing district that doesn't need or want one-size-fits-all solutions like (Race to the Top), with outsiders telling us how to evaluate our teachers -- we already have an excellent plan for evaluation that appropriately looks at student achievement." Gaynor did not return a phone call for comment from The Detroit News. The memoranda are key because the Obama administration has been clear the money will go to states with significant buy-in from their local districts on comprehensive reforms the money will be used to implement. Also, districts that don't sign on won't receive any of the federal money, half of which would go to local school districts with the other half going to the state Department of Education for statewide initiatives. "At a time when education is paramount and every penny counts, it is troubling why some districts have decided to deny their district funds, their teachers recognition and support and their students the education advantages this education innovation effort will afford," said Jan Ellis, spokeswoman for the state Department of Education. By not signing on to Race to the Top, the Walled Lake Consolidated school district will give up $464,609 if Michigan is one of the states chosen to receive the federal money. Other districts will lose the following amounts: Lake Orion, $160,417; Berkley, $148,959; South Lyon, $136,837; Birmingham, $59,283; Bloomfield Hills $43,533, and Novi, $27, 041. The school district's share of the federal money is based on how many students qualify for free or reduced lunches through the federal Title I program. Urban districts stand to get the most, because they have the greatest number of low-income students. Detroit Public Schools would be in line for $70.5 million. Several Wayne County school districts that would get large amounts include Dearborn Public Schools, $4.2 million; Hamtramck schools, $1.7 million; Wayne-Westland Community Schools, $1.5 million; Highland Park, $1.3 million; and Taylor, $1.3 million. Pontiac is the only Oakland County school district that can expect more than a million dollars, with an allocation of roughly $2.8 million. Southfield schools would get $724, 197; Waterford, $579, 247; and Oak Park, $431,649. In Macomb County, the biggest winner would be Utica Community Schools, which stands to receive roughly $1 million. Warren Consolidated Schools would get just under $1 million, with $509,542 going to L'Anse Creuse schools; $390,000 to East Detroit Schools; and $365, 515 to Chippewa Valley. Districts were required to inform their local intermediate school districts by noon today whether they will participate. The state's application will be posted online tonight and must be in the hands of the U.S. Department of Education by 4:30 p.m. Jan. 19. The Obama administration is using the $4.3 billion Race to the Top program to shape education policy at the state and local level, awarding points for states that link teacher pay with student performance, expand charter schools and enact other reforms typically opposed by unions. Michigan is among several states -- including Florida and Minnesota -- where unions have asked local bargaining units not to sign off the application. The Obama administration will award extra points to states in which a large percentage of school districts submit memoranda signed by the local superintendent, school board president and union president. Michigan lawmakers in December passed a five-bill package of reforms that link teacher pay and tenure to student performance, allow fast-track teacher certification, open new charter schools, and allow state takeovers of failing schools. In his memo to parents and staff, Gaynor said the Bloomfield Hills district doesn't need the money -- and objected to provisions of the Race to the Top agenda such as basing teacher pay, tenure and employment on how their students perform on standardized tests. The memo stated, in part: "The (Race to the Top) grant directly ties teacher evaluations to student achievement, yet there is very little evidence that doing so actually improves achievement. We worry that, if their jobs are at stake, teachers will be forced to teach to the test to the exclusion of all other worthwhile instruction now going on in Bloomfield Hills Schools." Ellis said the education reforms passed by lawmakers in December are going to happen whether Michigan wins the federal money or not. By law, teachers evaluations, pay, promotions, tenure and employment will be based, in part, on their students' test scores. The laws also include fast-track teacher certification, creation of more charter schools, and state takeovers of failing schools that include suspension of union work rules. http://www.detnews.com/article/20100108/METRO02/1080421/1026/rss06 |
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| Administrator | Jan 8 2010, 07:29 PM Post #73 |
