Farmingdale BOE

[fdaler]

Sorry.....$49million Bond. I hope I did not give anyone a heart attack.
________
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[fdaler]

meeting lasted until 12am last evening. Many items needed to be discussed. How about the 449million Capitol Improvement Bond that will be headed our way on Nov. 23rd. How about the BOE "rolling over" for one year the CSEA contract at 4%. How about that the teachers contract is in negotiations......are they going to want 4% too??

I am afraid that this BOE does not get it. If one of the more knowledgeable men in the group did not stand up and ask what this one item was on the consent agenda, none of us would have known. A couple of other CSEA employees stood up and told of themselves not getting any raise for 2 years. The COL is under 2%. I want to scream at them "WHAT ARE YOU THINKING"??

I can hardly contain myself...........
________
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[onemoretime]

Hey fdaler did you see this out on the table? what do you think?

Dollars & $ense…the Cost of Education in Farmingdale SD22



Dollars… School taxes have increased over 50% in the last six years… not including the 2004 budget, this year you will see an increase of 11.18 % for Oyster Bay residents and a 10.9 % increase for Babylon residents.

Facts that contribute to the cost of education (based on 03-04 budget)

Instructional Salaries $ 42.3 Million = 39.6% of the total budget

Administration Salaries $ 12.4 Million = 11.6% of the total budget

Benefits $ 19.2 Million = 18.0% of the total budget

BOCES $ 6.9 Million = 6.5% of the total budget

Plant Operations (5.8 Mil in Salaries) $ 8.4 Millions = 7.9% of the total budget

Transportation (335k in Salaries) $ 5.1 Million = 4.8% of the total budget

Debt Service $ 3.8 Million = 3.6% of the total budget

Instructional non-Salary Items $ 3.2 Million = 3.0% of the total budget

Administration non-Salary Items $ .9 Million = 0.9% of the total budget

Library / AV (1.2 Mil in Salaries) $ 1.8 Million = 1.7% of the total budget

Con & Travel / Memberships / Tuitions $ 1.5 Million = 1.4% of the total budget

Insurance $ .7 Million = 0.7% of the total budget

Non-Reg School Educational programs $ .5 Million = 0.5% of the total budget

Total $ 106 million = 100 % of the total budget


$ense…

2003-04 personnel costs were $ 81.6 million in employing 807 staff members,

The median salary per year is $101,217.

Then a Benefit package of over $19 million is $23,542.

The workday calendar for teachers is 183 days per year…

By contract the workday is max 7 hours with paid lunch & prep period…

Therefore the median compensation package is $124,759 per year and that does not factor in a workday 30 % less than the average taxpaying resident.

Dollars… The median Family income in SD 22 is $77,000 per year

$ense… Are you happy with the return on your investment? If so fine…

But if not and you have questions on your child’s education, school policies and/or the cost of education you must get involved now!

If you feel the cost of education has exceeded your family’s ability to pay?

You must get out and be heard. This is a contract year; the BOE will offer a new multi-year contract to all of the staff in 2005.

This does not include the $49 million Facilities Bond planned for Nov 2004.

Attend your monthly school board meetings,

ask questions, write letters to the BOE and understand the cost of education.

Meetings 8:00 p.m.


September 8, 2004
October 6, 2004

October 20, 2004

November 3, 2004
December 1, 2004
January 12, 2005

January 26, 2005

February 2, 2005
March 2, 2005
April 6, 2005
May 4, 2005
June 1, 2005

[What a load of $hit]

I grant you are warranted, BUT when I see that all the items are of "highest priority" and there is a $141,000 playground at WWPkwy and another at SEM, I want to laugh. How about new office space AND a new TECH room at Howitt when we just finished building an entire new wig AND music room 3years ago!!

The boilers, ventilation systems, windows and some other items I agree with...until you whittle it down.....this Bond will go down. Until you do right by us with the teachers contract, this Bond will go down.

[bunch of bull]

$141,000 playground what is it made of gold?
________
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[fdaler]

Check out Butch's FULL page add today in the Farmingdale Observer. Right on target, Butch!! I will be there at the meeting, just as I have for the last 6 months.

The BOE needs to get the message. Thanks, Butch!!
________
Dodge Slingshot (http://www.dodge-wiki.com/wiki/Dodge_Slingshot)

[Fly on the wall]

Butch is way off course. May it be the schools or the Liberty Site. He is a loser! Did you hear him Tuesday night?
________
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[love fdale]

And that is good enough for me. Butch has stood up for what he believes in AND paid the price. Gets people thinking and not just rubber stamping whatever the school district tells us to.

Wes, I did hear him Tuesday night. We are on opposite sides of the S&S issue, but the same on the Bond Issue.

[love fdale]

now that the Bond was defeated 1700-500 approx votes ? Is it back to the drawing board?? Guess we will have to wait and see. Let's see if the BOE GETS IT now.
Some of us are holding you responsible to negotiate an equitable teachers contract, before we give you another red cent.

Read it and weep!!

[FLY]

I was told the bond will be back in May.

[ilovefdale]

IMHO, I feel that if the BOE does not cut enough FAT from this Bond and/or listen to the community concerns about the negotiations concerning the teacher's contract..........it willl go down again........where do we go from there?

[help for you]

Join a civic club or start one if there is none. If you go to board meeting you will find out if there is one. The more people you are the better of you will be. Work as one for change. You must become bigger then the school board. Put up your people get the board out.

[ilovefdale]

I have been an active member of CCAF for over 3years AND have attended 99% of School Board meetings since last summer. I am slowly realizing that you are not only up against the BOE, but the Administration. Only time will tell if this BOE has the best interest of the Fdale Community on the table OR are they guided by the ever powerful Teacher's Union??

[guest 2]

All the bonds and budgets will rightfully be voted down until they( the B of E) get their act together. Let's see - the SAT prep class has been cancelled for next year due to "serious budgetary problems", but will still be offered during evening adult education (read - "pay for it on your own").

But the district is still offering special physical education classes because they are building a "rock climbing wall".

