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This blog was the first in the nation created by an editorial board to give readers a behind-the-scenes view of the discussion that goes into crafting the newspaper’s daily editorials. It includes updates on the work of the editorial staff and debates on general news issues. We welcome and read all letters from readers. Letters are selected for publication based on their clarity and brevity. They also are chosen to represent a diverse set of views on as many issues as possible. January 2010
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Letters to the Editor - Dallas ISD
January 27, 2010
Re: "We protest teardowns," by Glenn Straus, and "School windows need repair," by Frances James, Saturday Letters. Straus made the assertion that Dallas ISD plans to tear down the existing Adamson High School. As the district has stated on numerous occasions, there are no plans to do so. James' letter raised concerns that school renovations promised during the 2008 bond program, particularly at Long Middle School, have yet to be made. At its board meeting this week, trustees are set to approve contracts with several different vendors to begin Phase I of renovations at approximately 19 schools, so construction is about to begin with the bond program. Long Middle School is slated to receive approximately $3.7 million in upgrades and renovations, including new windows, during Phase II of the bond program, which is currently in the design stage. It should also be noted that if a window is broken in a classroom, the district's maintenance department responds immediately to repair it. Jon Dahlander, DISD communications, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD bond clarifications" is tagged: DISD schools January 22, 2010
I have a file that goes back five years containing correspondence I have written to DISD trustees and the superintendent before and after the 2008 bonds for the schools were approved. The panes are falling out of the windows at J.L. Long Middle School and other schools. We voters approved the bonds nearly two years ago, but I am unable to get a reply from anyone as to when the work to maintain the schools will begin. What is the money being used for? DISD has wasted millions of taxpayers' money, and the heating and air-conditioning bills must be out of sight. Why are they allowed to neglect the maintenance of schools, when the children and teachers are sitting in cold classrooms? Who is in charge? Frances James, Dallas
![]() ![]() The entry "School windows need repair" is tagged: DISD , DISD schools January 13, 2010
Re: "Cold in the classroom," by Jacquelyn Hatton, Monday Letters. Greiner Middle School is not the only school in DISD where there are complaints about the nonworking heating units in portable classrooms. This is not only outrageous; it is, in effect, child abuse. Children can be locked into a classroom without heat on a winter day, and they will have to stay in that classroom no matter how cold they are and no matter how it affects them physically. They are captives, and aside from the rare teacher, like the one who wrote this letter, the children have no one to advocate for them. Do the parents nowadays care nothing for the welfare of their children? Are teachers and administrators so scared that they might lose their jobs that they will tolerate this kind of abuse from DISD? This is one of the few situations where I agree that we need a zero tolerance policy. My tolerance for this kind of egregious behavior by DISD is definitely zero. Ellen Childress, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Students need heat" is tagged: DISD , DISD schools January 10, 2010
When I walk out of my classroom, which is in one of the many portables at DISD's Greiner Middle School, I don't have to put my coat on. Neither do my students. We already have them on, plus gloves, coats and scarves. The thermostat is set to 70 degrees and registers at 59 degrees. It feels colder. When my last class started to shiver, I found a warmer room. Greiner is a great school. We focus on our students and tests, which come up next week. How do I teach and the students learn when it is this uncomfortable? I know it was reported earlier to downtown, but it's still cold. Please, warm us up. Jacquelyn Hatton, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Cold in the classroom" is tagged: DISD , DISD schools December 25, 2009
Re: "How do teachers grade schools? Scores vary, but some elite campuses have dismal atmospheres," Tuesday news story. This is another DISD way of trying to find that silver bullet that does not exist. The entire Dallas community needs to be furious, not about the ratings, but about the money wasted on this survey that means absolutely nothing. Will someone please look into the amount of money that these ex-superintendents are making to talk to the teachers and principals? These consultants have been raking in the bucks for years doing fluff talks. There is no consistency with any instructional assessment to the organizational health scores. Many recognized schools had low scores and many low-performing schools had high organizational health scores. It is clear that DISD continues to waste taxpayer money. Daniel Menchaca, Plano ![]() ![]() The entry "Teacher survey a useless waste" is tagged: DISD , DISD schools