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Michigan faces funding hurdle Minority graduation rate lags, a factor in Race to the Top Karen Bouffard / Detroit News Lansing Bureau Michigan ranks in the bottom five states in the nation in terms of achievement among economically disadvantaged and students of color -- a factor that could hurt the state's chances of winning in the federal Race to the Top competition, according to a national report released Thursday. The analysis by the Washington, D.C.-based Education Trust trailed a University of Michigan Study released Wednesday that found African-American males in Michigan have the lowest high school graduation rate in the country -- 33 percent, compared to 74 percent for white males in the state. It's another blot on the state that came under national scrutiny in December when Detroit fourth- and eighth-graders scored lowest in the nation on the National Assessment of Education Progress. The results were the worst in the 40-year history of the prestigious exam. The statistics were released as state officials work nearly around the clock to prepare Michigan's Race to the Top application, which is due Jan. 19. While bottom scoring states stand to lose points in the national competition for $4.3 billion in federal education funding, state officials said comprehensive education reforms pushed through the Legislature in December, coupled with gains in test scores among minority students, make Michigan a strong contender in the competition for as much as $400 million from the federal pot. Michigan, Arizona, California, Mississippi and Rhode Island came out last in The Education Trust study, which examined how students have scored on the NAEP since 2003 to determine whether learning gaps are widening or narrowing over time among various economic and ethnic groups. Delaware, Florida, Massachusetts, Texas and Vermont were the top states for narrowing learning gaps. Jan Ellis, spokeswoman for the Michigan Department of Education, noted that last year black and Hispanic students made double or triple the proficiency gains in math compared to their white counterparts. But the Education Trust's Anna Rowan, co-author of the study, "Gauging the Gaps: A Deeper Look at Student Achievement," said Michigan has trailed other states in closing the achievement gap. Rowan said Michigan's education gap could cost the state points on the federal application, but it won't kill the state's chances. http://www.detnews.com/article/20100108/SCHOOLS/1080359/1026/rss06 |
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| Administrator | Jan 8 2010, 07:31 PM Post #74 |
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Most West Michigan schools reluctantly agree to federal education reform plan By Dave Murray | The Grand Rapids Press January 08, 2010, 2:17PM Grand Rapids Press File PhotoTeachers and their unions are suspicious of potential strings attached to the Obama administration's "Race To the Top" program of federal education reform funding. GRAND RAPIDS -- Nearly all area school districts signed onto the state's application for federal Race to the Top, but leaders said they did so reluctantly and most without support from their teachers' unions. Educators say they are disappointed in how much they'll be demanded to do considering the amount of money that could be coming in return and the strings that will be attached. They also are frustrated about being asked to sign on the dotted line without having details of the plan. But several officials said the threat of falling off a budget cliff next year when federal stimulus dollars stop propping up the state budget was enough for them to overlook their reservations. "The larger goal of getting money for our districts was more important in the end than any of our other concerns," said Jon Felske, superintendent for Wyoming and Godwin Heights. State schools are hoping for some of the $4.35 billion that President Barack Obama's administration is targeting for educational innovations and reforms, awarding the money through competitive grants. Michigan's share could be up to $400 million, state officials said. To be eligible, Gov. Jennifer Granholm on Monday signed into law public education reforms addressing charter schools, teacher evaluations and control of failing schools. Districts were told to turn in memos signed by superintendents, Board of Education presidents and union leaders agreeing to the state's application by Thursday, even though the plan was only in draft form. But in a flurry of bulletins during the week, state Superintendent Mike Flanagan waived the requirement about the union signature and allowed schools to signal their intent by today, said districts would see a finished plan during the weekend and could sign a more binding document by Tuesday. In Kent County, every district but Forest Hills and East Grand Rapids agreed to at least the initial acceptance. Only four -- Byron Center, Godwin Heights, Grandville and Wyoming -- had union signatures. Grand Rapids teachers union's executive board directed President Paul Helder not to sign the agreement until they have seen a final plan. "Some elected officials might sign a contract that they haven't read or don't understand, but we take our jobs more seriously," Helder said. "When the State Department gets the thing done, we'll go over it and have another vote." In Ottawa County, all districts are agreeing to the plan, but none with their unions' blessing. Greenville's board had special meetings Monday and Thursday to discuss whether to sign, and Superintendent Pete Haines said there are great reservations. "We can embrace reform and change if we know that there is a great plan," he said. "But what they're showing us is so vague, we don't really know what to expect." Greenville would get $326,000 over three years, which he said doesn't make a dent in a $31 million budget. "We're worried that the cost of carrying out the plan would be more than the money we'd be allocated," he said. The limited dollars were a factor in the decisions in Forest Hills and East Grand Rapids. Awards would be based on a formula targeting districts with greater numbers of students from poor families. Forest Hills was eligible for $66,860, and East Grand Rapids just $19,516. "The main concern was the unknown cost of complying with the grant requirements, not just the legislation," East Grand