What wonderful priorities. Here's my wallet - where do I stand in line for the government surplus chow? I want to get there first so that I can get the top quality dog food to feed my family.

[Kids first?]

I say vote Jane out this May!!

The Place has been CANCELED February 11th & March 11th...

We are sorry to say that, once again, the school has turned its back on ‘The Place’ resulting in cancellation of the program. It also saddens us to know that all the efforts put forth by our community team has been cast aside in favor of an agency that has no proven experience running a recreation program.

When the BOE/Admin decided not to fund this program, a couple of community residents met and decided to plan how they could help bring back ‘The Place’. They decided to create a community service not-for-profit organization as the vehicle to help revive this program. Those individuals that were instrumental in the past success of “The Place” were equally excited about the idea. From there we met with school administration, they agreed we could utilize the facility as we had in the past, and they were asked to also ONLY cover the student liability insurance for the program (a very critical point). We also offered to run the program in conjunction with Project C.O.P.E and the PTA. The schools administration stated on 1/19/05 that ‘since our organization did not have insurance (which they previously covered) they must terminate our permit’, and they did. This was done by the school knowing that we were negotiating with a local organization, which we are currently looking to for a co-sponsoring agreement.

An abundance of planning went into bringing this program back. We went to PTA Council, Howitt PTA and other community organization meetings looking for some level of support. While everyone was excited about the program, it was very disappointing to find that few were willing to share their resources that could help provide additional funding support. Never the less we continued by offering two ‘free’ preview events in the spring of 2004 and a full program in fall of 2004. We not only came back, but also with all of your help served over 260 Howitt students that had registered. This is a tribute to the core of people that were willing to volunteer and did step forward to help make this happen. This handful of adults, with an unbelievable group of students came forward with the heart, emotion and dedication to help return this program to a level better than it had been originally.

The Place offered our children a safe environment to socialize with their friends, providing them with positive peer role models, offering them a large variety of activities in a structured setting. This was a rewarding experience, more gratifying than that was to watch the high school student leaders mature and become responsible young adults so willing to get involved and give back.

To that, we say thank you, and it's not over yet.

Our plans will continue… the Alliance for Stronger Communities will still focus on a number of intergenerational programs that will serve youth, teens, adults and seniors in our community. We have a new workshop series starting with the residents at the Hardscrabble Senior Complex and hope to re-create a leadership program with the youth/teens at Farmingdale PAL. Thank you again and we hope you will continue to support us in some way as we continue working together with all generations in our communities.

Sincerely,

Rich and Chuck

[No trust]

I say vote out Anthony V. BOE President, Robert G. BOE Trustee Jane R. BOE Trustee. Then get the new board along with who are left to remove the
Superintendent of Schools Roberta G. and Assistant Superintendent for Business John L. My taxes have gone up over 55% in the last 4 years with them!!

[ilovefdale]

Jane's is up this year ........vote her OUT. Charlie's position is also up. Hopefully he will run again. Someone has to run against Jane.
I agree that Tony V. needs to go. I think he is losing patience with all that is going on as witnessed by his caustic, snotty remark to a concerned father for the safety of his children at the last BOE meeting.

The only hope so far that I see we have on the present Board is Charlis and Russ. This BOE along with the administration just does not get, never have, never will. :x

[grat]

:o

And your response would mean what?

Have fun Jane

Good luck Jane. You have your supporters.

[Kids first?]

Jane you will feel the pain!

Your time is up!

All you do is talk!

And when you are done talking what is it you said?

It is time to cut workers (say a Superintendent or some dean's), stop taking from the children!

Jaen you have been cancelled!

[Public Spectacle]

Oh careful here. Be very careful. Are we worried about the kids in public school here or are we worried about the parents of kids who go to private school saving a dime at the public school kids' expense. When you turn over the rocks the school consolidation voices hide under you usually find some private school uniforms on their own kids' backs.

[Holy See]

Public schools are a waste of taxpayer money.

[Kids first?]

Jane you are done!!!!!!!!!!

[ilovefdale]

Please, won't a qualified person run for the Fdale School Board against Jane?? I am begging you. WE need new blood and not just a mouth piece for the Administration.

Of course we are still waiting for the BOE to tell us what we can do to get the elections back to an "at large" vote. Dragging their feet on that one as the incumbants don't want anything to do with it as they know they will lose.

Please, someone step up to the plate!!! Oh, and how do we think the negotiations for the teacher's contract are going?? Let the games begin!! :roll:

[ilovefdale]

Listen up Farmingdale!!! I heard that there is a strong possibility that someone will be running against Jane for a School Board seat. If this happens, this could be the best thing to happen to the Farmingdale School District in a long time. Next School Board meeting is theis Wednesday, March 16th at 8pm, Howitt East Cafeteria.

[Kids first?]

A qualified person has come up to the plate! He is the new blood that we need. Jane is gone, Russ, Chuck and the new guy will now be able to take over the board. Tony, Tina and Rich will have to change or next year they will be gone. The Farmingdale School District has some work to do.

[clean it up]

The Farmingdale Board of Ed a cesspool of corruption and greed, its all about them. Russ is the only one i trust. But he is only one vote we need more people like him.

[ilovefdale]

Will the BOE have a well prepared answer for how Farmingdale High School was on the list that did not make the grade on LI? Will they have an answer why some of our elementary schools went DOWN in the scores!! Do not get me wrong. I do not think that these scores show what quality of education my children are getting nor do I believe it is a barometer for how well the school is doing. Remember, the SCHOOL keeps telling us that they must do well, etc.

Vote the new guy in!!! We need to take back this BOE. They are stagnant and a bunch of nodding heads to the administratiion. It is time for a change.

Word on the street has the teachers asking for the same % raise that the BOE gave to the CSEA union in the rollover contract for one year. Tell me how they are going to hold the costs down with these negetiations? :?

[Carman/Graff#1]

I read in the Farmingdale Observer that Steve Willson is runing for School board.

By By JANE!!!