Williams posits meaningful, fact-based progress is occurring at DISD and points to the increase in school rankings, the success of charter schools and the hiring of Teach for America teachers. Here are some facts Williams left out: -- The number of exemplary and recognized schools has increased, not because of educational gains, but because the standards have been lowered. -- Although successes in charter programs are to be found, so are abysmal failures. Henry Braun and colleagues at the Educational Testing Service found that, after controlling for student demographics, student test scores in reading and math in charter schools were lower, on average, than those for students in regular public schools. -- Teach for America teachers sign a two-year agreement and participate in a five-week training course. They are not four-year graduates in education with the classroom experience they would normally receive as part of their degree. These are not the teachers I want for my children. I do agree with Williams on one point: This is not easy work, but it can be done. Michael MacNaughton, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Qualifications on DISD praise" is tagged: DISD , DISD schools December 23, 2009
It's very difficult to be sympathetic with Plano concerning their school boundaries. In the '70s, Oak Cliff was going through this. It was never said to be "racist," but we knew people wanted schools that only "their kind" attended. Look what happened. People moved in droves to Midlothian, Cedar Hill, Mansfield, Grapevine, Plano, or anywhere the schools were not racially mixed. I stuck with Oak Cliff and have a beautiful home. Most of the people are older now and schools are no longer a factor. If everyone would just stay, our schools could gradually become diverse and everyone would live happily ever after! (You believe that!) Lorraine McCoy, Oak Cliff ![]() ![]() The entry "The trouble with Plano" is tagged: DISD , Oak Cliff , Plano , Plano ISD December 22, 2009
Re: "Church to make way for school -- Preservationists decry DISD plan to demolish building for new Adamson High site," Saturday news story. Julia Soto Cabrera, former board member of Preservation Dallas, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Preserve old Dallas" is tagged: Dallas , Dallas ISD , Oak Cliff December 9, 2009
The old beautiful building that was the library is gone. Dallas is too willing to tear down buildings that mean so much to so many people. Tear Adamson down, and I don't care if the rest of Oak Cliff blows away. Karen Golightley, Grand Prairie ![]() ![]() The entry "Connection to Oak Cliff in peril" is tagged: DISD , Oak Cliff December 5, 2009
After reading the articles published by The Dallas Morning News relating to the reasons for my dismissal as head boys basketball coach at Skyline High School, I felt compelled to respond. Although the outpouring of support expressed in the hundreds of e-mails, calls and letters I have received since my dismissal have been very gratifying, I believe my career and reputation have been unfairly portrayed. I believe it is important to set the record straight: The allegations were false and unfounded. The district's own investigator called them inconclusive. First, with regard to the basketball program at Skyline for the past 33 years - yes, I have had strict rules, but to suggest that I have used racial slurs is completely false. Racial slurs are not tolerated by anyone in the basketball program, including myself. As far as "strict rules," there are indeed expectations with regard to structure and organization, which include punctuality, attendance, manners, respect, appropriate attire and behavior. I make no apology for these rules. I believe it is part of my responsibility to prepare the young men I have coached for the world beyond high school. Second, the alleged complaint lodged by a disgruntled parent suggesting that I "pocketed money for skills workshops and guaranteed spots on the team for participating athletes" is completely false. During my tenure, I was never made aware of any such complaint or given the opportunity to respond to any such complaint. I have had the privilege of coaching scores of hardworking student athletes for over 38 years on the way to achieving 700 career wins. To suggest that I would ever guarantee roster positions to undeserving players is preposterous. Third, there has never been a "phony booster club with paying members." The Hoopster Boosters has always been an informal group of family and close friends, along with a few parents. Some parents of players who have gone through our program in the past have supported the program, and the monies that were given to Skyline High School were turned in to the business office. Skyline High School has records of the donations. Finally, the saddest aspect of what has transpired for me has been the apparent effort to hurt me by smearing my son. My son is a highly regarded basketball trainer. He did conduct camps, and all camps were legal and conducted within the guidelines of the UIL. I have never taken any money from any camp, and in fact, my son has provided free tuition and instruction for many underprivileged kids over the years. In fact, the last camp, which was held in 2007, was free. The paperwork for any camps that were conducted was turned in and approved. When we were made aware that the District rented the facilities in question, we stopped using them. Despite the recent turn of events, I still value many fond memories from my years of loyal service with the DISD. I still struggle with the fact that if there had been concerns and issues as alleged, it seems rather unusual that those concerns and issues were not brought to me before my dismissal. However, at the end of the day, I stand on my record of professionalism and integrity built over 38 years. I stand on the ongoing legacy of over 38 years of being a positive influence in the lives of countless students and athletes that have gone on to be successful and responsible citizens.
