Maine Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rosa Scarcelli has been vocal in her opposition of shut down days. Through her Twitter account Scarcelli has expressed a strong opposition to the idea. “Could there be a worse idea,” Scarcelli said. Dirigo Blue published an email from Scarcelli which argued against shut down days.
For a state that already has one of the shortest school years in the country, there has to be a better solution. That we’re even considering a plan to balance the state budget on the backs of school children and their parents with one-time, quick fixes like school shutdown days clearly shows how bad our state’s budget problems have become. And it shows why we need a change of direction in Augusta.
Consider the ramifications. Parents will have to take time off from work or find childcare for their children. Low-income families that rely on the school lunch program will pay more to make sure their children get enough to eat. The interruption in classes will be difficult for teachers too, who are already hard-pressed to find the time to comply with state and federal mandates.
We can’t rely on a band-aid approach. We need strong financial management and more creative, bold thinking. Have we truly looked at all the options? School officials say shutting down the schools for a few days a year will save on heat and electricity costs. Maybe local school districts should consider more vacation time in the winter when heating costs are high and extending the school year into the summer.
I guess we are not the only warped-minded State. In Augusta, Maine, the government tried to do the same thing. Stephen Bowen of the Maine Heritage Policy Center believes that shut down days are a terrible way to balance the education budget. Bowen offers several alternatives that should be considered. School consolidation, which the state has fumbled badly, was an opportunity to “generate real savings by cutting down on over-administration and duplication of services. The approach I proposed, which was to create regional “service districts” that handled back-office operations, facility maintenance, transportation and so forth for a number of districts, would have saved millions without completely restructuring the entire system by which our school districts are organized and run.”
I think it is time we call for a performance audit on the Department of Education. They have had their chance to improve education for our kids. I think it may be time to move to local school districts. Local control of our schools appears to be the answer. The current system, where the State controls our educational system, simply does not work. Local school districts with their respective school boards would bring local control to our schools. Local accountability and local answers. I'm sure many will disagree but the current system is not working. It's time for a change. It's time for our kids to become the priority once again.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Lingle traveling to China to promote Hawaii tourism, build partnerships
Honolulu Advertiser breaking news on the internet. My question is simple. Shouldn't we be investing in our kids' education before tourism and partnerships?
Lingle acknowledged that she will be leaving the state during a debate over an estimated $1 billion budget deficit through June 2011 and public backlash over teacher furlough days.
But the governor said it is equally important for the state to look to increased business development and prepare for the economic recovery.
Maybe I'm just totally off track. Sorry for the short post but I know I will say the wrong thing if I continue. I'll just go to my room and breathe. This is really draining on the body and the mind. Good night.
Lingle acknowledged that she will be leaving the state during a debate over an estimated $1 billion budget deficit through June 2011 and public backlash over teacher furlough days.
But the governor said it is equally important for the state to look to increased business development and prepare for the economic recovery.
Maybe I'm just totally off track. Sorry for the short post but I know I will say the wrong thing if I continue. I'll just go to my room and breathe. This is really draining on the body and the mind. Good night.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Legislators, Please Rise to the Occasion
Below is a letter that was written to House Speaker Calvin Say from a concerned parent on Kauai. This same parent has also been trying to get some answers from the Governor's office for quite a while. The question is a simple one. Did the State receive federal stimulus dollars for education, and if so, where did all the money go? Of course, she has not received any answers.
Dear Representative Say:
Two years ago when you were considering convening a special session to draft legislation to keep the Hawaii Superferry operating, you were quoted in the Honolulu Advertiser as saying,"For me, when you have a crisis, that's when you're supposed to rise to the occasion.
"The State has a crisis today - with our schools closed for 34 days over the next two years and with the shortest school year in the country (and the state with the second fewest number of days has 10 more days than we do).
I expect you to lead the House of Representatives to rise to the occasion for our schools, the way you did so swiftly for the Superferry - a single business -- two years ago. Please gather support in the House for this important initiative.
If you haven't already done so, please read the online petition directed to the legislators and Governor Lingle. It has more than 2500 signatures - at www.thepetitionsite.com/1/hawaiieducationmatters
Thank you,
Representative Say has publicly stated that he will not support a special session to try and end the school furloughs. Yes, he pushed hard for the special session for the Superferry a few years ago. Apparently, the Superferry fiasco rose to the level of a "crisis" but the education of our children does not. Auwe! Shame, shame!
From the Pacific Business news, October 24, 2007,
Special session opens on Superferry bill
The Hawaii Legislature went into special session Wednesday to consider legislation to help get the Hawaii Superferry back into operation.
The Superferry suspended its interisland operations in late August, following a court order and community protests.
Gov. Linda Lingle on Tuesday ordered lawmakers to convene, stating that "a large capacity interisland ferry is in the public interest and proposed legislation to allow its operation and harbor improvements to continue to be constructed, while environmental review are conducted, require immediate action by the Legislature."
