There are several things in this world that I do not feel called to do...specifically because I do not feel qualified! One of those things is being a School Administrator!
The School Board met on November 22, 2011 to decide what to do, since the levy failed on November 8th. They needed to come up with a plan. While this is the direction they are going, the "specifics" are still being worked out. Here are the "first round" cuts:
• School District Library staff eliminated (The Library will remain accessible for students through classroom teachers)
• Elimination of the following low participation sport programs: Wrestling & Bowling
• Reduction or Elimination of Elementary Art, P.E & Music based on scheduling
• Enact an Extra Curricular fee of $25.00 per student, per extracurricular program
• Enact the guidelines that allows Athletic participation to count as a P.E. Credit
(We were told that Staff Members possibly affected in regards to their overall employment status by these reductions or eliminations were informed prior to this meeting. There were no surprises.)
These cuts are NOT threats. These are REAL. They will take place effective for the 2012-2013 school year.
There are those who will feel that that isn't much, or it doesn't really affect a lot of people. If their children aren't part of extra curricular programs, this won't affect them.
There are also some who say, Why do Elementary children NEED Physical Education, Music and Art (Art is only available at this time to 4th - 6th grades in the Elementary)? There are many sources I can cite that show a direct benefit to children and their ability to read through Music education. (If interested, please let me know and I will have that information for you!) Then there are those discussions about childhood obesity and the direct correlation to not enough physical activity.
Teachers can check out books in the library. However, children learn from every adult that they come in contact with in the school building: Secretaries, the School Nurse, the Custodians, the Cafeteria Staff and even the Librarians. I am saddened that there will not be an opportunity to interact with the Library staff.
Last, but certainly not least in this discussion, is the elimination of Wrestling and Bowling. There is no denying that these two sports are "low participation". That was obvious at the recent Meet the Teams night. However, not everyone plays basketball. I understand the School Board's decision and know that it was NOT an easy decision. The truth remains that Wrestling and Bowling enhanced the education of the students who did participate in those programs and it will leave a void.
I will support the School Board and Administration as they continue to work within the financial constraints that this economy has imposed. It is my hope that the community will too! And, if the School Board should choose to put a levy back on the ballot, it is my pray that the community will rally and show that support by voting YES. Together, we CAN make a difference!
ON A MORE POSITIVE NOTE!!!
The Stryker Village Council has agreed to vacate the street that has caused division and heated arguments. If you see a Council member, please give them a big "THANK YOU"!! Here's to hoping that this gift of a "yes" vote will begin the healing that is needed in our community. It gives me hope when there didn't seem to be anything positive. We do live in a great community and this is a huge step in the right direction!!
THANK YOU STRYKER VILLAGE COUNCIL!!! The children and the town applaud you!
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