J.D. Mayo, Nocona
![]() ![]() The entry "Mayo stands on his record" is tagged: DISD schools December 4, 2009
Luce most certainly is deserving. However, O'Donnell himself is a giant. His contributions to the AP Incentive Program have challenged so many underprivileged students in Dallas schools who might never have even thought of attending college. The 72 percent increase in AP exams passed by minority students is unbelievable, and O'Donnell's generosity in incentive money and AP teacher training has made this possible. Mrs. Marty Walker, Dallas
![]() ![]() The entry "Donor made progress possible" is tagged: DISD schools October 30, 2009
Re: "Report on coach makes a bad break worse," by James Ragland, Tuesday Metro column. Dan McGuire, Coppell ![]() ![]() The entry "'Best coach' Jason Mayo" is tagged: Coppell , Dallas October 20, 2009
Re: "Candidates facing formidable dichotomy -- District 1's students are largely Latino, and voters largely Anglo," Thursday news story. Renard's assessment displays a reckless disregard for the type of thoughtful deliberation that is required for the culturally and academically diverse student population that makes up District 1. I'll be supporting Edwin Flores on Nov. 3. Keith Bechly, Dallas
![]() ![]() The entry "Renard's 'risk' statement" is tagged: DISD October 6, 2009
Re: "Trustees accused of meeting boycott -- Only 4 came to session that could have led to Hinojosa reprimand," Friday news story. Thank you to DISD trustees Lew Blackburn, Jerome Garza, Leigh Ann Ellis and Adam Medrano for attending Thursday's board meeting. The possible "boycotting" by the five other members, whose votes might have resulted in reprimanding our superintendent and others for recent inappropriate staff actions, is noted. We appreciate the fact that those who attended the meeting apparently take the school district's decisions seriously. Please continue to exhibit careful vigilance, both financially and academically. Mrs. Marty Walker, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Recognize trustees who attended" is tagged: DISD October 2, 2009
Re: "DISD superintendent may face reprimand -- Administrator's raise added to agenda by mistake, Hinojosa says," Tuesday news story. The DISD superintendent may not be the only one who needs a reprimand. Did the school board not know what they were voting on? With all the talk about Congress not reading bills before voting on them -- isn't that what happened here? Board president Adam Medrano, whose job is to help set the agenda, should know what is on the agenda. Board members should know the exact agenda they're voting on before the vote -- including any revisions at the last minute. Cindy Burr, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Attention, school board" is tagged: DISD September 30, 2009
Re: "$300,000 expense OK'd -- Trustees approve newsletters despite concerns about timing," Saturday news story. Jeff Bargas, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD computers need bucks, too" is tagged: Dallas , dallas schools August 9, 2009
Re: "Schools may be named for Obama, justice," Friday news story. DISD, please give us a break. President Barack Obama and Sonia Sotomayor do not deserve to have schools named after them at this time. They have not spent enough time in office to have earned the right to have schools named after them. Let them prove themselves worthy first, then reward them. Dave Laster, Dallas
![]() ![]() The entry "Naming schools premature" is tagged: Barack Obama , DISD , DISD schools , Sonia Sotomayor August 6, 2009
Re: "Adamson deserves the best," by Jerome Garza, Saturday Letters. DISD Trustee Jerome Garza wrote this about the W.H. Adamson High School building, "The foundation has continued shifting ... which has resulted in considerable and mounting damage." He says this while the July 8 cover letter of the DISD engineer's structural study clearly states "the front facade was the only portion of the building with obvious structural problems." If you were to tour the interior and exterior of W.H. Adamson High School, you would see a building in remarkably good condition, solidly built of plastered concrete walls that have served students well for many years. It makes no sense to tear down this historic structure and replace it with brick veneer and gypsum board. We agree that Adamson students deserve the best educational environment possible. It would be a disservice to the students if the interior of the restored original building is not brought up to 21st century standards. We believe this can be accomplished best by the retention and interior renovation of the original building. It is, after all, a place where generations have learned and should continue to do so. Glenn Straus from Terrell, building preservation committee, Adamson Alumni Association ![]() ![]() The entry "Preserving Adamson building" is tagged: DISD , DISD schools August 4, 2009
Re: "Official urges ban on hiring dropouts -- TEA seeks businesses' help after criticism of how state reports graduation rates," Friday news story. With a public education system that is already failing many Texas families, Texas State Education Commissioner Robert Scott wants to fail these families again. Instead of diminishing the opportunities of young people who have opted out of our public schools, we should be doing what we can to support them and transform them into more productive members of society. We can reduce the number of dropouts, not by punishing those who have dropped out, but by attacking the problem at its root. We must take greater preventative action starting in elementary schools, instilling in students the importance of graduating and attending college. We must explore new approaches to improving academic performance such as developing community-based tutoring and mentoring programs at every Texas public school. Under no circumstances should we follow Scott's suggestion and make a bad problem worse by punishing those who have dropped out. Education has the power to change lives, fortunes, and the future of an entire community. As a longtime mentor to Dallas ISD students, I know we can do better. Please join me in becoming a mentor and helping those young Texans who need us most. Eric Johnson, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Ways to discourage dropouts" is tagged: DISD , Education July 24, 2009