Back in 2007, the Governor and the Legislature felt that saving the Superferry was in the public interest and special legislation was required. This could only be done via a special session. Are they saying that the Superferry was more important than the future of our children? I sure hope not. I guess we will find out soon enough. God help our children.
Dear Representative Say:
Two years ago when you were considering convening a special session to draft legislation to keep the Hawaii Superferry operating, you were quoted in the Honolulu Advertiser as saying,"For me, when you have a crisis, that's when you're supposed to rise to the occasion.
"The State has a crisis today - with our schools closed for 34 days over the next two years and with the shortest school year in the country (and the state with the second fewest number of days has 10 more days than we do).
I expect you to lead the House of Representatives to rise to the occasion for our schools, the way you did so swiftly for the Superferry - a single business -- two years ago. Please gather support in the House for this important initiative.
If you haven't already done so, please read the online petition directed to the legislators and Governor Lingle. It has more than 2500 signatures - at www.thepetitionsite.com/1/hawaiieducationmatters
Thank you,
Mother of two children in public schools
Graduate of Kapaa High School, University of Hawaii-Manoa, & the William S.Richardson School of Law
Representative Say has publicly stated that he will not support a special session to try and end the school furloughs. Yes, he pushed hard for the special session for the Superferry a few years ago. Apparently, the Superferry fiasco rose to the level of a "crisis" but the education of our children does not. Auwe! Shame, shame!
From the Pacific Business news, October 24, 2007,
Special session opens on Superferry bill
The Hawaii Legislature went into special session Wednesday to consider legislation to help get the Hawaii Superferry back into operation.
The Superferry suspended its interisland operations in late August, following a court order and community protests.
Gov. Linda Lingle on Tuesday ordered lawmakers to convene, stating that "a large capacity interisland ferry is in the public interest and proposed legislation to allow its operation and harbor improvements to continue to be constructed, while environmental review are conducted, require immediate action by the Legislature."
Back in 2007, the Governor and the Legislature felt that saving the Superferry was in the public interest and special legislation was required. This could only be done via a special session. Are they saying that the Superferry was more important than the future of our children? I sure hope not. I guess we will find out soon enough. God help our children.
Monday, October 26, 2009
"I can't tell you why we didn't go for wage reductions or holidays" -- Garrett Toguchi, Board of Education Chairman
Many of us wonder why furloughs were ordered. Many of us feel that other avenues should have been explored. In yesterday's Star-Bulletin, we start to see the rationale, or lack thereof. According to the Star-Bulletin,
In Star-Bulletin interviews with key players, differing versions emerge about who first raised the furlough idea. But it is clear that other options -- such as straight pay cuts or widespread across-the-board layoffs -- were rejected by both the unions and employers early in the negotiation process.
Wil Okabe, president of the HSTA, stated that the decision to furlough was simply based on dollars. It was the best method to save the State money. It is clear that the education of our children was not considered. The fact that the furloughs were set for instructional days versus non-instructional days validate this theory.
The article further states,
Asked why the union did not look to either taking the furloughs during other times, such as at the end of the school year, Okabe said it would have affected other unions such as the UPW and also might have cut teacher's service credits because they would not have worked enough in the spring quarter to earn service credits for retirement.
This makes no sense. With the current furlough schedule, UPW workers are now reporting to work at empty schools. How much sense does that make? Mr. Okabe was worried about service credits for the teachers' retirements but not about the number of school days that our children would lose. Come on, Mr. Okabe. Can't you come up with a better excuse? We are not stupid.
Unfortunately, our children will end up the losers in this battle. Hopefully, the lawsuit filed by Mr. Seitz will change things. I am hopeful that it will. But until then, we can only watch as this State continues its tailspin. I would have hoped that regardless of the economic crisis here in Hawaii, our children would have been protected. Well, they haven't. They continue to be used as pawns in the battle between the government and the labor unions. This is shameful. Our kids are our future. After all, isn't that what ALL the politicians profess when they are running for office?
In Star-Bulletin interviews with key players, differing versions emerge about who first raised the furlough idea. But it is clear that other options -- such as straight pay cuts or widespread across-the-board layoffs -- were rejected by both the unions and employers early in the negotiation process.
Wil Okabe, president of the HSTA, stated that the decision to furlough was simply based on dollars. It was the best method to save the State money. It is clear that the education of our children was not considered. The fact that the furloughs were set for instructional days versus non-instructional days validate this theory.
The article further states,
Asked why the union did not look to either taking the furloughs during other times, such as at the end of the school year, Okabe said it would have affected other unions such as the UPW and also might have cut teacher's service credits because they would not have worked enough in the spring quarter to earn service credits for retirement.
This makes no sense. With the current furlough schedule, UPW workers are now reporting to work at empty schools. How much sense does that make? Mr. Okabe was worried about service credits for the teachers' retirements but not about the number of school days that our children would lose. Come on, Mr. Okabe. Can't you come up with a better excuse? We are not stupid.