Rapids Superintendent Sara Shubel said. "All state and federal grants come with stringent guidelines. "Whenever you take federal money, there are always additional requirements." All 39 of National Heritage Academies' charter schools in Michigan submitted agreements. Charter school letters required only head of school and board president signatures. Districts have the option of backing out of the deal later -- if they have Flanagan's blessing. Some districts said they want some added to the deal, and were writing their own additions to the letters of intent. Jenison Superintendent Tom TenBrink said his board wrote some changes, fearing they would be losing some rights fought for at the bargaining table. His district expects to get $122,000 over three years. "No one likes the way this all happened, and there has not been time for as much community dialogue as we wanted to see," he said. "But when it all comes down to it, we're all desperate and the feds dangled money." -- Press reporter Kym Reinstadler contributed to this report. E-mail Dave Murray: dmurray@grpress.com http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2010/01/most_west_michigan_schools_rel.html |
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| Sam | Jan 10 2010, 03:02 PM Post #75 |
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Why is Freeman's resume on here? It is a waste of space and time even looking at it. |
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| Administrator | Jan 11 2010, 09:51 PM Post #76 |
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700 Michigan districts back state's bid for fed grant Marisa Schultz / The Detroit News More than 700 school districts and charter schools are supporting Michigan's effort to win $400 million through a competitive federal education grant program, the state announced Sunday. The tally amounts to nearly 89 percent of all districts signing a formal Memoranda of Understanding to participate in the state's application for federal Race to the Top stimulus dollars. The more districts that sign MOU's, the greater the state's chances to receive money through the $4.3 billion education reform initiative. While state officials are still sorting through the hundreds of applications that were due Friday, the 703 districts counted so far signify that Michigan districts "are ready to move Michigan forward," said state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan. "For the most part, these are local superintendents and school boards committed to doing what is right for their kids and stepping up to this challenge." The announcement comes after a number of Oakland County schools said last week they are refusing to sign the Memoranda of Understanding and would be bypassing a total of about $1 million in funds they would stand to receive. Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Novi, Lake Orion, Walled Lake and South Lyon were among the districts that voted not to participate. In Wayne County, 33 of 34 districts signed off on the plan. Only Northville wanted more time, but said it likely would support the plan. In Macomb County, Richmond and East Detroit were the only two of 21 Macomb County school districts that opted not to participate. Refusal to sign up still means districts will have to abide by new measures signed into law this month to make Michigan more competitive for the education funds, including rules that link teacher pay and tenure to student performance, allow fast-track teacher certification, open new charter schools and allow state takeovers of failing schools. Districts that wanted more time to review the details of the plan have until Tuesday to submit their MOU's to the state. To help them decide, the state's Education Department posted on its Web site this weekend a summary of Michigan's Race to the Top application. Click here to view the summary The summary provides more insight into how data on students' performance would impact teachers' evaluations and compensation as well and more details on a three-tier teacher certification system -- two of the more controversial aspects of the state's pitch for federal funds. Many unions, spurred by the Michigan Education Association, urged their locals not to sign on because of such aspects of the plan. The state's application is due to the U.S. Department of Education on Jan. 19. Michigan should learn in April whether it's among the states to win money. mschultz@detnews.com (313) 222-2310 http://www.detnews.com/article/20100110/SCHOOLS/1100344/1026/rss06 |
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| Administrator | Jan 12 2010, 09:59 PM Post #77 |
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State Board of Education shows qualms over Race to the Top application Mark Hornbeck / Detroit News Lansing Bureau Lansing -- State Board of Education members expressed concerns about the state's application for federal Race to the Top grants at the board's meeting today. Board President Kathleen Straus said she's not willing to sign the application, as required by federal rules, until she's had a chance to read the entire document. She was told it likely won't be ready until Sunday, two days before it is due to be sent to the U.S. Department of Education. "I'd like to see the whole plan before I sign it. I was raised by a lawyer," Straus said. She said later she anticipates she will sign the application after she's read it to make sure the language reflects what the board intends. Straus said the application and the state reform plan should include a statement about how teacher performance evaluation systems will be negotiated in local