The students and teachers who are hard at work in this school, continually striving to improve, deserve changes that will make their environment even more conducive to learning at high levels. That is what the plans in the Dallas ISD 2008 Bond Program call for: a new campus worthy of the school's academic effort. Since the current building was constructed, the foundation has continued shifting due to expansive soils, which has resulted in considerable and mounting damage. The district adopted Corgan Associates' recommendation to reconstruct the 1915 building and the 1925 auditorium. In accordance with U.S. Department of the Interior's acceptable recommendations for preservation of historic buildings, many architectural elements will be used in the new building, including existing brick, cut stone and wooden moldings. The school will maintain its 1915 look on 9th Street and other historical features but will provide students with state-of-the-art facilities worthy of their hard work and dedication. They and generations to come deserve the best school the Dallas ISD can provide. Jerome Garza, Dallas ISD Board of Trustees, District 7, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Adamson deserves the best" is tagged: DISD , DISD schools
Re: "Scores plunge on retest -- Now writing results at Lang raise suspicions," Thursday news story. The article on the Lang Middle School students who had to retake the TAKS test quotes DISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa as saying that the passing rates weren't an accurate indicator of student performance because the kids were on summer break for a month. If kids can't remember what they were taught for one month, I question if they were taught at all. And this statement from the superintendent, no less. Shameful! Tom Donaldson, Gun Barrel City ![]() ![]() The entry "Student learning questioned" is tagged: DISD , TAKS , TAKS test July 23, 2009
Losing Vickery Wholesale Greenhouse due to eminent domain to rebuild DISD's O.M. Roberts elementary school would have a great economic impact. Literally hundreds of jobs would be at stake if the interior landscaping industry with hundreds of employees, designers and florists were to lose the source of the products we require to do our work. Vickery is a singular business in a state-of-the-art facility. Probably 95 percent of the large palms and plants you see in malls and building lobbies have arrived in Dallas through Vickery's dock doors. Hundreds of businesses require Vickery's products to fulfill their contract obligations, pay our employees and collect the resulting sales taxes. A much better option would be to expand in the other direction by eliminating the small cut-off road on the north side and relocating the car wash. This option would save the city the millions of dollars required to dismantle the excellent resource we have in Vickery. Kati Bell, Aubrey ![]() ![]() The entry "Vickery valuable to industry" is tagged: DISD July 7, 2009
Re: "Two schools of thought -- As DISD considers new building for Adamson, preservationists seek restoration, landmark status," Wednesday news story. Lawsuits and legal proceedings will only delay a new school that the students of Adamson need today. I support the district, Dallas ISD trustee Jerome Garza and Adamson principal Rawly Sanchez in their plans to build a new state-of-the-art school from the ground up, while re-creating the original design of the school. I believe Mr. Adamson would have agreed. Dan Eddy, W.H. Adamson, class of 1964, DeSoto
![]() ![]() The entry "Rebuild Adamson now" is tagged: DISD June 28, 2009
Re: "DISD approves budget -- Trustees question expansion of Academic Success Program, but push to amend plan rejected," Friday Metro. In recent weeks, we have read about the Academic Success Program supposedly targeting disadvantaged students. The reality is that top students were recruited regardless of their economic status or parents' education and the program served less than 300 students. ASP is on board again next year at an increased cost of over $2 million. I fail to see equality or fiscal responsibility reflected in these decisions. Carla Boss, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD program equity questions" is tagged: DISD , Education
The city of Dallas and Mayor Tom Leppert are doing a great job of hitting the city budget issue head-on. They realized early on that tax revenues would fall and the budget would have a deficit, so they did what most politicians wouldn't do. They went public. They released a detailed proposed budget and then asked for input. Dallas is a good city, but to become a great city, it needs a public school system that works. Frankly, I am hoping beyond hope that Leppert's budget initiatives become a model for the DISD trustees to follow. Michael MacNaughton, Dallas
![]() ![]() The entry "DISD trustees, take notice" is tagged: Dallas , DISD June 24, 2009