Unfortunately, our children will end up the losers in this battle. Hopefully, the lawsuit filed by Mr. Seitz will change things. I am hopeful that it will. But until then, we can only watch as this State continues its tailspin. I would have hoped that regardless of the economic crisis here in Hawaii, our children would have been protected. Well, they haven't. They continue to be used as pawns in the battle between the government and the labor unions. This is shameful. Our kids are our future. After all, isn't that what ALL the politicians profess when they are running for office?
Friday, October 23, 2009
Need I Say More?
From today's Honolulu Advertiser:
Hawaii erred in cutting education
Reduction in school days is not the way to invest in education
By Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education
Our country is at a crossroads. The economy is in its worst recession in a generation. State and local tax revenues have been hit especially hard in the economic downturn. We need to make sure our important government services are sustained during our nation's economic troubles.
At the same time, we need to invest in our future. Too many of our schools are not preparing students for success in college and careers.
The statistics are troubling. On international tests, American students are struggling to compete with their peers around the globe. Twenty-seven percent of the nation's ninth graders don't finish high school within four years. In Hawaii, 36 percent of freshmen don't complete high school on time.
As a nation, only 40 percent of our adults complete a two-year or four-year college degree. That was good enough to lead the world a generation ago. But today it puts us behind our international competitors. Now more than ever, we need to invest in schools so we can educate our way to a better economy.
Hawaii has been making progress on student achievement. Over the 20 years that the National Assessment of Educational Progress has been given to states, Hawaii students have recorded steady gains.
Now, however, Hawaii is cutting 17 days from the current school year. All states are under financial pressure, but none are cutting this much learning time from their school year. This is a step in the wrong direction. It's inconceivable to me that this is the best solution for Hawaii.
President Obama and Congress worked together to pass the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the Recovery Act. The law includes $100 billion for education. Of that, $40 billion or more will help states avoid devastating cuts in K-12 education and drive reforms in states. My department has already made $105 million available to Hawaii from this stabilization fund. Hawaii is eligible for $52 million more when we release the rest of those funds later this year. In total, Hawaii's schools and students are scheduled to receive more than $500 million from the Recovery Act.
In addition, my department has $5 billion for competitive grants to advance school reform. The $4.35 billion Race to the Top Fund will reward states that are leading the way in reform and making education a priority. The $650 million Investing in Innovation Fund will go to districts that are advancing research-based programs to improve student achievement.
I understand that Hawaii is feeling the pain of the economy more than many states. The tourism industry is struggling. The unemployment rate is climbing. Investments in commercial real estate are declining. Tax revenues aren't meeting your budget projections. These are tough times, I know. But now is not the time to decrease investment in education. Hawaii's economic problems should not be creating an educational crisis for its children.
I was disappointed to learn that Hawaii has started closing its schools on most Fridays and will reduce the 2009-10 school year by 17 days. Sure, students may like the three-day weekends now, but I know they also realize that they will lose out in the long run if they don't receive the education they need and deserve. They understand that they won't be prepared for success in the global workforce if we cut back on the amount of time they spend in school.
Since becoming secretary of education in January, I've urged states and districts to increase the amount of time students are learning. Our competitors across the globe are doing that — and they're reaping the economic benefits of a well-educated work force.
School districts across the country are using Recovery Act funds to lengthen their school days or school years. During my seven years as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools, I saw schools that extended learning time make gains in student achievement. When done right, extended learning time allows schools to creatively add activities that reinforce what students learn during the regular school day and expand student participation in the arts and other enrichment activities.
I will work closely with Hawaii's Congressional delegation. But solving this problem will take more than federal assistance. The people in Hawaii must come together to create a solution. Elected officials, educators, union officials, community leaders and parents must work together to do the right thing for Hawaii's children.
There has to be a better solution than cutting more than three weeks from the school year. Even in these difficult financial times, we have to invest in our children's education — not reduce their opportunity to prepare themselves to succeed in the global marketplace.
Arne Duncan served as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools from 2001 through 2008, prior to becoming U.S. Secretary of Education under the Obama administration.
Hawaii erred in cutting education
Reduction in school days is not the way to invest in education
By Arne Duncan, U.S. Secretary of Education
Our country is at a crossroads. The economy is in its worst recession in a generation. State and local tax revenues have been hit especially hard in the economic downturn. We need to make sure our important government services are sustained during our nation's economic troubles.
At the same time, we need to invest in our future. Too many of our schools are not preparing students for success in college and careers.
The statistics are troubling. On international tests, American students are struggling to compete with their peers around the globe. Twenty-seven percent of the nation's ninth graders don't finish high school within four years. In Hawaii, 36 percent of freshmen don't complete high school on time.
As a nation, only 40 percent of our adults complete a two-year or four-year college degree. That was good enough to lead the world a generation ago. But today it puts us behind our international competitors. Now more than ever, we need to invest in schools so we can educate our way to a better economy.
Hawaii has been making progress on student achievement. Over the 20 years that the National Assessment of Educational Progress has been given to states, Hawaii students have recorded steady gains.
Now, however, Hawaii is cutting 17 days from the current school year. All states are under financial pressure, but none are cutting this much learning time from their school year. This is a step in the wrong direction. It's inconceivable to me that this is the best solution for Hawaii.