collective bargaining. State Supt. Michael Flanagan said, "It is all collectively bargained. It is not imposed by the state. That's clearly stated." Board member Marianne McGuire said she's "really not seeing a whole lot of fairness with this plan" because it puts the onus of reform on teachers and does not talk about the role of the community, parents or business. She also said she has issues with a three-tiered professional licensure system that is part of the state's plan. Board members John Austin, Reginald Turner and Nancy Danhoff said they support the state's plan. "It's comprehensive, intense, rigorous and detailed," Danhoff said. Straus said, "I know the board supports it. ... The board has been pushing (these reforms) for a lot of years." Asked whether he's worried about the board signing off on the document, Flanagan said: "I can only speak for myself. I will sign the version that is in the works. I hope what I heard is that with a few semantic changes" Straus will sign it, he said. He added he's confident the majority of the board backs the Race to the Top plan. The plan is the basis for Michigan's application for money through the federal Race to the Top competition. The application must be submitted to the U.S. Department of Education by 4:30 p.m. Jan. 19 to qualify Michigan for up to $400 million in stimulus funding. State Department of Education officials will present the summary of the plan, which lays out how the state will implement new laws that link teachers' evaluations with their students' test scores, provide new routes to teacher certification, and allow for the state to take over failing schools. At least six Oakland County school districts, as well at East Detroit and Richmond in Macomb County, have refused to sign on to the application. More than 700 districts and charter schools have agreed to participate, according to state officials. Many who didn't sign objected to the fast timeline for the application. Districts were required to file paperwork with the state Friday if they hoped to participate. The final application is not complete, but a 12-page summary is posted online. "Signing (a memoranda of understanding) says you agree to all aspects of the state's Race to the Top plan," said Doug Pratt, spokesman for the Michigan Education Association, said Monday. The state's largest teachers union has advised locals not to sign on to the changes. "How can you agree to all aspects of a plan you haven't seen?" The state board has voiced support for Race to the Top, and urged lawmakers, unions and districts to support the reforms needed to qualify. Jan Ellis, spokeswoman for the Department of Education, said the final application will include budgets, a list of participating districts and other nuts-and-bolts details. The final package will likely total 100 pages or more, she said. The board also started looking at school finance restructuring. Three economists were invited to speak on taxing and spending reforms. Charles Ballard, economics professor at Michigan State University, said he favors expanding the sales tax to services, moving to a graduated income tax, reducing business tax credits, cutting or eliminating the Michigan Business Tax, taxing senior retirement income, raising excise levies on beer and wine and reinstating Michigan estate taxes. He would combine these tax changes with savings from collaboration of services. "The tax system is sufficiently broken, and we just can't afford to ignore it," he said. Tim Bartik, senior economist for the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, said the state is facing a long-term $13.7 billion problem that can only be addressed by profound changes in taxing and spending policies. He advocated a broader sales tax, graduated income tax, scaling back tax breaks and taxing some retirement income. He added the state needs to rein in spending on corrections and health care. And he said the state should invest in programs such as mandatory preschool that will save the state money in the long run. "We need to think, at some point, about growing the pie and making new investments," he said. Michael Van Beek, director of education policy for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, espoused a voucher system, eliminating caps on charter schools, beefing up online learning, privatizing non-instructional services and reforming school employee pensions and health care coverage. "Before we jump into revenues, it's just as responsible to look at where the savings are," he said. The economists' presentations were politely received, but the board didn't take any action on the recommendations. mhornbeck@detnews.com (313) 222-2470 Detroit News Staff Writer Karen Bouffard contributed. http://www.detnews.com/article/20100112/POLITICS02/1120423/1026/rss06 |
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| Deleted User | Jan 14 2010, 05:08 PM Post #78 |
