Value Of A Nemesis

Whether it’s a matter of being ill-conceived, ill-advised, ill-equipped, ill-mannered, ill-willed, illegitimate, illiterate, illegal, or illicit, neither our school system nor our residents deserve to be faced with the prospect of an ill-fated future crafted by rationalizations for the failure to earnestly, responsibly or honorably lead this district.

And after even ONE single solitary questionable or perceivably clandestine move on the part of our top leadership, folks will inevitably raise the question of exactly when we shall see stories surface of connections to ill-gotten gains! We cannot afford another Gallon-istic spectacle, controversy, embarrassment, fiasco, travesty or whatever else you may want to label it.

Please hear this, Plainfield: Dr. Steve Gallon III’s vital role in the potential reformation phenomenon in Plainfield education may not be clearly understood by many, but he has presented us with a great cause for unified effort.  This “arch nemesis” of so many Plainfielders and even some New Jerseyans arrived at a time when the political landscape and professional backdrop in our town was such that too many of us left the gates unwatched and some willingly invited into our unstable home one now recognized as a blood sucker bent on extracting financial and educational resources without real concern for our well-being.

I question our joint capacity to exercise appropriate discrimination with the blind acceptance and undue embracing of such ego-maniacal individuals. Sadly, they may continue to covertly operate in the shadows cast by their stature, as created and perceived by the naive, gullible and corruptible parties.  

Gallon, without question, brought with him a presentation that was impeccable, if you looked at him in the image for what he is probably best suited… that of a motivational speaker. How many gradually or immediately became hopeful that his stated intent to bring accountability to ALL of PPS was liable to turn mismanagement and corruption on it’s ear?  Unfortunately, he almost immediately set out to launch all out war against ALL that would question his authority, his word, his logic, his manner, or his sense of entitlement as he navigated through our district trampling upon folks rights, in his wake.

Some saw hope in his decisions to exact justice upon those administrators that, for years (or what sometimes just SEEMED like it) were known to rule with cold and callous dictatorship in their appointed or assigned district domains.  Yet, contrarily, he handed down decision after decision that increasingly eroded the trust and faith that some personnel had managed to muster for him, despite his abrasive “style.”

After Gallon's gauntlet lie recklessly thrown upon us, his was to some a promise of correction in the form of a whole new “branding” of the district, by way of his strategic plan.  However, this “plan” as it turned out, resembled just an empty shell of an outline begging to be filled and detailed by the same staff he came to abuse, all the while expecting that this often confusing work be accomplished, in conditions of low morale and during unpaid time. "No way!" said some...but not enough, and not soon enough to save us months of wear and tear and inner conflicts and vying for positions surrounding his majesty's throne.

The missing piece, despite the strong urgings for true collaboration, was…yes, COLLABORATION. Although the very spirit of the current PEA/PBOE Collective Bargaining Agreement called for collaborative respect and consideration, it seems Gallon’s definition was so convoluted (as was much of his communication) that he actually seemed to entirely dismiss the notion of real input from the district’s best and brightest. But again, Dr. Gallon could not have been acting alone in this regard, nor could he be capable of the single-handed crippling of this district for which he has been credited by some.

So beyond this gallon of humiliation and misery we have endured, an ounce of precaution could take us a long way.  With our school system's stability, viability, credibility (and property values) at stake, does it not behoove us to go about the possibly painstaking deliberation that is the sensible precursor to final selection?  In other words, do what GREAT school districts do for their students?!  Otherwise, what is the use in voicing all the outrage, the likes of which one might expect of a consistently vigil and fair citizenry? 

We must adjust, modify, re-examine and improve upon our concepts of and demands for "Prequisite Skills."  We must, in this process, afix a standard that takes into serious account those qualities in Leadership that would prevent, preclude, or at least render unlikely the incidence of mismanagement, abuse, complacency, corruption, conspiracy, detachment, fraud, collusion, cronyism, politicking, or other iresponsible and harmful occurences.

And we must NOT, as it pertains to any of this, compromise our integrity, values or honor;  for to do so possibly compromises--again--the lives of countless numbers pupils.

A Scholastic Time Capsule

The Scholastic Time Capsule

Change is the only constant? Not necessarily. Sometimes, it is that preparation for change that may send forth some rays of hope into those darkest days that are yet to befall us.  Let’s call it a Scholastic Time Capsule Project. Let us, as a group of united “Think Tank” members, sit and ponder best practice, academic standard, district policy, pedagogical, administrative, crisis response planning, overall systemic reform, and social service-oriented measures and fail-safes that will possibly out-survive us as an intellectual, educational or occupational collective.

Some of us dream in abstract shades of immortality, and as catalysts for change, move the masses with vehicles of ingenuity.   Some devise innovative and concrete forms of technological tools that manifest themselves as salvation for those less able.  Some spend their lives dedicated to both.  I, for one, remain fully willing to share my humble opinions, ideas, beliefs, skills, suggestions, philosophical etchings, visionary thoughts, and personal, educational and professional experiences that may assist in the realization of a general school improvement initiative or "movement."

There are, without doubt, those colleagues possessing the wisdom, energy, intuitiveness, theoretical knowledge, concrete and abstract ideas, educational training, backgrounds, qualifications, professional grooming, expertise, competence, and resolve to get this done, collectively, collaboratively, respectfully, and with the humanistic dignity necessary to turn the Plainfield School system around, once and for all—the preliminary housecleaning, notwithstanding.

