The UnOfficial MVRCS Blog

Add Yet ANOTHER Friends and Family Member on the MVRCS doll!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Fri, 24 May 2013 00:31:00 -0400

It isn't enough for Neil to employ just his family members but apparently he is now not only put board member Francis Brown's son on the payroll (or allowing him fib on his resume and providing a false recommendation) and yet another of Chris Finn's nieces benefit from his position by either being given the MV advantage of a 'job' (she worked there for 4 years while working 3 other jobs during college? Really?) or being or just being able to fluff up her resume with a bit of non-truths. In either case it appears that these two aren't alone in benefiting from their 'konnection' to Sir Kinnon as now the son of his Royal Arse's best friend (Ron Hogan who, let us not forget, was so kind as to call in a favor to get his sister's kids into the school a number of years ago) now has a position with MV (or should we say, Kinnon's Employment Empire). Even more interesting is that he listed his position as a 'Facilities Assistant' -does that mean he is Greg Kinnon's 'assistant? We should mention that last we heard (and for many years now), Greg is a full-time nurse also a full time facilities manager at MV. Could this possibly be the reason that yet ANOTHER facilities assistant is needed? Anyone even seeing Greg or Cruella Kathy Kinnon on the grounds of late? Probably not as both are very fortunate to be able to come and go as they please as long as Sir Little Man is in charge. One has to wonder what impact a changing of the board would have on all of the members of the friends and family club, not to mention Jing and Geng (you know the two who SHOULD be driving the curriculum alignment to the common core yet are just assigning busy work the trained monkeys) who Dr. McCleary felt had outlived their usefulness and questioned their positions. One has to wonder what city or state agency would be willing and able to pick up probably 1/2 of the MV employees should Kinnon do right by the students (and not himself and followers) by abiding by the conditions imposed by the DESE. He has already taken steps to secure his next campaign run as Chris Finn's brother (who heads up Malden Housing Authority) has hired the 'Arse's wife over at 660 Salem Street - she's there campaigning for votes on a daily basis (that poor ward will NEVER rid themselves of him and his enormous ego). Oh one can only imagine how drastically our states unemployment rates will drop after MV spends all of the students educational funds on the lawsuit against the DESE and loses, all of those on the gravy train will be jumping onto Massachusetts unemployment benefits train! Fear not folks, he'll still be a Malden councilor and will be able to create those nice, overpaid, cushy jobs that you have all become so accustomed to. Thank goodness - what would we ever do without him and his ability to squeeze money out of taxpayers to employ his following!

Could these ALSO be benefactors of Mystic Kinnon Charter School??? This just keeps getting better! Just imagine, soon the alumni will not only be running the school as board members but ALL of the teachers and staff members will all be ALUMNI (it'll be similar to the King's home rule law that he wants for Malden (only Malden residents hired for any and all positions).

Could this 'Project' listed under Ian Kinnon's resume be MV's own prior home of the Malden Fire Department on Laurel street????? What a great way to funnel money into yet ANOTHER family members pocket!

Masonry Project on outside of brick building
August 2012 to August 2012
Team Members: Ian Kinnon
i) Brought in 3 masonry contractors, chose low cost contractor, and oversaw the work done by the masons.

Has Trice's son already been inducted into the clan? Is the lower school art teacher Trice's son????

All at the Expense of the Children!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Wed, 22 May 2013 18:17:00 -0400

Yes, Kinnon is dragging the good 'ol MV name through the mud yet again. Apparently the rules of the state are meant for others - not his royal arse himself! The DESE is about to see the REAL Sir Kinnon in action - as too many of the parents and children of MV have for far too long (that of course is assuming that they haven't already). As we all know, Sir Arse-Kinnon doesn't like not getting his way and so off he trots on his own ego to fight for his ego (because we all know that is what this is ALL truly about). Thankfully he has drawn enough negative attention to his shenanigans to bring him and his ways to the attention of those that actually have power over HIM (and his kingdom and servants).
In case you've missed out on the excitement that we refer to, MV appealed to the Board of Education regarding the denial of MV's request for an enrollment increase and the board declined to take any action (i.e. no lift on the number of students currently permitted to attend MV). While many parents feel that the DESE (and BoE) are denying children the 'excellent education' of MV, just remember - IT IS NEIL KINNON AND THE MV BOARD WHO ARE REFUSING TO ADHERE TO THE LAWS AND REGULATIONS OR COMPLY WITH THE CONDITIONS IMPOSED UPON THEM! We all have to follow the laws and rules of our state, country, society, and for some - school - should MV not be required to do the same? One very wise individual posted on the Malden Patch's Facebook page that he'd like not to pay taxes but yet he must as that is what our government expects of us (and can't imagine too many people who would like to ignore THAT requirement). Unfortunately, when dealing with children and their education, like it or not the laws and rules become even more important and we should all be held accountable. This unfortunately has NOT been the case at good 'ol Kinnon Kingdom (aka - MV).

If Sir Arse would get off his throne and get his ego out of his royal arse, the DESE would be more than willing to consider lifting the cap. BUT, in true Kinnon fashion he would rather spend MORE of our taxpayers money (that is intended for EDUCATION) on defending his ego than paying, say teachers the pay they deserve (no, we're not talking about another raise for Gately - the overpaid 'PR' lacky, or Kathy Kinnon - the wicked witch of special education and all things NOT IEP, or even Greg Kinnon - I'm a nurse by night and 'Manage' the athletic facility on my free time, or Anthony C - the HR ding-dong who was somehow responsible for the $92,000.00 they spent on 'recruiting expenses' several years ago - - -no, none of THOSE people need any more of our taxpayers money). Let us not kid ourselves, he is going to fight this battle (just as he did when he fought and lost the battle with Malden Firefighters about signs) and MV is going to foot the bill (translation - the per student expenditure will increase next year by the cost of the legal fees divided by the number of students plus a little something for his next ego boost). It is amazing that the families of MV can't see beyond the denial to look at the conditions actually being imposed upon the school. None of them are extreme or unrealistic nor are they only being imposed upon MV (no Neil, this is not a mini IRS like scandal - not that we would be opposed to the IRS doing a thorough, deep, intense review of the schools finances, this just is a government agency doing as they are supposed to do ---- HOLD SCHOOLS ACCOUNTABLE!). If anyone is denying the poor souls of students their chance to excel (of course, only those students who would excel within ANY school cause anyone else is nudged towards the door), it is Little Napolean himself. Why not accept the conditions being imposed upon the school? The deal breaker of course for him is his refusal to give up his control of the school (i.e. term limits on board members). He wants to wear the success of the students on his back as their champion or hero (and since MV nudges some people to the door, lets not forget that we are talking about kids of his F and F club and/or those who would have excelled and done just as well in public schools, who do not have any special learning needs, whose parents are willing to bend over and NOT question their child's education or how the school is managed, the teachers, or ANYTHING Sir Arse demands). Of course then he also couldn't be so quick to put down those 'other' students and their schools, you know the ones that can't tell parents who question their methods or limitations 'that's how we do it here and you have other options available to you' - yes direct quote).
Of course his newest is that the alumni are going to take over the board and manage the school (cause, unlike other charter schools and public schools, that is what the board DOES at MV). So, to get this straight, he refuses to entrust the school into the hands of educated, hard working parents (who are truly responsible for their childs success - NOT Sir EGO MANIC) yet is going to entrust it to the alumni? Are these the same alumni that don't have jobs that are saying they worked at MV when they didn't? Family members of Finn and Brown? One can be sure that Mini-Me Kinnon (his own son) would also be second in line to the thrown. Oh, just who parents want making educational decisions regarding their children....Brilliant Neil, just brilliant!!

To read up on the latest Kinnon outrage -
(Newest to oldest)
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/malden/2013/05/state_refuses_to_budge_on_deci.html

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2013/05/21/state-backs-decision-block-expansion-mystic-valley-charter/Pt7B3XUf9FR62WoSCn7CRI/story.html

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2013/05/20/mystic-valley-charter-school-objects-denial-expansion/NAvS3CUBArvQsMxsdnQyTJ/story.html

Older stories on the same subject matter:

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2013/03/10/mystic-valley-charter-school-ordered-make-changes-malden-charter-school-denied-expansion-request/93weCavGjHtRbYZ1soeBhN/story.html?comments=all#aComments

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2013/04/24/complaints-about-mystic-valley-piled-with-state-malden-school-was-target-complaints/PazXmoJrQmJBVTh99hPndI/story.html

http://www.boston.com/news/local/massachusetts/2013/03/10/mystic-valley-charter-school-ordered-make-changes-malden-charter-school-denied-expansion-request/93weCavGjHtRbYZ1soeBhN/story.html

Neil Doing As Neil Wants - Regardless....

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Wed, 8 May 2013 07:10:00 -0400

And, interestingly enough, another example of how King Tut operates and runs 'his' school - he does as he pleases regardless of whether he is allowed to or not because only HIS opinion counts! Oh Neil, is it not enough to rule your own kingdom, but then you try to limit funds to MPS AND challenge the decisions of their school committee??? As usual, your way or to hell with the rules...

Controversial middle school survey approved

Gillian Swart

05/08/2013 5:43 AM

The Malden schools are moving forward with a controversial survey for middle school students — and they’re letting one city councilor know his input on the topic was not appreciated.

The School Committee voted unanimously on May 6 to proceed with the bi-annual Youth Risk Behavior Study, which asks questions about health indicators like sleeping, eating, substance abuse and sexual behavior.

The survey was originally slated for April, but was postponed after parents complained of getting only two days notice.

Speaking on May 6, School Superintendent David DeRuosi said parents were notified of the survey the previous week via letters and robocalls. The School Committee agreed that all middle school students in grades 6 to 8 would take the survey on May 8 unless their parents opted out.

Committee members also agreed to draft a “letter of disappointment” to the Malden City Council for what was termed interference in school business by City Councilor Neil Kinnon, who reportedly posted the survey online and through social media.

“It should never have gone out publicly like that,” said DeRuosi.

Speaking at the School Committee’s April 16 meeting, Kinnon said the issue “rises to the level of the City Council.” Committee members disagreed with that position, and Kinnon’s alleged dissemination of the survey.

“I am very, very disappointed that that happened,” said committee member Leonard Iovino. “It’s a long-standing tradition that members of the Malden School Committee stay out of City Council business and City Council members stay out of School Committee business.”

School Committee Vice Chairman Adam Weldai added the council invited parents to a recent meeting to vent about the survey, saying he’s “extremely disappointed in the actions of the City Council.”

The survey is conducted in partnership with the Cambridge Health Alliance and Malden Health Department, with the stated goal of improving the health of Malden residents.

DeRuosi said posting the survey online would be a violation of study protocol. Malden pays the Cambridge Health Alliance $10,000 per year for its services, DeRuosi said.

The survey was originally set for April 9, and parents were notified via robocall the evening of April 7 At its April 16 meeting, the council allowed parent Michael Foresteire to speak out against the survey, and the district held a public forum to discuss the issues before the May 6 committee meeting.

DeRuosi said he will present the survey results to local Parent Teacher Organizations in an effort to work with parents and clarify some of the survey questions.

Is It True?

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 22:11:00 -0400

Yet another F and F member joining the ranks among the (very likely) overpaid at MVRCS! Amazing, this guy has a 'world class education' yet unable to obtain a position without his fathers (and that good ol Board of Trustees) assistance. A newly created position - tailored to his needs.

Andrew Brown (you know, Fran Brown one of the LIFE APPOINTED BoT members who is part of the reasons the charter may not be reviewed next cycle....

Current

Business Office at Mystic Valley Regional Charter School

Past

Security Guard at Team Ops
Candidate for Ward Councillor at City of Malden

Substitute Teacher/ General Help at Mystic Valley Regional Charter School

Business Office - isn't this Rick V's current job and Finn's past?

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School

Educational Institution; 51-200 employees; Primary/Secondary Education industry

January 2012 – Present (1 year 4 months) Malden, MA

• Implemented new fiscal policies, including budget analysis and development.
• Researched and transitioned into a new accounting software.
• Tracked State and Federal grants.

Security Guard

Team Ops

July 2010 – August 2011 (1 year 2 months) Foxborough, MA

• Held the position of the visiting team locker room security guard of the New England Patriots of the NFL.
• Duties included: Assisting visiting players and coaches with the layout of the stadium; directing media personnel to their proper locations; ensuring the safety of all NFL personnel in the stadium.

Candidate for Ward Councillor

City of Malden

Government Agency; 51-200 employees; Government Administration industry

May 2009 – November 2009 (7 months)

Candidate for Ward Councillor
I ran for Ward Five City Councillor. In the primary I finished second and moved on to the final election where I again finished second.
This experience consisted of mobilizing volunteers, raising campaign funds, creating a budget, and going door to door to meet the residents.
I attended several political events in Malden as well as participated in a debate.

Substitute Teacher/ General Help

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School

Educational Institution; 51-200 employees; Primary/Secondary Education industry

July 2006 – June 2009 (3 years)

I substitute taught for various classes in the elementary grades. I also assisted teachers in preparing for classes and in grading papers and tests.

??? - REALLY? Hmmm, anyone remember him being such a presence? Maybe Dr. McCleary could provide us with some insight on this....

Upon further exploration, could this possibly be a trend of the related alumni of MVRCS?

Oh another! And this one is related to Finn - yet another niece taking advantage of their connection to the Assistant Director. Anyone interested in confirming this MVRCS alumni's position? Oh, and it gets a bit better....

Reilly Finn

Administrative Assistant/Kindergarten Helper

Mystic Valley Charter School

January 2008 – Present (5 years 4 months)

Assisted teachers in classrooms by reading to students, organizing children for recess, and mediating conflicts between children.
Assisted students having behavioral problems in the classroom through one-on-one help.
Entered grades into student record database in order to generate report cards.
Assisted teachers in setting up classrooms by cleaning rooms, organizing and delivering supplies, and rearranging furniture and hanging posters on walls.

Financial Counselor Assistant

Curry College Financial Aid Office

September 2009 – May 2012 (2 years 9 months) - A bit overlapping there, no?

