The BOE and Lisa Henkel need to go…NOW. This school is in shambles and it is very clear our children are not the priority.

It is extremely unfortunate that bad administrators continue to be recycled from school to school. Workplace violence and bullying by administration and those in power should never be tolerated. Bullying of any kind has direct and adverse affects on children. The Board of Education in Wynantskill is made up of a group of individuals who have yet to prove that they have the best interest of children as their first priority. I will not allow my child to attend that school under the present BOE and administration. I'm fortunate in that I am able to send my child to the neighboring district of Averill Park.

I wish I had known about this original post in April of 2012 when it was put up, which is 100% spot on. To quote this above person "The Board of Education in Wynantskill is made up of a group of individuals who have yet to prove that they have the best interest of children as their first priority."

I am at a loss for words right now for the hurt and pain this BOE and Administration is causing the teachers, parents and most importantly the kids. This woman has just caused an eruption in Wynantskill one school district which is hurting those children - and blatantly showing she has no concern for the kids who are used as pawns in her personal agenda against teachers. How does the Board not see this? They all made a choice yesterday that could potentially cost the district $600,000.

I have never seen a Board or Superintendent evade questions asked of them by parents, teachers and community members, like I did at the Board of Education meeting this past Thursday. They fumble around what night a graduation will be for 7 minutes in front of the public which makes them look totally inept and will not answer ANY questions asked of them. I witnessed a huge smoke screen for such a small school. There must have been 30 questions asked at that meeting. None of them were answered and the ones that were responded to include a lengthy convoluted answer that didn’t address the question.

The Board is as much to blame for the state of that school especially when it comes to her amended contract. The Superintendent/Principal contract was dated 01/01/12 through 01/01/15 and needed to be renewed by June 30th 2013 for an additional year until the commencement of her contract 12/31/15. The Board chose to renew her contract in March of 2013 and extended her contact until 06/30/17.

You can post your comments anonymously. PLEASE I beg you leave your comments. It is a public forum which you are unidentified. That school needs help. The kids need help.

I am very disappointed with Dr. Henkel. I had great hopes for her but I think having a suprintendant/principal is a major problme. Teachers have nowhere to go if they have a problem with the superintendant. I do not see respect by faculty but fear and frustration. Two years without a contract and Dr. Henkel receiving one a year later when there is no merit to base it on. What has she achieved so far. The ELA will show there was a rush to extending her contract and our children are the ones to pay. It was brought up at a recent board meeting that there was no remedial reading for the months of Sept,Oct and January due to testing. According to NYS law it is mandatory to Start the first day of instruction and students did not get assistance until November. This is appalling. No wonder G.D is below standard in reading how can you miss 3 months and catch up.Especially when 3rd grade has a record high 27 students and 20 boys to boot. The third grade teacher has been told she cannot return to school since she has been a target all year by Dr. Henkel and the BOE.Where do the children stand?Why take a teacher 4 days before the end of the year and do that to the children . They need closure.This will break their hearts but I quote"we have the best interests of the children".They have a funny way of showing it.I would like Dr. Henkel to resign before everything hits the fan.I guarantee it will and whatever happened years ago in North colonie is sure to come out.

I was sent this link and asked to leave a comment. After reading all the above, I have nothing but heartache and pain for those children at that school and disgust towards the BOE and Dr. Henkel. I want to know what happened at the North Colonie school and if the BOE knew about this and if they didn't they have failed in that as well. Does anyone know that answer? I've heard rumors but nothing solid.

Our community is small. Many of us know each other. Many of the community members and neighboring communities are hearing negative things about our district. How is it possible that our town that is filled with comradery, where we all know each other, has a district that is not making the children of this community it's number one priority?

It is my wish for some order and positivity to be restored to that school along with the spirit of the teachers and those blessed children.

The last thing that needs to happen at that school and our community is the possibility of the added expense of $600,000. Especially with all the new unfunded mandates.

I am eagerly awaiting the explanation that will be provided to these children and the community. I hope more become aware.

This is a horrible situation; the teachers are harassed on a daily basis, and one particular teacher has been abused by this monster for two years. she needs to go, and never be allowed to make decisions that involve children.

This letter was sent to Dr. Henkel and the entire staff at the school

Apologies ~ This is better

Good luck to you all. You will fix this situation in Wynantskill. Believe me it is much worse than you know. The students, parents, staff deserve much better than this horrendous individual. Unfortunately your BOE is responsible for giving her an extended contract which proves they haven't a clue. Ridding yourselves of this damaging individual will cost many, many thousands of dollars due to that contract extension. But it will be worth it. Organize and fight! Make your voices be heard loud and clear for the sake of education in Wynantskill!

06/16/13

Dr. Henkel-

How dare you do what you did to our 3rd grade kids. All year long I have had concern after concern about you, with the decisions you have made, that negatively impact the children, and your failure to never notify parents, and this just takes the cake. Your number one priority is not of those children in that school. The situation with our 3rd grade teacher is solid proof that you’re certainly NOT looking out for the best interest of our children. I believe you have personal agendas and use your position to fulfill your own need to feel powerful, all the while strong arming the teachers and staff at that school and using all the kids as pawns. There is no regard, from you, for the voices of the parents and community members. I have witnessed time and time again that your “listening ears” are never used.

I know what goes on inside that school. Let me remind you we are a small community. My family members know many that are tied to that school and that rings true to the majority of parents whose children attend GD. I have kept my mouth shut for the sake of the backlash you would give teachers, but no more. You are not fit to that lead that district/school, and have proved this time and time again. I have spoken up about you to the BOE, directly to you and have told many many parents, taxpayers and neighboring school district communities about your sneaky ways and this…this is unforgivable.

You should have had certified letters delivered to each parent of the 3rd grade class, for Saturday AM delivery, regarding this situation -again a failure on your part. If your plan is to notify us on Monday with a letter sent home with the children- it is too late, it is not acceptable and will not suffice. The damage has been done, yet again. Children need closure of the school year with their teacher and you as a leader of the school should understand that. Many of those children will not comprehend and be heartbroken. You have put that 3rd grade class through hell the entire school year based upon your decisions as the person in charge and despite the fact many parents have pleaded with you on behalf of the children in that classroom, you go ahead and do this. This is a slap in the face to the staff, the parents and our babies.

1. I demand to know why the 3rd grade teacher is no longer in the building?
2. I demand to know EXACTLY how the explanation will be made to the children that their teacher is gone, when the children are expecting to see her next week? (There was already a sub for Thursday 06/13 and Friday 06/14.)
3. I demand to know EXACTLY what YOU are going to say to the children about their teacher's disappearance from the building?
4. I demand a meeting with the BOE and Administration immediately, this situation you have created for our families is intolerable.
5. I demand to know from the Board if they knew the teacher was being removed 4 days before the end of school?
6. I demand to know which BOE member voted yay and which voted nay for this?
7. I demand to know if you consulted with school psychologist before doing this?
8. I demand to know if you and the BOE understand the implications this has on our children?
9. I demand to know why and how you are willing to spend at minimum $150,000 which could go upwards to $600.000 on a 3020a of a teacher; however there are fiscal concerns about the cost of splitting our kid’s class?
10. I demand the assurance that, without a doubt, the district will not be spending more money on this 3020a than it would cost to hire 2 teachers - one for the split of 3rd grade and one for the split of the incoming Kindergarten class.

There are 10 questions above, I numbered them, and I want ALL 10 of these questions answered. Not a rambling, lengthy, skirt around the issue answer, an ACTUAL answer and let me be clear, I am not the only one. This has become more than a 3rd grade issue. This has become an entire school issue where all parents should be concerned with your horrible decision making and leadership abilities or better yet, lack of. This has become a taxpayer issue because of the hundreds of thousands of dollars you are costing the residents of that community, which is not being used towards the children’s actual education.

I’d like to refer you to the Dignity Act ~ (http://www.wynantskillufsd.org/gd/Dignity/Dignity%20Brochure.pdf) “All public elementary and secondary school students have the right to attend school in a safe, welcoming, considerate, and caring environment.” It has been said many many times at the BOE meetings, from the teachers directly, that the morale at that school is at an all-time and I blame you. Our children spend 6-7 hours a day, 5 days a week, and 9 months a year at that school, what happens there IS my business along with every other parents business of a child that sets foot in that building. You claim that the state of that school is NOT negatively impacting those children, make no mistake, it is.

It is your duty to give a copy of this letter to the Board, immediately. I make no mention of any specific names, of teachers or children in this email, all of the above questions can be answered in a public forum. We have a right to an explanation. The taxpayers have a right to an explanation.

-Meredith Gavin

Just to be clear that above post is not from me. You can see where is says Guest next to it. This is Meredith Gavin. Not the post above.

Unfortunately, I have had the behind the scenes experience with this woman, Lisa Henkel. She is a bully and has physically put her hands on her staff as well as verbally abuse the staff. Especially the ones who she is threatened by or the ones who question her decisions. In all my years in education and working with different administration I have never experienced a leader like this. Reports have been made previously from past school districts Henkel has worked and it's a shame Wynantskill did not do a little homework before they hired and/ or extended her contract. Currently, reports have been made state and District level on her inability to run a school district and creating a hostile work environment and I'm sure she will be brought to justice but meanwhile the program, kids and teachers are suffering. I knew it would be a matter of time before the public would find out what was happening behind closed doors, it's unfortunate that it has taken 1.5 years. It will only get worse.

At a Board meeting this spring I asked Dr Henkel if, before the start of the 2013-2014 school year, she would present the Gardner Dickinson parents with a mission statement, an idea of her philosophies, for educating our children. I asked that she address her intentions for incorporating Common Core into the student’s curriculum. I expressed my concerns about the lack of recess, especially for the younger children and what her thoughts are on the educational value of out-of-the-classroom activities for the older children. I asked her to address what she feels is adequate time to devote to test preparation. I asked to know her thoughts on bringing more innovative teaching methods into the classroom. Dr Henkel informed me that the school does have a mission statement and she would find it for me. I repeated that I was looking for her views. Dr Henkel instructed me to talk to my child’s teacher. I assured her I would but clarified, again, that I wanted her thoughts, as she is the head of the school. She offered to call me to discuss it. I explained that I did not want her to do that, that this was something that would be a benefit to all present and future GD parents, and I would not want to accidentally misquote her. This when on for about fifteen minutes, Dr Henkel (in my opinion) evading my questions and my trying to clarify what I felt was a very clear request. After the Board meeting Dr Henkel approached me and the exchange went on a bit longer. Still, she wouldn’t say this is something she is willing to do. Again, I asked for this by the fall, maybe she will do it. However, the impression I came away with is that she will not and that she does not feel presenting the parents with this kind of information is necessary.

Some people that know me probably think I’m a little extreme in my views on the direction of education, not only in the school, but in the state. Specifically because I refused state testing for my daughter this year. Whether or not you think I’m nuts for that I would suspect (hope) most parents agree that we should expect our school administrators to be open with their policies and their intentions for our schools. We should understand what are the expectations, priorities and restrictions the administration places on faculty. I feel that Dr Henkel is failing to communicate with parents how she plans to operate as a new administrator with a new curriculum. It now appears that this closed door policy has been applied once again in the abrupt removal of a third grade teacher. I feel that the GD parents need to speak up, share their experiences and their concerns, so that we can determine if we have the right person leading our school and press the BOE to act accordingly.