[guest500]

March 2005


Dear GovenorParaki,

I am writing in support of Comptroller Alan Hevesi’s request for $5.8 million to hire 89 additional auditors for school audits.

Governor Pataki’s decision to under fund this necessary safeguard for the 49 additional school districts that employed the same auditing firm as the Roslyn School District leaves these districts open to wide spread financial fraud and corruption. In addition, all districts in New York State are vulnerable to the same mismanagement of school budgets. Without proper funding and oversight, no school system can feel secure that their money is being spent appropriately.

Many New York State students are already faced with poorly run and under funded schools. An independent auditing process with state oversight is vital to ensure that all monies are being spent on educating our children.

I am opposed to Governor Pataki’s $2.9 million dollar cut, and urge you work to re-instate the total amount requested by Comptroller Alan Hevesi so he has the proper funding to hire additional auditors in the wake of the corruption scandal that has tainted the Roslyn school district.


Very Truly Yours,
School District Tax payer


email htto:www.state.ny.us/governor/

or mail Governor George E. Pataki
State Capital
Albany, NY 12224
Please cut and paste to email or letter. This is a plea for Governor Pataki to include the 45.8 million needed for the Scool District audits through out Nassau and Sulfork School Districts.. Don't end up in a scandal catch it before it gets worse. If we join forces we can win.

[ilovefdale]

Let's appluade the Farmingdale BOE for considering taking some of the additional NYS aid that we received and putting it toward the Budget to reduce the tax rate. Thanks to Charlie Russo, who got the ball rolling. You got my vote !!! Keep up the good work.

[no trust]

Appluade the Farmingdale BOE?

State Aid is State Aid and is to be used in the year it is given not to be held and used when they want to. Vote them all out! The Board did this to make Russo look good. He was hand picked by the board and is being used.

[Time is up.]

Mismanagement its all comes from the Superintendent Roberta Gerold and the Superintendent for Business John Lorentz. They make up the Budget the Board can only change the budget so much. Think about it get rid of the two of them and then you have won.

[slurpee]

Mismanagement its all comes from the Superintendent Roberta Gerold and the Superintendent for Business John Lorentz. They make up the Budget the Board can only change the budget so much. Think about it get rid of the two of them and then you have won.

I don't know what to say !

[Shirley mom]

I was told the bond will be back in May.

now that the Bond was defeated 1700-500 approx votes ? Is it back to the drawing board?? Guess we will have to wait and see. Let's see if the BOE GETS IT now.
Some of us are holding you responsible to negotiate an equitable teachers contract, before we give you another red cent.

[ilovefdale]

The new vote for the Capitol Bond is Tuesday, Dec. 6th. I believe the amountwill be approx. $26million. I am told there is NO fluff. Just FYI.

I tend to agree with you that I am waiting to see what the BOE agrees to with the teachers contract. However, it could take them until next year.

i think we should all go to these meeting s and let our voices be heard instead of complaining after nthe fact

[ilovefdale]

I agree. The taxpayers of Farmingdale School District NEED to go out and become informed. One of the ways to do this is to attend BOE meetings. The next one is Wed., Oct. 19th in the Howitt East Caf. Please make every effort to attend. There are so few people that show up. I understand how difficult another night out is....however, this one not only effects your wallet, but your child's education.

[Farmingale]

What happened at tonights meeting? Another waste of time or did something worthwhile happen?

[ilovefdale]

The BOE meeting discussed BRIEFLY the upcoming Bond vote scheduled for Dec. 6th and the only truly "controversial" issue was the policy put in place 5 months ago concerning the "moving up " of middle school students to a high school level in sports. It was decided then to change and not allow any students to play up. Tonight there was an attempt to "revisit" this policy and the BOE voted 4-2 AGAINST the revisit. Dr. A was not there. I personally applaud the Board for sticking to it's guns on this issue. That is my personal opinion.

[Daler11]

Be careful of what you wish for.

[ilovefdale]

Just LOVE veiled threats. I stated only my opinion.....I look forward to the outcome.

[Guest number 2]

What are we supposed to be careful about wishing for? What are we being "threatened" about/with?

Personally I read here to gain insight into all sides and concerns of the issues at hand to help me make a decision.

Please state facts and issues so that the people reading here can become educated about the discussions and concerns being raised. Without stating facts and examples of the concerns my belief is that the comments are made to scare people into believing there are problems where there may not be any. If there is not a true honest exchange of information, mistakes and problems will occur. So if you have accurate and true concerns please raise them. Thanks

Does anyone know if this bond will cause an increase in taxes on top of the increase we just got?

[ilovefdale]

of course it will.......it is a proposed approx. $26million dollar capitol improvement bond. I have not seen the estimated tax increase yet. In November the Facility Advisory Committee will be going to Civic, PTA's and other organizations to discuss it.

[In need of an answer]

The BOE meeting discussed BRIEFLY the upcoming Bond vote scheduled for Dec. 6th and the only truly "controversial" issue was the policy put in place 5 months ago concerning the "moving up " of middle school students to a high school level in sports. It was decided then to change and not allow any students to play up. Tonight there was an attempt to "revisit" this policy and the BOE voted 4-2 AGAINST the revisit. Dr. A was not there. I personally applaud the Board for sticking to it's guns on this issue. That is my personal opinion.

What is this moving up all about?

[ilovefdale]

The "moving up" of students in 7th or 8th grade to a sports team at the high school level if the child is so good at said sport and needs to be "challenged" more. It does not happen often and you had to go thru a comittee process to be approved before it could happpen. The BOE changed this policy about 5 months ago to only allow students who are in middle school play on a high school team IF the sport was NOT offered on the middle school level i.e. Golf or wrestling. A small number of parents wanted the policy to be changed back to the "old" way and the BOE voted No.

[guest543]

So whats up with the bond vote?
Are they actually going to ask for yet another tax increase?

YES.......Dec. 6th.

[guest543]

Thanks . Can't wait to vote myself another tax increase just in time for the Christmas season!