While my grandson spent a productive year at Lakewood Elementary, he did not meet all the learner standards and was required to attend summer school at Mount Auburn Elementary. I was surprised and a bit overwhelmed with the programs that DISD, challenged with budget deficits and a faltering economy, extends. There are kindergarten through fifth-grade remedial classes. In tandem, Mount Auburn operates its own summer camp as enrichment for those who attended during the past year. There was a class for pre-K special ed and another program for autistic students. Daily, a Science Center bus picks up students attending their summer program in Seagoville. DISD has a large and disparate group of students. Its staff is on the job 12 months a year. Kathleen Casey, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD's active summer" is tagged: DISD June 21, 2009
How does TAKS, the prototype for the federal No Child Left Behind law, benefit students if the local school system has no control over having to recall 400 students to tell them they haven't really passed eighth grade yet? Why is it that students must take a test designed by a corporate entity and then be told they must return to school in the middle of the summer? Linda Zoblotsky, Plano
![]() ![]() The entry "Why promote based on a test?" is tagged: DISD , TAKS , TAKS test June 16, 2009
Re: "Teacher resigns amid sex scandal -- Police had found her and teen student in car in parking lot," Friday news story. Why would a teacher in DISD jeopardize his career over a 17-year-old student? The teacher could have been counseling him or trying to talk to him about school-related things. Teachers are being put in a bad position when they get involved with their students as mentors. There need to be better guidelines on counseling methods. Kristi Gilbert, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Improve mentoring guidelines" is tagged: DISD June 11, 2009
Re: "Ending on a positive note -- Keith Brown thinks Pleasant Grove may have found its Moses in new Spruce principal," Saturday Viewpoints. Mrs. Marty Walker, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Spruce leaders go way back" is tagged: Dallas , dallas schools June 8, 2009
On an almost weekly basis you can open The Dallas Morning News and find a story on DISD. I understand the need for everything, good and bad, to be reported. This time, however, there was a line crossed. It is one thing to criticize the man in charge, or the school board or the district itself, but when you start to attack the children of the superintendent, that is unacceptable. This student is a hard-working kid who deserves praise for his accomplishments. He is the valedictorian of a highly competitive senior class. He was one of only a handful of students who volunteered to take a zero period, meaning a class before school begins, so that he could have an extra AP class and test this year. Along with countless achievements as a student, he is a varsity athlete, a member of an award-winning mock trial team and a student class officer. These are wonderful accomplishments, no matter the last name on the resume. Emily Fisher, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Spare superintendent's son" is tagged: DISD , Michael Hinojosa June 7, 2009
Dave Curliss, Lewisville ![]() ![]() The entry "Understanding those pranks" is tagged: Dallas , dallas schools , Lewisville May 20, 2009
The Dallas Morning News' editorial comment comparing DISD's decision to change its election cycle from yearly to every two years, with terms changing from three to four years, to a Third World dictatorship was a bit histrionic. These statements are attention-grabbing but exaggerated. The DISD had been discussing moving to four-year terms for a long time. Almost all the large Texas districts have four-year terms, which promote stability and save money. With four-year terms, districts only have to pay for elections every two years instead of every year. Moreover, the attorney general's interpretation of the law (which is not binding legal authority) admitted that DISD could legally convert to four-year terms prior to Dec. 31, 2007, and after Jan. 1, 2013. So why would this be a threat to democracy? It happened in 2008 but it would have been perfectly legal and democratic 161/2 years ago and less than four years from now. I would like to see an editorial answering that question based on facts, not hyperbole. The Dallas Morning News simply assigned a false motive to the DISD board and engaged in some unfruitful rabble-rousing. I would expect a more thought-out opinion in the future. Ben Barlow, Fort Worth ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD trustee fix made sense" is tagged: DISD May 16, 2009
Rebecca McGowan, who teaches at the School for the Talented and Gifted at the Yvonne A. Ewell Townview Center, asked: "Why should we oppose special treatment for the specially skilled, talented or motivated?" I teach at Moisés E. Molina High School, also in the DISD, and I would like to suggest that the reason many oppose special treatment for her "specially skilled" students is that every school in Dallas serves students with special skills, talents and abilities. I find it profoundly sad that a veteran Dallas educator would need me to point that out. Mary Ellen Young, Duncanville
Make a stand for magnets Superintendent Michael Hinojosa and the board need to make a stand for superior schools and protect the magnet schools in Dallas. Don't damage what has been built over years of hard work. Superior programs need to be maintained. Society advances through artistry from places like Booker T. Washington High School and advances from the finest students of that school and the TAG program. Show the courage to stand up for excellence. Edgar Alvarez, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "On DISD magnet schools: All schools have special students" is tagged: DISD , DISD Dallas schools May 5, 2009