Fawn Zampier

I read this at the March 14th 2013 BOE meeting. I will say that I have been corrected and should have used the word "procedure" instead of "policy" and that the time allotment for the IEP meetings were actually 15 mins. instead of 10 mins.
~~~~~~
I have reached a point where I feel it necessary to express my concerns to the board directly, from the parent’s perspective: The first 2 concerns cover policy changes involving children with an IEP and the 3rd references the dual role of Superintendent/Principal.

Point 1: At the end of the 2012 school year, a plan was put in place on my son's IEP, along with every other student’s IEP, in which time was allocated for them to receive their ELA WRITING support from the Special Ed teacher and reading support would be provided, outside the realm of his IEP, by the Reading Specialist, based on the child’s reading level. He would see the Gen Ed teacher DAILY for small group reading/he would see the Reading Specialist for small group reading (not part of the IEP) and IN ADDITION according to what was on his IEP his Special Ed teacher would focus on the WRITING piece of ELA.

At some point between THAT plan and the start of the following school year, there was a new policy put in place, by administration that ANY child with an IEP would no longer receive reading support from the Reading Specialist, but instead from their Special Ed teacher, who may or may not be certified as a literacy specialist. When that new policy was implemented, not only my son, but all kids with an IEP who required reading services, lost that support from the Reading Teacher and the Special Ed teacher was left to incorporate reading AND writing in what was originally allocated for writing only.

Please keep in mind, the parents of children with an IEP were NOT informed of this change, some parents still may not even realize this AND I have yet to receive any official communication from the administration, about this policy change. I only know about this change because I contacted my son’s Special Ed teacher directly, back in September, as to when he would start seeing the Reading Specialist, and was informed of the new policy change and directed to contact administration.

There are two obvious things wrong with this picture:
1. To NOT notify parents, of such a huge policy change, that would impact children greatly, is flat out wrong, comes across as being sneaky and deceitful and is a failure on the administrations part.
2. The kids are receiving reading support from the Special Ed teacher – who is not necessarily certified to teach literacy – My son happened to luck out and have one that is, though that will not always be the case every year. I use this analogy ~ if someone has a heart problem they see a cardiologist, not a general practitioner. If a child needs reading support, quite honestly, wouldn’t you think that support should come from the person who carries the role of the certified Reading Teacher?

Point 2: Just recently there was a another new policy put in place, by administration, AGAIN having to do with Special Ed/IEP kids, in which EACH Annual IEP meeting is now allotted a 10 minute time slot. Let me start off by saying - this has since been discussed with the Assistant Principal (who by the way is amazing) but I still have some serious concerns.
• These Annual IEP meetings are a place where all parties involved with the child’s IEP, get together to go over goals reached/new goals/ and recommended services for the upcoming year. I’ll use my son as an example- if done correctly for him that involves- EIGHT people. 2 of the 8 are not full-time, out of THOSE 2, 1 of them isn’t even an actual employee of the district AND a 3rd member of his IEP team has time scheduling constraints because of required services that are provided to St. Jude's.
• From my understating, the theory behind this new policy is that there will be a pre-team meeting one day, to unofficially do what would normally be done at the Annual IEP Meeting and then, on a different day, that allotted 10 minute time slot for the Annual IEP meeting would make it official. To ensure that the best IEP is written up, all contributing parties, and in my case EIGHT, need to attend the pre-team meeting, at the same time!
• I am simply using my own child as an example, but the question remains the same for any child who has an IEP, with this school ~ WHO is responsible to make sure that these pre-team meetings include EVERYONE on the child's IEP? Does this now fall on the Special Ed teacher to become the coordinator?
• AGAIN it was left up to the Special Ed teacher, to explain to parents, the new policy put in place, by administration. I am a firm believer that when a policy change is implemented, is should NOT be left up the teachers to tell me this. Details get lost in translation, and quite frankly, it is not fair to have to expect teachers to convey this information, when we all very well know, anger will be on the receiving end.

Point 3: While I’m not going to pretend to understand the responsibilities that come along with the title of Superintendent, I would like to remind administration and the BOE, in the case of this school, there is another title linked to that - Principal. I have never really put much thought into the dual title, until last month when my son didn’t know who the Principal was. I was concerned about that, since he met once with her last school year and then several months later didn’t recognize her name. After speaking with a few other parents from his class, it was the same case with some of their kids. I really believe that if asked the question “who is the Principal?” to both, kids and parents, the majority would respond with the answer “Mrs. Yodis.” I don’t know the history of how it came to be that the person hired last year would take the dual title of Superintendent/Principal, but with both those titles there is a different set of duties. My concern is that there is a greater percentage of time being spent managing the responsibilities as Superintendent, leaving less time to fulfill the role of Principal. Being a Superintendent, especially now with all the new state mandates, is a full time job, and lack of having a full time Principal, is going to , if it hasn’t already, impact the staff and our kids, in a negative way.

Again this is a mess.. My kids went there years ago and it was such a great school. Poor decisions are obviously being made. Living in the district this has escalated to a level it never should have come to. The cost to taxpayers is ridiculous because of these decisions.it should have been settled LONG ago. Again what a mess.

Just wanted to make sure everyone knows that the members of the Board of Education are the superintendents boss, not the other way around. They can make decisions over her at any time. She has them snowed.

she needs to be over thrown immediatley

I am shocked that it is coming to this again with a new Superintendent. After the last one thought it could not get any worse. The children are the priority and it seems that the parents and their issues are not being taken seriously. And our teachers at that school work hard and work hard for the kids. And where is their contract?

Where is the NYSUT on this issue?

As of June 14, 2013, I have lost complete faith in this district.

The BOE & Superintendent are unwilling to listen to parents, community members, teachers, unions, legal counsel - they are unwilling to listen to the voices of those that have elected them into their positions. The BOE agreed as elected public servants, to be representatives of the community they serve, and to work for the best interest of the children and their education. They continue to make decision upon decision that undermines the well-being of children.

They turn a deaf ear to parental concern and aren't willing to question anything that the Superintendent tells them. There is only one BOE member that asks questions of those he represents, and attempts to pursue a dialogue and greater understanding, but he is shut down by the BOE president. Anyone who has ever attended a BOE meeting has witnessed this.

The BOE has become arrogant. The attitude they project towards parents and teachers is unacceptable. When a concerned parent reaches out to a BOE member and calls them, or wants to let their voice be heard, BOE members don't even have the decency to return a call or respond. It is a hopeless situation. It has been going on for years.

The choices they have made with the last two Superintendents is evidence of their poor decision making. They have made decisions that have cast the Wynantskill school district into deep financial peril. The BOE agreed to give lifetime benefits to the previous superintendent, her children, her spouse (should she find one). This agreement will be upheld for at least the next 70 years! A golden parachute like this is extremely rare these days, and in a community like Wynantskill where the median income of families hovers around the 60k mark, it's unheard of. Those families will bear the burden of this bill.

The administration has ballooned to include 4 administrators for a one-building school district with less than 400 children. The students are denied teaching assistants and aides in their classrooms, while the administration continues to grow. The class sizes are nearing 30 students, and hiring teachers to split those classes into more manageable sizes is continually denied despite parents outcry. Just read the meeting minutes from the past several years.

The Teachers haven't had a contract in several years and the "new" superintendent is not even capable of negotiating one. Yet, she had her six-figure contract extended and approved by the board in a rushed "special meeting" that needn't ever been called. Very very shady operations going on over there.

What has transpired with the 3rd grade class and the removal of their teacher with 4 days to go in the school year is unforgivable, and takes the cake. It is frivolous, and is vindictive and it will all be exposed. It was done with the intention to hurt the teacher, to hurt the parents who spoke out, and in the end, those it ended up hurting most were the children. BOE and Superintendent - you have victimized those children, and it will never be forgotten. No parent will ever trust you again, you have lost all credibility and your resignation is deemed necessary at this point, along with the resignation of the Superintendent, who has put 100% blame for this action on the BOE. The lies and blame have got to stop.

I have had it with this district. I have zero confidence in those that are running it. Except in their ability to run it into the ground.

What exactly does the BOE do at GD? This has been going on for 1-1/2 years with Henkel, she is a fraud. I've attended meetings, the only person that talks is the Board president, Andrea Paone. Can the other BOE members speak? They look pretty stiff sitting there not participating, Henkel says very
little, never has a reply to most questions asked. If Henkel wants to terminate someone, the board votes and takes her side. This is all one-sided. The BOE never gets to talk to the person being fired - this is outrageous! It's not a fair vote, it's ONE-SIDED!! The present board is weak and needs to step down now. GD needs a new Board. One that can communicate with parents, teachers, taxpayers and are committed to answering how the Superintendent is reporting what she wants to do for the teachers, parents, children and the community. Like all of the previous posts, I have HAD IT WITHIS SUPERINTENDENT and this INCOMPETENT Board of Education. The community needs to demand for this Superintendent, LISA HENKEL and the BOE Members who votes YAY for the termination of this 3rd grade teacher to immediately resign their positions. Bullying and harassment will no longer be tolerated here at GD.

I SECOND the above! Wanted: Authentic Leadership

Well Said. Authentic Leadership

The only thing that can change is if you run to be on the board yourself... Again many people won't because 1 it's a non paid position and 2. It's a thankless job !!

maybe we can start a petition requesting Dr.Henkel and the BOE resign before legal action is taken

http://www.nyfera.org/?page_id=3843

A Parent Trigger for New York: Empowering Parents to Reform Their Children’s Schools

Let's remember the Superintendent works for the BOE, but the BOE works for the parents and taxpayers. Make them accountable. Our children and the wonderful teachers at GD more than deserve it.

Thank you for the information step up... i think we need to do something!!!

Dr.Henkel, Board of Education, Mrs. Dutton and Ms. J.Glaz;
I am sorry this is what has come to be. When I met with Dr.Henkel months ago it was to be an advocate for the class and the teacher. I really thought I could get someone to care about this class and its low reading assessments from week one. I thought that the children were the focus and not a personal vendetta against teachers. I met a couple times with Dr.Henkel, Ms.Yodis and Mrs. Dutton to see why my son who was reading at a 5th grade level in 2nd grade now couldn’t read at a 3rd grade level. I now question every grade by Mrs. Dutton and everyone involved in that class after having 3 students independently tested and scoring 2-3 levels higher. Reading interpretation is subjective and I feel these kids have been targeted from the beginning to not advance and to make sure Ms.Glaz does not get any extra help. I believe if a teacher is on a TIP it is the principal and superintendent job to give help and support if asked. You failed to do this. There was NO remedial reading in place for 3 months and this will be your downfall. When another parent and I met with you initially I had high hopes –she said it’s pointless but I believe in truth, integrity and above all honesty.
So now I will honestly say I cannot stop what is going to happen now. When you pull a teacher out 4 days before school ends without an explanation to students, parents or staff you only have your own best interests at heart. Matthew Hug should remember when this happened to his child. She and her class were heartbroken. The kids do love Ms. Glaz and she loves them. Personality conflicts should not dictate treatment of our children and bullying should never be a factor in leadership. I believe there is no confidence in Dr.Henkel or the BOE and that is sad. So much could get accomplished. At least you cannot write me up.
If by filing this against Ms.Glaz and letting a teacher go is stopping my child and the new kindergarten class from getting a quality education then shame on you. How much is this going to cost the school, the district etc? There is rumor the media is going to hear about this and it won’t be long before we find out why Dr.Henkel was paid 2 years at N.Colonie while not attending work and the BOE will have egg on their face. I hope it was worth it and now I really wanted this not to happen. I have on file about 20 e-mails of myself and Dr.Henkel requesting help and false promises in case I need them. The written word is the best evidence.