Assisted Financial Aid Counselors with preparing mailings for incoming students. Printed, sorted, stuffed and organized completed envelops in preparation for mailing.
Supported Financial Aid staff during Admission events such as Open House and Admitted Students Day. Scheduled one-on-one appointments for visiting families, covered phones, answered parent questions and handed out financial aid brochures.
Filed confidential student Financial Aid files by alphabetical order which allowed for counselors to access student documents quickly.
Organized bookstore vouchers to ensure easy access by counselors.
Participated in additional office duties such as greeting visitors, answering phones, data entry, and photocopying.

Administrative Assistant

Malden Housing Authority - Did we hear correctly that yet another Finn is able to give positions to his F&F members over at the Malden Housing Authority? Just out of curiousity, is that how Lisa Kinnon secured her most recent position at the elderly housing at 630 Salem Street? We're sure THAT position has NOTHING to do with ensuring Sir Kinnon is re-elected. Lisa, keep giving out those lottery tickets!!!

May 2011 – August 2011 (4 months)

Managed resident complaints by documenting information in computer system and ensuring follow-up from maintenance person or manager.
Filed housing rental applications, personal information, and lease and rental payment documentation.
Collected rental checks and completed invoice for bank processing.
Maintained positive on-going relationships with residents in order to engage proactively with issues before they escalated.
Managed additional office duties such as answering phones, taking messages, transferring calls, photocopying and file management.

The Falling Out of King Tut - A Year in Passing

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Tue, 12 Mar 2013 23:25:00 -0400

For those who have missed the great escapades and shenanigans of King Tut this past year, do not fear as he managed to keep himself embroiled in scandal, controversy, and his ability to show just what an ethical schmuck he truly is. It would seem the King's downfall may have begun when Mayor Christenson took office (who knew?!) as it doesn't appear to have been business as usual this past year. It is worth noting that we forgot just how entertaining it was play arm chair reporter and stay abreast of all the BS. It feels good to be back in the saddle again...

Of course once he peek our interest again, it didn't take much effort to see that he not only has been up to his typical no good but that his fall seems to be well on its way. The articles pertaining to his Royal Arse all demonstrate just how unethical he is and how stupid he believes everyone else to be. Does he really think everyone doesn't see through his unethical and self-serving (Kinnon Kingdom) his actions are? Malden voters do NOT think for one moment that he has any ward, resident, or community groups best interests priority besides himself and his 'Kinnon Kingdom'. The article that best demonstrated how little regard and concern he has for Malden residents was the one regarding the Malden budget (see full article here (Malden Budget Debate). While he appeared to challenge Christenson's budget feigning to be a financial conservative, it was interesting where he felt budget cuts should come from....MALDEN PUBLIC SCHOOL....? It would appear that Christenson didn't follow the norm by putting his friends and family members in every any and every cushy position he could find but instead tried to cut expenses by not using his position to benefit a select few but rather the greater good - the community as a whole. How unbelievably un-Kinnon like of him! Of course, Kinnon probably had a slew of F&F members who were in need of a 'Kinnon job' (you know, a paycheck with limited or no actual responsibility).

Most concerning, ironic, or outrageous (whatever you want to call it) is that Kinnon's point of contention was school spending (yes, SOME people in a position of power regarding education our children respect what teachers do and believe that it takes more than a monkey to teach a child). Of course, in Kinnon Kingdom they are not restricted to a budget imposed on them by a city or town, they are permitted to determine their own budget and how much they require each year). While we haven't looked at numbers recently, best recollection from a few years ago was that Malden's expenditure per child was about $7,000.00 and MVRCS's was about $10,000.00 (the state makes up the difference). Very interesting considering they don't have the Special Education, ELL, and the other expenses related to actually meeting the educational needs of ALL children (not just the ones that do well on tests and follow the rules) and providing teachers will valuable Professional Development opportunities (not just the mandatory topics and requirements).

Of course, the residents and parents of Malden should have raised holy hell at his attempt to cut the public school budgets. First he tears them down then he wants to deny them funding?? Is he scared that if they were given the per child expenditure that he gets per child, that the charter school might not look so superior? We'd love to see the charter operate on the budget restrictions and meeting the special education/ell needs of students that district schools do. We doubt they'd have that beautiful facility on Eastern Avenue or be having left over funding to be buying up property as investments. The funds would be spent on the children (as they should be).

A little tidbit to parents to remember in August as they venture out to spend their money on pencils, erasers, scissors, dictionary's (both english and bilingual), paper and the other items contained on that extensive list of theirs, it has come to our attention that schools are not permitted to request or require parents to provide supplies that are instrumental or necessary to their learning. According to the DESE these types of items are to be provided by the school/district. Yes, parents can be asked to contribute things such as disinfectant, paper towels, and tissues but if it is necessary for their learning or instruction, the school or district must provide it as THAT IS PART OF WHAT THE MONEY THEY RECEIVE IS FOR! Of course, just the fiasco with the busing issue many moons ago, they will continue to do as they please regardless of the laws and rules.
And then we have one one of the highlights of the articles we came across, the following of rules and laws. Is that the pot calling the kettle black we hear? From an article way back when (Boston.com - Teen Center Issue) it seems that Kinnon took issue with what he viewed as Christenson not following rules and ordinances' - you mean like the ones the DESE and Labor Laws place on charter schools/employers that you have IGNORED FOR 12 YEARS? Of course the difference here is that Christenson is truly within his legal rights AND benefiting someone other than himself and his own enormous ego. Kinnon goes on to state that "you can't not follow the rules" - you mean like you and your F&F club members have done and continue to do with children who require special education services? Exactly how many years did it take parents to even GET services at MVRCS? How about creating a PAC? What about that pesky Board of Trustees limit? Oh wait, should we talk about the lottery and waitlist and how many of your F&F members should be millionaires by now considering how lucky they were in the school lottery. Leave the school and re-enter a few years later without a sibling enrolling? Only if you have the right connections (Sir Kinnon the Arse himself) and/or your last name happens to be Finn. And how no English Language learners NEVER EVER EVER happen to have that same lottery luck, so incredibly amazing. But yes, we all need to 'follow rules and ordinances' - that is everyone except Sir Kinnon and his minions!

Oh, a long lost bud has alerted us to the party at the Malden Patch....To Be Continued

Neil, Neil, Neil - Is it FINALLY Your Time? Or Liar, Liar, Pants On Fire!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 23:33:00 -0400

Oh yes, its been a long time since we've provided any updates or insight regarding good old MVRCS but it seems that Neil has FINALLY managed to draw the attention he so rightfully deserves! For those who have taken time out of their lives in the past to bring Neil and MVRCS the much needed at attention of the DESE, it appears that your efforts (nor ours) were not in vain. We know that the DESE receives calls practically DAILY regarding the shenanigans going on over corrupt, law ignoring, 'we are above all reprise' MVRCS, have finally brought them the much deserved attention they deserve. It seems that if Mr. 'I'll Do What I Want' has disregarded the DESE's directives for long enough that his actions have brought the schools charter into jeopardy.

In case you haven't seen the article in the Boston Globe, it can be found at "School’s expansion request is denied". It would appear that although the charter was approved but with restrictions. Hmmm, could it be that King Kinnon has snubbed his nose at the DESE one too many times?

A quick over of the conditions that have been placed on the charter are highlighted below (although this came directly from the DOE (DOE - Board of Education 2013):

1. Beginning in March 2013 and until further notice, the Mystic Valley Regional Charter School (MVRCS) will submit to the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (Department), at charterschools@doe.mass.edu or 75 Pleasant St., Malden, MA, 02148, board meeting agendas, materials, and minutes prior to each board meeting at the same time these items are sent to MVRCS board members. The Department reserves the right to request additional information, such as quarterly or monthly financial statements, if board materials do not already include this information, and MVRCS must provide such additional information within two business days. (We wonder if that is as a result of good 'ol 'Thieving Gately' is at the helm. Also, let us NOT forget the BS that the Boston Globe went through to get copies of staff salaries AND the inability to view (as required by law) copies of the Board Meetings and Executive Sessions). *See Additional Infomation Regarding Finances Below.

2. By May 31, 2013, the Board of Trustees of MVRCS shall amend its bylaws to set specific, reasonable limits on successive or total terms that a member may serve on the board of trustees. These limits must apply to all current board members. (Oh, King Kinnon, what ever shall you do??? We're sure this is going to be an area of contention for King Tut, especially as it pertains to his royal arse himself!)

3. By May 31, 2013, the Board of Trustees of MVRCS will engage in a comprehensive self-evaluation of its own capacity and recruit additional members who have the needed expertise. (i.e. Neil, this does not mean YOU but rather individuals who may have the audacity to disagree or even challenge YOU).

4. By July 31, 2013, the Board of Trustees of MVRCS will expand the board membership to at least seven members. (And again King Tut, this excludes you! It means that your current practice of you and your 'followers' managing the day to day needs of the school may be no more!).

5. By September 30, 2013, the Board of Trustees of MVRCS will engage in training, conducted by an external consultant, accepted and approved in advance by the Department, on the roles and responsibilities of a public charter school board of trustees. (We're thinking that this means that the training cannot be conducted by one of your friends, relatives, or campaign contributors - which is your MO).

This renewal is explicitly conditioned as follows. Failure to meet these conditions may result in the Board placing Mystic Valley Regional Charter School on probation, revoking its charter, or imposing additional conditions on its charter.

"Citing a “clear record of insularity and opaque decision making,” Mitchell D. Chester last month placed conditions on the school’s charter and denied Mystic Valley’s request to increase student enrollment. -Gotta love this little mention of defiance (and he then claims they are being singled out...?):

The school, Chester wrote in a Feb. 8 memo to the state Board of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, “has not consistently operated with transparency or been accessible to all stakeholders.”

We're thinking that all of the kool-aid drinkers, friends and family club members, and campaign contributors had better either boot your butt to the curb OR get ready to enroll their children in their district schools. While we're at it, should we mention to you the possibility of your teachers meeting with union officials these days? Oh, wouldn't that just be the DEATH of you???

No one should really be surprised but the DESE seems to have some concerns regarding the finances of MVRCS. Of course, not their financial viability per se but rather their management, record keeping, and/or use of funding. This was noted in the report submitted by Class Measures and includes the following:

"The first finding noted the procurement policy did not ensure no payments were provided to any vendors disbarred from receiving federal funds. The second noted that expenses charged to the ARRA grant were not discreetly accounted for, separate from non ARRA expenses. The third noted required procedures for charging of employee salary to two federal grants were not followed...The second finding, regarding lack of discrete accounting for ARRA federal grant funds, recurred in FY12 and the finding of noncompliance with ARRA regulations was continued."

Even more amazing to us is that 'Class Measures was able to obtain copies of the Board Meetings AND financial records (of course they were most likely cooked but at least they had SOMETHING) that have been kept from the rest of the school community.

Probably the most humorous and ironic part of the report was that the Board stated that "they thought of themselves as a 'bottom up' organization" - anyone else find that a bit much too swallow? Interestingly enough, teachers and parents characterized the school as a “top down” organization, with the board dictating the direction of the school. Furthermore, parents noted that it was difficult to communicate with the board. (Really, you don't say??? BTW, we'd LOVE LOVE LOVE to know which friends and family members were 'randomly' chosen to meet with the 'Class Measures' team and we're pretty sure that it was not an open or publicized).

We would LOVE to hear Dr. McCleary's response to the Board being 'prohibited from exercising managerial powers over the day-to-day operations of the school'. You remember Dr. McCleary don't you? You know the name plate that was on the 'Director' door, the 'Director' who was given no say or voice in ANY aspect of the 'day-to-day operations', or the 'Director' who was ignored or treated with clear disrespect at Board Meetings (yes, in a school that embraces the concept of respect...). Yeah, THAT guy.

Of course also worth mentioning for a good chuckle is that "89% indicated that they were satisified with their decision to send their children to MVRCS". Now is that because they belong to the MVRCS 'friends and family club' (you know, those families that are related to Kinnon, Finn, or any of the other VIP's in the school), it is better than the alternative (i.e. and they live in Malden or Everett where they are doing great things but face a much more diverse population - both race, language, and special education related), or all the input they have into their childs education and the respect they are shown from Sir Kinnon and his minions? Oh wait, maybe its how inadequately and unequally they are treated and/or rules applied. Of course, the number one answer is probably the fact that any child who isn't doing well or parents that aren't satisfied were not only not included (and were not even considered for enrollment) but were probably ushered out of the school as their child a) didn't speak english, b) had a learning disability that could have been addressed but wasn't being adequately addressed (yes, you know Wicked Witch of SPED herself), or c) the parents DARED challenge Kinnon or one of his minions. It should come as no surprise that the student population still appears to be lacking regards to the (non-existent) ELL and special education students according to the report: "select student subgroup enrollment continues to lag behind the primary sending districts and the state." One must wonder how when serving such language diverse communities such as Everett, Medford, and Malden, MVRCS still does not have any students who are identified as English Language Learners - especially considering how the state requires them to fully prepared and a program in place (oh, did yet another F and F member need a 'job' that paid exceptionally well yet had minimal duties or expectations cause THAT would make sense).

Kinnons response to the report is classic and makes one wonder if he is delusion, believes his owns lies, or grasping at straws. Enjoy!

"Kinnon took issue with the findings.

“The school’s board of trustees does not believe it violated the Open Meeting Law,” he said. “Our board meetings are all open and we have [had] open sessions at nearly every one for 15 years.” - Is he really saying this? Does he actually believe it because that would be an even scarier thought than him just plain lying!

Kinnon said a recent conversation he had with Cliff W. Chuang, associate commissioner of the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, revealed that Chester’s decision to impose conditions on the school and deny its request to expand was influenced by numerous complaints state education officials claimed to have received about Mystic Valley and its board in writing, by phone, and anonymously. Kinnon said state officials never shared those complaints with Mystic Valley’s board of trustees and claimed such notification is required by law. "- Again, REALLY??? Oh, next thing he'll blame it on McCleary and Finn!