Ours is a day in time that loudly and often rudely calls upon the truly worthy to bring the specter of sabotage to its knees and finally, jointly exorcise it. The hindrances and obstacles of selfishness, confusion, incompetence, hasty judgment, irrational decision making, and wasteful allocation of the taxpayers’ financial resources must be eradicated, prohibited, banned, and banished, never to rear their ugly heads—or hateful green eyes—ever again. Those that refuse, deny, resist, antagonize, make waves, dissent, or negate, MUST ALSO BE HEARD, if they are not on board with this. Only then can we obliterate the misconceptions, misperceptions, misnomers, misunderstandings, miscues, and mistakes that often preclude those “teachable moments” of which our district is in such dire need. Only then can we dispel, in plain view, their intellectual or philosophical shortcomings, and make corrections.

We need nothing short of a “Grass Roots Educational Advocacy Think Tank” immediately assembled to lead the charge in devising these “Scholastic Time Capsules” that contain exemplary “artifacts” (I’m not crazy about that reference either), sustenance, documentation, roadmaps, spiritual motivators, ethical guidelines, pedagogical research exemplars, reliably tested and universally embraced directives, and other components that would help provide some semblance of normalcy and allow continuity after the explosion and fallout in the event of future top-level administrative nuclear meltdowns, explosions or implosions. Emergency preparedness, contingency planning and ongoing school reform can and must be created, must evolve and must co-exist peacefully and productively.

This should aid any qualified CSA in picking up the pieces, safely orchestrating the move from the shelters, and going about re-populating our academic world with ideas borne of brilliance!

A Little Scrutiny Can Go A Long Way

Thank you for ALL comments. It is this type of discourse and debate that must take place in the "proper" places and at the "proper" times, in order to bring about TRUE "transparency." It is the very reality that individuals, daily, are intimidated and threatened with hostile measures for even raising such valid questions as to qualification, that perpetuates strife and corruption.

We're not just talking qualifications of a Human Resources Director or a Superintendent, but these are the types of politically charged positions, at times, that bring about "How Dare You Question Us," type responses that smack of tyranny and dictatorship --- much like that of Dr. Gallon's widely-noted infamous and disreputable actions.

The fact remains that there has been this element of secrecy mislabeled with the term "confidentiality" that continues to exist in various areas of our school district.  And it's, of course, not really "an issue" or of concern to some until it affects THEM!  This must end and good folks that are dedicated to the true development, improvement and edification of our district leadership principles and standards must stand strong and closely, sit openly and honestly, and be prepared to relinquish their defensiveness of friends and cronies, in order to let the healing REALLY begin.

I love all of my family members, but interference with the hands of truth and justice or enabling any of them in their darkest hours of denial or deceit would not serve ANYONE...even them, in the long run and in their final hours.  So, "Driving Drunk," even if intellectually or morally, will still inevitably lead to tragic circumstances, if we fail to keep the keys away from those sometimes even drunk with POWER!

We have an often philosophically and dogmatically SPLIT BOE from which we all need to urge and even demand diligent truth-seeking and rational, deliberate, sober-minded, intelligent, competent, and TRANSPARENT decision-making.

If questions are raised by our community members regarding the selection of personnel to fill vital district roles, then any attempts to deny the necessity of this process or circumvent is nothing short of suspicious, at best and apparently corrupt to some.

In order to "let the healing begin" as some have urged, we must look at not only the qualifications but also job descriptions of not only the Human Resources Director and other Top Administrators, but EVERY POSITION!  Indeed, how else can we know where the duties of one job ends and the other begins; where they meld and/or merge, and what to reasonably expect from our colleagues and counterparts, in this whole mish-mosh of a school district reform effort???

So, to be fair, the Human Resources/Dr. Bailey's situation is not the only dilemma worthy of CLOSE EXAMINATION AND SCRUTINY.

By the way, "personality" DOES factor into one's ability to lead, when you consider that development of "leadership style" is a vital component in one's earning of advanced degrees that lead to educational leadership and management.  Not one among us goes throughout a professional day without the effects of some personal impact upon our psychological, emotional, social, intellectual or mental state of being that for some is neatly arranged in our schemata. But for some, their personal experiences, interactions, exchanges, etc. prompt them to make VERY PERSONALLY MOTIVATED and even callous decisions about people's professional lives (that affect them in personally harmful ways); none of which are meant, at all to serve our students' interests.

I keep hearing of this "corporate mindset" for leadership and how it is NOT an effective option for our schools, as evidenced by ongoing and recent research.  Yet, it seems that some who defend this position also, curiously, defend that pragmatic, impersonal element that for years has been associated with the cut-throat, dog-eat-dog environment of corporate America.

So the question remains, wouldn't more "kinder, gentler" methodology, demeanor, attitudes, and decision-making procedures serve as more palatable medicine to cure what ails us???

Think about it...talk about it...and let's all BE about it.

Dig Deeper and Awaken Folks

Please, I urge you all; dig deeper.  Find that fruitful and life-altering enlightenment that sends beams of hope out from under the doors of opportunity.  Somehow, some way.  Arise and shine light on the obscured details.  I caution that some accolades may NOT be well-placed. And regarding "personal" motivation, if we excuse "personalities" which permit one to malign, belittle, condescend, berate and retaliate, then how can we blame another (BOE Member) for being "personal," in another breath?  What may present itself to be the hope for "stability" may in fact turn out to be same "stuff"/different day," if history is an accurate barometer.

We must all understand that the QSAC, CAPA, etc., are processes, measurements, and/or procedures set in place that in many respects only provide the loopholes, smoke & mirrors, and window dressing that result in the "PERCEPTION" of great improvement, all-the-while creating other holes in our system that leak hazardous waste and academic--as well as occupational--toxicity.  It's the accountability game.  We've all seen it played and most have either willingly or involuntarily paticipated, to some degree and on one level or another.

Consider, for instance, the "Persistently Dangerous" designation given to PPS one year, then removed the next; yet based upon what criteria???  There was clearly a mis-reporting and underreporting of incidents in our school district that allowed Dr. Gallon to publicly proclaim the problems to be much less severe than in actuality.  The forums, blogs and police reports have referenced and evidenced problems that were not addressed, while the good doctor seemed to convince many that what was represented to the community and the state was true and accurate.  Isn't false reporting ILLEGAL???