This woman is no better than Christine Hammil, we need to do a serious "HOUSE CLEANING" with the Superintendant and School Board!!!!!

...In closing, I hope you are prepared for the law$uit that is coming your way. The legal word on the street is this 3020A will be shoved down your throat without a sip of water. From all accounts, you have been contacted and given this information. Yet, you plan to move forward. Maybe, just maybe, when it is all said and done you will see that you have clearly risen to your upmost level of incompetence. However, by that point you will merely resemble the emperor wearing “new” clothes. As at that point, EVERYONE will see to what level your incompetence has risen. And much like the emperor, everything will be hanging out for all to see!

Is anyone bringing this to the media???? I believe we have a story on our hands...I have gone to the media regarding issues before and have had no success! Does anyone have any ideas?

Here is a full letter one of the parents just sent to Admin, BOE, Parents, SED and the Media

As a new parent coming to gd this is pretty scary to hear that there are all these problems. I'm concerned that there is going to be 28 kids in one kdg class with now help. Considering keeping my child at his current school vs sending him to gd. Which is sad because we bought our house specifically so our kids could go to gd.

When Lisa Henkel was picked for the superintendent's job there was a document on the internet stating "this lady is a fraud" - (see document at the beginning of the blog) This was disturbing information that was sent to each Board member to see if they had checked up on Henkel and watched her every move. If they had checked on her previous background they would have seen her for what she is -- a FRAUD! How did Henkel get the job? A close friend, Judy Dutton told her to apply. It was a huge mistake and the Board fell for it without investigating her thoroughly ! Big mistake on the Boards part. The former Superintendent, Christine Hamill, who was there for nine years then retired, ran the Board and she constantly was getting teachers and others to resign by threating bullying and lying about them. Hamill was instrumental in getting Henkel hired, Judy Dutton was her partner was in partner in crime. There were better candidates, such as Maureen Long and Jack Lynskey, who would have been much better suited for this job. but the Board listened to Hamill and Dutton. For 10-1/2 years this Board has given Hamill, then Henkel (1-1/2 years) this Board what they wanted without investigating it. They got their increases and the Board believed those two frauds. The Board members serving now are President, Andrea Paone, Ann Marsh, Andrew Lanesey, Christina Curran and (Matt Hug). They need to go. Why: they refuse to talk to parents, hide from them, wont' answer questions from parents, they are incompetent, ignorant, and arrogant people who have failed the school, teachers, students, and parents. The only answer is for both the superinntendent and the BOE members who voted YAY for the termination of this teacher to immediatly step down. The entire house needs to be swept clean.

This was closed in error. Issue is not resolved.

The teachers at GD are amazing. Working under these conditions, yet being positive re models for our children. With no contract. That is dedication. The teachers cannot speak up, or they'll be the next on the chopping block. We need to speak for them and our children. Im willing to organize a place and time for parents to meet and discuss options. Post if you are interested.

Not a fan- I would be interested.

The teachers at GD are its biggest asset. We are a small community with an absolutely stellar group of educators. Sadly our Superintendent has taken an adversarial and even antagonistic stance with them from day one. I was quite surprised to hear her blame the teachers repeatedly for any issue that was brought to her attention. She is wonderful at talking around a subject and laying blame yet never answers the questions or concerns that are brought up directly and never takes responsibility. And then to go a step further and use a group of 3rd graders to oust a teacher she didn't like is deplorable and unacceptable. What has happened to these children is the opposite of the child centered and education first policy that our school should adhere to. If the BOE and the Superintendent wanted to fire this teacher they should have found a better way than setting her up by using 8 year olds. What kind of person behaves this way? Changing grades and drivers following around teachers to serve them papers...this is EMBARRASSING to every single Wynantskill resident and it is no way to run a school.

It would be a crying shame to lose the small town atmosphere that exists at GD. We were lucky enough to have a child in the district and it was a wonderful experience. Did no one "vet" this incompetent? She causes division wherever she goes and when it IS time to have a meeting she is conveniently NOT THERE that day!!! Does she EVER work?

Has anyone else noticed that the superintendent/ principal's car is never in the parking lot when the school day starts or ends? The teachers cars are in the parking lot along with the Assistant principal's car! On two separate occasions I stopped in and wanted to speak to Henkel or the Assistant principal and the secretary couldn't find either of them! What would happen if the school had an emergency? No administrators to be found! There are so many issues here!

Who is above the BOE? We are right? We need more parents. Even if they aren't directly affected by the changes that have taken place. The more parents, the more power. Power in numbers. Our community is in need of our help. Our children NEED our voice. I want to boycott school as a parental strike until something is done. We are supposed to send our children under these circumstances? This is an unethical way to run a school. I am embarrassed for them and for myself for condoning it every time my child attends. I don't know what is best to do but, I know that we need to do something! We are ultimately responsible for our children, their well-being. We are held accountable to ensure that they make it to school on a daily basis. THEY are responsible for providing a safe, stable and healthy educational environment for each child. We can impeach a President.....we have to believe that our efforts (for the sake of our community and children) will make a difference. The squeaky wheel gets heard. We can't give them this ability to continue running our school this way. They don't give us a choice. I am disgusted. I had no idea all of what was behind the smiles. I also chose to live here for the school district and the small community. People need to know. I wonder how many don't know all that has happened since day one. The teachers and our children are worth fighting for. We shouldn't (although I am) have to be worried about consequences for our children for speaking out of concern resulting in any underhanded retaliation. . How could we as parents be respected for letting this go on? I would be ashamed of myself if I do nothing. It isn't an option. It is pitiful that many of us might be intimidated to speak out. This mirrors an abusive relationship. One where you're afraid to stand up for yourself in fear of the outcome. This is beyond comprehension for me. The more parents stand up, the more parents will follow. It is easy to target a small few but, how could they get us all? I can't imagine parents saying no to supporting this one way or another. A petition is a good way to start? The news? All great ideas and I agree and support all that has been previously shared. We can do this! Coming out stronger than ever. Let's make history by changing the future!

The entire BOE should be removed and the district should have a new election cycle this summer. Someone is benefiting from this circus and I would bet that person is on the BOE. The children of the district are NOT receiving any benefit from this situation. Parents, wake up! Your money and your children should not to be squandered by an inept BOE and an administration that is driven solely by ego and powerlust. HAVE A RECALL! GET this BOE out! Terminate the Superintendent and find someone who actually knows a thing or two about education!

Make sure the media gets involved if you have a rally or a big meeting; the more parents that show up, the better. It will take the whole town to oust this monster.

I agree with the previous post. This summer there should be a brand new election. All 5 Board Members, Henkel, and even Lathrop (who does the budget) should be let go. Bring back some integrety, accountability, and people who have a love for children, not cold-hearted, uncaring people.

This is sad... There was an election 2 months ago and no one stepped up to do this thankless job. The BOE spends hours away from their families to volunteer at this. I have heard that the teacher removed was removed b/c she called a child with special needs stupid and that she was going to give her class all straight "A's" without giving one test in the third quarter. My child had the teacher and she is so phoney. She puts up a pretty exterior but her head is nothing more then a box of rocks. I for one think the school will be better without her.
And for their not being a teacher contract why is it just assumed that is the boards fault. I've heard that the teachers have said no to 3 & 4% raises b/c it's not enough. Contracts are negotiated, they are not just given by the board.
You people are hearing one side of a story and are just believing it. The board has done a poor job telling us their side of the story, but they may be prevented by law from saying anything about any of this. Members on the BOE have young children that are going to be in this school for a long time. Maybe they are thinking long term and not just about today.

To This is sad:
What is sad is how misinformed you are. You clearly don't know what is going on in the district, or with the situation at hand based on your statements, which couldn't be farther from the truth. Perhaps you should consult any one of the parents of the 27 children affected. Your comment, "The board has done a poor job telling us their side of the story" - The BOE has had an ample opportunity to respond and they have not had the basic courtesy to even utter the words to a single parent that "I would be happy to LISTEN to your concern, although I am unable to comment due to legal issues" Instead, they won't pick up their phones, answer emails, or acknowledge they have even received a single correspondence on the issue. As a representative of the people in this community, that is pitiful, and it shows their lack of ability to function in the role as decision makers for the district. If you aren't willing to at the very least listen to the people you represent, you have no business representing them. The BOE hasn't really spoken on any issue in the past decade - perhaps you should attend a BOE meeting and you can witness this yourself. They say nothing!!! I am not surprised that people are unwilling to get involved and run for the BOE, because it is an embarrassment to be associated with that group. It is time for a new BOE!

The best way to get some of the no show/no care parents out would be to organize some type of BBQ- once they show up to for their BBQ, get them to sign a petition to oust the officials. I think you all would be better served if you took names of parents ( from each grade) and pulled them out of a barrel and have those selected as you BOE!

I will help in any way possible to set something up to get all of us together, I think it is important for the future of our school. My child was in that Kindergarten class when this was done the first time to Ms. Glaz and I think it was completely wrong then as it is now. Ms. Glaz is an awesome teacher, and my son loved her. I would love to work with some of the parents to organize a BBQ. We need to all come together!

WUFSD Principal/Superintendent and Board of Education,

I have given you ample time to respond to my request for information regarding the filing of the 3020A on Ms. Glaz. I am disappointed that you ALL chose to ignore my questions regarding this situation. Your lack of response points to the craziness that is filling our school. I have contacted board members directly and to no avail. At some point, the public is going to get fed up with the PC response of, “this is a personnel matter.” After researching what a 3020A is, I guess I am safe to assume that Ms. Glaz sexually assaulted a child or staff member, correct? If not that, I am safe to assume that she physically abused a child or laid hands on a staff member, correct? I ask because the only precedent I could find for such an action has surrounded those types of criminal behavior. Furthermore, only half of those claims actually resulted in the parties losing their jobs!! So am I to assume that you are taking action against this teacher, that will cost the district hundreds of thousands of dollars only for Ms. Glaz to be triumphant and return back in the fall? Given that NONE of your allegations rise to the level of crimes against our children or her peers, WHAT IS THE BASIS FOR YOUR COSTLY ACTION?? Did ANY of you research this type of legal action and discuss the ramifications for the district and the children before casting your yay? As a parent of two children in the school, a tax payer, and an active citizen within our community, I demand that you answer my questions.

I want to add that it is upsetting that Ms. Henkel lied to the parents of the third grade in defending this action! The Board does not move to fire. The board votes on the Principal’s recommendation to fire! This is the exact opposite of what parents were told this past Monday morning. Again, this is Ms. Henkel skirting accountability. Why is no one willing to toe the line with this decision and give honest information? Why are teachers feeling threatened and fearful to discuss this situation?? Why does it seem as though the Board works for the Principal and not the other way around? Well, you all work for me! So, I tell you what. Next elections, one of you will lose your seat. I know this because I plan to be in it!! Truth be known now, I can’t be bullied, intimidated, or threatened. I will speak my mind and act on behalf of our children and no one else. I am encouraging anyone who feels the way I do to take the same stance. If you refuse to cooperate, you can be replaced starting with Paone and moving right on down the row. Your decision to take legal action, instead of spending “money we don’t have” to accommodate larger classrooms points to your being unfit for the responsibilities bestowed upon you by the community which you carelessly serve. As Dr. Laurence Peter once wrote, ”In a hierarchy, every employee tends to rise to his level of incompetence.” My question is when will the administration and the board recognize theirs? When will you recognize the shear ignorance to those that put you there, pay your salary, and make you successful? If you are fuzzy, I am referring to those that voted for you, the parents of the district, tax payers, and the teachers on the front line.....