"The only thing ‘opaque’ here is the Department of Education’s explanation on not providing us these complaints they supposedly have, and by law they were supposed to share, so that we could rectify the issues or determine they were baseless and report back to the department,” Kinnon said. “We don’t know if [those complaints] really exist.” - And, as anyone who has ever dealt with him (or any of his F&F employees) knows, he would have addressed any and all issues immediately just as he did with the directive regarding the Board members, special education violations, reporting violations, lottery/admittance violations, the transportation fiasco, the nut allergy, and the list goes on. Please Neil, now you are just plain embarrassing yourself!

“We do not typically contact schools in these instances, which are the vast majority of the complaints that we receive,” Greene said, noting that state education officials are “in the process of compiling the written complaints [about Mystic Valley] on file, at the school’s request.” - Could Ms. Greene borrow the MVRCS truck to transport the enormous stack of complaints the DESE has received over the years? Worth noting is that the DESE has been visiting our site and will make denial on Sir Lie-Alot eer, Kinnon's part near impossible. May we also suggest they contact Dr. McCleary (maybe his buy-off, oops - confidentiality contract has expired...?).*** Given that Ms. Greene is currently compiling written complaints, may we suggest that anyone who questions whether the complaint was adequately filed with the DESE, re-fill any and all complaints.

Not to be missed is outrage and disbelief that ANYONE dared or would THINK of calling the DESE:
We expected that Sir Kinnon would not only be less than pleased with the findings but that his 'friends' weren't able to fix this for him and his kingdom. One has to wonder how he likes being on the other side and having another individual make decisions and determinations that determine him and his kingdom. Poor Sir Lie-A-Lot, We are surely hoping that the parents and staff that have been subjected to the less that ethical, honorable, or morally correct actions (especially those have had implications on students) of him and his minions, are enjoying watching his slow descend.

Apparently it has been too long since since our last post as we could go on and on except that we've said it all before. Of course, maybe the collected efforts of parents, teachers, community members, and others who refuse to take part in the world of corruption known as MVRCS, are finally paying off and Kinnon (et al) day is coming sometime in the near future. We'll have to all stay posted and keep our chairs and popcorn nearby and ready for a show. Oh Sir Kinnon, you never fail to entertain us!

Of course should you have other insights, thoughts, or comments that you feel should be shared with the DESE or Class Measures (the company that conducted the review), you could always contact them directly. We've very conveniently included some contact information below.

Contact Details:

DESE:

Jeff Wulfson @ 781-338-6500, Deputy Commissioner;

Cliff Chuang @ 781-338-3222, Associate Commissioner;

Class Measures

100 Tower Park Drive

Woburn, MA 01801

781-939-5699

ClassMeasures@tribalgroup.com

Food for Thought on the MVRCS Fiasco!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 15:51:00 -0500

Honestly, while I have my own opinions and thoughts regarding the Hogan/MVRCS fiasco, they are irrelevant as the story is just a symptom of a much bigger issue (in my opinion).

After reading through all the comments, just some thoughts:

1. Was this story leaked to the media out of concern for the students of MVRCS and their contact with the individual or was it leaked out of vengeance to the school administration? Few would argue with the fact that the school administration and board (specifically Kinnon and his clan) have made many enemies and have operated by their own standards for many years. It should not be ignored that the school DID hire Gately, who at the time was a publically disgraced, disbarred attorney and political figure, knowing full well of his (lack of) moral integrity. Whether the school knew or not (and I'm not sure they didn't), how can they justify hiring Gately and not this individual, after all, one actually committed crimes and the other didn't. At the same time, those who are familiar with the happenings of the school know that they have very double standards and expectations for their staff. Hogan may possibly be a victim of the past acts of Kinnon and/or the Board/Administration.

2. Is Kevin Hogan related in any way to Kinnon’s campaign manager and childhood friend Ron Hogan (whose children attend the school BTW)? If so, this would make one question if in fact the school did know about his past when they hired him and were hoping that the fact wouldn’t be discovered.

3. Regardless of Hogans sexual orientation and actions, one has to wonder why an individual who has limited teaching experience was hired as an English Department Chair to begin with. One would expect an individual in this position to have extensive teaching experience within the subject matter. If I remember the information correctly, Hogan had only a few years of sporadic teaching experience which would make his hiring for that position questionable at best. Given the current economy and the number of unemployed individuals located here in Massachusetts (some of whom must have more teaching experience than Hogan), why did the school hire an individual from out of state? Maybe a more appropriate issue for discussion would be the hiring practices of the school.

4. Does anyone else familiar with the ways of MVRCS find it interesting that so many individuals are willing to put their name out there in support of this individual? Those in the know would tend to agree that parents and students typically do not dare speak out publically (or even challenge them) against the school without fear of retribution. Would that indicate that the school has encouraged this and therefore, is in support of Hogan? This would again make us question if, in fact, Hogan is somehow related to Ron Hogan?

5. It is interesting that the school has chosen to put this teacher on paid administrative leave rather than just terminate them (as they are so famous for doing with those who go against them or who do not ‘fit’)? Is it due to the fact that this teacher has gained national attention and the school is finally forced to handle it in an appropriate and legal manner (as opposed to the sleazy and often illegal manner that they have become known for)?

6. While I don’t typically pass judgment on student’s individual abilities, does anyone else find the comment regarding the poor grammar and spelling of their students ironic given that they are supposedly providing a superior education? It should be noted that the ‘awards’ that they have received from ‘Newsweek’ are not based on the academic ability or successes of their students but is based simply on the percentage of their students who sat for the IB tests. It does not take into account their performance on such tests, just how many sat for it. It should also be noted that the school requires all of their students to sit for these exams regardless of their desire, ability, or interest. Additionally, the school paid to be included in the analysis. Sort of takes the air out of the balloon, doesn’t it?
7. MVRCS has been accused of breaking or bending many of the laws that govern them as has the Chairman of the Board, Neil Kinnon. They have repeatedly refused to follow directives that they have received from the DESE (re: transportation issues, changing of the board members, questionable lottery practices and re-entry of certain individuals, SPED dealings, open meeting/executive session requirements of publishing minutes, etc) and have done as they please for far too long. While their actions have been overlooked or ignored in the past, could this possibly be the incident that begins to process of holding them accountable?

Links to some interesting discussions:
http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/malden/2011/12/mystic_valley_teachers_contrac.html

http://malden.patch.com/articles/students-parents-fox-comment-on-hogan-suspension

http://bostonherald.com/news/columnists/view/2011_1201naked_truth_porn_teachers_dont_mix

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/01/kevin-hogan-high-school-e_n_1123398.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/30/kevin-hogan-high-school-t_n_1121376.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/11/30/kevin-hogan-english-teacher-gay-porn-_n_1121554.html

Gotta Love It! So MVRCS -like!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Wed, 7 Dec 2011 22:08:00 -0500

We came across the following article on Boston.com regarding the current scandal over at MVRCS (http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/malden/2011/12/mystic_valley_teachers_contrac.html).

Had to love a few key points that we'll highlight here. We're sure most of you will know why these points stood out to us, but just in case:

Letter sheds some light on Mystic Valley teacher's contract

Posted by Matt Byrne December 7, 2011 06:10 PM

By Matt Byrne, Town Correspondent

...The three-page agreement, obtained by the Globe from Mystic Valley's attorney, John Hanify, after a public records request, lists conditions that could be cited as grounds to terminate Hogan: Noncompliance with school rules and personnel policies; dishonesty or misconduct that affects nearly anyone connected to or doing business with the charter, and a final clause that indicates a reason the school could use: "In the event that, in its reasonable judgment, your performance or conduct is incompatible with the educational principles or policies established by the Board or the Director."

Wonder how long it the Globe to obtain a copy of that contract?? Oh, it was probably easier than trying to get a copy of meeting minutes or responses to complaints because Kinnon and his shoe-shiners probably think that releasing a copy of the contract will justify any and all of their actions. We especially love the line "in its reasonable judgment" - nothing reasonable about any of Kinnons judgment, just justification and bullying to do what he wants. Then, what about "your performance or conduct is incompatible with the educational principles or policies..." - translation, you can be as sleazy, unethical, and immoral as we you want as long as we are sleazier, less ethical and more immoral than you OR it doesn't offend us. Lets not forget how many sleazy dealings Sir Little Man Kinnon has had over the years, or the despicable actions of his, ummmm, 'PR Director' Gatley. Let us not forget that by conduct, they are also referring to ones sexual orientation because Sir Little Man Kinnon is homophobic, we've heard stories of teachers being told they weren't 'a good fit' for MVRC due to their sexual orientation. Oh, how Sir Little Man yearns to rule the world! Oh to be King!

The article continues as follows:

"The contract also contains passages that seem to codify the school's reluctance to discuss the matter publicly, including language that prevents Hogan, except with express permission, from writing about the school in any way for five years after he leaves.
Hogan also agreed to strict rules against affiliating himself with, doing work for, or consulting Malden Public Schools and five surrounding public districts in Everett, Medford, Melrose, Stoneham, and Wakefield.
"If you choose to breach this agreement ... you may be liable for damages to the Board," the contract said."

We LOVE that the teachers contract now tries to restrict individuals from writing about the school for five years. We wonder if our lovely blog has anything to do with this restriction. In other words, unless you are going to write only good things about the school, you are not permitted to write anything. That usually (and as in their case) means that they have so much to be ashamed or fearful of being exposed that they feel the need to place this restriction on their employees. Funny, they do this frequently with parents who sue them also.

So scared their dirt will get out and they won't have control over it.

Isn't it also interesting that former employees are not permitted to work for the sending districts of the school. We're sure that is because they don't want the districts that they pull their funding from to know exactly what is going on at good ol MVRCS. Scared all of their funding would dry up and they wouldn't be able to build athletic facilities, buy up real estate, and funnel money into hidden pockets instead of spending the money they receive on educating the kids. We have to even wonder if all of this is even legal and/or would hold up in a court of law...?

Oh, does anyone else find it humorous that with good ol sticky fingers Gately as their PR person that Eric Rubin has been acting as mouth piece for this and other issues lately? For those who think Eric is just 'another involved parent' - don't kid yourself, he is a long-time friend of Kinnon's and his wife 'works' at the school. Oh, and yes somehow, miracles of miracles, his son got in through the 'lottery'. Yet another staff member who had a child selected. So amazing!

Oh, good ol MVRCS, may you continue in your crooked, despicably, sleazy manner until Sir Kinnon Sleazy Pants manages to destroy his own empire!

Oh MVRCS, Those Nasty Double Standards!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Tue, 6 Dec 2011 19:01:00 -0500

Parents- Be Outraged, Demand Answers and Accountability - but not from FOX or the teacher~ from MVRCS regarding their hiring practices!

People on both sides are outraged regarding the recent firing (or administrative leave) of the HS teacher at MVRCS. Some think it was wrong for Fox to dig into the poor guys past, others are outraged that the guy who was teaching their children was either a gay or porn star (or both), and others are furious that he was hired in the first place. The real issue isn't truly any of these, the real issue is much more concerning and complicated than any of these. The real issue is the hiring practices that have been going on over at MVRCS - both the double standards and poor hiring practices and decisions that they are forced to make due to the ever-constant revolving door they have. The word is on the street here in Massachusetts, many teachers want nothing to do with the BS, poor working conditions, and corruption that MVRCS has become known for. This is why the school must constantly spend so much money each year (or claim to anyways) recruiting new, green teachers from out of state. Then, we would suggest you speak to any of the current teachers there, either they were hired as a result of who they knew OR they were interviewed and offered the position within a day or two of each other. Ask any of them if ANY of their references were ever contacted by anyone from the school? Yes, it may be a formality but its still worth at least ensuring that someone, somewhere is willing to vouch for someone who will be educating children.
We also find it interesting that the school takes issue with this fella's past yet is willing to have a disbarred attorney as their PR person (making more than most teachers make) who STOLE MONEY FROM AN ELDERLY COUPLE AND THEN ATTEMPTED TO BULLY THEM INTO NOT FILING CHARGES, and who, NEVER SERVED A DAY OF JAIL TIME FOR HIS CRIME. Hmmm, that double standard thing starts rearing its ugly head again! We kind of feel bad for the guy, Fox would have never had anything to with him or his past if Kinnon hadn't pissed off so many people.
Isn't it interesting that this guy was put on paid administrative leave (ask how many other un-Kinnected individuals have received THAT) when most are just terminated regardless of actual cause? Yeah, Kinnon must be shaking a bit right now - Civil Liberties, Discrimination, Wrongful Termination, and the whole LGBT Rights thing (Mr. Hogan would be well advised to possibly reach out to some other former teachers who may be card carrying members to that group - BIG case there).
Truthfully, what we find most up setting is that the school has knowingly had an individual willing to steal from elderly as their PR person for 4 years (?) yet is now trying to claim ignorance and outrage over an employee who hasn't stolen from anyone, hurt anyone, his 'actions' were not common knowledge (as were Gateleys). Oh yes, its that 'different strokes for different folks' thing going on again - BUT THIS TIME, IT'S GETTING A WHOLE LOT OF PUBLICITY!!!!

PS - Mike B from Fox, we have a few people you could speak to regarding that rigged, campaign contribution funding, lottery over there at MVRCS - yet another great story.....for anther day!

We're Still Here!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Sun, 13 Nov 2011 14:31:00 -0500

Don't worry, we're still alive and kicking! Although we're not blogging as much we are still working towards initiating change at good ol MVRCS. We were very disappointed to see that Neil Kinnon was re-elected as ward councilor as it is clearly a conflict of interest and causes many to wonder who he is truly representing - his ward and city or the best interest of MVRCS. We did hear that many parents seeking admission to the school simply had to make a campaign contribution to Neil Kinnon's election campaign so it does make sense that for many individuals his remaining in office would be crucial. We'll be interested in comparing the list of individuals who contributed to his campaign to the families who were chosen in the 'lottery'. Thank goodness for year books!
We were not surprised to see the schools complete lack of organization, communication, and realistic expectations regarding the move of the Kindergartners to the new Athletic facility. Same ol, same ol.
We know much has been going on that we feel requires sharing and are working towards getting that information posted. More to come shortly....