I submit that this, under sharper, more powerful microscope, might be consistent with what others may have done, possibly in the personnel department, IT department, accounting, payroll, principals' offices, SIFSS, Early Childhood, and yes, in classrooms too! Not ALL of these, necessarily, but...ENOUGH to warrant rethinking of our conclusions to allow full basis for them.

I have no doubt that there are sometimes unstated motives and/or agenda on the part of many of us, including me and even those in charge of the district.  The greatest distinction is found in the willingness to disclose in the proper forum, these uncertainties, sources of skepticism, demands for answers to clarifying questions, etc., given the opportunity, in a SAFE environment.  Yes, SAFE.  Because, after all, individuals and factions in this district are known for engaging in assasinating it's truthseekers, dissenters, conscientious objectors, child advocates, and those that are caught with shovels in search of buried gems of reality and objects of substantiation for well-founded claims of impropriety.  And it must end.  This is the creed of too few that must become general rally cry!

How will it end?  Remove the masks; open the doors; break bread (in the form of food for thought); remove pompous labels; engage in honest, respectful, well-intentioned and constructive debate over our varying philosophical underpinnings; share and consider purely pragmatic versus humanistic methodological approaches; jointly conceive, develop, refine, revise, clarify, communicate, and implement policies, procedures, protocols, expectations, and evaluative measurement tools, all in an effort to better serve in our respective roles.  Re-examine the budget over and over until the greatest number of jobs are SAVED!!!  And then ensure appropriate and suitable placement of personnel in order to best operationalize the stated mission of this district.

Once the election is done, the public servitude must remain in the forefront of daily action on the part of ALL BOE members, and this division is clearly discouraging to those ready to serve on a higher plane, so we pray that it end.  To persecute any BOE member merely for refusing to engage in rash decision-making that has plagued our district for years is counterproductive; especially without opportunity to for rebuttal. 

We can't demand transparency, then turn around and toss darts for pauses rooted in carefully upholding campaign promises---IF that is what it is.   Bottom line: until it is known, we must respect the rights and obligations of ALL BOE members to respectfully pause for full disclosure and discussion.

This has been NO ATTEMPT TO DEMONIZE, but an appeal to do what is right...TALK IT OVER.   RESEARCH THE PURPORTED FACTS.  INVESTIGATE.  EDUCATE YOURSELVES. CONSIDER OUTSIDE REMEDIES ON THE MERIT OF TRACK RECORDS.  ERADICATE PERSONAL ALLIANCES TIED TO POLITICAL CRONIES, SORORITIES, FRATERNITIES, LODGE BROTHERHOOD/SISTERHOOD, ETC., THAT TAINT OBJECTIVITY AND PRINCIPLED DECISION MAKING.  WEIGH THE OPTIONS.  ALL OF THEM.

www.teachplainfield.blogspot.com

Logical Criteria and Avoiding Mistakes of the Past

It would be absolutely SHAMEFUL if some of our board members were to make or even consider, in haste, any moves regarding the filling of district leadership positions!

They would be wise to slow their collective and perhaps fragmented roll, THINK carefully and cautiously, and do away with any decisions rooted in political gamesmanship.  There is NO WAY our students can afford more corruption after the past several years of mismanagement and embarassing headlines. There needs to be integrity in our selections and in the day to day operations as commanded by our top administrators, and all others!

Bringing back--possibly out of some twisted sympathetic sentimentality (i.e. a Gallon victim, although by some accounts abusive herself prior to his arrival) or promoting without adherence to some comprehensive selection criteria any personnel , would be ludicrous.  Did they HEAR the manner in which certain previous administrator(s) along with former BOE member BR and current BOE member PB, used to belittle, berate and otherwise harshly disrespect members of the public after many of them spoke during board meetings?

The BOE would do well to hold discussions and even conduct interviews of potential--or even returning--district personnel first in order to ascertain the likelihood that our school system would rise to greatness or even adequacy, especially given the "Race To The Top" requirements that may be handed down, soon.  Do we REALLY want that much control over teachers' and students' futures to be in the hands of those that several BOE members refused to vote in or demonstrate confidence in? 

We need principled leadership and tried and true professionals with professional experience, wisdom, integrity, decorum, dignity, and an unwavering dedication to honesty, fairness, truthfulness, and competent command of competent educators!

IF, by some miracle, the individuals now being slated for these high positions are "The Ones," then so be it and we are all for the Miraculous revelation, but we pray the PBOE members will VERY carefully and "TRANSPARENTLY" arrive at the vital decisions, with input from the entire community.

In this "New Day" of Plainfield education, as promised in part by our brand new and re-elected BOE members, all decisions absolutely MUST be preceded by use of some fair and logical criterion.  Anything less would be a slap in the face to those that supported their candidacies and their stated mission(s) as public EDUCATIONAL servants.

We must ALL be welcomed as contributors during the selection process, lest we face the prospect that we shall be doomed to repeat a recent sad page in our district's history. 

We submit that Plainfielders are NOT blind followers of some fraternal sect that eats its young for ritualitic sacrifice...and so we should NOT ACT like it.

Our Plainfield Board of education members are urged to very closely examine our options and call upon all qualified leaders to consider rising to the call to glory, rather than engage in simple ascent up the ladders of personal pursuit.

Solutions-In-A-Box!

As we know, there are viable solutions, and if the BOE members and others will provide the forum for truthful and fruitful discussion, without the need for concern over repercussions, progress will be expedited. One pervasive and persistent challenge is indirectly or implicitly "smearing" some of the "friends" of some of those in "power."