Very concerned about this situation...my son needed reading desperately this year. His teacher, was PHENOMENOL however has enough students to manage. He failed to get to the reading level he needed to be at. I am not a big fan of Judy Dutton, however, I believe any extra help is needed. I do what I can at home but that is why i pay school taxes because my son needs to get his education thru school.
What are we all going to do as parents. Dr. Henkle was signed for an additional 2 years until 2017. If we get her out - we will be paying her salary for the next four years and paying someone elses salary as well. As a parent who is an alumni, with a child in the school and another beginning this year I am very concerned. Our teachers morales are down. You can see it - they are all worried. There contracts have not been signed, however, Dr. Henkles was when her contract was not up??? WHAT????? Our BOE is compiled of only 2 people whom are parents of children in the school. And the rest do not have children in the school. I would be glad to run however, with all the negativity, it is hard to say i can commit to more time away from my children to be surrounded by people who's interest is not my children and our children.

I happened to run into one of my old teachers from GD a month ago. I have not seen him since I graduated many moons ago...but he was telling me the horror stories that all the teachers are going thru right now. I felt so naive. I felt so brought down. What can we do? I want to help our kids and our teachers. NO MORE BULLYING OUR TEACHERS....we promote no bullying for kids, but it is not ok for our teachers...NOT OK NO MORE BULLYINGGGGGGGGGGGG.

I would like to add that I was at school today for field day - a child came up to me and said "Did you know that Ms. Glaz is not here anymore? She got fired" This was not a child from Jackies class, not even a child from her grade. HOW DARE YOU. How dare you do this to the kids. 56 write ups for Ms. Glaz, just pure crap. This little girl who came to me had the saddest look in her eyes. I demand to know what every single one of those write ups was for? EVERY last one. I heard one write up was because she left a stuffed animal too close to a heater ---- that write up was totally warranted. I mean that definately deserved a 3020!

Very concerned about this situation...my son needed reading desperately this year. His teacher, was PHENOMENOL however has enough students to manage. He failed to get to the reading level he needed to be at. I am not a big fan of Judy Dutton, however, I believe any extra help is needed. I do what I can at home but that is why i pay school taxes because my son needs to get his education thru school.
What are we all going to do as parents. Dr. Henkle was signed for an additional 2 years until 2017. If we get her out - we will be paying her salary for the next four years and paying someone elses salary as well. As a parent who is an alumni, with a child in the school and another beginning this year I am very concerned. Our teachers morales are down. You can see it - they are all worried. There contracts have not been signed, however, Dr. Henkles was when her contract was not up??? WHAT????? Our BOE is compiled of only 2 people whom are parents of children in the school. And the rest do not have children in the school. I would be glad to run however, with all the negativity, it is hard to say i can commit to more time away from my children to be surrounded by people who's interest is not my children and our children.

I happened to run into one of my old teachers from GD a month ago. I have not seen him since I graduated many moons ago...but he was telling me the horror stories that all the teachers are going thru right now. I felt so naive. I felt so brought down. What can we do? I want to help our kids and our teachers. NO MORE BULLYING OUR TEACHERS....we promote no bullying for kids, but it is not ok for our teachers...NOT OK NO MORE BULLYINGGGGGGGGGGGG.
.

Im creating a FB event. I will post the link when I am done.

Here is the FB event ~ https://www.facebook.com/events/511923408862382/
Wynantskill UFSD BOE Meeting ~ 07/11/13. 6pm. Library.

**TAKE NOTE**
WYNANTSKILL UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT
BOARD OF EDUCATION
SPECIAL MEETING with EXECUTIVE SESSION
June 19, 2013
5:30 PM
GARDNER DICKINSON SCHOOL
DISTRICT OFFICE

Terribly leadership @gd. Jackie is a very good teacher lets keep her in gd. Mister m

What about something at the fire house - I am sure Kiwanis would love to help us

Everyone- if we ALL contact the media, if we swamp them, they will take notice! I've already contacted several media groups. Do the same.

Will call media stations on lunch break at 115! Have done it before will be glad to do it again

I contacted someone in the tv media. They are unable to cover anything that has to do with a personnel matter; however, if there is a rally for Jackie, or all the teachers, they would cover that.

How the heck is it considered a personal matter when it involves a school district being corrupted by administration? Of course it is personal to me because it involves my children however its more than just my kids it's our kids it's future kids its so much more

Personnel, not personal. An issue between employer and employee, and the media can't cover it because of privacy and confidentiality laws.

What happens next if the board and super step down??? Who runs the school? Are new elections held? How long does that take? Who makes the schedule for next year? Who coordinates the busses for next year. Would the teachers have to go another year without a contract while the leadership is decided? It took this board 6 months to find this superintendent? I can't imagine it would go that quick for a new board with no experience to make that decision. Who would apply to be the superintendent after the last one was run out? Would you? Has anyone really thought this through??? This mob mentality doesn't help anyone.

Those are excellent questions and all the more reason to attend the BOE meeting. I like it.

The real problem is that parents allowed the board to hire BOCES to run the selection process. Boces hires their cronies. That way they preserve their jobs by making sure the new superintendent will continue to fund the already bloated BOCES budgets. If you look at the supt's background she worked for Albany BOCES. she was a friend of a friend.
By the way, to the parents of special education children, IEP students qualify for all services that regular ed kids get. That includes remedial reading from a certified reading teacher. That issue was settled 15 years ago and the supt's proclamations to the contrary are a violation of law. As an administrator of 30 years standing and a local I will say that the last 2 supt's searches have been a sham.

In response to "This Is sad"

You write the BOE is thinking long term and not just today. Have you read the above posts from many individuals regarding Dr. Henkle? If the board is truly thinking at all they would get this women out of our school and away from our children. If Ms. Glaz is guilty of anything it's the dedication and the compassion she puts into our children and Our school.

I hope that although people are upset we can refrain from derogatory comments, especially those targeting others who are innocent in the grand scheme of the situation. All of the teachers that work in the school are great teachers. Describing a teacher as "young" insinuates discrimination based upon age, which is unacceptable. For people who do not agree with harassment in our schools please do not indirectly harass people on this blog. Although it may not be the intent, harassment is all in the perception of the targeted individual. Please remain focused on the core problem(s).

Just let you know the schedule is not done by Henkel or the bus routes.. She is not capable of creating one. She has to hire people to help with scheduling and transportation does the bus routes. Scheduling is a big part of an administrators job and she can't figure it out... Ask Anyone! It was a disaster this year and someone was called in to help.

It seems to me that the school would run just fine if the super stepped down. She has delegated pretty much all of her responsibilities to those working for her. Things probably wouldn't skip a beat, and actually would most likely run smoother. And besides, she didn't even work last summer, silly! Just ask the building and grounds people how often she was there...

The Advertiser is a good place to start maybe a full page add if people contribute. You will need to be accurate or use in my opinion but it should get out there locally since a lot of parents are oblivious to what is going on at G.D. One board member stated this is all hot air. We will see. This all started when a few 3rd grade parents got together and really tried to help get their and other children help and look at all the skeletons it has dug up. I believe the board started with good intentions to help students but are now trying to back someone who really is incompetent,deceitful,vindictive and plain old mean.How can we make this right?Dr. Henkel needs to leave quietly without her contract or else I feel this MOB mentality will only escalate. Please do the right thing Dr.Henkel.

In my opinion, anything is possible. In response to "What Next": valid questions, valid concerns. There are solutions, even if they are temporary (interim principal). Districts have had to exercise this solution for similar circumstances. It is a matter of position/perspective as to which is the lesser of two evil's. Many of us wouldn't accept less than the reasonable expectations we set for our teachers as educators of our children; just as we should not accept anything less from their superiors. It is hypocracy. Model the behavior.. then you can hold others accountable for it. Furthermore, I find the lack of professionalism quite contradicting of the BOE and the Superintendent's position since they are firing a teacher based on incompetence or lack of ability to fulfill her role for whatever reasons. I believe there are two sides but, only one truth. Facts are supported by events. I think much has been wrong and for too long. The manner in which a teacher was fired appears to be the icing on the cake. This is an anonymous forum and I think that is best. I would like to mention that it is my interpretation that there are many other concerned individuals for various other reasons in addition to and in support of Ms. Glaz's loyal parents. I believe to have read many posts that are beyond this immediate concern (3020a) which I feel is supportive enough to warrant the concern alone "Do we have the best person leading our school, our children? I don't think the intention of this conversation is to be our own supporters in the wrong or right category. However, this is about a upholding a reputation as a district/community, respect or lack there of given to our children and about accountability. If we take the subjects out and leave the children and the circumstances........I can't see where any ethical/moral person/parent can say that the procedure and events (that have seemingly all led up to many of us holding these beliefs and opinions) were handled in a fair and/or professional manner with our children being top priority. The proof is in the pudding. With that being said, I am always open to another perspective if it supports it's existence with the basis on fairness.

The mission of our community-based school is to create a safe, compassionate, progressive learning environment that recognizes individual needs and encourages all students to strive for personal and educational excellence.
© Copyright 2013

Be carefully having a support rally for the removed teacher, covered by the media. I don't know what the evidence is against her. Suppose she is found guilty and you were on tv in support of her. Perhaps it would be better to wait until after a judgement is made, or at the very least know what the charges are and seeing the evidence.

Let's remember that this is not ALL about the teacher, it is about what the school administration had and had not done to and for the children of this years 3rd grade class. 3rd grade is a very pivotal grade in a child's education with reading comprehension being the upmost importance. With the new core standards and introducing them to state testing. 3rd grade is when children stop learning to read and now have to read to learn. There were 27 children in that classroom, 50% more than last year's classes in third grade where there were 16/17 children in each class. If administration wasn't going to split that class then there should have been additional support in that room from the very beginning and throughout the entire school year for those children in a, did I mention, VERY IMPORTANT GRADE LEVEL OF THEIR EDUCATIONAL LIVES so they could have received the attention than one teacher can give a class of 27 children that they deserved. The only thing I believe the administration was thinking when they set this in place this past year was their hidden agenda and NOT what was in the best interest of those children. There is so much more to this story. Talk to some of the parents of that class and they will let you know how they feel and how their child feels about reading, it is sad.

When you read the statement below keep in mind I have been dealing with this since September. I am so worn-out. I am so upset. I am so sad. This was written yesterday morning but I have been sitting on. This is only a piece of my story - my son’s story.

I will write of what I know:
Wow. I am a mother of a special education child in the 3rd grade class. I have been on the front lines advocating for my child since the beginning of this school year, resulting in a battle with Dr. Lisa Henkel. I started attending the BOE meetings in November of last year. The BOE does NOT hear our words. Let me repeat in case you are on the BOE – The BOE does NOT hear our words. For me, this is about the unnecessary garbage my son has been put through all year. As a matter of fact, the ENTIRE class has been through this garbage. It infuriates me that Dr. Henkel put my son through !!, and that the BOE ALLOWED it to happen, even after I expressed concern multiple times and pleaded with them to make changes.

Do you know what I was told by Dr. Henkel?