Nothing Ever Changes.....For The Good Anyway!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 13:53:00 -0400

It's official, MVRCS is back in session and summer vacation is over. Yes, back to good ol MVRCS where nothing ever changes. Chris Finn, during his Orientation speech last week, very proudly stated this to incoming Kindergarten parents. To be exact, what he said was that MVRCS is still doing today what they did when they first opened their doors (except of course teacher turnover, which has changed drastically over the years). While the Administration may think that this is a positive thing, we find it disappointing and a bit sad, especially considering that they think this is a good thing. It makes it overly apparent to us just how uneducated the Administration and Board are in regards to best practices in education. Constant research is being done on what our children require to learn, child development, and various educational theories and practices. The fact that MVRCS is totally out of the loop and unwilling to explore what experts in the education field have found, should not be an embarrassment NOT something they brag about. Yes, direct instruction (i.e. rote and repetition) are no longer seen as highly effective or a best practice as that methodology fails to meet the educational and learning needs of ALL students. Of course since none of the Administration has ever worked in any other educational setting and/or do not truly have the credentials that our district schools would require, it should come as no surprise that the school refuses to employ varying approaches in education. Unfortunately, we do not feel as though this is something Chris Finn should be eager to brag about to incoming parents but apparently the school feels that educating the students that can learn through this method is sufficient and, for those students that don't, adios.
This brings us to his next, totally inappropriate but typical, MVRCS standard comment "This is how we do it here and if you don't like it, you can leave" attitude. First off, imagine a Superintendent, Principal or School Committee member making such a statement? They would probably be ousted faster than you could say Winn Dixie yet Chris Finn states it as though it were scripture. Yes, many parents chose MVRCS because they value their childs education BUT if they have any varying views, opinions, or thoughts as to the actual education their child receives, they have mistakenly thought that Kinnon would value their input. No, parents at MVRCS get to decide if their child enters the lottery and subsequently enroll there but the buck stops there! Parents are not given any say or input into how things are done. A parent has a concern about the group level their child is placed in for Reading or Math instruction, good luck getting insight as to how the determination was made or trying to get it changed. Kinnon and his following Administration make all the decisions and parents do not have any input. Again, no room for improvements or possibility of improving things, as remember, NOTHING CHANGES at MVRCS (yes, that includes the Board of Trustees who have all outlived their usefulness - especially Kinnon). Note to new incoming families, be very careful what you say to the Administration as you should know that they do not welcome varying opinions, input, suggestions, or parents standing up for their children. You have enrolled your child in the school and you must check your parental involvement/concern at the door and entrust your child into the hands of an Administration and Board that have questionable (if any) credentials/experience within child centered, innovative, and professionally appropriate educational settings.
We also found Chris Finns orientation speech to be filled with an incredible amount of propaganda while lacking the focus on the emotional needs incoming Kindergarten students. No talk of how parents can best help their child adjust to their first exposure to school (never mind the very structured environment), what children may go through, how the school can and is willing to assist parents through this milestone, or any other discussion regarding their child's development and adjustment to Kindergarten. This should come as no surprise seeing as the school chose not only to move the Kindergarteners to the Athletic facility but to do so after the start of the school year as it isn't finished yet. Heaven forbid they put off plans of relocating students until the facility is complete and has been up and running long enough to work out any issues or problems. Not only did they not take the emotional implications of relocating Kindergarteners to yet ANOTHER new environment, but they increased the number of classrooms for both K and 1st graders. Of course, the school was already bursting at the seems trying to accomodate the students they had yet the Board added 2 additional classrooms before ensuring the Athletic facility was going to be complete. We have to wonder what the law requires a classroom size be for a group of 25 or 30 children. We know that one of the Kindergarten classrooms is obviously too small a space for such a group (the one near the 'kitchen' area of the fishbowl building) yet MVRCS is using it for one class. The parents of incoming children had better hope that the the school does not run in to any further issues that may postpone the completion of the Athletic facility as the current facility is clearly no adequate to accomodate the number of students currently being housed there.
The reoccurring theme we see time and time again with the management of MVRCS is the constant disorganization and poor planning of the Board and Administration. Too often it is overly apparent that they are not all on the same page and/or do not fully understand or choose to ignore the laws and regulations that govern them. The transportation fee fiasco of last year is a clear indicator that they lack a clear understanding of their obligations and effective, professional, well-verse, informed leadership. After charging families for transportation (we won't even get into the linear v driven mileage issue or the use of a hub), they were informed that per their initial charter, they were not permitted to charge for transportation. Of course the jury is still out on whether they knew they couldn't charge and chose to ignore yet another inconvenient law or if they were just clueless as to the implications of their charter contract. In either case, just another example of poor leadership, ignorance, and mismanagement of our children's education. But hey, they require you to leave your child's education in their hands and trust them.

So Much Going On @ Good 'Ol MVRCS!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 21:49:00 -0400

We're not sure whether we should start off with the McCleary issue or the nightmare incoming Kindergartner parents are going to be dealing with....decisions, decisions, decisions!

The entire fiasco regarding Dr. McCleary has us simultaneously befuddled and outraged. We are befuddled as we KNOW that there is more to this story than Dr. McCleary deciding to take a PAID sabbatical with such short notice and then not returning. Isn't a sabbatical usually granted to individuals with the expectation that the individual will return to their position??? In any event, we've included the wiki definition of a sabbatical below. Even as we speculate as to the terminology that Dr. McCleary and MVRCS have agreed to use, we all know that this is just yet ANOTHER person to fall under the ax of Dictator Kinnon. We have to imagine that either: 1. McCleary tired of being used for his credentials (without the authority or responsibility that accompanies it); 2. FINALLY took issue with having to sign his name to the numerous shenanigans, statements (lies), documents, etc. that he was constantly having to do; or 3. McCleary did something that so angered Kinnon that he wasn't given a choice in the matter. Unfortunately, we're more inclined to believe that it is option number 3 and that while he wasn't given a choice in the matter, he IS being paid for the 'sabbatical' as hush money (again, at the expense of the students as not only are those funds not being effectively used but the school will be without ANY individual who is qualified to run the school). We're sure that McCleary could destroy Kinnon and the school with all that he has been privy to during his time there. It has always been surprising to us that McCleary allowed some of the things that have occurred to occur under his name as he is obviously a very moral, ethical, and righteous individual. While Dr. McCleary was not the strong presence within the school that one would expect of a Director, it never appeared as though he had much say in the matter. Even though the Charter School Laws and Regulations are very clear that the Board NOT have control or oversight into the day to day operations of the school, Kinnon has managed to wrangle almost complete control. Unfortunately for the students and MVRCS community, Dr. McCleary (the only individual on the Board or Administrative Team that has the experience, background, and credentials in education) was not permitted nor encouraged to make decisions or run the school in the manner he saw fit but was instead forced to follow the directions, demands, and practices of Neil Kinnon. We wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

In recent times, "sabbatical" has come to mean any extended absence in the career of an individual in order to achieve something. In the modern sense, one takes sabbatical typically to fulfill some goal, e.g., writing a book or traveling extensively for research.

In the United States, academic sabbaticals are typically granted by an academic dean only if the faculty member who applies is qualified in terms of consistently high job performance, has demonstrated success in previous research, and possesses a well-conceived, well-planned, and promising research proposal that requires sustained effort. Sabbaticals are not granted automatically and usually are not even scheduled automatically. Provided the faculty applicant is first granted academic tenure (this may not hold true at all institutions), the opportunity to qualify for one's first sabbatical usually comes only after an initial waiting period the length of which may vary. Thereafter, the opportunity to qualify for sabbatical typically follows at seven-year intervals of full-time employment. The most common arrangement is for a half-year at full pay, or a full year at half pay.

Ok, the other typical of MVRCS fiasco is that of the situation that our incoming kindergarten students and family face. They are going to be at the new Athletic center (named of course after Sir Dictator Kinnon), no, no, no, THAT building isn't going to be done in time. SO, let's add a little more stress to the lives of these poor, scared, anxious students - they'll start at the main campus and then, when the other building is done (even if it isn't COMPLETELY done but close enough), they'll be shipped over to the Athletic center. The timing should be PERFECT - they should JUST be adjusting to their new school and routine and now BOOM, yet another change! Oh, and did anyone mention that now instead of 5 Kindergarden classes and 4 1st grade classes, the school has (apparently) decided to add an additional class to each grade level. Yeah, remember that obnoxious ad the school took out last year against Malden schools and the possibility of them increasing their enrollment size, they apparently did it. We'll be VERY curious to see how crowded the first few months of school are at good 'ol MVRCS, as if they weren't packed in there like packed sardines already! Oh, don't we all LOVE the way MVRCS handles things....just another example of their inability to effectively and soundly manage the operations of the school.
In closing, we can't WAIT to see how the transportation plays out for all of this. After the fiasco last year with first charging and then refunding transportation costs, it is no wonder they are no longer charging for transportation. BTW, per the DESEMVRCS!

Typical MVRCS -Avoidance and Intimidation Tactics!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 11:02:00 -0400

REQUESTS: We are seeking to make contact with an individual from the Malden school that the students in question attended (teacher, aid, staff, or parent) who can confirm that the students in question actually attended their school. We can assure you that your identity will NOT be revealed under any circumstances. While we have individuals and materials available from MVRCS to confirm that the students were enrolled, removed, and re-enrolled there, we would like someone from the Malden schools to confirm they were students there.
Should you (or someone you know) be able to provide any information regarding this situation, please contact us at UnOfficialMVRCS@gmail.com. Information and Contact Found - Thank you for the responses!

The following complaint was filed first with MVRCS Board of Trustees (filed March 14, 2011) and then, per DESE procedure, with Mitchell Chester (filed April 15, 2011), who is the Commissioner of Education at the DESE. Finally, on June 23, 2011 we heard back from Rick Veilleux (the Business Manager of MVRCS) regarding our complaint. As in the past when we have requested copies of the Board Meeting Minutes (both the open portion and Executive Session), the school resorted to intimidation and avoidance tactics by requiring us to either come into their office to review the material or provide a mailing address and funds to have it mailed to us. While the copies of the minutes were requested under the Freedom of Information Act and are therefore subject to such conditions, the formal complaint we filed is not. The complaint was filed electronically and as such, should be responded to in like form. Furthermore, as we're sure the complaint is already in electronic form, emailing a copy would be entirely appropriate and easily done. Of course we know that this is just MVRCS way of trying to determine our identity. In either case, any individual who is interested in obtaining a copy of the response from MVRCS's Board of Trustees may either drop into the office to view their response or request one be sent through the postal service (but the school will charge for photocopying and postage).
On June 23, 2011 we sent the following email was sent to Rick Veilleux and other various individuals who SHOULD be concerned and willing to further address this issue. Since then we have been working with a number of reporters and media outlets regarding the confirmation of our allegations. While we do want this issue addressed and the school to be held accountable, we are attempting to ensure that the identities of the students in question are not published as we feel this would not be in their or their immediate families best interest. In the meantime, we thought we would share with our readers our current efforts and this issue.

Subject: Complaint Response
To: rveilleux@mvrcs.org
Cc: JMcCleary@mvrcs.org, BBarnett@doe.mass.edu, JWulfson@doe.mass.edu, ago@state.ma.us, legal@eth.state.ma.us, KarenNober@eth.state.ma.us, cccompliance@doe.mass.edu, boe@doe.mass.edu, media@doe.mass.edu, CharterSchools@doe.mass.edu, www@doe.mass.edu, Gov.Webmail@state.ma.us
Date: Monday, July 11, 2011, 4:33 PM

Mr. Veilleux:

I am writing in response to your email dated June 23, 2011 regarding the formal complaint filed with Mystic Valley Regional Charter School (dated March 14, 2011) and the subsequent complaint filed with the Commissioner Mitchell Chester of the DESE (dated April 15, 2011). I find your response to my complaint unacceptable and an attempt to circumvent addressing the issue at hand. Out of respect for Christopher Finn, a substantial amount of time to has been permitted to pass without further action being taken. As a direct result of your unwillingness to adequately respond in like form to the manner in which the complaint was filed, I feel it is necessary to seek the assistance of the media and reporters. Therefore if an adequate and acceptable response is not received through electronic email by July 20, 2011, a copy of the complaint in full (along with contact information for all involved parties) will be forwarded to reporters and media outlets along with a request for assistance. I look forwarding to hearing from you.

March 14, 2011

To The Board of Trustees:

As required by Massachusetts Law 603 CMR 1.00, specifically section 1.10 regarding the Complaint Procedure please accept this letter as a formal complaint. It is our belief that MVRCS has violated section 1.06 ‘Charter School Enrollment and Recruitment’. Specifically section 5 of the law which states:

(5) …No student entering an enrollment process may be admitted ahead of other eligible students who were previously placed on a waiting list during a prior enrollment process, except in cases described in to 603 CMR 1.06(4)(e).

It is our understanding that this law has been violated on numerous occasions but most recently in the re-admission of Chris Finn’s (Assistant Director) two xxxxxx, xxxxxx and xxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxx. It has come to our attention that during the 2007-2008 school year their mother transferred them out of the school. The following year these same two xxxxxxxx were re-admitted mid-year and are now currently enrolled in the school (xxxxxxx is in 3rd grade and xxxxx 5th). It is also our understanding that this is in direction violation of the above mentioned law as well as Massachusetts State Ethics laws pertaining to Conflicts of Interests and Codes of Conduct.