This reminds me of the ever-growing "gang" problem in Plainfield...not just the youth and those on the street, but those grown folk that have placed the "hook-up" for cronies as priority over the "lifting-up" of our students, intellectually, socially, emotionally, and scholastically.

We all have seen corrupt and tainted command at various helms in our schools and many have turn the blind eye, so I must agree with those that allege collusion.

And so the solutions will keep begging, yelling, and jumping up and down like political prisoners in padlocked boxes, unless the district leadership calls upon those of us that will strategize together with them, through some respected and respectable, logical forum and format.

The logistics need to be carefully put in place devoid of the egotistical "I got all the answers to control the situation" type of attitudes on the part of our Board or our administrators.

What seems to be missing is the call to action, and I don't mean just those "town Meetings" that serve as just another venue for the CSA's showcasing or showboating, or layiong out the ingenius plan of saving the galaxy...or "beating the odds." because actually, after those last few big chief administrative harrahs, I just don't think our district could withstand another big circus in this town.

Let's send OUT the clowns and let the ringmaster be certain that there's a time and a place for the big tops...and we should plan for such an event, very cautiously.

For now, our real work requires that we let the sideshows take their places in the annals of PPS halls of Shame, and address the ills that gave rise to the abuse...and still do.

Cleaning Versus Detailing

The continued cleanup of Plainfield Public schools is an ellusive task with evasive players marred by dubious leadership... still.

Some of those lauded now as heroes, did, in fact, initially embrace Gallon's abrasive and egotistical manner, because they could relate, until he got out of control and he turned out to be "Dr. Faustus on steroids!" (see Dr EMC2.org) I am not referring to those that simply wished to give him the benefit of the doubt, but those that sold out scores of Plainfield Public Schools employees prior to the good Dr. ever hitting the ground...running...down innocent civilians, in his war on decency.

Plainfield was ripe for the picking because the pretense of collaboration promised by the previous administration (CSA and admin's alike) gave rise to a BOE that selected the superintendent via a method many of us rejected. But by then, several board members made it clear we would have no say in the selection, just like we had no say in the selection of the last two or three (or more) district software purchases. Some have even suggested "kickbacks" have been the motivation, in some cases.

The pretense of "piloting" and selection committees and even curriculum development groups/teams, as well as the new "leadership cohort initiative" is what perpetuates the division. Those selected are happy, while those who are discriminated against and speak up, are shunned and rendered "enemy of the state."

There have been obvious transgressions that have become commonplace and common knowledge but off limits--taboo--for conversational consideration, when in-district and while on duty. Many would be surprised to learn of some top-level names included here. But, I submit that the true test of integrity and morality lies in those opportunities and circumstances that are cloaked in the shadows of secrecy, often under the guise of "confidentiality."

In the late 1990's, I advocated to BOE members and with community members for an increased focus and improvement in those matters pertaining to social services for our students, given what I knew about theories of empowerment and of needs.  And it came to pass that more and more money was thrown at the problems, but often recklessly and "discriminately."  The funding acquisition and internal controls worked just fine for those that benefitted or received credit for the successes--or perceptions thereof.

While I applaud a number of actions taken to cure ills in our school community, I think they missed the point in several ways. A more self-sustainable, poverty cycle-breaking methodology was what I envisioned, while the order of the day, as in many other aspects of our district, became "hooking people up." Yes...sad, but true.

Regardless of the excuses (as I am certain some will provide), many came to the district as a stepping stone to ambitions elsewhere, and CERTIFICATIONS were too often not in place. Now what, exactly, does that say about the quality and delivery of service to the children and, in turn, to the community of Plainfield? Look around....here we are.  And again, let us ask ourselves, whom do we serve?

There's a great difference between simple spot cleaning and a deep, thorough detailing job when it comes to the task of moving toward a more "sterile" environment for our "babies" in the Plainfield Public Schools.  And while "sterility" may not be applicable, feasible or realistic in certain scholastic endeavors, we owe it to our students and to ourselves to at least provide a clean slate where needed as well as the clean plates from which to digest all this new and--hopefully improved--food for thought, as presented by the current state of affairs in our school community. 

learngreatt@gmail.com  Be heard!  Be accepted,  Be free to work efficaciously and .

More to follow, very soon.

I am concerned that unless and until BOE members sit down, "informally," for that heart-to-heart meeting of the minds and a true cleansing, many will remain slaves to this cyclical dilemma.

Any perception of a dyfunctional governing body is perilous and potentially obliterates the positive effects and hope felt last week by supporters of the new board makeup, and what it proposed to represent, regarding change.

So I will pray. And so I will work. 

The Grand SLAM landslide must not result in a new era of mismanagement or incompetence nor must we fall victim to any "quake" of controversy borne of internal hostilities, as the opposing parties take to separate, possibly shaky, ground. This shift in the terrain, I must admit, can be quite unnerving.  Sadly, it's "par for the course," though, as Plainfield education goes, unfortunately.

Just as well, there are those, I'm confident, that are prepared to stand and demand "corrective action" from our board members, as well.  It may very well turn out that one of Plainfield's most problemmatic features, its diversity of philosophies, may turn out to also be it's saving grace, as residents come to demand sense, sanity, and maybe even peace, once and for all--via a variety of expressions of intolerance.

So, no matter how you slice it, let's hope pressure from both sides will, after all, make for a great sandwich, when it comes to putting the squeeze on corruption...whether it's Dr. Gallon or any one else! 

Pandora's Box...and Hope, of course!

Questions:

What motivation would any rational being have for such actions as Gallon's in his continual effort to circumvent law and expectations of common decency? How about the Jefferson Principal's true motivation for taking the job, despite and amidst the turmoil here in PPS? Could this be a signal that this man is merely a principal devoid of principles??? Could he possibly be both that naive and that arrogant to think that his "style" of reign in that building over the staff will overshadow any of their uncertainties and persude them to "buy in," get onboard, or even shut up and go along?  If so, for how long?  And at what price?