I was told that going to the BOE with my concerns is something that will get directed back to her, therefore, I should try to speak with her directly before speaking to the Board (two other school employees were in that meeting and heard her say this). UM…NO! YOU’RE my concern and have been for pretty much the entire school year. I will go to your superiors. It is my right as a parent at that school. I was dumbfounded at what was said to me and then after I processed it, I thought “is she telling me I shouldn’t attend Board meetings?”

Do you know what else?
Many of us have asked to meet with the BOE, and have been denied. I do not want Dr. Lisa Henkel’s explanation to the BOE about the concerns I have for my son, along with all my other worries, skewed or spun in a way that makes it look as if my anxieties are not valid. I am so tired of this.

Do you know what else?
I prepared a written statement that precisely stated my concerns, which were, and are, all valid. Yet, I was challenged about reading it in front of the entire room filled with teachers and parents. The BOE wanted me to paraphrase. No, I wouldn’t. All I wanted was 6 minutes of their time to listen to what is REALLY happening in that school. I told them I would not paraphrase it. That I would either read it word for word, or not read it at all. I was then told they were concerned about my taking up the “public’s time.” I then asked all the attendees if they minded if I “used” up 6 minutes of their time to hear my concerns, to which no one objected. The statement is above, in one of the posts.

Do you know what else?
Proper protocol is not being followed to make sure IEPs (Individual Education Plan) are met. An IEP is a legal document. This means laws are being broken. I have said this to administration. (take note on this one)

Do you know what else?
RtI (Response to Intervention) is not properly in place. How do I know this? Because I have done never-ending research on NYS RtI, spoken to the NYS Department of Special Education (four people in a conference call at one time, more than once) and NYSED (New York State Education Department). IEP students qualify for all services that general education students receive, including RtI. (take note on this one too)

Do you know what else?
I have pleaded with Dr. Henkel over and over, along with pleading with the BOE to make sure my son received the proper support all year long. ALL YEAR LONG and in PUBLIC! Several of the 3rd grade parents have also done this. Let me be clear, for me, this was a class size issue. Regardless of the fact that the Special Education piece of what was needed for my son was and is still in place, only after intense advocating for several weeks in the beginning of the year- how can any educator possibly accommodate my child’s needs and everything included on his IEP with 24/25/26/27 other 8 and 9 year old children the class?!?!?!?!?!!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!!? I have explained this to her.

This is a new year for:
1. Common Core
2. 3rd grade students preparing for ELA and Math testing in general for the 1st time
3. Actual NEW ELA and Math tests with the new state standards that the teachers need to teach
4. First year the teacher is teaching the CCSS, WHILE still being trained in it
5. Higher level reading expectations with no proper RtI model in place
6. APPR (Annual Professional Performance Review)
I also recognize that the points I make above are something that all schools are going through, but I believe that my experiences would have been much less difficult, if the proper leader was in place.

I would love to have a chat with any of you about EVERYTHING that has happened this year to that class as a result of the non-interest and non-action by the Administration and the BOE. Those kids are a little less innocent after this experience, which is unfortunate, and the 3rd grade parents have a kinship and respect for each other that can’t be put into words.

So you know what?
I believe, based on my own personal experiences this year, the BOE does not have the best interest of children as their first priority. I guarantee I am NOT alone, when I say that, even before this furry started. I don't understand why.

“You people are hearing one side of a story and are just believing it.” There are MANY stories to be believed, not just “ONE” side. I respect you for putting yourself out there and you have a right to make your statements. I respectfully ask that you read up a little bit more and talk to other parents. This is not just an issue about a 3rd grade teacher, as you can see from the many comments. This is a much deeper issue, it is a staff issue, a taxpayer issue; a parent issue AND an ENTIRE school full of children issue.

I don’t care if the BOE thinks I am nuts, I am an advocate that has had to advocate like “crazy” for my child this year. I am certainly not blowing this out of proportion. He is my son. He DESERVES better…much better.

This is what is happening in our school.

Let's look at past.
1st- Hamill came into this district and ran the school like it was her own fiefdom. The employees were treated like serfs at best. If someone crossed her, she started a vendetta against that individual.
2nd- Hamill attempted to oust the teacher that is currently in the crosshairs of Henkel. Hamill failed.
3rd- Henkel was hired to be the superintendent. Henkel and Hamill were associates/friends. It is not a big leap to think that Hamill tainted the "waters" and has covertly been orchestrating some of the drama this little school has been subjected to during the past year. Folks, your money, your school taxes are being smoked. This is such a shame for your kids and your wallets. Get rid of Henkel, look for another superintendent- one without any connection to Hamill. Do a complete background check on whoever comes along. If the BOE can't do that on their own- hire a headhunter!

A link to a page from the National School Boards Association. Read and ask yourself if the present Wynantskill School Board is meeting all 5 of the key points needed to be a successful decision making body...

http://www.nsba.org/Board-Leadership/Governance/WhySchoolBoards/WhySchoolBoards.txt

The BOE is NOT meeting those 5 key points- not at all!

http://untamedteacher.blogspot.com/2009/02/3020a.html - I had to look up 3020A because I didn't know what you were talking about. Ms. Glaz has been summoned to a hearing. I am quite sure they had to produce the summons prior to the end of school - there are lots of laws about that stuff. Chances are she'll be back. I am not sure that I would request her for my child though. GD is very spoiled with small class sizes. Check out some other districts and look at what's happening in Schenectady. They will have class sizes upwards of 30. A teacher needs to be able to handle these larger sizes as we move forward with more budget cuts from the state. They need to be able to handle the rigorous common core.

While the summons may have needed to be produced before the end of the school year, it absolutely did not have to be served until school ended. The timing of the summons was a calculated move on the part of the Superintendent and Board of Education. There was no imminent danger involved. As someone very familiar with what is going on, I able to vouch for this. Chances are almost certain that the teacher will return to the school, unfortunately, the school with be paying the price of the legal fees involved in this case for many many years. WUFSD is a small district with 4 administrators - an excessive amount for the school's size. All it really needs is one competent superintendent and one principal. This was the premise a few short years ago when the positions of Super/Principal and Assistant principal were created. The "Business Official" has increased her hours exponentially due to the fact the the Super is incapable of performing any fiscal related tasks, making budgets, schedules, anything with numbers - forget it - complete incompetence. Class sizes increase and decrease with the fluctuations in birth rates & residential developement, so they ebb and flow. When a school has a large class and has the opportunity to split it by hiring another teacher, but instead chooses to add another administrative position - there is a problem there. I don't know a parent alive that would not choose a small class for their child over a large class, and when a district has the option, they should do everything in their power to work for the optimal learning environment where teaching and learning of the "rigorous common core" happens best.

Mrs.Gavin thank you for sharing your concerns and being concerned about your child and all the rest of our children. Please continue to do so for the sake of all the children.

Where do you people get your info? There is not 4 administrators. This teacher brought it upon herself! You young parents are being suckered again and making a mockery of everything. Everyone has all these negative comments about the board. You mention that 3 do not have children there, correct their kids graduated and they continue to stay on because no one else wanted that thankless job! You have no idea what a board member has to do. They have to leave their personal feelings at the door and follow the laws set by NYSED and Roberts Rules. Do all yourselves a favor, stop listening to a crazy teacher a 2 crazy parents who have elected themselves ringleaders. You all talk about bullies..look at yourselves in the mirror and get your facts straight before you sound off!

Stop crying about something you know noting about. Your facts are a bit off as well. They had Ms. Cronin last year. Also this is not just about the teacher, there are other issues as well. I do not have all the info on the teacher (personally loved her when we had her) so I will not comment on that but the timing is awful. Even if she was a "bad" teacher why put these kids through the emotional turmoil of losing her at the bit end! That's what ticks me off more then anything!
Meredith Gavin and other parents- never stop fighting for what you believe is best!

ohh excuse me... Ms Cronin..another great teacher who had no issues. Jackie may be a nice person outside the classroom, but I had first hand experience with her inside the classroom and she sucks! can't handle any children with the any kind of behavior issues, has no patience with them, berates them in front of the other kids. All she did was cry cry cry about needing help! If you can't take the heat, get into another profession. I never had or needed help in a classroom! Get over the fact the board had to act when they did. Kids don't notice these things. stop acting like they will be scarred for life. Give it a week and they will have no recollection of any of this. Stop[ using your kids! Emotional turmoil get real!

4 administrators:
Lisa Henkel: Superintendent/Principal
Mary Yodis: Assistant Principal
Gail Lathrop: Business Consultant - vendor - announced herself as "an administrator in the building" to parents on Monday, who wondered why she was sitting in on a personal meeting regarding their children?
Elizabeth Bissell: Coordinator of Curriculum/Staff Development & Math Support

Elizabeth Bissell replaced someone, I can't think of her name right now though. That position is not new. It might have a different title but someone left in December and she replaced her.

So your saying no kid noticed she was gone. My own kids commented on it and they are not even in that grade. Scarred for life of course not but emotional turmoil none the less. Also how is it that we had a class with just a few more kids split at the teachers request but not this one? 3rd grade is a crazy year with the start of state testing. Why give one teacher help but ignore another? I saw Ms. Glaz first hand with kids with behavior problems and never noticed her berate them. My child that had her has behavior problems and never once said anything negative. Again I don't have all the facts but from what I do know I can't see why she had to be let go in that manner. This has now happened to these kids 2x!
The Ms. Glaz situation aside I am still not a fan of the current administration. Why do they avoid concerned parents? Wy do they never directly answer questions? Why is the staff morale down? One member is almost never there. Why run for a position if you aren't going to do the tasks required? I have never had much faith in this administration. I think they have many other problems other then Ms. Glaz. She was just the "straw that broke the camels back".

Elizabeth Bissell replaced Kristin Morrow.

I think we need to let the situation with the teacher just go it's way. She is going to be well defended and it is a distraction from the real problems. Those problems are the direct result of this Superintendent's failings. That should be the focus because she is the root of the problems and the BOE remains highly supportive of her. They don't want to admit they made a mistake. It is up to us to make them realize they have a huge problem. Failure to comply with IEPs is against the law. The staff despise her and it shows. Look at this blog! Would this exist if there wasn't a problem? Of course not. We have to keep the discussion focused on this Superintendent and convincing the BOE to respond the way we want them to respond.

Elizabeth Bissell will be part of administration for the 2013-2014 school year. Gregory Sulz will replace Mrs. Bissell for math support for the 2013-2014 school year. Mr. Sulz was asked by Dr. Henkle to do this position on field day on the play ground in front of several parents. A week before Mr. Sulz was told by Dr. Henkle he would not have a job at GD for the 2013-2014 school year.

Extremely Concerned - many of us don't feel the way you do. Some of us feel the BOE and Superintendent did act appropriately. We don't see it as a failing, but as a positive. There are many parents who actually like Lisa Henkel and the changes she has implemented. I can't speak to the IEP situation without reading exactly what it says because there are all kinds of different types of support and levels of support; I have one child that has an IEP and all the needs were met. I did not have one problem, but I can't say that another parent or child did not. It sounds like the situation was identified and a plan was put in place. My child is very happy at GD and I would certainly recommend our school to people looking to come into the district. I mean there hasn't been one mention of the extra reading programs and other good things that have been going on there. They are trying to bring back intermural sports and other after school activities. The spring concert was the best I've ever seen!!! And let's not forget about that fantastic field day? School was sooooo borrring with Mr. Lynsky - he was such a dud. I can't even believe anyone would suggest wanting him back. Oh well, thank God it's summer!! Toodles.