Re: "DISD trustees can't extend terms, AG says -- Board not sure what's next but says November elections possible," Friday news story. Bill Kotch, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "AG opined too late" is tagged: DISD May 1, 2009
Paulette B. Cooper, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "A lesson for dropouts" is tagged: DISD , Education April 16, 2009
Re: "Firm: District's ID use not malicious -- Inquiry looked at past reliance on fake Social Security numbers," Saturday Metro. John Kaiser, Garland ![]() ![]() The entry "So this is a usual ID practice?" is tagged: DISD April 9, 2009
Re: "TEA will investigate DISD paddling case -- Official: Those involved in incident with student may lose teaching credentials," Saturday Metro, and, "Public flogging brings outcry -- Taliban say teen was immoral; others say she spurned top officer," Saturday news story. Bob Kirby, Plano ![]() ![]() The entry "No outrage over DISD beating" is tagged: DISD , Taliban April 7, 2009
Re: "TEA will investigate DISD paddling case -- Official: Those involved in incident with student may lose teaching credentials," Saturday news story. James Hardwick, Irving ![]() ![]() The entry "It was hardly paddling" is tagged: DISD April 6, 2009
Betty Mendolia, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Coach Mayo a Skyline legend" is tagged: Dallas , dallas schools
Re: "TEA will investigate DISD paddling case -- Official: Those involved in incident with student may lose teaching credentials," Saturday Metro. Darren Young, Arlington ![]() ![]() The entry "A compromise on paddling" is tagged: Arlington , Dallas , dallas schools April 3, 2009
Re: "Report: Boy took 21 'licks' -- Coach broke 'canoe paddle' reprimanding student, DISD finds," Thursday news story. Mac McGuire, Flower Mound
... but violence lasts forever Linda Jackson, Euless ![]() ![]() The entry "On corporal punishment at Lincoln High: At least 'licks' don't stick ..." is tagged: DISD March 30, 2009
Recently, I was privileged to serve on an interviewing panel for DISD Teacher of the Year candidates, and I am still smiling. Scherry F. Johnson, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Stars shine at DISD" is tagged: DISD March 21, 2009
Problem-solve for both sides Julie Garner, Irving
Getting away with something? Jennifer Lane, Lewisville
I hope my PTA is as active Nanette Walton, Fort Worth
No wonder DISD gets a bad rap Audrey Pincu, Dallas
Floyd's kidding, right? Kelley Hurst, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD vs. PTAs" is tagged: Dallas , Dallas ISD , Fort Worth , Irving , Lewisville March 20, 2009
Re: "Dallas lawmaker files bill to split up DISD -- Constituent concern, enrollment decline prompt Davis' move," Tuesday Metro."That ain't goin' to happen," said DISD Board President Jack Lowe regarding the bill to split DISD. Donna Booe, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Consider splitting DISD" is tagged: Dallas ISD
Re: "Records: School held 'cage fights' -- Ex-principal denies he, staff had students battle each other without protection," Thursday news story. Emmett Richardson, Flower Mound ![]() ![]() The entry "What will happen next at DISD?" is tagged: Dallas ISD March 19, 2009
Personal spending on district cards. Fake Social Security numbers. Huge budget shortfalls that result in teacher layoffs. Bohuchot and his boat rides. Now it's cage fights at South Oak Cliff High School. Check out our letters on Saturday to find out what one of our letter writers thinks the next big scandal from DISD will be. I doubt you could top it, but you're welcome to make your own suggestions in the comments. ![]() ![]() The entry "Can you predict the next DISD scandal?" has no entry tags. March 18, 2009
Re: "Superintendent's right-hand man effective, if not too popular -- Viramontes' responsibilities have increased along with district crises," Tuesday news story. Evy Davis, Plano ![]() ![]() The entry "Examine critics' motives" is tagged: DISD March 14, 2009
Re: "Longer school years weighed -- Teacher bonuses, other proposals suggested for troubled campuses," Thursday Metro. Doyle Walker, Plano ![]() ![]() The entry "Change culture to fix schools" is tagged: dallas schools , DISD March 3, 2009
Re: "It Ends When Cheaters Pay -- S. Oak Cliff players didn't change their own grades," Wednesday Editorials. Cynthia Herschkowitsch, Carrollton ![]() ![]() The entry "New SOC team in place" is tagged: DISD February 28, 2009
Janelle Bates, Dallas
Show me the details Alexandra Torres, Garland DISD boundary issue The Dallas Morning News missed an important fact about DISD in recent reporting: the boundary issue. DISD covers either part or all of the following 13 municipalities: Addison, Balch Springs, Carrollton, Cockrell Hill, Dallas, Farmers Branch, Garland, Highland Park, Hutchins, Mesquite, Seagoville, University Park and Wilmer. Each municipality has its own mayor. Each is represented by an elected school board from their areas. Only one of these municipalities can vote for the mayor of Dallas. Complicating matters is Lake Highlands, which is part of the city of Dallas. The Lake Highlands area is also in Richardson ISD's boundary. Should they vote on who runs our schools if they don't live in the school district? Jeanne Culver, Dallas
Welcome Leppert's gesture Raymond Crawford, Dallas