Sounds like the archaic, outdated, antiquated and tyrannical mentality and pursuits of many-a-failed leadership, throughout history, doesn't it? Is it true that either of these two principals is tossing out numerous reprimands--sometimes direct and official, sometime subtle or via staff memo--that smack of the same type of abuse of power that I believe helped get Plainfield Schools in this mess in the first place? Team building has not even the slightest resemblance to "gotcha!" type actions meant to show "who's boss."  

One must wonder what these individuals could possibly think of the educational professionals charged with the task of teaching Plainfield children, given their often outright condescension, and often in plain view.  Belittling fellow educators, regardless of rank or status can't possibly work for the betterment of any school setting and often leads to distrust, resentment and disillusionment among staff members--even those who normally don't see eye-to-eye that often. 

Educators sometimes teach and help children not to fear the dark or the unknown, yet how hypocritical is it that their supervisors are so often the very monsters and shadows of gloom and doom that destroy dreams and deflect rays of hope for so many?  How contradictory their perception that their actions are justifiable?  How unjust their ignorance of the spirit of collaboration built into the language of the very contract by which they are supposedly guided?

The same goes for Gallon's treatment of the public, while the Jefferson principal may possibly be more focused on politically romancing and building a support base, much as he was said to have (unsuccessfully) tried to do in Trenton, prior to being fired for "unorthodoxed" methods. A euphemism for "underhanded?" "double-dealing" "conniving?"

One can only wonder, at this point, and also wonder if he might be strategically and with often coldly calculating smugness, relegating staff members to silence or defensive postures in the wake of attacks--or impending attacks. Trenton adminstration, itself, may have been the "villainous" party in that prior circumstance of his...or not.

Now, are we opening up a can of worms here?  Possibly.  I've been accused of this more times than I can (or care to) recall.  Yet, I prefer that to being the culprit that helped open this Pandora's Box of a crisis that now plagues our district. 

Make no mistake about it: the persistent actions of a select number of "empowered" and conceivably"entitled" individuals did serve to cultivate this political "landscape" into a corrupt "LEARNOCRACY," at least in the minds of scores of GREAT teachers and administrators that ended up heading for the hills, and on to higher ground. After all, adequate levels of self-esteem and sufficient resources will enable any self-respecting individual to get up and leave the abusive relationship, whether personal or professional.

That goes for the Jefferson staff, as well. But could the damaging effects of complacency, apathy, incompetence or confusion have taken their toll and rendered this group unworthy of a resilient comeback, recovery, or any self-help solutions?

The "GROUPTHINK" (Hoffstadter) phenomenon may have operated in this building for years as staff members suffered the turnover of many administrators, leaving them ripe for the picking, by any newcomer with a twisted sense of leadership, as manifested in basic control freak tendencies.  But this, of course is all mere speculation, right?

And so I ask: what motivates individuals like not only Gallon and the Woodland or Jefferson principals to step in appearing to desire to take on the challenges of such a district as Plainfield? 

The lid of the jar of Pandora was gradually twisted, opened and compromised, and behind a menagerie of very annoying demons, out poured a "gallon" of what, to some, APPEARED TO BE "hope."  And so our world was rocked, shaken, stirred and turned upside down, folks screaming bloody murder. And now, amidst the agony, only our cooperative, steady, sober-minded and patient work will help us hear the voices of reason and only that collective eye for detail will enable us to find TRUE hope in the back of that box of challenges.

Plainfield, it's our world...let us embrace hope, respect competence and integrity and together fight for truth, justice, and...a new educational way.  

Yes, PASA is comprised of human beings with hearts, souls, minds, and families (to feed), but so is PEA, as well.    Circumstances dictate the necessity to work to maintain positions of security within the establishment, and thus continue to meet their personal obligations to provide for their families.  For this I can relate and sympathize--more so the former than the latter.  But a coward dies a million deaths, as they say.  A child's education...sometimes just one! 

I thank you.


-Weapon of 1

Swift Action? Not necessarily.

Question:

Do you think it is at all possible that LLL's apparent rush to possibly take action against DSGIII Friday was a move in anticipation of the announcement of the court's criticism of Christie's handling of matters?

Read about it here: http://www.njea.org/pdfs/2010EO7Ruling.pdf 


http://www.njea.org/page.aspx?a=4145

The reason I pose this question is that if in fact Chris is considered our "heavy" (no pun intended, I assure you), and folks are relying upon his brand of justice to strike and deal that critical blow to our "villainous" CSA, then perhaps the logic was to move prior to widespread knowledge about Christie's potentially disempowering slap on the wrist that might render his perceived omnipotent wrath just a flash in the pan-ish, idle threat.

 

And The DOE, with all it's imposed and proposed remedial prescriptions and proscriptions like CAPA and QSAC, has already helped set the stage for our smoke and mirrors and window-dressing routines of not only Gallon, but various prior (and current-and NEW) administrators, as well.

 

Sadly, until all this lying, posturing, politicking, and malfeasance are seen for what they are and immediately eradicated, PPS continues to be faced with this great moral dilemma that precludes any substantial reform efforts in the form of applied competence, consistency, administrative validity, logistic fortitude, establishment and adherence to best practices, or any other critical elements needed for movement toward constructing (or REconstructing?) a viable, sustainable, comprehensive school system.

 

Waiting for or relying upon Christie or DOE/NJ should not be our plan of "action." The road to improvement and long lasting legitimacy as a district absolutely must be paved with bold, courageous and selfless intiative, collaboration and volunteerism on the part of brilliant individuals from all segments of our school and local communities.