Not so concerned is the only level headed person here. Lets stop using this forum as a beating post. Many of you have made absolute slanderous lies, i.e. That Dr Henkel phlysically assulted a faculty member! Really??? You are a group of vicious people who don't have the balls to come out in public with your lies and are talking real big in this anonomous forum. I am ashamed to admit that i even know you or live here, shame on all of you for all this slander. Stick to facts that can be proven!

The reason Kristin Morrow left was because she was harrassed and bullied nonstop by Lisa Henkel. You can ask any current teacher at GD and they will vouch for this. Ms. Glaz and Mrs. Yodis, along with every other teacher/janitor that was not hired by Henkel has experienced this same harrassment and bullying. Henkel has not changed at all. She did the same thing in her previous employment as principal at Boght Hills Elementary in North Colonie. We know several teachers who work there and all report the same kind of nonstop, dailly harrassment and bullying. Unless you work behind the closed doors of GD, you have no idea what goes on. All of the teachers are not crazy and all of them have experienced harrassement with Henkel. God knows the truth and the truth shall be revealed for all in the next coming months.

Open

Went to graduation Thursday night. Come on guys!!! Not the time or place for school leaders to give a passive aggressive talk about "leadership and unpopular decision making". That night was for the kids! Shame on you for tainting THEIR night with YOUR political BS. Bad taste and even worse timing. Not Cool!!! Convince me you are willing to PUT THE KIDS FIRST!

I believe that speaking of unpopular decision making and leadership at a graduation ceremony is absolutely acceptable. After all, our youngsters are headed out into the world to make their mark and should be aware they may be faced with leaders who have risen to a level of incompetence with supporters! What do they do in this situation? They can rally together, take a stand, and fight for what they believe is right. Where would we be today if people turned a blind eye to or submitted to difficult situations? As parents, we teach our children to stand up for themselves and for others when is something askew. I admire those parents who are putting their children's best interests first and being role models for taking on a cause that's difficult at best. Through this process I hope we learn...
Competence and leadership do not always go hand-in-hand
Our future leaders are worth fighting for

My son graduated Thursday night and I feel that Mr. Hugs speech was in such poor taste! It was suppose to be a happy time. A time to talk about bright and promising futures, not a speech that was laden with depressing thoughts The kids will have many opportunities in their lives to learn about the adversities they may be faced with as they enter the adult world. As I sat and listened to the whispered words of those around me it was very apparent that many other parents were not happy with his using our children's graduation ceremony to make a speech defending the BOE's decisions that have recently been under fire! Very poor taste and not a memory I or many of the parents wanted to take away from our children's graduation!

I have respect for Mr. Hug as a person, but not for what he did at graduation. I think it was indulgent. I couldn't help but wonder why the Super/Principal wasn't giving out that leadership award, which in past practice is who presents it. Maybe the Super is using him as a shield and hiding behind the Board because of all the complaints about her. She's really put the Board in an awkward position, by telling parents that the decisions made have all been made exclusively by the Board, and she has had no part in anything. It's not fair to them really. If they cut her loose, they can probably also cut their losses and not drag them down with her on this ever sinking ship.

Wow. That is pretty poor leadership discussing these issues at a graduation. Which in turn proves everything that everyone has said thus about our administration and boe to be true.

Talk about poor taste - who were the people who were trying to get a group together to picket at graduation? Who took it out on their kids and didn't let them go to the spring concert to "prove a point?" Now there are some crazy people! The kids I spoke to about graduation said it was awesome and they had a great time. So the kids didn't miss a beat. It's YOU the parents turning this into a big deal. It would not have mattered what was said or done you would find something wrong with it and something to complain about.

Dr. Henkel:
One would think that a Superintendent on the hot seat for so many different issues, and with such difficulty establishing relationships with teachers, parents and students would have had the sense to not draw even more attention to herself the night of graduation. If anyone who attended didn't know that something is really wrong here, they know now. Was it your idea to shift the focus yet again onto the School Board to distract from the problems going on with you? Now you've got people angry at the board member who presented the award for you. Everyone is really tiring of your blame game, and at some point, there won't be anyone left to cover for you.

Parents, please contact the New York State Education and write your congresss to make complaints.

Please slow down. Contacting congress will not do anything. Let's have a meeting of parents and other community members to discuss what can be done. As a school administrator of 25 years I believe I can be of assistance. As an administrator of special education I can be of even more assistance. This should be approached in a calm, methodical fashion. Let me know.

Congress is a bit extreme. I want people to remember the BOE are giving up their time and time with their families to do their job. They did hire Dr.Henkel and that was their mistake and did not in my opinion do a background check since many have heard she was ineffective and many teachers felt she was a bully and have no respect for her. The main problem is that parents with IEP children feel she did not meet their needs and did not understand exactly what NYS ED mandated. Also any child in K-5 that entered school in the fall of 2012 who scored a 2 or below in Math or reading was required to receive remedial help in those subjects starting the first day of school.It did not start until November therefore your child did not receive the help NYS requires and that is what you let NYS education know.If your child is still a 1or2 next year make sure they get the help they need. January also was a bust since there was more testing done. There are many opinions about Ms.Glaz and I disagree with her being let go 4 days before school let out since I had to explain it to my child and had no idea what to explain. Everyone who posts on this site cares about the children and their education even the BOE. Maybe if we look at the common weak link we can agree it is Dr.Henkel and I belive that respect for people goes a long way and I believe no matter what happens that Dr. Henkel has lost a lot of parents respect by talking around issues and teachers welcomed someone new and hoped to work in a progressive,student centered mutually repectful environment.The teachers truly care for our kids and did enjoy teaching.The new core is a stress on anyone but with positive feedback and teamwork I think it would be 100% better.

The Law Office of Matthew C. Hug sponsors the Principals Award, that is the reason he presented the award this year and last. It had nothing to do with the current situation at the school.

It's great to see so many parents finally involved in school. I hope most take a breath before going to the meetings, and take the time to listen as well as speak out. I also hope the board gives answers to the many questions. just remember it's not all going to be solved in one meeting but it's a start.

The teacher needed to be investigated - it may come out differently but there have been problems for years.
If you talk to first grade parents, the so-called "babysitter" is AMAZING!
Teachers make more than I do and have 13 weeks a year off (10 summer weeks and 3 breaks) - I think 3 - 4 % raise is sufficient. I only got 1% and for a few years, none at all.
We have the shortest school day/year allowable by law and the teachers won't agree to extend our school day at all which is desperately needed so we can incorporate recess and other needed activities.
Anyone not paying Wynantskill school taxes have no right to complain about class size - go somewhere else. As a taxpayer, I would be so @#$% if there was a class size of 13 and 14. You can bet if they saw that, they would come out and vote down our budgets. We need to be fiscally responsible too.

4 administrative positions:

1. Lisa Henkel: Superintendent/Principal
2. Mary Yodis: Assistant Principal
3. Gayle Lathrop: Bussiness Official - vendor, yet announced herself to parents as "an administrator in this building" on Monday of this week.
4. Elizabeth Bissell: Coordinator of Curriculum/Staff Development and Program initiatives & half time Math Support

I had a post that disappeared...but there are a lot of unfounded comments in this blog. LIke the one about the "babysitter" - there was a committee for that position that recommended her and the parents of the children who have her LOVE her and think she's AWESOME. The teacher contract is definitely 2 sided - teachers don't want to add any more time in the day. We have the shortest day allowable by law and the kids need more time in order to incorporate recess and other things that the kids need. The 3-4% salary increase is not enough and they make more than I do and have 13 weeks off. We can't have a class size of 13. The taxpayers that don't have children in the school will go crazy. There's a LOT of issues and it is not just one-sided.

I don't think there are some inaccuracies being reported. I KNOW teachers were not offered a 3-4% increase. I also KNOW that teachers DID agree to work extra time during the school day. PLEASE be sure you KNOW what you are ranting about!

Clarification...I THINK there are inaccuracies being reported

Misinformed - I am so happy to hear that! That is great news. But you are right about being misinformed or rather just not updated on the latest news. Sorry about that.

I know how bad the moral is at the school..teachers, staff, etc...time for a change.

I have personally heard about the climate of fear in the school and find it very upsetting. Teachers are scared to speak up due to retaliation and that will not help them teach your children more effectively. The State has already put unreasonable expectations on all teachers, and then instead of being supported they are being bullied? That should be unacceptable to each and every parent. I recently ran into my former teacher from GD and was incredibly sad to hear how things have digressed there. Teachers are the best asset to your school and should be treated as such. As for their pay, teachers are required to have Master's Degrees. They cost money, and lots of it. If you want educated and qualified people teaching your children (which SHOULD be everyone), they need to get paid for that education, experience and the qualifications that they work hard to attain. Teacher's don't just stand in front of a board and teach. I have no clue what their negotiations entailed, but I can say that more time equals more money, in ANY profession. It is not a "job", it is a profession. Standard of living is 3% on average. Just a thought. They have to earn a living too. Sounds like too many administrators and not enough educators making decisions. And the Board needs to answer to the parents. It is their job, not to protect Administration, especially if they are lax in their job. Beware of the nepotism and friendships in school districts. It quickly becomes tyrrany.

I am the labor relations specialist supporting the teachers union. Obviously someone within the administration has made a post regarding the teacher contract negotiations as no one outside of the administration should know what has been proposed other than BOE members and the administration. This yet again proves that the administration is not trustworthy. The information given regarding length of day and salary increases is incorrect. If the BOE and admin want to go public regarding the positions of negotiations we will be glad to do so jointly. It will then become obvious who is supporting both the students, teachers and the taxpayer. And have been since January of 2012. So whomever you are - put up or shutup.

Bob Balcom, LRS NYSUT

Go Bob!!

It amazes me the lack of maturity from some of these adults. We are the example people! I know many children that have communicated more appropriately than many of you. Grow up. You are certainly entitled to your opinion. That does not mean however, that you should express it like a toddler having a temper tantrum. Have you no better skills? Shameful.

On a positive note, I am so relieved at how this is progressing so far. A toast and a prayer that justice will be served in favor of the innocent (our children) and anyone that has not had a voice in defending themselves.

All that is kept hidden in the dark eventually come to light!

Can somebody take this down? This is just so embarrassing to our district on so many levels. Right or wrong, whatever side you are on, can we agree that this is not doing any good?

I disagree with Embarrassed. People need to know what is going on. I believe that this format is doing good by exposing the darker side of this district. This is a good spot to air out the problems and to highlight the positive moments.

I know...but what if you are buying a house in this district or considering sending your kid to our school? omg - yuk!! Or, maybe that's good if they don't come, then the class sizes will stay small (kidding!) It's okay - it's just very enlightening. And I'm having a hard time finding the positive.

Buckle up!

http://www.news10.com/story/22685635/wynantskill-teachers-association-declares-no-confidence-in-superintendent

Apparently, your voices have been heard and the teachers have acted....please share your thoughts to the rest of the Capital Region

congratulations to our teachers and parents who have "Stepped Up" looks like change will come!!!

Good Start! Now, we have to get all the other news outlets on board and shine the spotlight on this issue.

SO PROUD OF OUR TEACHERS!!!!!!!!!!!

What a great group of teachers . . . doing the right thing for Gardner Dickinson and all of the students. NOW IT IS TIME . . .for all 5 BOE members to do the right thing before her July 1st contract is up. If not the media, will not go away and will only continue to shine a light on Henkel and the 5 BOE members....Please do the right thing.

PARENTS NOW ITS YOUR TURN TO STEP UP.....