As previously posted, they Facilities Advisory Committee will be speaking to the Bond at various Civics, PTA's and other organizations in the month of November. This is bare, bones minimum as an energy saving bond to replave boilers, windows etc. None of the "fluff" stuff is left in there. Seems like a no brainer this time. Can't really argue that all of these things need to be done especially when my children tell me how cold some of the classrooms were last year in Howitt. One actually has a hole in the wall where the wind comes in!

Sorry, the y's should read WIND.

Sorry again....too late at night, I meant HOLE. :oops:

Please enough with the "Its for the Kids BS"...they get enough money every year to be able to fix a hole in the wall.

Sorry..I am tapped out...I cant afford to vote for anymore increases no matter how small. They all add up to a substantial amount after a while. They have lots of fat they can cut in the budget before asking for more increases.
In the past 6 years my school taxes have gone up over 60%. I assure you my income has not.

It seems that the majority of the community are unaware of an upcoming bond vote. There has been no official announcement or mailings and we are less than a month away. It seems that they do not want anyone to know about it.

It seems that the majority of the community are unaware of an upcoming bond vote. There has been no official announcement or mailings and we are less than a month away. It seems that they do not want anyone to know about it.

Good point. So what is up? Is there or isnt there a bond vote in December and why doesnt anyone seem to know about it with only three weeks left?

[ilovefdale]

YES, there is a Bond vote on Tuesday, Dec. 6 for the Energy Bond. If you go to the Schools Website you will see that the Facilities Advicry Board October Presnetation. Click on that and it will give you all the info. They are in the process of meeting with PTA's Rotary, Civics etc. I also believe that it was in the Farmingdale Observer.

YES, there is a Bond vote on Tuesday, Dec. 6 for the Energy Bond. If you go to the Schools Website you will see that the Facilities Advicry Board October Presnetation. Click on that and it will give you all the info. They are in the process of meeting with PTA's Rotary, Civics etc. I also believe that it was in the Farmingdale Observer.


Its simple. They dont want the seniors or anyone without kids in the schools to know about it since those people will most likely vote no to any tax increase. Congress does this all the time passing huge spending bills during the holiday seasons when noone is paying attention. Why do you think they are having the bond vote between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

YES, there is a Bond vote on Tuesday, Dec. 6 for the Energy Bond. If you go to the Schools Website you will see that the Facilities Advicry Board October Presnetation. Click on that and it will give you all the info. They are in the process of meeting with PTA's Rotary, Civics etc. I also believe that it was in the Farmingdale Observer.


Its simple. They dont want the seniors or anyone without kids in the schools to know about it since those people will most likely vote no to any tax increase. Congress does this all the time passing huge spending bills during the holiday seasons when noone is paying attention. Why do you think they are having the bond vote between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

And notice how they are trying to pass this off as an energy savings bond now that energy prices are in the news. Its pretty much the same bond that got rejected by a 3 to 1 margin last year but they are marketing it as a cost savings measure.

[ilovefdale]

I agree that "it is pretty much the same bond as last year", however, IMHO, the FLUFF is gone and the repairs need to be done AND the fuel costs are outrageous. However, this will not save us any money this school year.

I don't understand why we budget for maintenece and we have to absorb debt service costs to cover the maintenece?

What is so difficult about this process?

My guess is we utilize the funds allocated for maitenence, maybe somewhere else?

You got that right! If a boiler has an expected life of X. Why can't we set aside a proportinal amount for its replacement each year. Debt service is an easy out for a board from making dificult decisions.

Fed-Up

U got it brother :x

[ilovefdale]

Just FYI, two mailings came home yesterday with info on proposed bond. The "Our Schools" publication and a seperate flyer with info.

Vote it down!!!!!!!!!!

Just FYI, two mailings came home yesterday with info on proposed bond. The "Our Schools" publication and a seperate flyer with info.

Still no mailings for me and my neighbors...many dont even know there is a vote coming up. Seems that they are not publicizing this vote until the last minute.

i have recieved at least 3 mailings....i dont know why you havent

i have recieved at least 3 mailings....i dont know why you havent


Nothing for me either. I live in the Northern Massapequa Park section of the district and nothing has come here yet.

i have recieved at least 3 mailings....i dont know why you havent


Nothing for me either. I live in the Northern Massapequa Park section of the district and nothing has come here yet.


Same here... Saw alot of my neighbors for the holiday yesterday and they didnt know anything until I told them. And if I wasnt checking this site I would have never known myself. They only want the people who are likely to vote for it to go to the polls.

[fun time]

:lol:

[FAC member]

The Energy Smart Bond for 27 million on Dec 6th addresses needs that maintenance costs would never cover. The Scope of work will replace Boilers (over 44 years or more) in All the Elementary Schools (except Wooodward new in 2000) Howitt west (East due to be replaced Spring/Summer 2006) and 6 of 9 at High Sch (other 3 replaced several years ago), 100% boiler control/Unit vents at Howitt & High Sch, 40% of controls at Elem Schs, new windows at Howitt West & High Sch (original windows – over 40 years, Plexiglas /Aluminum frame)
The state would reimburse at a 47.5%. There would be three borrowings and a total length would be about 23 years with a budget impact of 1.1 – 1.2 million a year, costing a homeowner $56/year if they are paying $5000/yr in school taxes.
The Facilities Committee went back after last year’s 50 Million bond was shot down. This is the work that FAC felt was necessary. The state’s funding ways reimburse you as right after the money is spent opposed to a much longer (15 – 20 years) if it comes out of your operating budget. Plus it would take a lot of years to do this work assuming the Budgets pass. This work would be done it 4 years.
Go to the Fdale school site and check the FAC Oct Presentation for add’l info

Wow one week before the vote and no mailings to my neighborhood. They are not publicizing this properly (internet doesnt count especially for most seniors) and I am going to lodge a formal complaint.

[ilovefdale]

I think that would be a wonderful idea, the BOE meeting is not until Wed. Dec. 7th........one day AFTER the vote. IMHO, I would be calling Dr. Gerold's office or John Lorentz's office.