 

We must support our BOE's efforts to establish a cohesiveness and the appearance of a unified governing body that represents US, as residents, and that has no conversation that ommits student service and achievement as the main purpose for those discussions. I suggest that the board begin with reviewing the Student Conduct Code, and begin to devise policy meant to ensure adherence and compliance, and then immediately further develop and pledge to follow one of their own!

 

Swift action? Decisive action with lasting and resounding effects are what we all need...and yes, right away. 

A Strong Suggestion for PEA, PASA and the Plainfield BOE

Many years ago, I was a little reluctant to agree with the concept that cowardice was unethical or sinful, holding then to my belief that people are subject to and at the mercy of their fears, in the face of adversity and danger. Well, as I "came into my own" as an advocate of children, I experienced some moments of enlightment that rendered my stance solid and perspective crystal clear.

If we all would just operate with the morally guiding notion that children never ask to be here, but all -- in their own particular ways -- require and deserve our very best effort, the district would likely move in revolutionary ways, finally.

Bravery is often selfless, while refusal to help those less able is NOT the way of honor nor condoned by will of any God, as I understand it.

A "movement," in the form of collaborative, respectful, and sometimes harmonious-sometimes contentious--but generally progressive interaction amongst all advocates, is poised to come about at this moment in time.

The reality of administrative abuses that have run rampant throughout the PPS district for years, leads me to believe some of the silence of PASA members might be borne of GUILT and shame for themselves. If they could get together a few years ago, prior to Gallon's arrival and conspire to MOVE CERTAIN PEA MEMBERS-PARTICULARLY REP'S," (often in retaliatory action) Then some would argue they have gotten what they deserve, as they run and hide and cower in corners, as Gallon seemingly indiscriminately dishes out abuse, himself.

Yet, I applaud Principal Johnson-Tucker, who on Tuesday and on several other occasions has stood strong and spoken up against unscrupulous "back door (or room) deals" and the like. It seems PASA should engage in some meetings of the minds and soul searching and resurface ready to more humanely lead PEA members with a renewed spirit of cooperation and respect--and a pledge of competence.

Meanwhile PEA members should do the same, guided by the notion that professional ethics and performance--not bids for favors from PASA or BOE members--is what truly serves the students' interests. Incompetence cannot be fixed with favoritism or misplaced praise that promotes jealousy, envy or a divisive atmosphere. I think the term "hostile environment" is fitting here, as well. It absolutely does happen. It absolutely MUST END!

I urge PASA and PEA leadership to immediately get together and engage in unifying discussion centered on devising some solid, sound and long-lasting guidelines for collaborative work that will stand the tests of time and tyranny.

Only then can the new BOE more readily sit down with ALL staff leadership and in earnest, accomplish the critical repairs that Plainfield Public School system so desperately needs. Like curriculum, student discipline code, clarification of testing procedures, technology protocols, policy clarifications and improvements, responsible use of available school funds, etc...

If this is that "NEW DAY" for which Gallon's improprieties have helped bring forth public outcry in response to the "SHAMEFUL" media characterization of our district leadership, then we owe it to ourselves to now put down the stones, pick up the tools for reform, and demand that the good doctor find another patient for his practice. For, we require much more "natural" healing methods in our "Queen City."

1.....People

The Plainfield Tsunami Track Club

Dear readers,

Please click on the link below to learn about the plight of the Plainfield Tsunami Club. It appears that another worthy Plainfield organization is having difficulty obtaining the support it so deserves.

Years ago, one may recall, this track team ran the halls of the high schools very intensely training for competition and for perseverance in life. The level of discipline and SELF-DETERMINATION was a sight to behold!

What's more, it seems that this Tsunami Club is part of the PAL (formerly PCAL), an organization that has struggled to gain support for other youth programs, despite successfully touching the lives of thousands of Plainfield youth since at least the 1980's.

The late Sgt. Steve Jordan, along with wife Nancy and the entire PCAL board worked diligently to raise funds for Plainfield youth!

Plainfield, we can DO IT!!! We can make everlasting changes. The Tsunami Club NEEDS to find a solution now. Whatever we can do to ensure the perpetuation of talented adults making positive changes in the lives of our youth through recreational incentives, we need to support and uplift.

Again, please read and come out to support them. Make some "noise" and spread the word...

http://plainfieldsportsnews.com/viewnews.php?newsid=169&id=4

Let Us Mirror The National Tide Of Change!

It is Extremely difficult to ascertain which board members stand for what causes, when it comes to voting records, I agree.

Many of the discussions and outright arguments that take place in their closed-door sessions or at someone's home will never be shared with you, me or "us." However, if you have kept track, you know that some have challenged, in public, other board members on issues that directly & indirectly affect the children.

**For instance, do you recall a meeting at which SOME of the "NEWER" teachers were being let go and some individuals spoke? Well, I recall Adbul-Haqq clearly angering several other board members by the very suggestion that Business Administraor, Gary Ottman, look into using "surplus" monies to possibly reverse the decision to let some of the teachers go.

**There was also the recent firing of a staff members without just cause. I believe both voted AGAINST THAT MEASURE!

**The matters we are often kept in the dark about are frightening--and we're taught not to fear the "Boogieman," huh?. It is vital that WE never forget bold moves like this. Yes, it is difficult, but NOT impossible.

I suggest we work toward creating a "GRASS ROOTS EDUCATION ADVOCACY THINK TANK," in order to WATCH what we can, relative to the board members' activities!
(email to: learngreatt@gmail.com) I will commit to getting the ball rolling. Maria Pellum and others (Maybe Bob Darden, etc.) need to CONNECT and continue to advocate without fear of retaliation or hostility in the form of unprofessional/undignified board member jabs!

This crisis, the state of Plainfield education, represents a microcosm of the bigger national picture. Corruption and senseless spending, cronyism, misplaced perspectives, rationalizing, condescending discourse, gangster mentalities, public apathy and complacency, humiliating school performance, suppression of staff morale, and the constant threat of isolation and being shunned for being a dissident/enemy of the state, has created a state of crisis.