Dallas needs this change Lisa Owen Batson, Dallas Best idea in a long time Tom Leppert, along with any subsequent mayor of Dallas, should oversee DISD. That is one of the best ideas to come down the pike in a long time. DISD and its board are an embarrassment to the reputation of Dallas and a burden to the city's progress. It makes a lot of sense to let the mayor's vision and budget include the school district. That is the only way to improve the school district instead of continuing to make apologies. Monte Aaron Krause, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "On Leppert and the DISD: Focus on city needs" is tagged: Dallas , DISD , Tom Leppert February 26, 2009
Re: "Upside-Down Funding -- So Dallas and Houston are 'wealthy' districts?" Monday Editorials. Jim Salsbury, Garland ![]() ![]() The entry "More money won't save DISD" is tagged: Dallas , Highland Park , Plano , school finance February 25, 2009
Re: "Leppert looks at taking over DISD -- Trustees, city officials taken aback, and some aren't happy," Sunday news story. Steven Gauss, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "I support end to DISD drama" is tagged: DISD , Tom Leppert February 24, 2009
Re: "Grading scandal costs S. Oak Cliff second title -- Three players who were failing allowed to pass, independent inquiry finds," Saturday news story. Edward Skeen, Garland ![]() ![]() The entry "Adult heads should roll" is tagged: DISD February 19, 2009
Re: "DISD without good answers," by John Fullinwider, Tuesday Letters. Elsby Smith, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Trustees thwarted my vote" is tagged: DISD February 16, 2009
Re: "Teacher pay bid rejected -- District sought to save $15 million by using federal grant money," Saturday news story. John Fullinwider, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD without good answers" is tagged: DISD February 13, 2009
Re: "GOP still fails to get it right -- Hispanics won't ignore nasty immigration stance, says Ruben Navarrette," Monday Viewpoints. Nancey Tresler, Irving ![]() ![]() The entry "Amnesty lured them to left" is tagged: Democrats , GOP , Illegal immigration , Republicans February 7, 2009
Model wouldn't work today Melissa Deakins, Dallas
Give credit to the CCC Kathy Mays Smith, Dallas
CCC human cost significant Linda C. Parrish, Terrell
WPA supported my family James Curtis, Athens ![]() ![]() The entry "On the WPA" is tagged: Dallas , WPA
Re: "Day curfew may help keep kids in school," by Jacquielynn Floyd, Tuesday Metro. Nola Hiatt, McKinney ![]() ![]() The entry "Curfew just another burden" is tagged: Dallas , DISD , McKinney February 6, 2009
Re: "Parents with truant kids taught a lesson -- DISD hauls more moms and dads into court when children habitually skip," Tuesday news story.It is astounding that Debbie Ballard would make the statement, "What they do inside the school, I don't know." Frank E. Roberts, Rockwall ![]() ![]() The entry "More active parents needed" is tagged: Dallas , dallas schools
Re: "Easing education budgets," by Eddie Bernice Johnson, Monday Letters.Where did our country go wrong? Johnson believes that borrowing and spending $79 billion dollars is a good thing. Everyone wants a better future for our children, but how is enslaving them to this kind of debt going to provide them a better future? Mike Grayson, McKinney ![]() ![]() The entry "Education, with interest" is tagged: Dallas , dallas schools , economic stimulus , Education January 24, 2009
Re: "Reform list was wrong -- N. Dallas, Molina, Conrad, A. Maceo Smith campuses to be reorganized in 2009-10," Friday Metro. Dorothy Gomez, principal, Moises E. Molina High School, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Working together to improve" is tagged: Dallas , dallas schools January 23, 2009
Re: "DISD making visible progress with reforms," by Steve Blow, Sunday Metro. Pat Crow, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Doing right by DISD" is tagged: Dallas , DISD , Steve Blow January 22, 2009
Re: "DISD making visible progress with reforms," by Steve Blow, Sunday Metro. Sherry Dillender, Rockwall ![]() ![]() The entry "Glad we chose DISD" is tagged: DISD January 21, 2009
Re: "Hinojosa goal: Mend fences, rebuild trust -- Restored confidence at heart of yearlong public relations blitz," Friday Metro. Susie McMinn, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "PR for DISD not enough" is tagged: DISD , Michael Hinojosa
Re: "A teen with a gun and a grudge -- How far can a teacher go to forgive a student who went after you? asks Osley Cook," Saturday Viewpoints. Sam Battaglia, Farmers Branch ![]() ![]() The entry "Guiding our young" is tagged: DISD
Bill Mullins, Flower Mound ![]() ![]() The entry "Keep NDHS' historic name" is tagged: DISD January 9, 2009
Ellen Wesbrooks, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD should 'Choose Woodrow'" is tagged: Dallas , DISD January 7, 2009
Let's celebrate the life of Judge Barefoot Sanders, a 1942 graduate of North Dallas High School. I think it would be a fitting tribute to change the name of North Dallas High School to Judge Barefoot Sanders High School, based on his many years of service to this community. J.B. Edwards, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Honor Barefoot Sanders" is tagged: Dallas January 5, 2009
Emily L. Martin, president, Woodrow Wilson High School PTA, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Woodrow a group effort" is tagged: Dallas January 4, 2009
First, study the changes at Sunset High School that moved it forward to being one of the lowest dropout-rate high schools in DISD. Five years ago it had one of the highest dropout rates. Study what happened at Sunset and the feeder schools to Sunset that helped students finish. Bill Betzen, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "A resolution for DISD" is tagged: DISD December 21, 2008