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School aid pitch splits Michigan board Education chief confident panel will back Race to the Top pitch Mark Hornbeck / Detroit News Lansing Bureau Lansing -- With a deadline to apply for federal money for education reform only a week away, the State Board of Education was divided Tuesday over its support for the controversial legislation. Board President Kathleen Straus said she didn't want to sign the state's application until she's read the entire Race to the Top document, which might not be available until Sunday, two days before it is due to be sent to the U.S. Department of Education. "I'd like to see the whole plan before I sign it. I was raised by a lawyer," Straus said. She added later she anticipates signing the application after reading it. Board member Marianne McGuire said she's "really not seeing a whole lot of fairness with this plan" because it puts the onus of reform on teachers and does not talk about the role of the community, parents or business. Board members John Austin, Reginald Turner and Nancy Danhoff said they support the state's plan, which could qualify Michigan for up to $400 million in stimulus funding. "It's comprehensive, intense, rigorous and detailed," Danhoff said. Asked whether he's worried about the board signing off on the plan, State Superintendent Michael Flanagan said, "I hope what I heard is that with a few semantic changes" Straus will sign it, he said. He added he's confident the majority of the board backs the plan, which lays out how the state will implement new laws that link teachers' evaluations with their students' test scores, provide new routes to teacher certification and allow for the state to take over failing schools. At least six Oakland County school districts, as well as two in Macomb County, have refused to sign on to the application. More than 700 districts and charter schools have agreed to participate, according to state officials. Many who didn't sign objected to the fast timeline for the application. The state board also started looking at school finance restructuring. Three economists were invited to speak on taxing and spending reforms. Charles Ballard, economics professor at Michigan State University, said he favors expanding the sales tax to services, moving to a graduated income tax, reducing business tax credits, cutting or eliminating the Michigan Business Tax, taxing senior retirement income, raising excise levies on beer and wine and reinstating Michigan estate taxes. He would combine these changes with savings by collaboration of services. Tim Bartik, senior economist for the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, said the state is facing a long-term $13.7 billion problem that can only be addressed by profound changes in taxing and spending policies. He advocated a broader sales tax, graduated income tax, scaling back tax breaks and taxing some retirement income. He also said the state should invest in programs such as mandatory preschool that will save the state money in the long run. Michael Van Beek, director of education policy for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, espoused a voucher system, eliminating caps on charter schools, beefing up online learning, privatizing non-instructional services and reforming school employee pensions and health care coverage. The economists' presentations were politely received, but the board didn't take any action on the recommendations. Detroit News Staff Writer Karen Bouffard contributed Read more: http://www.detnews.com/article/20100113/SCHOOLS/1130348/1026/rss06#ixzz0ccgy9KsA http://www.detnews.com/article/20100113/SCHOOLS/1130348/1026/rss06 |
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| Deleted User | Jan 14 2010, 05:19 PM Post #79 |
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Teachers union won't back Michigan's Race to Top plan By The Associated Press January 13, 2010, 8:17PM It's official: Michigan's largest teachers union won't endorse the state's efforts to win up to $400 million for schools through the federal Race to the Top competition. Michigan Education Association President Iris Salters sent a memo to union members this week calling the state plan flawed and incomplete. Salters said the union can't recommend that its local officials sign the documents that would commit members to the plan. The MEA is concerned that collective bargaining rights could be jeopardized when the state takes over low-performing schools. The union also is wary of tying teacher evaluation to student test scores. The union points out there's no guarantee Michigan will get any money from Race to the Top. http://www.mlive.com/news/index.ssf/2010/01/teachers_union_wont_back_michi.html |
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| Administrator | Jan 19 2010, 09:19 AM Post #80 |
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Finish Line Laura Weber (2010-01-18) (photo by Steve Carmody, Michigan Radio) LANSING, MI (MPRN) - Michigan's application for 400 million dollars in federal education-reform money is expected to head to Washington today. But only a handful of local teachers unions support the 'Race To The Top' reforms, which could jeopardize Michigan's chances to win the money. The application hit a snag last week when some state Board of Education members were hesitant to sign onto the plan. Then the state's largest teachers' union - the Michigan Education Association - urged local unions to refuse to sign on. The federal rules call for consensus to push ahead with reforms such as evaluating teachers performances based on their students test scores. State Senator Wayne Kuipers says he's not surprised that some groups withheld their support. "I think it really was an issue of what was contained in the reforms and an unwillingness to make those changes at the local level," says Kuipers. The MEA says Michigan could not win enough money to cover the costs to implement the reforms. The teachers union says it cannot support the application without more details on how the reforms will work. If the state does not win the money in April, there will be a second chance to apply in the summer. © Copyright 2010, MPRN http://www.publicbroadcasting.net/michigan/news.newsmain/article/0/7/1600767/Education/Finish.Line. |
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