Let us look at the local electoral outcomes as it pertains to the city council. Let us, jointly and “unitedly” mirror the sentiment and the message of the people.

Just as folks came out to push that button for ANNIE MCWILLIAMS and for CHANGE, so must WE challenge the business of the PLAINFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS, WITH UNFLINCHING DEVOTION TO DEMANDING EQUAL RIGHTS FOR OUR CHILDREN, EDUCATIONALLY! Reparations??? If we tried, we could successfully take care of our OWN right here in Plainfield, NJ!

Email:learngreatt@gmail.com

From The Macro To The Micro

The notion of Immortality is quite a fascinating idea. With this historic election of Mr. Barack Obama to the highest office in the land, we have now ushered in a new era of renewed hope and conceiveably, a raised ceiling of Opportunities for so many of us. There are undoubtedly those among us who not only secretly wished for the failure of Obama's bid for the presidency, but also carry this contempt for true progress in their hearts on a daily basis. But this is to become decreasingly problematic as the story of Plainfield, New Jersey continues to unfold. The "underdog" has often turned the tide of negativity so many times in this town.

The sentiment of unity and the clear elevation of minds on the part of the masses demonstrates, more than ever before, just how attainable true progress has become. Though some remain skeptical as some bicker over logistics, philosophies, strategies, and political methodologies, let us commit to the task of stepping back, adjusting our lenses, rethinking, approaching with "new shoes," and looking our fellow "stakeholders" and neighbors square in the eye. Only then can we act in all sincerity, in such a manner as to assist our children in new ways.

With these new administrations in place on the national as well as state, regional and local levels, how can we fall short of our collective & collaborative goals? We must ask legitimate and critical questions:

*Where is the thrust of effort for securing the grant money that all of our school children deserve to benefit from?

*Where is the true spirit of collaboration that is said to be built into the Plainfield school district?

*What is the true story of the selection process for hiring our new schools Superintendent? What were some of the concerns of parents? Of residents? Of Some board of education members? Of The teacher's Union?

*How can our religious leaders play a more active role in helping change the mindset of many of our students and their families?

*What local and regional resources should be at our disposal to help improve the quality of education?

*Where are the community centers??? They disappeared with the 80's and so did many of the aspects of unity in our community. The "Village raising the child" concept has become so cliche' in so many circles, but that need not be the case.

THE "GRASS ROOTS EDUCATION ADVOCACY THINK TANK" (GREATT) is a movement in progress. Now in it's initial conception state, they seek voluteer "watch dogs" and "BUll DOGS" to help mobilize citizens for comprehensive change. They seek to raise the bar much beyoond those low standards as set by State Monitors!

Contact them: learngreatt@gmail.com

Just as there remain pockets of resistance to a new national mindset and the new national mandate as expressed by the voters, there will be those in Plainfield who refuse to reliquish the "control" they so cherish. So that will undoubtedly become cause for waging war. But just as the north defeated the south many years ago, those in possession of the "slave-master" mentality will succumb to the aspirations of a new mindset in Plainfield Education.

The election of Annie McWilliams and Adrian Mapp to city council spoke volumes, not as much of dissenting opinion, but more of the hope for a better day in Plainfield leadership. Take care Plainfield Board of Education; the are guidelines of decency and ethical behavior that an increasing number of citizens will now take more seriously.

We call upon the city government to speak up about how the goings-on of the school must not negatively impact the value of our homes or the quality of local life in any way, shape, form, or fashion.

What's YOUR Opinion? Come on, take aim at the real problems and Fire away!!! Become a troubleshooter, NOT a "trouble-maker."

weaponof1@gmail.com

Strategic Annoyances

There is a deeply troublesome element within the ranks of administration which interferes with the work of many educators.

Oftentimes, school leadership personnel band and bond in such ways as to develop or fall victim to the practice of blaming the teacher for countless school problems.

While the reality exists that many teachers fall short of meeting professional duties and responsibilities, especially in a failing school, careful and thorough investigation would undoubtedly uncover several truths.

Just ponder for a second the opening week of a school where no effort is made on the part of the principal to assemble students in groups and provide a year’s “prospectus” from the principal’s standpoint. This practice would stand the chance of serving several purposes:

First, it establishes order and regulation;

Second, it fortifies and empowers the roles of all educators in classrooms and elsewhere on the campus;

Third it delineates a unified range of goals, objectives, philosophies, expectations, etc,,,

Forth, it weeds out the would-be naysayers and defiant students whose behavior had gone unchecked in previous days in the very same school, or “calls out” those new-comers who may take the notion to set out to “prove themselves” amongst the undesirables in the building;

Fifth, it generates a perceived propensity among administration to act in an appropriate confrontational manner, clarifying the power structure and hierarchy thereof, when the need arises;

Sixth, it generates discussion amongst the student body, segment-by-segment, making way for and giving rise to student decision-making, concerning where each stands in the compliance continuum;

The establishment of a philosophy of the “United Front” among all “educators” is critical to the successful operation of the school, particularly the school in need of “reform,” Those staff members who raise questions in opposition of the administrative viewpoint must not be cast asunder or shunned, but instead entertained and respected for the forth righteousness and sincerity in raising those concerns.

Often, there is a concerted effort to render the dissenting voice an "enemy of the state." What sometimes facilitates this is the sentiment among staff that the individual is a “trouble-maker,” and in reality, creating more work for the rest of the staff.

It is not difficult to imagine how some of our worst aspects as individuals will carry over into our professional activities, thereby creating an environment conducive to pettiness and “shortcuts” which detract from their highest quality professional practices.

This often makes for holes in the “safety net” of programmatic consistency, the general work ethic, morale, and the spirit of going the extra mile to remedy ills found in a school in crisis.