President Obama and Congress worked together to pass the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, also known as the Recovery Act. The law includes $100 billion for education. Of that, $40 billion or more will help states avoid devastating cuts in K-12 education and drive reforms in states. My department has already made $105 million available to Hawaii from this stabilization fund. Hawaii is eligible for $52 million more when we release the rest of those funds later this year. In total, Hawaii's schools and students are scheduled to receive more than $500 million from the Recovery Act.
In addition, my department has $5 billion for competitive grants to advance school reform. The $4.35 billion Race to the Top Fund will reward states that are leading the way in reform and making education a priority. The $650 million Investing in Innovation Fund will go to districts that are advancing research-based programs to improve student achievement.
I understand that Hawaii is feeling the pain of the economy more than many states. The tourism industry is struggling. The unemployment rate is climbing. Investments in commercial real estate are declining. Tax revenues aren't meeting your budget projections. These are tough times, I know. But now is not the time to decrease investment in education. Hawaii's economic problems should not be creating an educational crisis for its children.
I was disappointed to learn that Hawaii has started closing its schools on most Fridays and will reduce the 2009-10 school year by 17 days. Sure, students may like the three-day weekends now, but I know they also realize that they will lose out in the long run if they don't receive the education they need and deserve. They understand that they won't be prepared for success in the global workforce if we cut back on the amount of time they spend in school.
Since becoming secretary of education in January, I've urged states and districts to increase the amount of time students are learning. Our competitors across the globe are doing that — and they're reaping the economic benefits of a well-educated work force.
School districts across the country are using Recovery Act funds to lengthen their school days or school years. During my seven years as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools, I saw schools that extended learning time make gains in student achievement. When done right, extended learning time allows schools to creatively add activities that reinforce what students learn during the regular school day and expand student participation in the arts and other enrichment activities.
I will work closely with Hawaii's Congressional delegation. But solving this problem will take more than federal assistance. The people in Hawaii must come together to create a solution. Elected officials, educators, union officials, community leaders and parents must work together to do the right thing for Hawaii's children.
There has to be a better solution than cutting more than three weeks from the school year. Even in these difficult financial times, we have to invest in our children's education — not reduce their opportunity to prepare themselves to succeed in the global marketplace.
Arne Duncan served as CEO of the Chicago Public Schools from 2001 through 2008, prior to becoming U.S. Secretary of Education under the Obama administration.
One of the Many Public Comments
From the Star Bulletin website comments:
"so typical... here they are in the eleventh hour threatened with a law suit and they are scrambling to do what they should have done in the first place...lengthen that silly short day of school (should have done that years ago) and swap "training" days for instructional days. I would like to see attendance stats for these training days going back 5 years....if you add up potential paid days off for doe employees it is well over 50 per year(vacation,sick,training,ho lidays,etc) how about actually teaching where does that come in. I dont blame theteachers..they are vistims and pawns in all this...it comes from the top.lack of leadership,no moral authority to do the job assigned to them.its the politicians who fo ryears have neglected to lead and allow the unions to get out of control and to basically run the show.Why cant we take a look at the best school districts in our country and emulate them..some things are done better on the mainland and educating children is one of them"
If you read the online comments on the Honolulu Star Bulletin and Honolulu Advertiser websites, you will see a common thread. The people are unhappy. They are very unhappy that we have come to this. To reduce the number of instructional days is simply unacceptable. Yes, a lawsuit has been filed. Yes, people are scrambling to try and change things. Yes, people are playing the blame game. No matter what happens, the fact remains that the State of Hawaii did not consider education a priority. They felt that the education of our children took a back seat to everything else.
As you know, this story made the Associated Press. The media across the country have access to this story. Many newspapers carried the story so now the whole world knows about Hawaii's love for their children. Boy, do we look good.
A special session by the legislature could rectify this problem. The problem is that the Governor is not inclined to support that. Why not? Without the Governor's support, the legislators are hesitant to convene. I say that they convene anyway and let the Governor veto their actions. Plain and simple. This crisis must not be political. The politicians can flex their muscle with all the other issues, but not our kids' future. Come on people, it is time to do the right thing. It is time to take care of our kids.
"so typical... here they are in the eleventh hour threatened with a law suit and they are scrambling to do what they should have done in the first place...lengthen that silly short day of school (should have done that years ago) and swap "training" days for instructional days. I would like to see attendance stats for these training days going back 5 years....if you add up potential paid days off for doe employees it is well over 50 per year(vacation,sick,training,ho lidays,etc) how about actually teaching where does that come in. I dont blame theteachers..they are vistims and pawns in all this...it comes from the top.lack of leadership,no moral authority to do the job assigned to them.its the politicians who fo ryears have neglected to lead and allow the unions to get out of control and to basically run the show.Why cant we take a look at the best school districts in our country and emulate them..some things are done better on the mainland and educating children is one of them"
If you read the online comments on the Honolulu Star Bulletin and Honolulu Advertiser websites, you will see a common thread. The people are unhappy. They are very unhappy that we have come to this. To reduce the number of instructional days is simply unacceptable. Yes, a lawsuit has been filed. Yes, people are scrambling to try and change things. Yes, people are playing the blame game. No matter what happens, the fact remains that the State of Hawaii did not consider education a priority. They felt that the education of our children took a back seat to everything else.