Re: "Reserve fund may be far too low -- Stricter spending rules aimed at replenishing account; district awaits word on federal grants," Wednesday Metro. Tom Donaldson, Gun Barrel City ![]() ![]() The entry "With DISD, everyone pays" is tagged: DISD , Gun Barrel City December 18, 2008
Don't you dare fire DISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa or not re-elect the current school board members. They're about the only entertainment we get out here in Wylie. Pete Rasmussen, Wylie ![]() ![]() The entry "Enjoying the DISD channel" is tagged: DISD , Wylie December 15, 2008
It is difficult to understand why any DISD administrators or board members believes they should still be employed -- much less have the term extensions that board members have given themselves. Randy L. Johnson, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Change DISD's status quo" has no entry tags. December 14, 2008
Re: "Price on Hinojosa: 'No confidence' -- Trustee cites 'recent blunders' ahead of school chief's review," Thursday Metro. Ed Michel, Allen ![]() ![]() The entry "Not too late for a recall" is tagged: DISD , Michael Hinojosa , Ron Price December 8, 2008
Bob Thompson, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD has bright spots" is tagged: Dallas November 28, 2008
DISD has reached a point of no return. The incompetence, indifference, dishonesty and self-dealing can no longer be tolerated by weary and cash-strapped taxpayers. DISD has failed on every front, and for 30 years my family has paid property taxes for public schools but had to send our child to private schools. Let the parents educate their children; they will do a better job. Home schooling, parent cooperatives and interactive educational technology would benefit the taxpayers in these uncertain times and make parents more responsible. Melissa Elmer, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Bring education back home" is tagged: Dallas November 27, 2008
Re: "Deficit symptoms missed, misread -- Papers show rising revenue hid lax accounting, spending," Sunday news story. Stephen Goetzmann, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Can DISD get away with this?" is tagged: Dallas November 23, 2008
Re: "Trustees extend their terms -- Switch meant to save money; some question legality, timing," Friday news story. Pamela Bennett, Carrollton ![]() ![]() The entry "Good judgment not on agenda" is tagged: Carrollton , DISD
Only 329 out of about 125,000 schools in America receive the Blue Ribbon title. Right in our back yard, we have several winners of the No Child Left Behind Blue Ribbon School award for 2008. These schools are proof that all children can learn. They have a "no excuses" attitude that will have a lasting effect on kids, their achievement and their futures. James Davis, Regional Representative for Secretary Margaret Spellings, U.S. Department of Education, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Great schools in our back yard" is tagged: Education November 22, 2008
It quacks like identity theft Sonja Martin, Rockwall An endless saga with no reprisals The DISD saga continues! Anyone who has worked with payroll for more than a few days knows that Social Security numbers cannot be made up. If a non-working number is used, the Texas Workforce Commission report catches the error, and the employer is notified. So, to assume that no red flags were raised over a period of several years is not believable. History tells us that there will be no repercussions with this situation. I wonder if the CEOs who volunteered to help with the district's finances, who do not find it necessary to investigate past practices and probably have scant accounting experience, will be able to provide solutions to problems that do not exist in the wildest imagination of ordinary businesspersons. DISD employees have, if nothing else, a knack for making the simplest task illegal, immoral or beyond understanding. That, of course, is a direct reflection of management. Jim Salsbury, Garland
Hinojosa is fair game Gerard Troglio, Plano
Illegal IDs: Not just for migrants Billy Shafer, Centerville ![]() ![]() The entry "DISD Social Security fiasco" is tagged: DISD , Garland , Plano , Rockwall
Re: "Trustees extend their terms -- Switch meant to save money; some question legality," Friday news story. Mrs. Marty Walker, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Fueling fire of mistrust" is tagged: Dallas , DISD November 18, 2008
DISD has overwhelmingly shown it cannot handle the $1 billion bond package voters approved. Richard Wood, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Clean DISD house" is tagged: Dallas , DISD November 17, 2008
Bob Lamoreaux, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "A bailout would be nice" is tagged: Bailout
Rose Mary Thomas, DeSoto ![]() ![]() The entry "Somebody give DISD a hand" has no entry tags.
DISD human resources chief Kim Olson said their intentions were good. I don't understand how using someone else's Social Security number can be any kind of good intention. DISD is breaking the law. When will they be held accountable for this? Audrey Pincu, Dallas ![]() ![]() The entry "Laws don't apply to DISD" is tagged: Dallas , DISD , Social Security November 15, 2008
Re: "Executive advisers won't 'dig up past' -- Panel won't seek deficits' causes, will suggest safeguards," Monday news story. John Smith, Mesquite ![]() ![]() The entry "Fighting an unknown enemy" is tagged: DISD , Michael Hinojosa November 13, 2008
Re: "DISD fiscal overhaul is near, Hinojosa says -- Details scant after school chief meets again with executives," Wednesday Metro. Fred Neary, Carrollton ![]() ![]() The entry "Business execs fixing DISD?" is tagged: Carrollton , DISD |