When Cronies who lack the appropriate qualifications for jobs are hired, promoted, elevated, celebrated, catered to, etc., the pack mentality and return on favors often runs out of control, leaving instructional priorities at the curbside. Most often, more sooner than later, the holes in the “net” lead us to consider the notion that a “blanketing” approach may have been a more suitable method.

Let’s think back on the “opening day” or “opening week” of school and the administration’s role in setting the tone. There are times when the hard-line, lay down the law, read ‘em the riot act applies more-so to staff than to students. Particularly at a middle schools with such records of historic failure, it is paramount that the leadership reassure and support all staff in playing their roles…after first clarifying them.

How often do you think staff members are provided with job descriptions/responsibilities of all counterparts in the building? We have not yet seen it done, and only once heard it promised, after 30+ years in monitoring education!

In our school district, a stated mantra has been “we’re serious about learning,” noted by a logo containing a cardinal with eye glasses and a stack of books. Besides the potentially stereotypical suggestion (only/all eye glass wearers are smart, i.e. “nerds”), the fact remains the term serious must indeed be taken “SERIOUSLY!”

When a chief school administrator orders a reworking of all schedules to accommodate grouping of all middle school students according to only the most recent standardized test scores, how "serious" is that? If the school is in chaos and disarray behind the wait for the new schedules, with students in a temporary class schedule situation, how serious will they take it? Children, like grown folk, tend to lose faith in authority rather quickly, and very soon after, comes the rebellion phase.

It is known fact, especially amongst educators and parents…those who don’t turn a blind eye to the realities, that is. And again, more sooner than later, the walls come tumbling down, so to speak. And all the rationalizing and justifying and blaming and ignoring and shunning and retaliatory annoyances delivered unto the dissenting voice, in the world, will not a solid educational facility make.

So often, more later than sooner, administration (top level-on down) comes to the harsh and embarrassing realization that the “better mouse trap” thought to have been constructed was actually nothing more than another mandated initiative sent down devoid of collaborative ingenuity.

These types of orders come to be commonly perceived as "strategic annoyances" around which staff of course do not rally, but instead just play a “grin and bear it” act to get by-until grins become far too heavy baggage to bear.

For those who elect to speak up in the name of troubleshooting (not trouble-MAKING, as some would call it), the risk of being labeled “negative” is ever-present. This is, to me, a very juvenile method of divisive name-calling in order to mask so many programmatic and logistic deficiencies.

Much of what won’t even work “on paper” is propagated as a workable plan of action, but goes against the grain of common sense and tried-and-true practical teaching methods (and even child-rearing, for that matter). Too much of what befalls the educator in terms of obstacles and barriers to good teaching is not by chance nor is it incidental, but actually by design.

We believe the establishment and respect for the pecking order is of extreme importance in the minds of many administrators, at the forsaking of professional autonomy and creative freedom.

To be certain, without an epiphanous journey into a realm of true collaborative spirit, the school district would be doomed to failure.

One bottom-line consideration to be noted here is that "bullying" is bullying, no matter how you dress it up with pseudo-intellectual jargon, or candy coat it with all the sweet vocabulary in Webster's book, an attack is just that...an attack. Make no mistake about it. Teachers in Plainfield are feeling the effects of an "onslaught" against their professional liberties as well as their first amendment freedom of expression-collective and individual.

Parents are increasingly outraged by the bits and pieces of inpropriety they recieve in "dribs and drabs." And so the walls could be set to come tumbling down.

In this, the 21st century, we, those with conviction and purpose, "hold these truths to be self evident" that ALL educators are created equally...with the right to dignified treatment and not merely the freedom, but indeed the BLESSING from leadership, to just DO THEIR JOBS!!!

-WEAPON1

Whether "metric" or U.S. Customary... It Must Add Up!

Goals? Objectives? Metrics?

Confusing...it is... does Yoda say!

May the force be with us all. May the great spirit of "mother-wit" begin to consume more of us and may the winds of change blow good fortune our way. And courqage into our hearts.

Meanwhile...I say we, that would, should fight...for what's right!

I say we fight internal conflict that too often stagnate our humanity's growth and development. The internal struggles can often turn a good neighbor into a stubborn, egotistical, ambitious, self-centered politician..and that's on a GOOD day!

We owe it, ultimately, to the children who we continue to claim to be our future, to rest our ruggedly individual pursuits and either take up the "good fight" in their names or lay down our arms in disgrace and futility.

What good will it do for the few privledged to gain this "kingdom" of Plainfield and lose one's soul in the process?

When those "Edu-crats" who espouse freedom and progress for our students of the school system commense to beating up on the very Instructional care-givers entrusted to teach them day in and day out, where is the TRUE "NOISE???"

We hold ourselves to high standards, collectively, and where we fall short, often seek guidance. But abuse and guidance are true mutually exclusive concepts, ARE they NOT?

Ask the "average" teacher, ask the custodian, ask the disgruntled parent where he or she can find solace and most assuredly, they will think of the office of superintendent, dead last! Oh...but charter schools and private schools are a "no-no" in the minds of the powers that be. Why?

And is it possible that some of these very same enemies of charter and private schools proponents hypocritically send their OWN children to the very same schools they speak against??? Even some teachers followed their union's immediate past president's apparent charge to condemn charter school growth and patronage while having their OWN attend school outside the district.

This should not be. The question and answer guidelines set up by the CSA can quite certainly be likened to a house of cards, with long-time and life-long Plainfielder, feeling they have gotten the proverbial "raw deal." But Plainfielders have also historically enjoyed starring in the finales as the "underdog." After all, Luke and the gang (oops...did I say "GANG???") overcame the tyranny of the evil empire, sometimes by fighting fire with fire.

to be continued...