As you know, this story made the Associated Press. The media across the country have access to this story. Many newspapers carried the story so now the whole world knows about Hawaii's love for their children. Boy, do we look good.
A special session by the legislature could rectify this problem. The problem is that the Governor is not inclined to support that. Why not? Without the Governor's support, the legislators are hesitant to convene. I say that they convene anyway and let the Governor veto their actions. Plain and simple. This crisis must not be political. The politicians can flex their muscle with all the other issues, but not our kids' future. Come on people, it is time to do the right thing. It is time to take care of our kids.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
What Did They Think Would Happen?
According to Breaking News on the Honolulu Star Bulletin website, "Two lawsuits seek to halt 'furlough Fridays' at Hawaii public schools"
What did our leaders think would happen? Did they think the people of Hawaii would just sit back and allow this to happen? Did they think the the people of Hawaii would agree with them that education is not a priority? The article states:
Lawyers representing public school students, in both regular and special education, have filed two separate lawsuits in U.S. District Court seeking to block "furlough Fridays."
The complaint notes that parents enrolled their children in public schools on the assumption that the school year would be 180 days, and then the state decided unilaterally to shut down schools for 17 days this year. It also says the decision disproportionately affects certain classes and racial groups.
The suit alleges that the furloughs are an unlawful change in programs and services the disabled children receive. Federal law allows changes to such special education services only if parents agree or a hearing officer or court finds the change appropriate for the child.
Attorney General Mark Bennett said that the DOE plans to go ahead with the furloughs, adding that he didn't think a request from Seitz for an injunction would be granted. "I believe the DOE has negotiated appropriately with (the Hawaii State Teachers Association) and I don't believe there is a viable cause of action," he said. Apparently, Mr. Bennett is more concerned with the union negotiations than he is with Federal law. I guess we will see what the Judge thinks.
I commend these attorneys for stepping up to the plate when our leaders failed to do so. These lawsuits were filed in Federal Court and will hopefully receive immediate attention. It is sad that this road had to be taken. The people of Hawaii spoke loud and clear but our fearless leaders chose not to listen. The attorneys warned the State of litigation but the State did not listen. The State decided to ignore the warnings and now we will be in court. At least we know that the Governor won't be able to "pressure" the Federal Judge into making a decision that will benefit the State. I am very optimistic that the Plaintiffs will be victorious in this case.
The underlying message is that Hawaii does not consider education a priority. We didn't learn from the Felix lawsuit years ago. From the June 2, 2005 Honolulu Advertiser:
It is indeed shameful that it took a lawsuit (known as the "Felix" lawsuit because it was originally filed on behalf of Maui student Jennifer Felix) and more than 10 years of tough, uncompromising court supervision to get us where we are today. Many millions of dollars later, the state now is providing a "free and appropriate" education to most, if not all, of its special-education students. The cost of reaching this landmark was astounding, in part because Hawai'i was forced to play catch-up after years of failing to fully meet its obligations to these students under the law.
Hopefully this will be resolved without lengthy and costly litigation. I doubt it, but I am hopeful. Based on the comments made by many of our leaders, it appears that we will not see a "peaceful" resolution to this very serious matter. God bless our children.
What did our leaders think would happen? Did they think the people of Hawaii would just sit back and allow this to happen? Did they think the the people of Hawaii would agree with them that education is not a priority? The article states:
Lawyers representing public school students, in both regular and special education, have filed two separate lawsuits in U.S. District Court seeking to block "furlough Fridays."
The complaint notes that parents enrolled their children in public schools on the assumption that the school year would be 180 days, and then the state decided unilaterally to shut down schools for 17 days this year. It also says the decision disproportionately affects certain classes and racial groups.
The suit alleges that the furloughs are an unlawful change in programs and services the disabled children receive. Federal law allows changes to such special education services only if parents agree or a hearing officer or court finds the change appropriate for the child.
Attorney General Mark Bennett said that the DOE plans to go ahead with the furloughs, adding that he didn't think a request from Seitz for an injunction would be granted. "I believe the DOE has negotiated appropriately with (the Hawaii State Teachers Association) and I don't believe there is a viable cause of action," he said. Apparently, Mr. Bennett is more concerned with the union negotiations than he is with Federal law. I guess we will see what the Judge thinks.
I commend these attorneys for stepping up to the plate when our leaders failed to do so. These lawsuits were filed in Federal Court and will hopefully receive immediate attention. It is sad that this road had to be taken. The people of Hawaii spoke loud and clear but our fearless leaders chose not to listen. The attorneys warned the State of litigation but the State did not listen. The State decided to ignore the warnings and now we will be in court. At least we know that the Governor won't be able to "pressure" the Federal Judge into making a decision that will benefit the State. I am very optimistic that the Plaintiffs will be victorious in this case.