DR. GEROLD IS A GIANT WASTE OF MONEY, SPACE AND TIME.

All

Remember to vote on the bond proposal this Tuesday Dec 6. Make sure to have a say in wether or not your taxes will be increased again next year.
You have no right to complain if you dont vote!

[Guest 4532]

[Last year, Anthony Panariello, 49, sold his home on Long Island for $510,000, making a hefty tax-free profit. He spent about half of that to buy a brand-new, mortgage-free house in Florida with 4,200 square feet and five bedrooms - more than double the size of his old residence.

And his property tax bill dropped to $4,700 in Florida, from about $10,000 in Seaford in Nassau County. Sales taxes are about a third lower, and he pays no state income tax. He also traded his costly 90-minute trip to Wall Street for a three-minute drive to the new H&R Block office that he is opening next month.

As housing prices - and tax burdens - soar to historic heights on Long Island, Mr. Panariello is not the only one who has decided to cash in his home equity, pull up stakes and move to more affordable climes.

"I've come across, in my development alone, maybe 20 people from Long Island who came here around when I did or more recently," said Mr. Panariello, who lives in St. Augustine. "It's the same reasons, the taxes and cost of living."

Many more are thinking about joining the exodus.

Tuesday is the big day for the bond vote. Dont forget to let your voice be heard.

You have no right to complain about high taxes if you dont go out to vote!.

[ilovefdale]

Just an FYI to all parents of Farmingdale school children. The teachers have started wearing black as a show of solidarity that they are working without a contract. The first day was on Friday. I am guessing they will now do this every Friday? If my memory serves me correctly next comes the buttons, ceasing to do EXTRA things for the kids AND/OR picketing?

Let the games begin. :x

[Farmingdale Parent]

Just an FYI to all parents of Farmingdale school children. The teachers have started wearing black as a show of solidarity that they are working without a contract. The first day was on Friday. I am guessing they will now do this every Friday? If my memory serves me correctly next comes the buttons, ceasing to do EXTRA things for the kids AND/OR picketing?

Let the games begin. :x

This is sad not doing the extra for kids. As a parent of Howitt student and as a teacher myself I find this unprofessional. I went for 3 years without a contract as a city teacher and no raise for the entire time. We pay these unprofessional was to much to begin with. They think they are "Island Teachers" untouchable. They do as they please and once they get tenure they couldn't care less about your child's rights let alone really educating them. As several have stated "I work out here for the better salary." They have gotten better than cost of living raises (COLA) then most of us out here. A contract zero, zero and 2% is more than most of them deserve. If they strike they can be fired and replaced with others who can start at a longer salary and a new contract with fairer raises can be reached.

Send a mesage to the school board that they cannot get any more money from the community.

Vote NO on the bond tommorow and vote NO on the budget in May.

[Guest number 2]

As a frequent BOE Meeting attendee I can tell you that it is not the Board that needs to receive any message. The majority of the board, in my opinion, (4 of which are newly elected/appointed) know the message and understand the community's concern for fiscal responsibility and have been making decisions with that in mind.
The message about spending needs to be sent to the adminstration, and nothing will do that better than increased attendance at these meetings as well as voicing your concerns about eliminating the belief from their minds that the community is a bottomless pit of funds for their spending whims.
I have sat through, reviewed and fully understand the work to be done and the need for the work which is being proposed for the vote today, however, I do not believe that the administration has done a very good job of controlling spending or budgeting for many years. The reason in my opinion that these items need to be repaired and are in the condition they are is because of time. As any home or business owner knows windows and boilers do not last forever even with thorough maintenance and must be replaced. But until the administration begins to act like fiscally responsible business owners and not like spoiled heirs of the family business I can't support their request for more of my money.
No matter what happens with this vote I can guarantee that for the next budget the only cuts the adminstrators propose will be to items affecting the students like sports, extra curricular activities, drivers ed, SAT Prep, and special ed classes just like last year. There will never be any significant decrease in adminstration payroll, support staff, teacher payroll or increase in classroom size.

As a frequent BOE Meeting attendee I can tell you that it is not the Board that needs to receive any message. The majority of the board, in my opinion, (4 of which are newly elected/appointed) know the message and understand the community's concern for fiscal responsibility and have been making decisions with that in mind.
The message about spending needs to be sent to the adminstration, and nothing will do that better than increased attendance at these meetings as well as voicing your concerns about eliminating the belief from their minds that the community is a bottomless pit of funds for their spending whims.
I have sat through, reviewed and fully understand the work to be done and the need for the work which is being proposed for the vote today, however, I do not believe that the administration has done a very good job of controlling spending or budgeting for many years. The reason in my opinion that these items need to be repaired and are in the condition they are is because of time. As any home or business owner knows windows and boilers do not last forever even with thorough maintenance and must be replaced. But until the administration begins to act like fiscally responsible business owners and not like spoiled heirs of the family business I can't support their request for more of my money.
No matter what happens with this vote I can guarantee that for the next budget the only cuts the adminstrators propose will be to items affecting the students like sports, extra curricular activities, drivers ed, SAT Prep, and special ed classes just like last year. There will never be any significant decrease in adminstration payroll, support staff, teacher payroll or increase in classroom size.


Very well put. One thing to keep in mind is that as long as people keep giving them what they want ( by voting Yes for Bonds and Budgets) there will never be any change. By voting No, while some programs for the kids may get cut in the short term, I believe this is a necessary evil. Eventually they will have no choice but to make more substantial changes which will result in a more sound and fiscally prudent system. This will be of great benefit to both the children and the community.
But alas, people are very short sighted and will keep voting yes because "its for the kids".

Very well put. One thing to keep in mind is that as long as people keep giving them what they want ( by voting Yes for Bonds and Budgets) there will never be any change. By voting No, while some programs for the kids may get cut in the short term, I believe this is a necessary evil. Eventually they will have no choice but to make more substantial changes which will result in a more sound and fiscally prudent system. This will be of great benefit to both the children and the community.
But alas, people are very short sighted and will keep voting yes because "its for the kids".[/quote]

I agree. Just to add if you haven't voted today (Tues Dec 6), Please do so. Of course I would recommend voting No for the reasons the above post suggests.