April 15, 2011

Commissioner Chester:
The following complaint was filed with the MVRCS Board of Trustees on March 14th, 2011 to which they have failed to respond to. In accordance with the law, I am now filing this complaint directly with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

To The Board of Trustees:

It is our understanding that this law has been violated on numerous occasions but most recently in the re-admission of Chris Finn’s (Assistant Director) two xxxxxx, xxxxxx and xxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxi. It has come to our attention that during the 2007-2008 school year their mother transferred them out of the school. The following year these same two xxxxxxxxxx were re-admitted mid-year and are now currently enrolled in the school (xxxxxxx is in 3rd grade and xxxxxx 5th). It is also our understanding that this is in direction violation of the above mentioned law as well as Massachusetts State Ethics laws pertaining to Conflicts of Interests and Codes of Conduct.

June 23, 2011

In regards to your complaint about the school’s enrollment policy, I have been asked by Mr. Brennan, our Board Secretary, to make arrangements with you to obtain or view his response. As per our prior communications regarding various other matters, you may come into the Business Office located at 671 Salem Street to either view a copy of the response or pay for a copy of the response to take with you. If you cannot come into the office, you can send me a check for the copy and cost of postage and the response will be mailed to you. If you choose this option, please provide me with your mailing address and I will provide you with the cost and once a check is received, I will drop it in the mail.

Rick Veilleux

School Business Manager

Mystic Valley Regional Charter School

Kinnon & the Malden News - - Disappointed in Boston.com - Update!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 11:15:00 -0400

Update
As the comments below will show, Chris, the new editor at the Patch, reinstated the deleted posts and admitted they were deleted in error as they did not violate the terms of use. Funny enough we then posted the same exact comments on Boston.com (again in response to the same piece submitted to Boston.com) and they have continually removed it. We've read the terms of use and don't feel that it is in violation but apparently Kinnon must have a good Konnection there. Kudos to the Patch for not censoring opinions and comments and boo-hoo to Boston.com for their one-sided censorship. Furthermore, MVRCParent aka Marty Gately is posting campaign advertisements and attacking users yet his comments have not been deleted after being reported. Check out our poll in the discussion section of Boston.com.

Kinnon recently submitted an 'ad' on the Malden Patch regarding his run for re-election for City Councilor in Malden. Of course, in true politician practice he was focusing only on some of his contribution and accomplishments. We posted a few comments and were disappointed to see that the Malden Patch removed them (not just once, but twice). Although the comments were not favorable to Kinnon, they were accurate. Since the comments have been repeatedly deleted (leading us to believe that the Patch is in Kinnon's pocket), we have decided to repost them here - where they can not be deleted!

Funny he doesn't mention all of his backroom deals or the conflict of interest between his position as Councilor and Chairman of the Board at MVRCS. No mention of him trying to use the Maplewood fire station to secure field space for 'his' school, his attempt to block the Broadway park funding (cause MC will get field space, not MV), or the creation of the Tafton dog park with HUD funds without following their requirements. He also fails to mention his rude and condescending tone that he has become known for at Council meetings. Why leave out what he is best known for!

In response to another readers comments:

Think Roosevelt Park deal, the firehouse purchase and lease (which no one was able to obtain a copy of) - negotiations that were not done in public or with public approval that Kinnon attempted to push through. AND, let us not forget that as a Board member and Councilor he should have recused himself from any and all negotiations to avoid a conflict of interest.
As for Executive Sessions - although the meetings are permitted under very limited circumstances (and the law is very specific), the minutes are only protected as long as the issue is still ongoing. Once the matter has been resolved or deal completed, those minutes should become public.
The bottom line is that Kinnon does not feel that the rules and laws apply to him. He has demonstrated on numerous occasions that he will do whatever it takes to get what he wants - regardless of, and despite, the laws that he is bound by.

Bylaw Criteria for Charter Schools - Interesting....

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 12:00:00 -0400

We came across the criteria for the creation of bylaws for Massachusetts Charter Schools. This information is located at http://www.doe.mass.edu/charter/governance/bylaws.pdf. We would be very interested in seeing MVRCS's Bylaws but we're pretty sure access to those are prohibited!

As usual, our comments are in red.

CHARTER SCHOOL NAME: ______________________________________________

Please use the following checklist to guide the creation of your charter school bylaws. Please record in the left column the section or page number of each of the required elements within your draft bylaws document.

	1. State the name and purpose of the school and that the school is a public school.	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(c)
	2. State that the name of the school must include the words 'charter school' as part of its name.	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(k)(1)
	3. Cite M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89. This can be found in its entirety at http://www.doe.mass.edu/boe/docs/0510/item6a_ch71s89.pdf MGL Chapter 71, Section 89
	4. State that the board of trustees holds the charter granted by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(c)
	5. State that the board of trustees of a charter school is a public entity, which operates independently of a school committee.	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(c)
	6. Remember that the bylaws should not refer to the school as a non-profit corporation, a charitable organization, a 501(c) (3), or use descriptions indicating that the school is anything other than a public entity.
	7. State that the individual board members are considered special state employees.	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(c)
	8. State that the board is a public employer for the purposes of tort liability (M.G.L. Chapter 258) and for collective bargaining purposes (M.G.L. Chapter 150E). 'Collective Bargaining' - unionizing? Even though Neil Kinnon would PERSONALLY close the school if the teachers sought out the union? He probably has NOTHING to worry about as the teachers leave faster than a union could get in there!	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(y)
	9. In Horace Mann charter schools, state that the school committee is the public employer for collective bargaining purposes under M.G.L. Chapter 150E.	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(y)
	10. State that the board of trustees may not discriminate against potential members on the basis of race, color, national origin, creed, ancestry, ethnicity, age, gender identity, religion, martial status, sexual orientation, or non-disqualifying handicap or mental condition. What new members exactly? Oh, that's right at other charter schools the board members come and go (and the school survives) but NOT at MVRCS!	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(f)
	11. Specify that public notice be given of the date, time and location of all meetings in accordance with the law pertaining to the open meetings of governmental bodies.	M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Sections 18-25
	12. Specify that detailed, accurate records of every meeting be adopted and kept in accordance with the law pertaining to the open meetings of governmental bodies. Has anyone ever seen any of these 'detailed, accurate records of every meeting'? Do they include Kinnon's threats and berating of parents? What about those 'Executive Session' minutes?	M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Sections 18-25
	13. Stipulate the situations under which an executive session may take place. Oh, that's right, they can't just go into Executive Session whenever they want - ONLY UNDER CERTAIN CIRCUMSTANCES. Plus, although these minutes are limited to release, they are only limited so long as what was being discussed is still in the works. So that would probably mean that the minutes from 2003, 2004, 2005, etc should be open for review.....Yeah, not likely.	M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 21(a)
	14. State that trustee participation occurs in person for the purpose of a quorum or vote.
	15. Specify the minimum and maximum number of trustees required on the board.
	16. Specify that action by the board requires a majority vote of a quorum of seated trustees and, to the degree required, specify the situations for which approval may require a special majority.
	17. Define the number of years that shall constitute a board member’s term. You mean a term is not lifelong?
	18. Set a specific, reasonable, limit on successive or total terms that a member may serve. Hmmm, a 'specific, reasonable, limit on successive or total terms that a member may serve'......I would be very interested in seeing MVRCS response to THIS ONE!
	19. State that a formal vote of the board of trustees is required to accept all new members.
	20. Expressly require a voting employee representative in the board’s composition if the school intends to have any paid employee member(s) serve on the board. Allow one of the 'monkey' teachers on the Board? Only if they are a Kinnon Friends & Family Club Member!
	21. Specify the number and titles of officers (e.g., chair, vice-chair, secretary, and treasurer).
	22. Describe the responsibilities of each officer. Chairman is the Dictator and everyone must follow his demands. Does that explain it?
	23. Describe a process for electing officers. 'Electing' - aren't they just appointed by the Dictator himself? Others have a say? Not likely!
	24. State that the board complies with the state conflict of interest law, M.G.L. Chapter 268A. This is our favorite....how in the world can this board state they they are in compliance with state conflict of interest laws??? We want to see this one!	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(u)
	25. State that board members must disclose any financial interest or business transactions that they (or any immediate family member) have in any charter school in Massachusetts or elsewhere with the state ethics commission, the Department and the city or town clerk within 30 days of joining the board and by September 1 annually, including the year after service is completed (unless service is less than 30 days in that year). 'Financial Interest or Business Transactions' - love the 'or any immediate family members'.....priceless!	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(u)
	26. State that the board of trustees shall request the appointment of a trustee to the board only where the board has no reason to know that the trustee has a financial interest under M.G.L. c. 268A which may preclude a majority of the board from participating in deliberations or voting on certain matters that are expected to come before the board. The board must exercise due diligence prior to determining that a proposed trustee does not have such a financial interest. City Councilor? Renting property to the city? Using connections and backroom deals to gain privileges for the school? The City Councilor position is paid correct?
	27. Specify that the school’s fiscal year begins on July 1 (and ends on June 30 of the following calendar year).
	28. Specify a process for making amendments to the bylaws, subject to the approval of the board of trustees and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (additionally, school committee and teacher's union if a Horace Mann charter school).	603 CMR 1.11(2)
	29. Describe the procedure for responding to any complaints filed with the board of trustees. Complaints filed with the Board? Nope, not at MVRCS because they don't respond (nicely) to complaints. Never mind the repercussions to the kids! Don't they just ignore any complaints filed? Didn't Neil Kinnon state that he didn't have to hold Open Meetings or allow discussions/Q&A's? Yeah, that would be the schools fearless leader!	M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 89(ll) 603 CMR 1.10 M.G.L. Chapter 30A, Section 23
	30. Prohibit the board of trustees from exercising managerial powers over the day-to-day operations of the school. Not allow the Board (or specifically Kinnon) to determine what happens in the school every day? We all know that Dr. McCleary has no say in much of anything and the others follow the barking orders of the Dictator!
	31. State the ability of the board of trustees to select, appoint, evaluate, and/or remove only the school director(s).
	32. Specify the process through which a trustee may resign and/or be removed from the board. Only as a result of Kinnon - he has all the say and power regarding the board!!
	33. Require that the board of trustees meet at least quarterly.
	34. Require an annual meeting of the board of trustees.
	35. Describe the process for the formation of committees and/or task forces.

Put This One Here, That One There, Oh, This One Could....Maybe?

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Thu, 7 Jul 2011 11:13:00 -0400

Let the fun begin! We have heard from a number of former teachers that yet another massive turnover of staff at MVRCS is in the works. Once again teachers under the "leadership" (if that is what you want to call it) of Jen Mullen are jumping ship (and we hear some are leaving without having secured employment elsewhere). Of course the 7th & 8th grade teachers and HS teachers are also leaving in droves. Of course this comes as no surprise as rumors had been running rampant for some time. We came across the following postings for job positions and imagine that since the majority of 4th, 5th, & 6th grade teachers are leaving, they have moved a Kindergarten and 3rd grade teacher into one of these slots as a lead teacher. What we found discouraging is that although the school (as are all public schools) is required to hire certified teachers, the job requirements only make reference of it being preferred (or attainable within one year but most colleges require graduates to pass the MTEL before graduation and many who graduate without it are typically having problems passing the test). Further, the posting for the 'Substitutes' make reference for the potential of moving into a teaching position yet does not require certification. Both positions state 'Bachelors Preferred' - yet another questionable statement and practice. Boy does this school have high expectations for their new hires....NOT! Most districts require copy of certification, college transcripts, and 3 recommendations to even get an interview. Apparently they do not feel these things are important or are so desperate for bodies, they'll take ANYONE. And we all wonder why so many teachers leave mid-year each year! Another ironic and totally fabricated piece of bs on the part of the school is their 'Equal Opportunity Employer' statement....no discrimination or retaliation? Really? Must be confusing themselves with a different school! We pity those poor, uninformed individuals who seek a position within this school as long as Kinnon is in charge. Equal Opportunity Employer Mystic Valley Regional Charter School is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran status, political affiliation, genetic information or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally, we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation. This last line is our favorite because we all know how Kinnon would react to ANYONE standing up against him and his bully-team! Why don't we ask the individuals who have filed claims against the school in the past how they were treated once the school heard of the allegations. Funny, it doesn't say that preferential treatment (and higher pay, lower expectations) is given to those individuals who have connections to Neil Kinnon. Oh yeah, they can't, that would be an ethical issue (you know, conflict of interests). We are looking for candidates to be Permanent Substitutes for our Lower School campus. Candidates will also be promotable into classroom settings for all K - 8 positions, i.e. K - 6 classroom teachers and/or subject teachers at the middle school levels. Position Type: Full-time Positions Available: 3

Job Requirements
Massachusetts certification preferred or certification attainable within one year of hire. At least 1 year of relevant experience preferred Bachelors degree preferred Citizenship, residency or work VISA in United States required
Application Questions
There are no application questions required for this job posting.Of course not, that might limit the application pool and show ones theory of teaching. Why would we want to know that of any incoming teachers???

We have current openings in Kindergarten and 3rd grade.Wonder which poor K and 3rd grade teachers have been forced into changing grades? Levine? Flynn? Kozlowski? Penhaligone?
Position Type: Full-time
Positions Available: 3

Job Requirements

Massachusetts certification preferred or certification attainable within one year of hire. Experience with Direct Instruction and COre Knowledge a definite plus.

At least 1 year of relevant experience preferred

Bachelors degree preferred

Citizenship, residency or work VISA in United States required

Special Education Teacher - Opening for 2011 - 12 school year, starting in early-mid August. Resouce room setting with pull out services along with some in class services. Qualified candidates will pull out students for tests to read for the students, plus MCAS and other standardized testing assistance, based on IEP plans. Position Type: Full-time Positions Available: 1

Job Requirements
IEP writing experience required. 1 - 3 years of Special Education experience along with MA Special Education certification preferred. Bachelors degree preferred Citizenship, residency or work VISA in United States required

No Title 1 Funds? Now We Know Why!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 22:31:00 -0400

We could never understand why MVRCS refused Title 1 funding even though they are eligible for it. We recently came across some information that shed light on why Kinnon wouldn't want to accept Title 1 funding - it's called MONITORING! We all know how much his royal arse hates anyone telling him how to do things or what he has to do. Yea, compliance monitoring are two words that probably make Sir Kinnon quiver in his boots! Of course, Kinnon and friends are VERY quick to point out that they are not eligible for funding assistance for facilities but never mentions that they ARE eligible for funding that they refuse to accept in order to avoid oversight and monitoring.