The underlying message is that Hawaii does not consider education a priority. We didn't learn from the Felix lawsuit years ago. From the June 2, 2005 Honolulu Advertiser:
It is indeed shameful that it took a lawsuit (known as the "Felix" lawsuit because it was originally filed on behalf of Maui student Jennifer Felix) and more than 10 years of tough, uncompromising court supervision to get us where we are today. Many millions of dollars later, the state now is providing a "free and appropriate" education to most, if not all, of its special-education students. The cost of reaching this landmark was astounding, in part because Hawai'i was forced to play catch-up after years of failing to fully meet its obligations to these students under the law.
Hopefully this will be resolved without lengthy and costly litigation. I doubt it, but I am hopeful. Based on the comments made by many of our leaders, it appears that we will not see a "peaceful" resolution to this very serious matter. God bless our children.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
First Furlough Friday Coming Up
Well, I guess our voices have fallen on deaf ears. Furlough Fridays are going to happen. I had hoped that our leaders would have come to their senses by now, but I was wrong. Our children have been held hostage and at the end of the day, will end up the losers. What a shame. This State has made a clear statement to the rest of the country. Education is not a priority here. It never was. No matter what we've been told over the years, the proof is in the pudding. The State of Hawaii is willing to compromise the education of our children to balance a budget that includes careless and irresponsible spending.
The fact that the State and the HSTA decided to take the furloughs on instructional days is clear that our children was never considered in the negotiations. To even consider taking away instructional days from our children is shameful. I have heard a lot chatter from elected officials lately, about how we must stop this. Where were they when they could make a difference? Why wait until a week before the furloughs to try and fix it? Politics is a way of life, but we must keep it away from the future of our kids.
Hawaii is already known for low test scores and a substandard educational system. These furlough days will only make it worse. Can you imagine shortening an already shortened school year? What possible justification can there be? I can't believe that the State has allowed this to happen.
As I stated in an earlier post, next year is an election year. Please remember those that forgot about our children. They don't deserve to be in office. Harsh words? Damn right. This is a serious matter and we must hold our leaders accountable. Our children are our future. What is happening is not acceptable. No Child Left Behind? In Hawaii, it is All Children Left Behind! God help our children.
The fact that the State and the HSTA decided to take the furloughs on instructional days is clear that our children was never considered in the negotiations. To even consider taking away instructional days from our children is shameful. I have heard a lot chatter from elected officials lately, about how we must stop this. Where were they when they could make a difference? Why wait until a week before the furloughs to try and fix it? Politics is a way of life, but we must keep it away from the future of our kids.
Hawaii is already known for low test scores and a substandard educational system. These furlough days will only make it worse. Can you imagine shortening an already shortened school year? What possible justification can there be? I can't believe that the State has allowed this to happen.
As I stated in an earlier post, next year is an election year. Please remember those that forgot about our children. They don't deserve to be in office. Harsh words? Damn right. This is a serious matter and we must hold our leaders accountable. Our children are our future. What is happening is not acceptable. No Child Left Behind? In Hawaii, it is All Children Left Behind! God help our children.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Furloughs and Layoffs Only Temporary
With all the discussions about furloughs and layoffs, what I haven't really heard is a plan for the future. These drastic measures are only temporary. They will not fix the problems caused by big government and irresponsible spending. The problems we face today will not be easily resolved. The culture of government has to change. Furloughs and layoffs are temporary fixes. What will we do next year? And the year after that?
From today's Star Bulletin,
Savings are estimated to be about $204 million over the fiscal biennium, which ends June 2011, according to the Governor's Office.
"The savings that we're going to get from the furlough plan -- it will be substantial, but it won't even come close to closing the budget deficit that we have," Lingle told reporters.
Also in the article,
With state revenues continuing to decline, Lingle said she would continue to explore all other cost- cutting options, including further spending restrictions on state departments and refinancing of debt.
Shouldn't we have explored "all other cost-cutting options, including further spending restrictions on state departments" a long time ago? Maybe before we decided to go on all those national and international junkets under the guise of visitor industry promotions. Before we spent so much on travel and conferences for non-essential purposes. How about before we decided to send a highway engineer to Kauai, from Oahu, EVERY DAY to observe the limited number of highway jobs on Kauai? I could go on and on but I think you all get the point.
We are a government of waste, like many other governments throughout the country. What disturbs me here in Hawaii is that we are trying to fix our fiscal problems at the expense of our children. When you look at classes of employees, you have essential and non-essential employees. Police officers, medics, and firefighters are essential to the safety of the public. School teachers are essential to the future of our children. Why are we messing with them? Why can't we see the long-range problems that a reduction of 17 days from the school year will cause. I am still hoping for a miracle. I am hopeful that the furloughs will be called off. Maybe I am a dreamer. We'll see what happens.
From today's Star Bulletin,
Savings are estimated to be about $204 million over the fiscal biennium, which ends June 2011, according to the Governor's Office.
"The savings that we're going to get from the furlough plan -- it will be substantial, but it won't even come close to closing the budget deficit that we have," Lingle told reporters.