[Guest number 2]

While I agree that consistently voting no to budgets will eventually get to the cuts the public wants, the long term effects to the school system, its infrastructure and our children's education will be negatively impacted severely. Getting the point across through voting down budgets and bond projects will take way too long and honestly, in my opinion, not sustain itself to accomplish the goal. This to me is not a good option.
Instead please consider investing some time in attending BOE meetings, voice your concerns, provide your suggestions and be a positive influence for RAPID change. The only way to change the spending by the adminstration is to communicate directly to them at the BOE meetings.
I really believe that with the BOE Members currently serving, the time to make these changes is now. They are for the most part a fiscally responsible group that has shown through their previous participation, related experience and activities to be driven to the most efficient use of taxpayers dollars without jeopardizing the education process for the students.

[ilovefdale]

The results of the Bond vote are as follows: Yes 383
No 719

The results of the Bond vote are as follows: Yes 383
No 719

The bond has been overwhelmingly defeated two years in a row, the budget failed on the first vote and barley passed on the second.
The message of the community is clear. We are not an unlimited source of funds and we no longer buy the argument "its for the kids". They are our kids too and we will not let you use them as pawns.

Cut the fat especially in the bureacracy and administration and keep the budget increases equal to or less than the rate of inflation. Only then will you once again have our support.

[Hanging Tough]

Here's where you make your stand. You can't draw the line on costs by voting down the budget or the bond or never re-electing any board member to a second term no matter their voting record but you can do it by supporting the board in tough negotiations.

[ilovefdale]

Strong FFT contingency at the BOE meeting tonight and the President spoke. Her bottom line is "they deserve a fair and equitable contract". I can't argue with that. However, I also cannot believe they only contribute 15% of their health benefits (private sector has some contributing 50%), we subsidize their pension when it has a shortfall( gee, when my retirement investments fall short who the hell is making up that money for me??), they are almost "guaranteed" a job ( who else is?) and they work 180 days a year. Get a raise every year AND step raises in between. One of my kids said the other day they would consider becoming a teacher. I say YOU GO GIRL!! especially in NYS. You may then support me in my old age.

In all fairness, most teachers work hard and I have found very few in all the years my kids have been in school that were not dedicated to their job. But this community is now tapped out! The administration put aside 2% in this year's budget for teachers raises. I say stick to that number for the first year. Raise the contribution to the ever staggering health costs at least 5%. Get some give backs, such as chaperone fees etc. and THEN MAYBE the community will think that you are trying to keep cost down. If the BOE does not want to do that then.....look at cutting more administrator jobs. Just my opinion.

[ilovefdale]

My question is "Are you sure the Board is taking a tough stand?" Or is the teacher's union just being ridiculous. WE will have to wait and see until it is settled. I hope they ARE taking a tough stand. I will bet you the majority of the BOE is NOT.

I got home late and missed the meeting. Can someone tell me what the reaction was to the bond getting defeated?

[Guest number 2]

Mr Russo read a letter sharing his feelings which I believe needs to be placed in the Farmingdale Post. His sentiment was dissapointment in not having the bond issue passed and more importantly in the lack of turnout by the voters. The sentiment of the residential attendees was probably the same. There was much praise for the members of the advisory committee for their hard work and effort in bringing the number to the essentials as well as spreading the information out to the community. What apparently was lacking (from infomration on this web site) was mailings from the district to homeowners. I lay the blame on the districts administration and not the BOE.

Its their own fault for the low turnout.

They scheduled the vote in the middle of the holiday season when people are busy or away, during the winter when weather is likely to be bad (as it was that day), and they didnt publicize it properly.

I dont think the turnout would have made any difference. The community seems dead set against any further tax increases without seeing some substantial cuts in admin costs first.
Also awaiting the teacher contract negotiations to see how serious the board is about keeping costs under control.

[Guest number 2]

What a coincidence that the bond does not pass and the administration decides to lower the school buildings temperatures to 55 degrees when not in use. I say bravo for such inovative and out of the box thinking by the district administration. Imagine the savings we could have been experiencing throughout the years had someone thought of lowering the thermostats sooner, just like every other business and homeowner has been doing for years! Someone in administration has not been doing their job, or has voting the recent bond issue down forced administration to manage spending more appropriately. I imagine, no I know for a fact that this is not the only area that administration can and should be creating savings. I hope someone in administration continues to do their job.

[ilovefdale]

Change of topic to this week's letter in Fdale Observer.

[quote]Reflecting on the Past, Looking to the Future
By Claire Zatorski, President Farmingdale Federation of Teachers
The Roman calendar we use in the Western world has its beginning in January, in the dead of winter. The Romans named the first month of their year for Janus, the two-headed god of doorways and gates who looks at where he has been as well as where he is going.

So, as we begin this new year, let us look back a bit. As the Farmingdale educational community, where have we been? In the last five years, teachers with over 1,000 years of experience have retired. They helped to create the system and the educational culture we share. Farmingdale has a proud educational philosophy. Our teachers are committed to meet and exceed the needs of all our students, recognizing their individual requirements and abilities. We are a highly qualified and motivated faculty who have been recognized with multiple local, state and national awards. Through our mentoring and "buddy" programs, plus the culture of helping that runs through all of our schools, our new teachers are becoming part of this fine community. We have dedicated our careers to the children of Farmingdale, seeing that they are instructed, nurtured, and cared for at levels that make us, and this community, proud. And we have done all this in spite of the fact that our salaries remain at the lowest levels in Nassau County.

We are at the beginning of a new year, looking ahead. We are not without our problems. In spite of a larger student population and ever-increasing state mandates, we are being asked to meet our goals with a smaller faculty. Once again, Farmingdale teachers will be asked to make do with less. And once again, we will find a way to do this for the children.