Off subject a bit but does anyone have the final count on how many teachers are leaving MVRCS this year? We hear it may be a record breaking year....thanks Kinnon. the board and administration for treating the teachers in such a demeaning, deplorable, unprofessional manner that none of them wanted to be there. We hear that a few chose unemployment rather than subject themselves to another year there. We must mention however that none of "THOSE" employees (who should be leaving as they are only employed due to their Kinnection) are leaving. And really, why should they, the gravy train is still running!

Title I Program Evaluation Procedure (http://www.doemass.org/titlei/monitoring/10Aeval_procedure.pdf)

The effectiveness of (name of district) Title I program is evaluated annually. The evaluation considers all aspects of the Title I program, including effectiveness of policies, involvement of parent/guardians and impact of equitable services for private school children, if applicable. The following primary questions guide program evaluation: (1) Has the Title I program been effective? (2) What has worked well in the Title I program? (3) What has not worked well in the Title I program? (4) How should the Title I program be refined? The data are analyzed and the results of these analyses are used as the source of evidence to determine the answers to the four questions.
1. Information is collected in the form of formative and summative student performance data; surveys; attendance data; and other data from students, teachers, and administrators. Additionally, a program evaluation survey is distributed to all Title I families in Title I schools. To the extent practicable, the survey is made available in multiple languages.
2. The data are analyzed by the Title I Coordinator with the assistance of other staff, as needed.
3. As necessary and appropriate, the results of the analysis are shared with Title I staff, Title I building classroom teachers, principals, district administrators, parents, and other stakeholders to determine necessary and important changes that should be made to the Title I program to better survey its students.
4. The results of the evaluation, including information about any changes to the Title I program, are shared with district and school officials and distributed to all Title I families in Title I schools. To the extent practicable, the evaluation results are made available in multiple languages. Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Page

Title 1 Evaluation Proceduresm - (http://www.doemass.org/titlei/monitoring/procedures.pdf)
Parent / Guardian Communications
   District and School Parent/Guardian Involvement Policies: Districts and Title I schools must develop jointly with, annually evaluate with, and distribute to parents/guardians of Title I students (or, in the case of Schoolwide programs, all students) written parent/guardian involvement policies. The policies establish the district’s and each Title I school’s expectations for parent/guardian involvement, and describe how the district and served schools will involve parents/guardians in developing the district and school improvement plans and in reviewing school performance; provide 2010‐11 Title I Program Review Procedures Page 6
support to assist Title I schools in planning and implementing effective parent/guardian involvement activities to improve student achievement; build the schools' and parents' /guardians’ capacity for strong parental involvement; and coordinate and integrate parent/guardian involvement strategies with other programs (e.g., Head Start program, Reading First, etc.).

       Parent/Guardian Notification – NCLB Report Cards (updated annually): Districts receiving Title I funds must prepare and disseminate annual report cards for the district and each of its schools containing certain information related to assessment, accountability, and teacher quality. "teacher quality" - does that mean that pesty little number that indicates how few of their teachers are certified and/or have previous experience? Does it also include the ever present issue of the outrageously high teacher turnover at MVRCS (and this year will be no exception!).

         Right‐To‐Know (updated annually): Districts must annually notify the parents/guardians of each student attending any Title I school that they may request information regarding certain professional qualifications of the student's classroom teachers. In addition, schools that receive Title I funding must provide each individual parent/guardian timely notice that the parent's child has been assigned or has been taught for four or more consecutive weeks by a teacher who is not highly qualified (regardless of whether or not the teacher is being paid with Title I funds).

Parent/Guardian Notification – NCLB Accountability Status and School Choice – if applicable: Districts receiving Title I funds must notify parents/guardians of each student attending a school identified for improvement, corrective action or restructuring of that school’s status and of options available to them. While a school receiving Title I funds is identified for improvement, corrective action or restructuring, the district is required to offer the parents/guardians of all students enrolled in the school the option to transfer to another public school served by the district that has not been identified for school improvement, if available.

   Parent/Guardian Notification – Supplemental Educational Services (SES) – if applicable: If a school receiving Title I funds is identified for improvement (year 2), corrective action or restructuring, the district is required to offer students from low‐income families free tutoring, or supplemental educational services (SES). Rather than allow students to seek outside supplemental educational services (or SES funds), services are provided at the school. This not only keeps money in their pocket but also limits qualified individuals from informing parents of issues their children may have.

Needs Assessment Procedure: Districts are required to conduct annual needs assessments for each Title I school (both Schoolwide and Targeted Assistance programs) that include 2010‐11 Title I Program Review Procedures Page 8 data on student achievement relative to State standards, and input from parents and educators. The Needs Assessment Procedure briefly describes how the district and schools conduct their needs assessments in order to establish priorities for action and make appropriate decisions about the allocation of resources (e.g., people, materials, time, and fiscal, including all funds under NCLB). This includes a description of the quantitative and qualitative data collected and analyzed, who is involved in the analysis, how priority needs are determined, and how school improvement planning and documentation relate to this process.
What, and NOT allow them to do as they please and put funds towards an athletic facility before ensuring the educational needs of all children are met???? How dare they!

Targeted Assistance Program Plans (updated annually): A "Targeted Assistance Program Plan" is documented by completing the template provided (see http://www.doe.mass.edu/titlei/monitoring). The form provides a summary of what is being taught to whom, by whom (e.g., number and type of teachers / paraprofessionals); in which grades; and using which model (e.g., inclusion or pull‐out). Districts are required to develop Targeted Assistance program plans that are coordinated with and support regular education program(s) in relevant schools. Title I staff must be integrated with regular instructional staff in all activities, and Targeted Assistance programs must: (1) Use effective instructional methods and strategies that strengthen the core academic program of the school; (2) Use multiple, educationally related, objective criteria to identify children failing, or most at risk of failing, to meet the State's academic achievement standards (children in grades PK‐2 selected solely on the basis of such criteria as teacher judgment, interviews with parents, and developmentally appropriate measures); (3) Give primary consideration to providing extended learning time for served students; (4) Provide an accelerated, high‐quality curriculum; (5) Minimize the removal of children from the regular classroom during regular school hours.

Revised School Improvement Plans for Title I Schools with Accountability Status: Once identified for improvement, a school must revise its school improvement plan to address the subjects, grade levels and student groups in which the school did not make AYP. In developing or revising this plan, the school must consult with parents, school staff, and others. The plan must be revised no later than three months after the school has been identified for improvement. When schools are identified for corrective action status, the district plans for and implements corrective action steps stipulated in NCLB, as appropriate. When schools are identified for restructuring status, the district plans for and implements restructuring steps stipulated in NCLB, as appropriate. Yes, MVRCS has an 'Accountability Status' - would be interesting to the see how the Sir 'No Education in Education but Knower of It ALL' Kinnon would develop a plan that addressed the issues (if he could even stand to identify the issues!). Consult with who??? Parents and Staff - Not in this lifetime!

Principals’ Written Attestation ‐ HQ (updated annually): Principals of Title I schools (Schoolwide or Targeted Assistance) must provide annual written attestation that all teachers of core academic subjects have met, or are working toward meeting, the NCLB Title II‐A Highly Qualified Teacher and Paraprofessional requirements. Copies of such attestations must be maintained at each Title I school and at the main office of the district. That would be fine except they can't keep teachers around long enough to write such an attestation! And again, we hear this year is no different as last years teachers are running for the doors!

Supplemental Educational Services (Selected Districts Only)
Supplemental Educational Services (SES) are additional, free, academic instruction designed to increase the academic achievement of students in schools identified for improvement, corrective action or restructuring under NCLB. Students from low‐income families attending Title I schools in their second year of school improvement (i.e., have not made Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) for three or more years), in corrective action, or in restructuring status are eligible to receive SES.

Charter Schools Failing....

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 21:34:00 -0400

We were forwarded this article and found it interesting and worth passing along as we're of the belief that MVRCS isn't too far behind or too different.

What Happens When Charter Schools Fail (from NPR)

Investigating Charter Schools Fraud In Philadelphia

by NPR Staff

Charter schools are taxpayer-funded schools that are overseen by their own independent boards. Because of their independence, they are allowed to do things that traditional public schools cannot do. School administrators can experiment with things like the length of the school day and the makeup of each school's curriculum.
With that freedom, charter schools have become academic beacons for parents looking to find the best and safest schooling options for their children. But the system's lack of oversight has also created problems. In recent years, there have been investigations in states, including California, Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania, which found charter school CEOs taking money from their own schools, putting unqualified relatives on their payrolls and engaging in other questionable activities.

On Monday's Fresh Air, Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Martha Woodall details her ongoing investigation into Philadelphia's charter school system, where 19 of the 74 charter schools operating in the city are under investigation for fraud, financial mismanagement and conflicts of interest.

More By Martha Woodall

Read Martha Woodall's Charter Schools Series In The Philadelphia Inquirer

Corruption And Fraud
At one school, the Philadelphia Academy Charter School, parents raised concerns in 2008 after school administrators told them that there was no money available for special education students.
"The school kept saying 'We don't have money [for these students],' " Woodall tells Fresh Air's Terry Gross. "However, there was money being spent on all kinds of other issues. [When parents] raised questions at the Board of Trustees meetings, [they] were basically told, 'We don't want you asking questions.' "

Ultimately, both the founding CEO of Philadelphia Academy Charter School and his successor were charged with stealing almost $1 million from the school's coffers, including money students had collected for a Toys for Tots campaign. The two men — one of whom had only a high school education — also allegedly engaged in questionable real estate deals. As a result, the high school paid rent money for its facilities directly to them.
"They charged really high rental rates for the school to use the building and then they accumulated money through the higher rates," she says. "They were using taxpayer money that was supposed to go to the school for other purposes."
In addition, both the school's founding CEO and his successor had relatives on the school's payroll. The founding CEO's wife was the head of the board of trustees.
"They were making more money and supervising people who had far more experience and more credentials than they had," she says. "In order to keep the school open, the Philadelphia School District required the top administrators to leave and required a replacement of the board, and the board then basically fired all of the relatives. They wanted to sever all ties with all of the families involved."

But Philadelphia Academy Charter School wasn't the only charter school in Philadelphia with ethical and financial problems.
"We've had cases here where large numbers of family members are on the payroll and [other instances where there were] contracts awarded to relatives and friends that include leases on luxury cars," she says. "Part of the problem that we have found is that the boards that are overseeing some of these schools are not involved as deeply as they should be. ... They may be friends of the CEO and therefore they're reluctant to provide the type of oversight that they should be providing."
School districts are supposed to monitor charter schools' academic progress. In the Philadelphia School District, says Woodall, there are seven people overseeing all 74 charter schools in the district — but that office will soon be halved owing to budget cuts.
"You have so few people keeping track of the charter schools," she says. "They don't have opportunities to go out and visit the schools and pay too much attention until the charters are up for renewal. So that gives several years in between where people can get away with things."

School Boards - What Is Wrong With MVRCS's

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Sat, 4 Jun 2011 14:32:00 -0400

We came across this article and thought that it addressed a few of the issues that the Board of Trustees face at MVRCS. It is interesting that the most visible, vocal, and volatile member of the Board, Neil Kinnon, is also the individual who feels most entitled and continues to abuse his position - at the expense of MVRCS's reputation and name. While school boards at our district schools have a system of checks and balance as members are elected, the board members at MVRCS have not only been appointed but (according to our sources) have been given an unlimited term and can not be removed (of course this most benefits Neil Kinnon who truly SHOULD be removed). To make matters worse, the one individual in the Administration who does have the educational qualifications to make decisions regarding academics, has been stripped of any say in such matters. If the author of this article is accurate the Board at MVRCS is not only deficient but are truly lacking within the four major areas of concern and are in need of reform. We are complete agreement! Our comments are in red.

From: Students First - How to Reform School Boards

How to Reform School Boards

May 25, 2011

Gene I. Maeroff's new book is "School Boards in America: A Flawed Exercise in Democracy." He is a senior fellow at Teachers College, Columbia University, and president of the school board in Edison, New Jersey.

School boards are the Rodney Dangerfields of education—garnering little respect and serving as objects of derision.
Granted, while some of those who serve on school boards have their deficiencies, in general they tend to be civic-minded do-gooders who, unlike their neighbors, are willing to give up their free time and privacy for an often unpaid position that likely involves more hassle than acclaim. And some school boards are highly functional.
Certainly, there are ways to make school boards more efficient and more effective. Those who promote reforms in elementary and secondary education are remiss if they don't take note of the role of school boards, however insignificant those entities may seem. The states that empower local school boards with governance responsibilities and educational change may not succeed unless members of boards see the need for change and are willing to take bold steps to institute reforms.
But many obstacles stand in the way of improving school boards. After serving as president of a school board, analyzing educational trends for decades, and spending two and a half years researching and writing a newly-published book on the subject I conclude that these are at least four major areas to address when it comes to school board reform:

1. Qualifications of members
School board members in America range from those with doctorates to those that have not even completed high school. Almost all come onto school boards (more than 90 percent of them through elections; the rest are appointed) with little or no preparation for the specific tasks that await them. Some outstanding people serve on school boards and some have no business on these boards, given their temperament and ignorance. (yes Neil, this is directed towards you)
If more school boards were appointed, and consideration were given only to candidates who have been interviewed and vetted by panels of leading citizens who do not represent special interest groups, this could make for better boards. Moreover, the criteria for consideration might go beyond the basics—citizenship and residence. (not to mention self-serving interests and political gains)

2. The elective process
Elections are certain to predominate even if more school districts shifted to appointed boards. The democratic process, though, sometimes contains the seeds of its own undoing. It is too easy for special interest groups to thrive in school board elections. Groups like teachers' unions that believe they can gain from the election of particular candidates or individuals who want to promote a single agenda—say, sharply reducing expenditures—sometimes figure prominently in board elections.
It would be undemocratic and illegal to bar such involvement. But more could be done to publicize which groups and individuals spend money and donate time for particular candidates. Furthermore, debates aired on local TV channels could enable more people to become familiar with candidates and their stance on particular issues. (or which individuals may have conflicting interests and motives)

3. The preparation and training of members
Governance is the main job of school boards. Most people, however well informed, do not know the ins and outs of the governance process and are unfamiliar with the legal responsibilities of board members. And because they are governing school systems, members of these boards should also be more conversant than the average citizen about issues involving teaching and learning.
Some states and some organizations such as the Center for Reform of School Systems run programs to deepen the knowledge of board members about educational issues and to facilitate their governance skills. These efforts should be expanded and reach beyond the once-a-year seminar. ('legal responsibilities would mean knowing that you CAN NOT TELL YOUR STAFF THEY CAN NOT UNIONIZE, MATTERS PERTAINING TO ILLEGAL EMPLOYER PRACTICES, CONFLICTS OF ISSUES, ETC. We won't even get into the number of accreditation's and funding (Title 1 at the very least) that have been lost due to Kinnon's short sightedness. 'Once-a-year seminar' - how about no seminars, training, or education in matters pertaining to best practices in education and education administration. Only at MVRCS).