Also in the article,
With state revenues continuing to decline, Lingle said she would continue to explore all other cost- cutting options, including further spending restrictions on state departments and refinancing of debt.
Shouldn't we have explored "all other cost-cutting options, including further spending restrictions on state departments" a long time ago? Maybe before we decided to go on all those national and international junkets under the guise of visitor industry promotions. Before we spent so much on travel and conferences for non-essential purposes. How about before we decided to send a highway engineer to Kauai, from Oahu, EVERY DAY to observe the limited number of highway jobs on Kauai? I could go on and on but I think you all get the point.
We are a government of waste, like many other governments throughout the country. What disturbs me here in Hawaii is that we are trying to fix our fiscal problems at the expense of our children. When you look at classes of employees, you have essential and non-essential employees. Police officers, medics, and firefighters are essential to the safety of the public. School teachers are essential to the future of our children. Why are we messing with them? Why can't we see the long-range problems that a reduction of 17 days from the school year will cause. I am still hoping for a miracle. I am hopeful that the furloughs will be called off. Maybe I am a dreamer. We'll see what happens.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Cell Phone Ban Coming Soon to Kauai
According to an article on the Garden Island newspaper's website,
"First-term Councilman Derek Kawakami intends to introduce a bill in coming weeks that would make it illegal for Kaua‘i drivers to use handheld electronic devices when behind the wheel."
This is a great thing and Councilman Kawakami should be commended. We all know how convenient it is to use cell phones while driving but we also know how dangerous it can be. This is a great move that will make Kauai's roadways even safer for all of us.
We've seen the results of cell phone use while driving. This distraction is responsible for many accidents, many of which end up in serious injury or even death. I hope this bill gets to the Council floor soon, and there are no delays in it's passage. This bill will save lives.
It amazes me how people can drive their vehicles while talking on the phone, putting on makeup, messing with their stereos, all at the same time. Multi-tasking is a great skill, but should not be practiced while driving. It is tough enough focusing on driving on Kauai's roads. The additional distractions of the use of electronics are simply unnecessary. Let your Councilmembers know that you support this very important bill. Thanks Councilman Kawakami.
"First-term Councilman Derek Kawakami intends to introduce a bill in coming weeks that would make it illegal for Kaua‘i drivers to use handheld electronic devices when behind the wheel."
This is a great thing and Councilman Kawakami should be commended. We all know how convenient it is to use cell phones while driving but we also know how dangerous it can be. This is a great move that will make Kauai's roadways even safer for all of us.
We've seen the results of cell phone use while driving. This distraction is responsible for many accidents, many of which end up in serious injury or even death. I hope this bill gets to the Council floor soon, and there are no delays in it's passage. This bill will save lives.
It amazes me how people can drive their vehicles while talking on the phone, putting on makeup, messing with their stereos, all at the same time. Multi-tasking is a great skill, but should not be practiced while driving. It is tough enough focusing on driving on Kauai's roads. The additional distractions of the use of electronics are simply unnecessary. Let your Councilmembers know that you support this very important bill. Thanks Councilman Kawakami.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Furlough Friday Rally
Lihu`e, Kaua`i, HI (October 13, 2009) - All parents, students, teachers, and members of the public are invited to a rally to send a message to the Governor, State Legislature, and the Department of Education, and Hawai`i State Teachers Association that 17 Furlough Fridays this school year are not acceptable. The rally will be held at the State Office Building on Friday, October 16, 2009, from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. The rally is being organized by parents of public school students.
“A special session of the State Legislature is needed to find a long-term funding solution that does not sacrifice instructional days for our youth,” said Tracy Murakami, parent of children attending King Kaumuali`i Elementary and Kapa`a Middle Schools. “Action is needed NOW,” said parent Jack Yatsko, Kapa`a Elementary School PTSA Board Member. “It is unacceptable that Hawaii public schools would have the fewest instructional days in the Nation if the furlough is implemented."
The rally is intended to show public outrage over decisions to reduce 17 instructional days this school year. Rally organizers ask that participants wear school colors and/or uniforms, protest with aloha, and use this as an opportunity to teach our youth about our basic democratic right to free speech. More information about the rally can be found on the Kaua`i Planning and Action Alliance website at: www.kauainetwork.org.
“A special session of the State Legislature is needed to find a long-term funding solution that does not sacrifice instructional days for our youth,” said Tracy Murakami, parent of children attending King Kaumuali`i Elementary and Kapa`a Middle Schools. “Action is needed NOW,” said parent Jack Yatsko, Kapa`a Elementary School PTSA Board Member. “It is unacceptable that Hawaii public schools would have the fewest instructional days in the Nation if the furlough is implemented."
The rally is intended to show public outrage over decisions to reduce 17 instructional days this school year. Rally organizers ask that participants wear school colors and/or uniforms, protest with aloha, and use this as an opportunity to teach our youth about our basic democratic right to free speech. More information about the rally can be found on the Kaua`i Planning and Action Alliance website at: www.kauainetwork.org.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
What Will They Do?