I am very disappointed at the Boards response that the Teachers did not address our concerns with them directly. The teachers have been at every board meeting for the last year addressing issues of concern in a public forum and we have gone on the record. We are open to discuss this with the Superintendent and the BOE. They need to hear our words. This was not an easy decision the teachers took lightly to enter this vote of no confidence. Parents and Teachers need to continue to attend board meetings, write letters and call the district with their concerns. Children remain our top priority before our APPR ratings and contract.

Very proud of our teachers for pulling together in this way, and very disappointed in the Board's response in the Record article. How, exactly, were teachers supposed to share their concerns at Board meetings, when they were specifically told by Dr. Henkel that they should "think very carefully before going to that meeting", or, that if they wanted to speak, they should first "clear" all of their comments through her?? 28 teachers voted for this resolution, and only 1 against. What does that tell you, Board? How dare you try to make this about their contract?! These teachers are the heart and soul of our school, and they need support and encouragement, not threats and intimidation. They need a leader who will hear their ideas and give positive suggestions. Not a leader who makes them dread walking into the building. They have all taught brilliantly this year DESPITE this superintendent, not because of her. We need to support the 28 teachers who voted for this resolution (and the others who couldn't vote for it but probably would have), not the bully who is trying to interfere with their ability to teach our children, and the ONE teacher who apparently supports her. And hats off to the parents who have been instrumental in bringing these issues to light. Your voices are being heard, and we support you!

The BOE and the Superintendent have been declaring that personnel matters can't be discussed to the public, yet the Superintendent told one parent "don't worry, we're going to fire the 3rd grade teacher soon". That alone is grounds for termination.

ml274222@hotmail.com

Let's all contact Mr. Lutz and ask what our teachers need from us. Let's find out how we can best serve our teachers.
Also I have had children in the school for the past 10 years and have developed many friendships with the teachers. I had the chance to discuss what was going on in the school with them during the field day and here are just a few of the things I was told:
We are call into her (Henkle) office after BOE meetings if we speak up and she doesn't approve. We are then told that we need to "run" things by her first before the meetings.
She will say things at meetings and then say that she never said it. She will pound her fists on the table and scream at us during meetings.
She has two of the sweetest teachers in the school in tears at meetings because she has screamed at them and put them down.
Her consultant Gail does most of her consulting through Skype from her home in Florida and that she is now make $55 an hour.
That Gail and Christine Hamill are very good friends.
Another teacher said "do you think we will even have a school to come back to in September"

Those are just a few of what I was told on field day the others are to specific to the person who said it. It is very said that our teachers are put through this kind of bulling on a daily basis! It's time that we step up and go to bat for our kids and our teachers!

To the above comment ---your right on---If a teacher or a parent spoke at a BOE meeting and Henkel did not approve they were called in the next day. This is a fact and can be proved! I'm sure the teachers and parents have kept anything and everything that would help prove this lady is a fraud and a bully and she should never work in a school again!

"Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has not upheld the law and regulations by failing to meet the requirements of students by not fully implementing their IEPs, remedial services and RTI, and;" ~

My child was in the infamous "3rd grade" this past year. I was very pleased with his teacher & made sure to tell Dr. Henkel as much. I was upset that Dr. Henkel chose to remove this teacher with 4 days remaining in the school year. I am not privy to the specifics of the charges filed against Ms. Glaz, nor should I be, but this timing made our children collateral damage. I told Dr. Henkel as much, and she acknowledged my complaint. No problem yet. However, it is hard to ignore the teachers' vote of "no confidence" this week. 28 to 1??? This is not a few disgruntled teachers, this is a landslide. I'm not political, I have no desire to micromanage my child's education, and I don't want to sit on the BOE. I'm just a mom & I support THE TEACHERS. If this means I attend every board mtg from here on out, you'll know where to find me!

Congratulations to our teachers for standing up and doing what is right for our kids and our school. They are the heart of our school, they have the best interests of our kids in mind and they should have the support they deserve. And congratulations too to the people who are commenting here and bringing light to the issues threatening our close-knit, small school district. It is clear by the comments made there are many issues to be addressed. It is blatantly evident that the BOE is just as incompetent as our Superintendent/Principal. That these people ignore the concerns of the parents, and the teachers, is unconscionable. We have elected you to represent us and you have failed miserably. How do you sleep at night? For those of use who have been in this school for several years, to see beloved staff suddenly disappearing and being replaced is questionable. We were all hoping for a fresh start with a new Superintendent 1 1/2 years ago, and never would have imagined how much worse it could get. Now we are living a nightmare! I'm not sure how anyone can read the comments on this string and not be concerned. For those of you who think we, as parents, are acting irrationally, you should become involved and learn the facts. We are taking a stand for our children, as it seems our administration and BOE don't have the best interests of our children in mind. Change is necessary NOW! Please get involved and show support for our beloved teachers ... this is not the way to run our district. Do the right thing!

I am saddened by the response of our BOE in the Record newspaper today. It is ok to admit that you made an error in judgement and made a mistake in hiring Dr. Henkel. Don't we teach our very own children that it is ok to make mistakes and that we only learn from those mistakes and grow from them? Please BOE remove Dr. Henkel for our children and teacher's sake and let our school get back to being whole again!

Troy Record. Teachers, parents call for superintendent's dismissal
http://www.troyrecord.com/articles/2013/06/26/news/doc51ca858620d47188823069.txt
comments from the public are worth reading.

recall the school board
http://www.ehow.com/how_5880864_recall-school-board-members.html

the board meeting was changed to 7:00 at the june meeting

"Rather than addressing their concerns constructively through the board of education, the tenured teachers have unfortunately chosen to vent their emotions on Dr. Henkel in this very public manner. There is no factual basis to the content of the resolution, and it has no legal significance." "We strongly support Dr. Henkel's efforts to improve student performance and build a stronger education program for the community's children."

Please explain -- if the members of the Board have not heard directly from the teachers about their concerns, how do they know that they support Dr. Henkel? Wouldn't it have made more sense to say that they would investigate these concerns and then make an INFORMED decision?

Members of the Board, let's be clear -- unlike the teachers, you do not work for Lisa Henkel. Lisa Henkel works for you. Unlike the teachers, you do not have to live in fear of retaliation if you choose not to share Lisa Henkel's position, in this matter, or in any other matter.

Let's forget for a second that the teachers DID share their concerns with you, and you dismissed them. Let's instead ask "why?" Why would the teachers believe that the only way to address their concerns would be to do so publicly and as a united group? Is it not possible that their concerns about harassment and intimidation and retaliation are real and true, and that this was the only way that they could share their concerns without having to fear that they would lose their jobs?

Let's set aside the hurt feelings and the "we're not listening to their concerns because we don't like the way in which the concerns were presented" attitude, and let's think about these teachers. These people. You know these people. They live where you live. They teach your children. They LOVE your children. Do you really think that they would take a drastic step like this if they felt that they had any other choice?

Talk to the teachers. And, more importantly, LISTEN to the teachers. And then, please, make the right decision.

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Right on. Paone's interview was cowardly; she basically called 28 teachers liars; apparently she has to back Henkel, because she hired her; God forbid anyone admits to a mistake, even though the school, teachers, and most of all the children are suffering for it. This BOE has got to go; isn't there ONE person on that board that will come out and stand up for what is right?

All 5 BOE Members = cowards. Step up.and do the right thing or it is time for a recall.

The president of the BOE, Andrea Paone just got on television and told the capital region that 99% of the teachers at Gardner Dickinson are liars. I want all 99% of the teachers to know that those Board of Education members who supposedly represent me, DO NOT IN ANY WAY REPRESENT ME, nor ever will. I support the teachers 100%. I support a bully-free work environment, and I support the removal of Lisa Henkel, as Superintendent of this district.

We can do this! We can do anything together! I pasted this from the timesunion.com because I thought it was relevant in reminding us what we are capable of achieving if we work together for a greater cause.....

Recently a library employee of the Round Lake Library was fired for closing the library early during the toronado watch. Many supportive residents demanded that the employee be reinstated and also that the current board members who supported this person's firing all resign and the following took place:

"Since Marchione's dismissal, upset residents in this tiny municipality have galvanized around her, prompting the resignation of the seven board members under pressure followed by the departure of Library Director Carol Sheffer.

Earlier in the week, the Women's Round Lake Improvement Society, which controls the library's board, demanded Sheffer's resignation and that Marchione be rehired."

Dr. Lisa Henkel seemed to have worked for North Colonie school district and resigned in 2/2012. I am curious as to what the reason for leaving was. Does she have any parental or staff support there?

I have been a long-standing parent of GD. It HAS always been a warm, welcoming and unique environment. I love this school for my children and I can't wait for new leadership.

At this point, the BOE has disgusted me and I have lost faith in their focus to keep our children first priority. They could have chosen to respond neutrally yet Andrea Paone decided to publicly declare that her loyalty and priority lies with Dr. Lisa Henkel. I am dumbfounded at this response. The teachers support us as parents and we support them as our children's educators. It is clear to me that the BOE has told us that they are no longer fit to represent our community in the way we deserve. I think it is fair to be able to expect that at the very least to remain neutral until an official meeting or opportunity could take place.

District Policies?
After looking at the District Policies that are posted on the school's website, I am astounded to find that --

"The Board of Education strives to conduct district affairs by way of a continuing, open dialogue between the community and the schools. Given district residents' high level of interest in the education of children, the Board wishes to maintain its high level of sensitivity to the needs and desires of the community and to act expeditiously to meet changing needs and conditions."

There is no doubt that the community, as well as the teachers, have made their desires known. Now we're left wondering when the "high level of sensitity to the needs and desires of the community" will settle in so the BOE can "act expeditiously to meet changing needs and conditions."

Furthermore--
"To this end, the Board establishes the following goals for community involvement:
3. to understand community attitudes and aspirations for the schools;
7. to develop and maintain the confidence of the community in the Board and the school district
staff;
10. to ascertain the community's opinions and desires with respect to the operations of the school
system, and to incorporate that knowledge into its actions;"

I've heard many say being a board member is a thankless job. I believe you have to do the job in order to be thanked! Please step up and do the job you took the oath for!

is now VERY concerned. A hostile work environment can not be tolerated. Creating a hostile work environment is prohibited under a number of Federal discrimination laws such as Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 and Americans Disabilities Act of 1990.

I think the community should have a NO CONFIDENCE in the BOE Petition. Show Paone that her neighbors & community do not have confidence in her and her abilities to be rational, responsive and sensitive.

I too agree with all the comments above made about Andrea Paone. If I were her I would be embarrassed. I cannot believe the comments she made on television. What is wrong with you and the whole board who disregard our teachers. You really think they pulled these things out of a hat? These are teachers who we care about, who have been a part of GD for much longer than Lisa Henkel. Do you really think that was easy for any of them .. but the BOE gave them no choice. And it appears they STILL don't want to listen to what they have to say! And for you to dismiss them as being emotional and basically turning your back on them and instead supporting lisa henkel despite this public outcry is frightening for our children, our community and our beloved school district. Shame on you! You should also step aside!

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Wynantskill School Superintendent Comes Under Fire
http://www.cbs6albany.com/news/features/top-story/stories/wynantskill-school-superintendent-comes-under-fire-9278.shtml

Letter from the Board of Education

STATEMENT