Sadly, we are starting 2006 without a contract. We have been without a contract since July of 2005. I can only hope that we continue to attract and retain talented people to teach the children of Farmingdale. To do so, it is necessary to treat the teachers of this district with respect-and that involves a fair contract. Farmingdale teachers are consummate professionals who deserve to be treated as such.

We are here because we have chosen this profession, because we believe in the potential of all children. And in spite of problems and philosophical differences, we intend to conduct ourselves every day as professionals, working to the best of our abilities, to develop that potential, to educate the children of Farmingdale.

There is a Chinese proverb that states, "By viewing the old, we learn the new." Farmingdale has had times when teachers were treated poorly, when a fair contract was denied them. No one, not the teachers nor the parents nor the children, was happy in those dark days. Let us "learn the new" by looking at the darkness of the past and working to ensure that it remains in the past.

While it may seem odd to begin the new year in some of our coldest, bleakest weather, remember that the days are getting longer, that light is returning. My wish for the new year is that we all nurture and protect that light.

The above is a reprint of the letter that the President of the FFT has in this week's Fdale Observer. I do not disagree with some of what Ms. Zatorski has to say, however, in what way are "WE" not "respecting" the teachers. The teachers union needs to come to grips with the fact that while MILLIONS of Americans in the private sector are paying upwards of 50% towards there health benefits, FFT are paying 15%. Between the cost of health insurance, a pay raise (besides step increases) AND the ever present STATE mandated pension BS........most people in Farmingdale are tapped out over school taxes.

If the BOE caves this year the "Energy Bond" may NEVER pass. Neither will a regular budget. And then of course comes the cuts for the kids!! It is a vicious cycle. Supposedly we put away 2% in last years budget for a pay increase. Not a dime more for the first year and get a higher % of health costs in there. It is KILLING us.

By doing this, I feel we are NOT show lack of respect, but fiscal responsibility to the people who pay their salaries

[LA LA LA]

Farmingdale is done, you people gave up the fight. were are all of you?

[fead]

Mr Russo read a letter sharing his feelings which I believe needs to be placed in the Farmingdale Post. His sentiment was dissapointment in not having the bond issue passed and more importantly in the lack of turnout by the voters. The sentiment of the residential attendees was probably the same. There was much praise for the members of the advisory committee for their hard work and effort in bringing the number to the essentials as well as spreading the information out to the community. What apparently was lacking (from infomration on this web site) was mailings from the district to homeowners. I lay the blame on the districts administration and not the BOE. :arrow:

[Time to wake up]

Most teachers on Long Island are only here due to the higher pay. They would never work in what they call the city because it pays less. I for one will keep voting down the budget till they get the teachers contract in line. They can keep wearing black all they want, but the main issue here is the total lack of respect most teachers in Farmingdale have for the parents. They lie, don't return calls, pass the buck etc..... While there are many highly qualified and dedicated there are an equal amount that should not be with our children.

Let these over paid teachers put something back in. Everyone must pay into their health insurance plans now, and put something into their own pensions. We are parents and homeowners can't afford to carry these overpaid lazy teachers.

[Guest number 2]

I totally agree with the comments above, but am I mistaken in my belief that the decisions regarding pensions as well as health insurance are mostly regulated and passed down by the state. If that is true wouldn't it be beneficial to take the fight to Albany and our legislators in addition to simply voting down budget after budget?

[time to wake up]

These are part of the contract and not Albany. As you can see from other contract talks the pensions are part of what they agree on. I for one can no longer afford to pay into their pension plans when I haven't seen a raise in 2 years and neither has my husband. But my taxes, oil, gas, electric have seen double digit raises. I work 2 jobs so does my husband. Let these teachers also work extra (I am a teacher myself). Therefore it is fair that if other aren't getting raises all that is happening is an unfair forcing of middle class to move out. Everyone around my way will vote down the budget if the teachers get more than a 2% raise every year for at least the next 3-4 plus they should have to kick into their health plans like every other civil service type job as well as many in private industry. All these teachers care about is me me me not the kids. Teaching is a fat pay check to them it's time to tighten the belts on their pay. Sorry for the ranting but its not fair they demean the kids to try to force the parents to give them more money. I call it unprofessional to say the least.

[run run run]

Who will run for School board this may?

Better yet who would you vote for, lets have some names?

why would anyone in there right mind run for a school board anywhere in NY state?for what?to be constantly second guessed and ridiculed....for the people that do it for the right reasons i applaud you......but the job just doesnt seem worth it to me.

To Guest number 2: The pesion plan is regulated by the state somewhat. If the pension comes up short.....guess who puts more in? US! The health plan %, to my understanding, is NOT regulated by the state. Therefore, the FFT can put in MORE than there 15% that was in the last contract. As I have stated before, the BOE has put 2% aside in last years budget for a salary increase (not to be confused with "step" increases). Not a penny more should be offered for last year. There is no more!! After that get them to anti up the health plan at least 5%.

My greatest concern is that the Budget will not pass in May and only the kids will suffer.......NOT the teachers. While it would not be the worst thing in the world........try coming OFF austerity the following year!

:o

[the new plan]

Time to get rid of all of you.

Illegal educators for hire?
Hurdle in using these bilingual teachers: U.S. law prohibits it



11:56 AM CST on Tuesday, February 7, 2006
By TAWNELL D. HOBBS / The Dallas Morning News


Dallas' school district has a shortage of bilingual teachers.

DISD trustee Joe May knows where he can find a lot of people who speak Spanish fluently and are already in the country. And he'd like to put them to work.

But there's at least one big hurdle: The school district cannot knowingly hire illegal immigrants because it's against federal law.

Tell Us
Should the DISD pursue Joe May's idea? Comment | View Results Mr. May wants to amend that so the district can hire illegal immigrants who are college-educated and can qualify for the district's emergency teaching certification program. The issue will be discussed at the school board's policy briefing today.

Mr. May believes that amending the law would help alleviate a shortage of bilingual teachers. DISD hopes to fill more than 400 bilingual teaching positions next school year.

"We're paying for DISD people to go over" to other countries to recruit bilingual teachers, Mr. May said. "It makes sense if we set up shop over here. We can build an employment base in our own market."