Tomorrow will be a historic day for Kauai. The Kauai County Council will be discussing two bills in their Planning Committee, under the direction of Planning Committee Chair Jay Furfaro. The two bills, 2298 and 2319 are described below:
Bill No. 2298 A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 8, KAUA'I COUNTY CODE 1987, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE AND SINGLE-FAMILY TRANSIENT VACATION RENTALS
(Deferred 9/16/2009)
Bill No. 2319 A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 8,
KAUA'I COUNTY CODE 1987, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE (Amending Article 27, Chapter 8, Kaua'i County Code 1987, relating to Shoreline Setbacks and Coastal Protection)
(Deferred 9/16/2009)
Bill 2298 will allow transient vacation rentals on lands that are zoned agriculture. This is a flawed bill as the State law clearly prohibits overnight accommodations on agriculture lands.
Bill 2319 will exempt certain projects from the State's MANDATORY shoreline certification process. Like Bill 2298, this is a flawed bill because the State MANDATES that a certified shoreline be completed whenever construction occurs near the shoreline.
Tomorrow we will find out where our Councilmembers stand on the issues of preservation of natural resources and the protection of ag lands. What is disturbing is the fact that we are entertaining these bills. They VIOLATE State law. These bills should be killed in the Planning Committee tomorrow. The County does not have the authority to circumvent State law. This is a bad precedent to set. Kauai is special. Let's join together to protect her. Please let your legislators know how you feel. This is vital to our culture.
Bill No. 2298 A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 8, KAUA'I COUNTY CODE 1987, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE AND SINGLE-FAMILY TRANSIENT VACATION RENTALS
(Deferred 9/16/2009)
Bill No. 2319 A BILL FOR AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 8,
KAUA'I COUNTY CODE 1987, AS AMENDED, RELATING TO THE COMPREHENSIVE ZONING ORDINANCE (Amending Article 27, Chapter 8, Kaua'i County Code 1987, relating to Shoreline Setbacks and Coastal Protection)
(Deferred 9/16/2009)
Bill 2298 will allow transient vacation rentals on lands that are zoned agriculture. This is a flawed bill as the State law clearly prohibits overnight accommodations on agriculture lands.
Bill 2319 will exempt certain projects from the State's MANDATORY shoreline certification process. Like Bill 2298, this is a flawed bill because the State MANDATES that a certified shoreline be completed whenever construction occurs near the shoreline.
Tomorrow we will find out where our Councilmembers stand on the issues of preservation of natural resources and the protection of ag lands. What is disturbing is the fact that we are entertaining these bills. They VIOLATE State law. These bills should be killed in the Planning Committee tomorrow. The County does not have the authority to circumvent State law. This is a bad precedent to set. Kauai is special. Let's join together to protect her. Please let your legislators know how you feel. This is vital to our culture.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Golf Tournament for Mom
Aloha friends. As you may know, my mom Jessie Sam Fong was diagnosed with kidney cancer late last year. She lost a kidney to cancer back in 1992 and had only one kidney remaining. Her doctor on Kauai said that her only option was to remove her remaining kidney and go on dialysis for the rest of her life. We called around the country and learned that the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota was willing to give us a second opinion. In December, we made the trip to Minnesota and learned that surgery to remove the 6 tumors on her remaining kidney was possible, but chemotherapy would be needed first to hopefully shrink the tumors. We stayed in Minnesota for 3 weeks then returned home where mom went through 7 gruelling months of chemotherapy. On August 10th, we returned to Minnesota and mom had her first surgery on August 13th. After 7 weeks, and 6 total surgeries, mom returned home and is recovering well. Her kidney was saved and she requires no dialysis or other treatments. We appreciate all the thoughts and prayers that helped mom get through this ordeal.
As you can imagine, our family has incurred many expenses. To help these expenses, we are holding a benefit golf tournament at the Kiahuna Golf Club on November 1st. It will be a 3-man scramble with a hole-in-one prize of a brand new Harley Davidson motorcycle. We will also have a putting contest where 2 people will each have a chance to putt for $5,000 in cash. A flyer and registration form is attached.
For non-golfers that want to help, donations can be sent to:
Benefit for Jessie
3236 Inouye Street
Lihue, HI 96766
Hole sponsorships are $100 and all prize donations are welcome. If you need more information, please feel free to contact me at any time. We thank you in advance for your help. Mahalo.
As you can imagine, our family has incurred many expenses. To help these expenses, we are holding a benefit golf tournament at the Kiahuna Golf Club on November 1st. It will be a 3-man scramble with a hole-in-one prize of a brand new Harley Davidson motorcycle. We will also have a putting contest where 2 people will each have a chance to putt for $5,000 in cash. A flyer and registration form is attached.
For non-golfers that want to help, donations can be sent to:
Benefit for Jessie
3236 Inouye Street
Lihue, HI 96766
Hole sponsorships are $100 and all prize donations are welcome. If you need more information, please feel free to contact me at any time. We thank you in advance for your help. Mahalo.
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