We as the Board of Education are responding to the Resolution of No Confidence issued by the Wynantskill Teachers’ Association. This action is disappointing, and surprising that rather than communicating directly with the Board of Education the union took this public and inappropriate approach. Education in New York is undergoing great change as schools implement the new Common Core learning standards and undertake the first year of teacher and principal evaluations under the Annual Professional Performance Review (APPR) process. This change creates great anxiety for everyone. The Wynantskill teachers’ union is further frustrated that negotiators have been unable to reach an agreement on a new teachers' contract. Rather than addressing their concerns constructively through the board of education, the tenured teachers have unfortunately chosen to vent their emotions on Dr. Henkel in this very public manner. There is no factual basis to the content of the resolution, and it has no legal significance.

We strongly support Dr. Henkel's efforts to improve student performance and build a stronger education program for the community's children. We remain hopeful that we will settle the contract in the near future and that we can resume an appropriate and constructive dialog with our teaching staff. We welcome the opportunity to speak honestly with the union.

June 25, 2013

MEDIA RELEASE WYNANTSKILL TEACHERS ASSOCIATION

FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION JUNE 25, 2013

WYNANTSKILL TEACHERS VOTE NO CONFIDENCE IN SUPERINTENDENT

Over the past year and half, the Wynantskill Teacher’s Association welcomed our superintendent with open arms. In that time, Dr. Lisa Henkel has routinely undermined her staff and refused to accept suggestions while not acknowledging her own mistakes. The low morale of the faculty derives from the loss of faith in her leadership & the distrust that grows when not being treated fairly in the workplace. Most importantly, however, is the fact that this type of educational environment negatively impacts our students. Dr. Lisa Henkel has failed to effectively meet her educational obligations and has made administrative decisions that our unit perceives to be unnecessary, or unsafe. This has shown itself to be the case time and time again since January of 2012. The children are innocent pawns in the deceitful game that Superintendent Henkel is playing with the faculty, parents, community & Board of Education. In good conscience, we can no longer allow this to go on. It is for these reasons that the Wynantskill Teachers Association prepared the following resolution:

RESOLUTION OF NO CONFIDENCE
Approved: June 20, 2013

The members of the Wynantskill Teachers Association had great hope that Dr. Lisa Henkel would be an inspiring, educational leader. We welcomed her gladly giving large amounts of time and effort to embrace her vision. Sadly, after a year and a half of working with this Superintendent we are unable to support her incumbency.

The welfare of the children, their families and our members is our priority. Thus, by a secret ballot vote of the tenured staff regarding this resolution in which 28 voted for and 1 against, we are compelled to notify the Wynantskill Union Free School District Board of Education of this result and the cause of this severe action as stated in the following:

Whereas: The members of the Wynantskill Teachers Association dearly love the Wynantskill community, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has created an environment that does not support student learning and is hostile to the people working to teach the children, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has destroyed collegiality and morale amongst the staff, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has demonstrated a lack of leadership and has presented a bad example in regard to attendance and the knowledge of school rules, procedures and program, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has used behavior that is not acceptable, such as bullying, intimidation and retaliation, when managing the staff, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has shown a lack of courtesy and respect for staff members and has failed to acknowledge their generous donation of time to the school at the expense of their own time and that of their families, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has inappropriately attempted to interfere with both staff members and parents attempting to access the Board of Education, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has not upheld the law and regulations by failing to meet the requirements of students by not fully implementing their IEPs, remedial services and RTI, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has not engaged the students and has no meaningful relationship with them, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel delegates her administrative duties to others avoiding decision making and accountability, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel is reactionary and defensive in regard to errors of judgment and is incapable of assuming ownership of her mistakes, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel makes uninformed and inappropriate recommendations to guide families and their needs, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel appears to be incapable of performing the basic administrative function of developing a daily master schedule for the school, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel lacks a rudimentary understanding of how the school functions on a daily basis nor shows and disregards staff recommendations for adherence to Federal and State mandates, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has been inconsistent in the evaluation of teachers and supports teachers of her liking much more than those not in her favor, and;
Whereas: Dr. Lisa Henkel has been a serious impediment to the negotiation of a successor agreement of the member's contract, and;

Therefore BE IT RESOLVED: THE MEMBERS OF THE WYNANTSKILL TEACHERS ASSOCIATION DO SO DECLARE THAT WE HAVE NO CONFIDENCE IN DR. LISA HENKEL AS OUR SUPERINTENDENT AND REQUEST, FOR THE SAKE OF OUR CHILDREN, PARENTS, TAXPAYERS AND COLLEAGUES, THAT THE WYNANTSKILL UFSD BOARD OF EDUCATION TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION TO END HER EMPLOYMENT RELATIONSHIP WITH THE WYNANTSKILL UNION FREE SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMUNITY.

Wynantskill Teachers Association Contact:
Matt Lutz, President
518-429-6548
ml274222@hotmail.com

the above should be from the WTA

Yes the SECOND posting of " The BOE Statement from the school website (Guest)" above is NOT from the BOE but from the WTA. I'm guessing that was just a typo.

To the concerned parent above - please come to the meeting next week with your daughter

Bought Hills parent please attend the Board Meeting July 11th and if possible with your daughter. You will be welcomed with open arms. I suggest getting in touch with a parent or teacher from the district. The teachers emails are listed on the school districts website.

Next month I mean

Please go to Wynantskill town prk 9am sat to sign petition to BOE to remove Dr. Henkel another petition will be Avail. to request the BOE to resign

Thank you for your continued support and the need to stay on top of this subject. This is critical to a successful start for children, parents and teachers this fall

Town Park, is that n Main ave where the Library is? If some cannot attend how will we still sign?

On Saturday morning a group of parents will be at the Wynantskill town park at 9 am.There will be a petition to remove Dr. Henkel from the Superintendant position. We need signatures so anyone interesred in signing please stop by and tell friends and neighbors. There will probably be another petition to remove the Board but I am hoping they will step up and fix the problem. Here is what the petition says:
To the Board of Education of the Wynantskill Union Free School District
We, the parents, guardians, grandparents, friends, citizens and taxpayers of the
Wynantskill Union Free School District demand the immediate resignation of
Superintendent/Principal, Dr. Lisa A. Henkel
We feel strongly about this and listed below are the reasons why we have
no confidence in her ability to lead the district:
1. Enacting leadership decisions that have negatively impacted the students within the district.
2. Failure to receive and to respond to complaints, comments, concerns and criticisms from
parents/guardians, community members and concerned citizens of the district.
3. Failure to form positive relationships with children, parents/guardians, families, and community
members within the district.
4. Failure to communicate essential information to parents/guardians and families, and the
misrepresentation of facts.
5. Failure to exercise sound judgement and decision making resulting in the severely compromised
fiscal stability of the district.
6. Lack of professional knowledge surrounding New York State Education laws, rules, and
regulations and their implementation and enforcement within the district.
name address date
name address date

main street by library or copy petition and sign and bring to BOE on July 11th

Since we want to make it convenient for people to sign we will bring the petition to the BOE meeting and if people are interested in signing get there early and we will have it oitside to sign. Saturday is cancelled and who knows how the weather will be. I look forward to seeing everyone on July 11th for the BOE meeting.Sorry for the inconvenience.

I strongly suggest we take other avenues to make sure that people within our community are able to see this petition prior to the BOE meeting. I like the idea of having a meeting at certain place, however, I think we need to be more proactive. We could band together to do a community walk and take different streets or neighborhoods and go door to door or we should contact the Wynantskill Fire Department to see what streets are highly populated to gain more support similar to their boot drive.

It may be a strong statement if concerned parents in the community were to flyer their neighborhoods. This way other parents, alumni, and community members would be informed.

Thank you all for the comments and concerns. Our children and teachers deserve much better, and us as parents to be sure our kids are receiving the best Education. My question is: How can Admin. and BOE members not listen to parents telling them and sharing tears that our kids are falling behind and something need to be addressed? How we the parents (some of us are not teachers) saw before hands what our kids need? We the parents just want the best for our kids. I take my hat to all teachers and parents that's fighting for all GD students. GO ROYALS!!!

Saturday meeting cancelled?

Where does the PTO ( Parent Teacher Organization) stand on this issue?

To Confirm, there will be a handful of parents at the Town Park in Wynantskill, near the library, with petitions in hand if would like to come on over, take a look and sign. "Take back our school" posted about the details above. We will also have a copy of the No Confidence Resolution released by the teachers.
The children will not be there, the parents will be there for a few hours.

PLEASE, our teachers and children need support from the community and other parents.

I agree and support that many parents/former parents/taxpayers/residents may be unaware of what is going on, i only know because i am directly connected. It seems that Saturday at 9am is cancelled? Is that correct? Why? Can we go door to door or is that solicitation? We could mail out a flier to each address listed within the post office. I think while a march or community walk may be extreme for some it is exactly how extreme we need to be to send the message of urgency and that this isn't just a disagreement of opinion.

I also agree that the opportunity needs to be prior to the meeting if at all possible but, as a last resort you will atleast have the exposure there.

Where does the PTO stand with this? Parent Teacher Organization???

Where has PTO been you ask? We've been right here behind out teachers "Parent Teacher Organization" where else would we be. Our numbers and emails are available everywhere, if you have any questions for us just ask.

Go PTO!

You want to know where the PTO stands on all of this? Maybe come to a meeting and ask. Don't get me wrong. It's great to see everyone pulling together at a time like this, and it's great to see everyone at the PTO events, but the PTO is run by a handful of really exhausted volunteers, who have little to no power to change anything on our own. "Get involved, get it solved."

Amen Seriously?!!!! Everybody is in a uproar over this BUT where were they during the course of school year and where were they on BOE meeting nights

Dr. Henkel is enjoying some time off on the Cape? Can this be true? What are the priorities?

Thank you Seriously?.

I know that we all want Henkel and the BOE members to step down, however my question is; who is going to step up and take their place? Has anyone thought that far ahead? This is something that would need to be done rather quickly with people who have a vested interest in not only our school but our community. Perhaps we need to put some feelers out there as to who is interested in replacing the current BOE members!
To address the issue as to how to get the word out. A few people own businesses or work for places were we can hang posters reminding people to come to the July BOE meeting. We can also hang next to it the item put out by the teachers as well as the re-marks from the mom of the girl who was abused by Henkle.

guest - one thing at a time, lets deal with Henkel first and let the things roll down hill from there....maybe the board will wake up....I think Henkel and one of the board member is bullying the other members...I really do feel that way

The question about the PTO was not intended to be meant in any way other than wondering what they thought on the issue. They as we all are still people who have all had different experiences and opinions. One would assume that the PTO would support this but that isn't a given as many different people are on the committee. Just a valid question as to whether they/you had any specific plans. Honestly, it wasn't a question for anyone to have to defend. Since this is an anonymous forum....there is no way of knowing who is who. There is no display name that says "PTO" but thank you for reassuring your efforts and support.

Hey Everyone,

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We always encourage healthy discussion, disagreement, and deliberation about issues in your communities and neighborhoods. This issue, however, has fallen outside the intended use of SeeClickFix. The platform is not intended to address or critique any individual--elected or otherwise. For that reason, this thread is being closed.

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