4. Conduct by school members
Finally, nepotism should be a concern when it comes to school boards. All too often a member may intercede to gain special treatment for a relative. Ethics regulations have been promulgated in many locales, and this has crimped but hardly eliminated the practice.
Concern about the conduct of school board members and their role in personnel decisions should go well beyond nepotism, though. Cronyism, favoritism, and patronage may not involve relatives, but they do lead to appointments and promotions that undermine the meritocracy and saddle school systems with employees who may not be the best qualified for their jobs—from security guards to principals. (We don't believe commentary is required on this one - the actions of Kinnon speak for themselves. Yet this doesn't even TOUCH upon his conflict in serving the needs of both the school and the City of Malden. Shame, shame, shame Neil).

How REAL School Boards Do It....Meeting Minutes

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Thu, 26 May 2011 23:19:00 -0400

Even though the Attorney General under the Open Meeting Laws now requires school committees (including Board of Trustees of charter schools) to provide 48 hour notice (with an agenda)AND keep minutes of all meetings, it seems that of the sending districts, only the Board at Mystic Valley does not feel the need to make such minutes easily accessible to parents. Getting a copy of the minutes for Board Meetings at Mystic Valley is, at the very least, a challenging task. While most districts (and the sending districts of MVRCS) make their minutes easily accessible on their website, Sir Kinnon does not choose to do so. At MVRCS if a parent or individual would like to see the minutes a request must be made and a copying fee charged unless one chooses to go into the business office to review them there (if they do in fact exist - we've heard that the appointed secretary of the board is not generally taking notes). Additionally, while minutes of Executive Sessions are only legally allowed to be kept confidential until the issue(s) discussed within such sessions have been resolved, His Royal Arse has refused to release these minutes upon request (and let us not fail to mention that the Board is only LEGALLY permitted to enter into Executive Session under certain circumstances, not whenever they choose).
In any event, we feel that it is worth demonstrating how school boards/committees who are accountable to the parents of their school AND have NOTHING to hide, make obtaining copies of meeting minutes so incredibly easy to access. We feel it is also worth mentioning that at some of these meetings state representatives have attended. This of course would NEVER happen at MVRCS (except of course maybe Arse's side kick Howard who doesn't count) as if any public official (besides those from Malden who have become immune to Kinnon's rude, arrogant behavior toward those in attendance) EVER witnessed the Board Meetings at MVRCS, they would be truly horrified and disgusted. Never mind the fact that Kinnon has incorrectly informed parents that dared to speak out that he 'doesn't have to have public meetings' - yet another illegal bullying tactic from the Arse's mouth. Oh Kinnon, what a gem you are!

How great it is for the parents of these districts that parents are actually permitted to be kept abreast of what takes place at meetings involving their childs education. Simply Marvelous!

Stoneham School Committee Minutes:
http://www.stonehamschools.net/Pages/School%20Committee%20Minutes

Melrose School Committee Minutes:
http://www.melroseschools.com/msc/full_committee_meetings/index.cfm

Wakefield School Committee Minutes:
http://www.wakefield.k12.ma.us/pages/WakefieldPS_ComMinutes/

Medford School Committee Minutes:
http://www.medfordpublicschools.org/about/central-administration/school-committee/#agendas

Everett School Committee Minutes:
http://www.boarddocs.com/wa/waesd/Board.nsf/Public

Malden School Committee Minutes: (these were, by far, the most vague and lacking of all the sending districts)
http://www.cityofmalden.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=content.eventCalendar&view=text

Let the Teacher Turnover Begin!

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Fri, 20 May 2011 17:47:00 -0400

As the Administration continues to make their rounds with contracts for those employees they hope to keep, the rumors will be flying about who they DON'T plan on keeping. In true MVRCS fashion those staff members who the school does not want to keep will have their contract discussions held off until the school is done with them (i.e. the last day of the school year). It causes us great concern that so many of the teachers who had been with the school for years have left within recent years. Of course none of the 'Friends and Family' members EVER leave (and of course, why would they, they all have very cushy positions that requires little). At the same time it is always disappointing when certain teachers DON'T leave and return year after year much to the dismay of students and parents alike.
We have heard a number of rumors regarding who is staying, who is going, and who is LOOKING to go.It seems that the lead teacher for the 4th grade is actively seeking positions elsewhere. As this particular teacher is a known snitch who frequently rats out her colleagues, we are left to believe that the decision to leave is her own and wonder if she has shared her intentions with the Administration. Sadly, many former staff members have left MVRCS as direct result of this particular teachers sense of superiority and habit of snitching on her colleagues. Even more teachers have requested to not work with her and approached the Administration as a result of her being so incredibly difficult to work with. Unfortunately, as a result of her willingness to rat out her fellow staff members and willingness to play the MVRCS game of systematic elimination (of both teachers and students), she was permitted to continue in her role. We are of the belief that with her departure the 4th grade teachers have a chance of becoming a more cohesive and effective team. If nothing else, morale in the building has a chance of improving.
Interestingly enough the school does give 'staying bonuses' to those teachers who are both welcomed to return AND plan on returning. We've heard that over the years teachers who have signed contracts, and ultimately accepted a 'staying bonus', yet have a change in plans have been sued. Since it isn't the end of the year and this teacher is proactively and aggressively seeking a position elsewhere, we are left to the conclusion that it is her decision. The question is whether she has or will accept the 'staying bonus' if offered to her. Inquiring minds want to know...Adios Rat-Girl!

Kinnon - Making Decisions Based on Spite?

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Mon, 16 May 2011 23:00:00 -0400

Malden Advocate - S. Broadway Council Discussion

If we ever had any doubt as to what traits make up Neil Kinnon's character, we don't any longer.

It would appear as though SPITE is the dominant trait of Neil Kinnon and is at the heart of what he bases his decisions and actions upon. With all the mud that is currently being thrown at MVRCS due to him, some might be having difficulty in keeping it all straight (Maplewood Firehouse, Roosevelt Park, the Dog Park, etc.). Just to recap, as the City of Malden was approaching the end of their lease of the Maplewood Firestation, MVRCS reached out to them and attempted to (in our opinion) extort field time from them due to what MVRCS believed was their need of the Maplewood Station. Of course when the City fought back and closed the fire station due to the deplorable conditions in the structural issues of the building, Kinnon and Nestor attempted to stir the pot by claiming that the building itself was fine, the issues were the result of the firefighters lack of housekeeping skills (although roof issues, HVAC systems, rodents and mold are not usually as a result of housekeeping issues). It was pretty apparent that their reaction was based on Kinnon's anger at not being able to strong arm the City into giving him what he wanted (field space). Kinnon, to demonstrate just how truly vindictive and spiteful he is, rebutted by proposing a tax hike to finance the new fire station that Malden has been discussing and/or building since 2003 when they originally sold MVRCS the firehouse. Let us also not forget his on-going battle with the firefighters (did he allow the building to crumble around them out of spite? We think so) and that while his 'followers' spout off about what a great deal the city got in renting the firehouse, that it was at the expense of the students of MVRCS. We won't even broach the subject of conflict of issues on this matter as we'd never get to further demonstrate our point.

Last week the City Councilors met with Mayor Howard to discuss the South Broadway Park renovations. The meeting was covered most thoroughly in the Malden Advocate and can be found Here (Malden Advocate). The city has the majority of the expense of renovations covered by grants but these grants are only available to the city for a limited time and the deadline is quickly approaching. While it sounds as though the majority of the Councilors were on-board with proposal Mayor Howard presented, Kinnon appeared to try and stall the Councilors from moving forward. It would appear as though his actions are based more on spite at not being able to command field time for MVRCS (anyone else hearing 'conflict of interests' ringing in their heads). He specifically took issue with the fact that the Mayor had overestimated the cost of renovations in a prior presentation (as long as the project stays on budget, what is the issue?) and claims that he had made requests for changes to the original plans and hadn't heard anything (although he wouldn't specify what changes he had requested). He then requested that the park discussion be delayed and addressed at an upcoming Public Properties Committee meeting even though that Committee (nor the Finance Committee which he is part of) controls the design of the park. Even more interesting is that one of the roadblocks that he put up was at the idea of using funds from the recently implemented Meal Tax as he felt it wasn't right to 'ax' a project that those funds were earmarked for. Interestingly enough, in yet another article at the Malden Patch is quoted as using funds from the Meal Tax for various projects that INCLUDE the South Broadway Park (and yet Kinnon is now finding fault with it and Howard is claiming that that scenario was not addressed...hmmmm). The Malden Patch Article can be found Here (Malden Patch Meal Tax Money Discussion.

We're thinking that Kinnon will try every trick in the book to stall the South Broadway Park project until the funding is no longer available in an attempt to make the City of Malden agree to field space for MVRCS. While this may allow MVRCS to gain the field time Kinnon requires, it does nothing to better the name of MVRCS or mend the adversarial relationship Kinnon has caused between the residents of Malden and the MVRCS community.

Yes Mr Kinnon, you are definitely a very spiteful individual.

Malden Advocate Quotes

Kinnon did not like that Howard’s cost estimates differed from an original presentation he gave in November, going from $6.4 million to $5.5 million. He also had some changes he’d like to see written into the park plans.

Kinnon also bristled at the idea that the city could use money from the meals tax, passed earlier this year, to fund the park improvements. The tax revenue, Kinnon said, is already targeted toward specific projects.

“I could not go along with axing any of those projects to fund South Broadway,” Kinnon said.

But Mayor Howard replied that the meals tax was never mentioned.
“I believe we can accomplish what we do under new bonding – with new revenue sources,” said the mayor.
Kinnon requested that the discussion be continued back in Public Properties Committee which Condon is chairman, requesting further dialogue.
Condon reminded Kinnon that Public Properties doesn’t control the design of the park and again asked the committee to focus on the bonding issue.
“I’ve asked for redesigns for the past few months. I want to know what I’m getting down there,” said Kinnon. “I don’t think it’s an unreasonable request.”
The matter will be discussed at a joint meeting of Public Properties and Finance committees next Tuesday.

Malden Patch Meal Tax Money Quotes

South Broadway Park
The biggest project funded by the meals tax is the South Broadway Park improvements. The reconstruction of the site will include new drainage, road and traffic construction, and folding in additional land from the adjacent Broadway plaza.
The current project cost is set for $5.5 million, but the amount actually needed from the meals tax money could be far less.
“It might be that the actual cost won’t cost anything on the municipal budget at all,” said Howard.
The drainage improvements will be paid for by a water and sewer overlay account, while the city can tap into Chapter 90 funding from the state for roadway and traffic-calming improvements in the area. The project is also eligible for federal Community Development Block Grant funding. If additional funding is needed, it will come from the meals tax binding.
Once completed, the park aesthetically will look like the neighboring Maplewood Park. The diamond will shift away from neighborhood homes, and the path between Maplewood Street and the shopping plaza will be better defined and have better traffic controls.

Kindergartners at the New Athletic Facility? So We Hear....

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Sun, 8 May 2011 17:50:00 -0400

A number of parents have written to us recently to share with us the news of MVRCS decision to put the incoming Kindergartner classrooms (for the school year 2011-2012) in the new athletic complex. We're not even sure where to start on this issue except to state our disbelief.

Our first concern is that we thought we had heard when the athletic facility was first announced that one major issue the school had to address before purchasing it was that of an environmental or safety issue of the land itself. If we remember our information correctly, the concern was that due to the nature of the businesses of the previous tenants, the school had to have the land checked to see if it would be safe for a school building (or occupancy?). We thought we had heard that the reason the school chose not to use the land for the building of a new school facility (of which many thought would be more prudent and in alignment with the mission of the school) was that the land was not approved for such a facility. Of course given that a group of students are still using the building (5 times a week for 2.5 hours) that has been deemed unusable for Malden Firefighters, this should come as no surprise to anyone. Furthermore, the fact that a 2006 report by the state called into question the effectiveness of the HVAC system and the importance of keeping windows open for air flow (yet the library has no windows that can be opened), AND YET nothing has been done about such system. Why would we think that the school would feel any need to pay attention to safety issues when dealing with our children?

The other issues we have with this decision is in regards to the logistical implications of having a single grade at yet ANOTHER facility. One concern many parents of older children have is the pick-up and drop-off issue for parents. Specifically how parents can be at two different facilities at the same time. Of course the school could implement a shuttle service for the kindergartners as they have done for the HS students but are they going to then also implement a charge for that service? Let's not forget that this year when they began charging for the bus how the school tried to break the rules of the Department of Education regarding transportation. First with the linear v. driven miles issue where they tried to implement a policy that only provided transportation to those who were 2 LINEAR miles or more from the school (the DOE requires DRIVEN miles). Then they tried to make the Lebanon street a 'hub' and even if a student lived more than 2 driven miles from the HS but not the lower school they were (and may still be) charging a transportation fee (the DOE requires that it be from the facility the student attends not a 'hub' facility). Additionally, any time required for transportation would cut into the learning day of the Kindergartners who have always had the same amount of learning time as the lower facility students. Of course we'd like to believe that the school would be honest and do as is required by them but then again, we're talking about Neil Kinnon the man who doesn't believe laws and rules apply to him.