Some Dallas Independent School District trustees said they look forward to discussing the issue while others are treading cautiously. The district's attorneys will also participate in the discussion at today's meeting.

"I'm open to listening to the legal points they might make," trustee Hollis Brashear said. "But I don't know if we can discuss something that involves not complying with U.S. law."


IRWIN THOMPSON / DMN
DISD trustee Joe May is in favor of hiring illegal immigrants to teach bilingual classes. Trustee Jerome Garza said it's an interesting topic that should be discussed.

"We as trustees can no longer solve problems like we did 10 years ago," Mr. Garza said. "We have to be innovative."

For Mr. May, no idea is too far-fetched. Last year, he successfully pushed a proposal, initially greeted with considerable skepticism, that requires some principals to become bilingual. The issue divided blacks and Hispanics and received nationwide attention.

DISD Superintendent Michael Hinojosa said Mr. May's kind of grass-roots effort is how laws are changed. He said the hiring proposal is something he could support as long as it's done legally.

Dr. Hinojosa said he empathizes with young children who enter the U.S. illegally with their parents and find their job prospects limited in adulthood.

"It wasn't their fault they were brought here," Dr. Hinojosa said. "Their parents brought them."

But the proposal may become, even briefly, a lightning rod for the national debate over illegal immigration. Illegal immigrants number in the millions. A temporary worker plan proposed by President Bush recently has come under fire. The plan would grant visas to many undocumented immigrants, in hopes that it would stem the tide of people entering the U.S. illegally to work. It would also allow law enforcement to focus more on homeland defense.

Also Online
En español
Federal officials responded Monday to questions about Mr. May's proposal by reciting the current law.

"It's illegal to knowingly hire or continue to employ illegal aliens," said Carl Rusnok, regional communications director for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. "Unless you're in this country legally, it's illegal for you to work."

Under federal law, employers who knowingly hire unauthorized workers face criminal prosecution and substantial fines.

Some districts, including DISD, go abroad to recruit bilingual teachers and help applicants obtain their work visas.

But getting a work visa isn't an option for illegal immigrants already here, said Maria Elena Garcia-Upson, regional communications manager for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

"While we empathize and sympathize with these individuals, there is an orderly fashion in which one can immigrate to this country," Ms. Garcia-Upson said.

John Keeley, director of communications for the Center for Immigration Studies, a nonprofit group that seeks to have fewer immigrants in the U.S., said Mr. May's proposal sends the wrong message to students.

"Within the education community, you expect a higher degree for the rule of the law," he said.

But Joe Campos, executive manager of the League of United Latin American Citizens, said DISD should push to get the residency requirement waived.

"They can be good productive citizens," Mr. Campos said. "Why not give them the opportunity?"

Mr. May believes it's time to change laws to address illegal immigrants who have been in the U.S. for years.

"They're basically American people when you get down to it," he said.

E-mail tdhobbs@dallasnews.com


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Online at: http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/020706dnmetillegalhire.e370b4.html

[ilovefdale]

In response to run run run ..........I would like to see John Miller run and/or Bob Barret back on the BOE.

[Run Run Run]

John Miller, his wife is a teacher he will not run as for Barret ok he would get my vote.

[ilovefdale]

He threw his name in the pot for Marie Callolucci's position. I was just hoping against hope!!

[mick jager]

u all suck arss in f-dale!

It looks like the Bond is going to be put up again either this spring or in the fall. Will the third time be a charm?

:twisted:

[ilovefdale]

IMHO, they will virtually be shooting themselves in the foot if they try to float it in the spring........it's going to be an uphill battle just to get the Budget passed in May.

[ilovefdale]

Just an FYI, Wed. March 1st, the teachers voted to acce[t a contract from the BOE. The BOE that same evening votes 5-2 for the contract. The contract contains the exact same benefites etc. as the last contract with a 2%, 2.5%, 3% and 3.5% consecutive increases over 4 years.

[concerned vollies wife]

To bad the board tabled it to be revisited next year. Hope they can wait till next year when they call the fire dept and want a quick response. Think of it like this......
Maybe when their house is on fire at 3AM and it's 2 below outside they will all rethink what a small price it is to pay for such dedicated FREE service. Or your having a heart attack and call for help. these men and woman leave dinners, events, holiday meals to help and Farmingdale slammed the door in these brave men and womans faces. They should be ashamed of themselves. Only hope they are never in need and no one comes to them remeber the addresses are say over the pagers and if they know its your house they are free to respond or stay nice and warm in their beds with their loved ones.

[Guest number 2]

As a current "vollie" I am embarassed by the comments made by Concerned Vollies Wife. Any member of my department that would lsiten for an address to determine their level and speed of their response does not belong in the department. I can't imagine your husband is aware or would agree with your comments. I also attend the BOE meetings and was present at the meeting when this item was tabled, while I may not agree with the decision, I understand the concern of the members and the community. I also noted the expressions of appreciation and understanding for the work and safety we provide. Don't misjudge the community's sense of fiscal responsibility and concern as a lack of understanding for the commitment of time and energy the vollies put into our community. Also don't forget either that the members of the BOE also are vollies performing a civic responsibilty just as important to our community, don't they deserve the respect and service provided every other community member. After all I never heard them threaten any child with expulsion or lower levels of educational support because they found out their parents voted against a budget. Just my opinion.

CCAF is pleased to host Mr. John Lorentz, Assistant Superintendent for Business, for the Farmingdale School. The proposed 2006 - 2007 budget a overview.

Concerned Citizens Association of Farmingdale will hold its monthly meeting on Thursday, April 27. All meetings are held at the Community Center at Allen Park at 7:30pm.

i will be there

[A new day]

Hey Butch, you are not on the School board! Don't try to run it from the outside. Tina will be the new Preident not your boy!
You are on the Village Board not the School Board think about it.

Back down Butch. You can lose it all!

[fmg curious]

is our superitenant leaving to an upscale north shore community?

That was lalt year.