What Now?

We started this blog with a simple goal – to disseminate information about the SCUSD and its relationship with VAPAC. We had hoped that others would read, add information about their school sites, and that we could build this to become a forum for discussing matters of concern throughout the SCUSD and its schools.

Unfortunately, we fell far short of our goal. But we carry on undeterred.

It seems, over this summer, that many are heeding the call and responding to postings, sending emails, and otherwise getting the word out. We believe that for our voices to be more effectively heard by those in authority, we need to expand our efforts. And to be taken seriously, we need to deal with facts and not innuendo. So, here is our modest plan:

(a) We would like any teachers who read or contribute to get their colleagues to do likewise about their school sites. We hope to traffic in both the positive and negative of this district so don’t feel that you need to complain to contribute… just contribute.
(b) We would like readers and contributors to send this link to their colleagues and other concerned parties. Let’s try to hear from all the voices.
(c) We would like to see parents and teachers set up blogs about their individual school sites if possible. Send us the link, and we’ll add it.
(d) Let us hear from you. We will strive to be more diligent about being current, but it’s difficult when we don’t know what is of concern to everybody else.

With the many charters coming up for renewal, consent decree high, the future VAPAC (if there is one), the myriad of new administrators coming on board and countless other changes affecting the educational futures of our children, this is a good time to expand our efforts.

All it takes is some concerned individuals. And a few keystrokes.

We hope to hear from you…

Let's Talk School Choice...

*UPDATE* 8/5/07

For more information regarding the future of the arts in the SCUSD, see today's Sacramento Bee:

http://www.sacbee.com/101/story/309355.html


First off... We have noticed that the SCUSD administration seems to have given up on creating an arts school for the students of this district. According to the SCUSD website, VAPAC students can enroll at Sam Brannan (7/8) or Kennedy (9-12). No other options are mentioned nor any explanation given as to why these are the only schools mentioned as viable sites of enrollment for these students. Various sites have been mentioned as possibilities and co-location with St. HOPE was even floated but quickly dismissed. (Of course the districts experiment with this arrangement in the past -- Rosemont and America's Choice -- was viewed by many students and school administrators as a dismal failure.)

So where does that leave us? A few parents have contacted us and stated their pleasure with the program at The Met. Among other things parents tout "the strength of its administrators and the school's structure, which allows students to pursue independent creative options and explore there own various interests via internships and mentorships." While the school doesn't have an arts program per se, parents report that "students are encouraged to pursue these interests and create their own program at the school." Support will be provided by the faculty and staff and "interested outside mentors." As an example, parents pointed out that students can stage their own productions and create their own performing groups. More information about the school can be found at: http://bigpicture.org/index.htm

As an addendum, the new principal will be Allen Young. While many unsavory things have been said about him in some posts (things proliferated in some instances by other administrators acting unprofessionally), those of us at this site who have worked with Mr Young or had children in his classes have always found him to be courteous, professional, and enjoyable. Even though we at this site refrain from censorship of posts, we advise that before people devolve into making questionable claims, check your facts and remember -- who is still employed by the district and who isn't?