Besides the transportation issue we can't imagine the logistical issues regarding specialists, medical needs, lunch needs, and the other general needs of the students and teachers. A prime example would be that regarding instruct time. As it stands currently the students are grouped by ability, at times requiring students in one grade to attend reading/math lessons within a different grade. Kindergartners have been known to go to higher grade classrooms for reading instruction and likewise, some 1st have received reading/math instruction within the Kindergarten classes. This move would make that impossible and makes us question how the school will handle such situations. Additionally will the specialists (such as special education, art, music, PE, etc.) all be required to travel between schools? What about library? While the current location of the library and the manner in which library is conducted is less than ideal, is it going to become even more convoluted? What about behavior issues where children are sent to Chris Finn's office (we've heard that Dr. McCleary is going to have his office in this facility and is going to handle such issues). According to our sources the facility is going to have it's own nurse and receptionist and house many of the Administration. We're sure this will all turn into even more opportunity for Neil Kinnon to employ his friends and family members (and those other folks who have become unemployable like his good friend Gately).
We also have to question if this is the schools way of attempting to increase the number of students they currently have. We recall that classless recruitment ad that MVRCS public relations put out disrespecting Malden that was regarding increasing the cap currently in place. We question if as a result of the huge expense they are incurring to build the athletic facility they are not looking to increase income. Let us also not forget the current situation regarding the loss of income (and ability to extort field space) from the City of Malden. While the school may be hoping to tear down the Maplewood station to eventually allow the facility to accommodate additional students, we've heard that the building may be protected as a historical monument which would prevent any such plan. Of course while Kinnon has truly made a horses a** out of himself regarding the Firestation fiasco, it is worth mentioning that his argument in support of keeping the firefighters there is that Deb Fallon faked the mold reports. The ironic part is that his argument FOR being able to tear down a potential historical building is that it is infested with mold. Which is it Mr. 'The Truth Is Of Little Consequence' Kinnon?
Regardless of all of our reasons for finding this move less than brilliant, we find ourselves questioning how much thought and/or the ulterior motives of MVRCS in making this decision. While most would agree that the lower facility is less than adequate in housing the number of students they currently have there, this does not seem like the best solution. It is no secret that Neil Kinnon has been quoted as saying that he refuses to build a new lower school facility until they are eligible for the same funding as are the public schools. So if we understand him correctly, he'll build an athletic facility and create havoc to the children by having it house some of the students but he won't put the funds into building a much needed lower school facility out of spite (even though it would be much more in alignment with the schools Mission and Charter)? It would appear as though he is a very spiteful man as we have also heard that in his true anti-union stance he has stated that he would close the school down if the teachers unionized (umm, isn't that illegal?). What a fine, fine man he is.....

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Tue, 3 May 2011 08:53:00 -0400

We have made it no secret that we have been less than impressed with the Special, Education services that Mystic Valley offers. While we believe that the Special Education teachers per se are not the problem (although they could take on a more collaborative approach to teaching by working WITH the classroom teachers rather than independently), we do feel that the department is incredibly lacking due to the lack of leadership on the part of Kathy Kinnon. We have seen their IEP's and find them lacking in substance and in addressing each childs individual needs (too many of their IEP's state the same goals and objectives regardless of the child). Since we know that parents are left to the information that is provided to them by Kathy Kinnon (and Chris Finn when they question or challenge their childs progression and need to be reminded that 'they have other options and MVRCS isn't for everyone'), we thought we'd provide some insight from a well-educated, experienced individual with real Special Education knowledge. We hope this helps parents who are in the process of updating their childs IEP and/or those who do not feel that their childs IEP is adequate. Remember, you may request an additional meeting to address IEP's at any time should you have concerns or do not feel as though your child is progressing under their current IEP.

From WrightsLaw: http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/goals.lesson.heitin.htm

Writing IEP Goals

by Ruth Heitin, Ph.D., Educational Consultant

Creating an IEP with a team of people who are all there to design a good educational program for one unique child can be a pleasure. It can also be very productive. When the whole team has the same level of understanding about IEPs, it is even better. Sounds like crazy talk? Just ask those who have seen it happen. The big winner here is the child.

A Lesson in Writing IEP Goals
An IEP is good educational programming. Good IEPs set the standard for good education. Each part of the IEP addresses an important part of educational planning. The IEP team focuses on the unique educational needs of an individual student. The goals reflect the child’s needs. Designing well-formed goals is an important part of writing an IEP.

“How do I find examples of good IEP goals?”

Marie, the mother who asked this question, had attended several IEP meetings for her child. She did not think the goals the IEP team proposed were good. Yet, she didn’t know what good IEP goals look like.

If you are a teacher, you may have the same questions. Good IEPs set the standard for good teaching. Each part of the IEP addresses an important part of educational planning.

IEP goals must be individualized. Rather than relying on sample goals, you need to learn how to write IEP goals that meet the unique needs of a particular child.

Goals
We all set goals for ourselves, whether we are aware of it or not. Our goals can be as simple as getting to work on time. They can be as complex as budgeting our expenses. We know what we need to do, and we set out to do it.

An IEP goal is not unlike a personal goal. With an IEP goal, we create an educational program for a child with special needs. An IEP goal describes what we hope the child will achieve, or the intended outcome of instruction.

The outcome is stated as an action we expect to see. Goals must be measured in an objective way. We have to be able to see the action or count it or score it. When we state goals clearly as actions, measuring progress comes naturally from the goal. A goal must establish a criterion for acceptable mastery.

In short, when we write instructional goals we have to know what the child needs to learn and what action we want to see. We have to measure progress toward the goal. Finally, we set a level of mastery that we expect.

We use standardized tests and informal assessments to measure a child’s progress toward the goals. We can do tallies or checklists or give tests specific to the action we seek. Anyone who looks at the measurement should be able to understand it. And, all those who review the measurement should be able to come to the same conclusion.

Learning how to write individualized IEP goals is an important first step in developing your child’s IEP. IEP goals should also be SMART and based on good educational practice.

SMART IEP goals are:
Specific
Measurable
Use Action words
Realistic
Time-limited

Educational research will help you identify essential skills in the core academic subjects of reading, writing, and math. When you know the sequence of skills for a subject, you will know how skills build on each other. You can identify gaps in skills – skills that your child hasn’t mastered and needs to learn.

Think about how children learn math. A child learns how to add and subtract. Then he is ready to learn how to multiply and divide.

Before you can develop measurable IEP goals, the child’s skills must be measured objectively. Objective data about a child’s skills are the baselines for goals. This data also should show progress, or lack of it, when measured over time.

We tend to use the terms “goal” and “objective” to mean the same thing. In IEPs, there is a distinction between them. We write annual goals. Objectives are the short-term steps to reach goals.

Reading
In 2000, the report of experts on the National Reading Panel explained the research in reading. This included more than 10,000 research studies. All this information helped form a better understanding of reading and what works in teaching (see www.nationalreadingpanel.org/publications/researchread.htm). The findings from the research changed reading instruction forever. In 2001, Congress passed No Child Left Behind (see www.wrightslaw.com/nclb). The results of the research were included there, too.

Reading instruction requires explicit, intensive, and systematic instruction in the five necessary components of reading instruction:

Phonemic Awareness - the ability to hear and sequence sounds in spoken words.
Phonics - the relationship between the letters of written language and the sounds of spoken language.
Fluency - the ability to read text accurately and quickly.
Vocabulary - the words students must know to communicate effectively.
Comprehension - the ability to understand and gain meaning from what has been read.

Learning to read requires a child to learn specific skills in sequence. Children who have difficulty learning to read have deficiencies in phonemic awareness skills. A child with weak phonemic awareness skills will have difficulty learning phonics skills. This child will not be a fluent reader. If the child does not master phonics and fluency, he will not be able to master vocabulary and reading comprehension.

One young teacher made a banner to illustrate the sequence of reading skills. This came from the specialized program she was using. As students learned a skill, she would advance them down the banner. This made it easy for her to write specific reading goals.

Math
After children master math operations skills (adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing), they learn how to use reasoning to solve word problems.

One of my clients, Jane, had this math goal in her IEP:

Jane will use problem solving strategies to solve 2 step word problems with + and – (0 – 999) and x and division (0 – 12) on 3/4 trials.

This is NOT a good IEP goal. Why not?
The intended outcome might have been for Jane to solve two-part word problems. But this goal says she needs to learn to use problem-solving strategies. The goal does not state whether she will be able to solve problems. Worse, this goal includes all math operations (adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing), making the goal overly broad.

Jane’s math goal is not SMART. It is not specific or measurable. It does not use action words, and is not realistic or time-limited.

How can we revise this goal to make it SMART?

According to Jane’s IEP, using objects helps her to solve problems. A better goal for Jane might be:

Using real money, Jane will be able to show how much money she has after she receives two weeks of allowance, and how much money she will have left after she buys one object, with 75 percent accuracy measured twice weekly each quarter.

Now, the goal meets the five criteria for a SMART IEP goal.

Writing
Achievement in written language requires many skills. Mechanics help make thoughts clear. Word usage and sentence structure help make the writing interesting. Good thought expression sends the desired message.

In Jane’s IEP, her writing goal read:

Jane needs to write a paragraph, with a topic sentence and at least 4 detail sentences, on one given topic using her editing checklist measured twice monthly.

So, if Jane writes that paragraph, has she achieved that goal?

By the way it was written, the intended outcome is that Jane only “needs” to write a paragraph to meet the goal.

A better writing goal for Jane is:

Jane will write and edit a five-sentence paragraph that addresses a given subject twice a month. Each paragraph will include a topic sentence, at least four details and a conclusion. She will earn a score of 75 percent or higher on a writing rubric for each writing assignment. There will be at least four writing assignments per quarter.

Tip: Rubrics are useful scoring tools that measure a child’s progress. A writing rubric includes the criteria and standards used to assess a child’s performance on writing assignments.

The revised goal is specific and measurable. It uses action words, is realistic, and time-limited. The revised goal is SMART!

Um Neil, Your True Colors Are Showing.....

noreply@blogger.com (UnOfficial MVRCS) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 17:29:00 -0400

With the closing of the Maplewood Fire Station, Neil Kinnon and MVRCS has lost the 'hold' they've had over the City of Malden in 'negotiating' the backroom deals for field time. Kinnon showed his true colors at a City Meeting last night where he was blatantly disrespectful and condescending to not only the Fire Chief and Deputy Fire Chief, but to other council members and the residents who were in attendance. In typical Kinnon fashion he attempted to bully and intimidate those that opposed him, at one point threatening to have people removed. It was apparent from the other councilors who were in attendance, that they were not in agreement with not only his tone but with his challenging of the closing of the fire station itself. If Neil Kinnon thought that he would embarrass the chief by asking questions in a verbally abusive manner and to which he (Kinnon) already knew the answers to, he was surely mistaken as he is the one who showed his true self.

For a man who has shown a blatant disregard for the laws that should govern him (in any of his roles or positions), it was comical on a number of issues for him to state that the Chief "failed to properly report and document deteriorating conditions at the station before the decision was made to close it; broke procedure by closing the station without notifying the council or citizens; and did not account for increases in response times to the eastern half of the city." (Rancor Erupts As Kinnon Grills Malden Fire Chief).
In regards to not documenting deteriorating conditions, it seems that the Firemen had been in negotiations with the City for some time. It would seem overly apparent that if the firehouse is over 100 years old and no major work has been done on it, then it would be in less than adequate condition. Additionally a report was done in 2006 regarding the conditions of the building. The issue wasn't that the Chief did not follow procedure but that the City of Malden and MVRCS were in disagreement as to who was responsible for the condition of the building.
In regards to the allegation that the station was closed "without notifying the council or citizens" seems even more absurd after the councilors, Health Inspector, and Inspectional Services individuals who toured the facility as a group were quoted as saying the building was of great concern. Of course Kinnon and Nestor tried to place the blame on the firemen who they accused of neglecting the facility yet of great concern were the structural issues that plagued the building. These issues would have little to do with the housekeeping skills of the firemen.
Even more comical was Kinnon's concern regarding response times to different parts of the city as a result of the move to the Overlook Station. Interesting how he is concerned about the citizens safety now but felt that it was ok to have less than the adequate number of firefighters when 10 firefighters were laid off last year. Furthermore, if he was truly concerned about the residents of his ward, he would addressed the issue of the buildings condition BEFORE it came to this. His actions are very reactionary when he should have been much more proactive in maintaining and ensuring that his backroom deal stayed viable.

One could surmise that it must have come as a total surprise to Kinnon that not only did the Fire Chief close the station, but did so with backing from Mayor Howard as he has been quoted as saying “I believe the City Council members and the Fire Department administration officials made an appropriate decision to vacate the premises at 11 Laurel Street for available facilities at Overlook Ridge,” Howard wrote (Rancor Erupts as Kinnon Grills Malden Fire Chief).
Last nights performance made it clear that Kinnon is incredibly self-absorbed and egotistical. It is obvious that he is unwilling to admit that the fire house is in deplorable condition regardless of the opinion of those more qualified than he. Additionally, we would surmise that if the air quality is unfit for adult men, then it certainly is unfit for young children (yes, students are still receiving lessons within the building).He demonstrated much of the attitude and behavior that he demonstrates at Board Meetings. Unfortunately for MVRCS, unlike his position as City Councilor where he is elected, the parents of MVRCS have no such opportunity to 'vote' him out. And, once again Neil Kinnon has managed to drag MVRCS name into the mud. Well done Councilor, oops Chairman.

Read more at Rancor Erupts as Kinnon Grills Malden Fire Chief and be sure to check out the reader comments regarding Neil Kinnon's deplorable behavior.