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

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

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

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

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

Who Ya Gonna Call....?

We have made it no secret that we've been in touch with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Attorney General's Office, Ethics Committee, Governor Patrick, IRS, and the Office of the Inspector General. In one of the nastier messages we received on this blog (which we posted) by someone at MVRCS, they made reference to having contact with individuals who should be concerned with the wrong-doings and/or issues at MVRCS who were not concerned with what we were saying. At the time we didn't pay much attention to their statements as we felt that SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE WOULD pay attention and be as outraged as we are. We didn't believe that the agencies and government officials could turn their back on students who required special educational services, misappropriation of funds, or blatant disregard for laws. We must say that we have since been repeatedly disappointed at the lack of actions the agencies responsible for ensuring the folks at MVRCS are following the laws and educating our children. Some insight and background on who we contacted, what was reported, and what (if anything was done).
We have made it no secret that that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE or also known as the DOE) is willing to do very little in the way of ensuring Neil Kinnon and the Administration/Board follow the laws that govern them. Jeff Wulfson while offering to be our 'go-to' person at the DESE, has shown little interest and made little effort to address the issues we have brought to his attention. He was well aware of the open meeting violations yet did nothing to enforce the law other than pass the buck to the Attorney General's office. Mr. Wulfson actually ignored a number of our emails until we reached out to Governor Patrick for assistance. Unfortunately, Mr. Wulfson's attention and responses are limited and appear to only happen at the urging of Governor Patrick. Given that the DESE (aka DOE) is the agency mainly responsible for the oversight of our education system here in Massachusetts, not to mention their responsibility for charter school oversight, we can not stress enough how disappointed we are by his lack of concern and inaction. We feel we must also make mention of the fact that before reaching out to Mr. Wulfson, we had heard of several parents and a number of teachers reaching out the PQA (Program Quality Assurance) department of the DESE, again with no success. Our other issue and concern that the DESE would ultimately be responsible for addressing is that of the handling of the lottery and waitlist. We can not even begin to describe the amount of information that has been sent to us regarding violations of the laws that govern  entrance into charter schools. We've heard of students being re-admitted, unethical handling of the waitlist, and the newest, being able to buy a students entry into the school. It appears as though the DESE is not concerned with any of this and is therefore allowing it to continue. So, in answer to the question 'who ya gonna call' if you have an issue with MVRCS, we DON'T suggest bothering with the DESE.
We must say that of all of the agencies we made contact with, the Attorney General's office was one of the most helpful, responsive, and seems to have made a difference. While the option exists to contact them regarding a number of different issues, we chose to focus on the Open Meeting Law violations at MVRCS. We must say that since speaking to them and sharing with them our communications with MVRCS, we have seen an improvement in the handling of the Open Meetings. We still have issues pertaining to obtaining the minutes of past meetings (specifically Executive Sessions) but those are due to more of a logistical issue. Although we do believe that an issue still exists (are the meeting minutes available as required by law for both the open and executive session meetings?), we have not figured out a way of obtaining copies without revealing our identities. We are still working on this issue, do not fear. In general, we would suggest that the Attorney General is someone one might want to call for assistance and guidance. Too bad they weren't responsible for education!
An agency that we have mixed emotions on and are holding off on forming an opinion at this time is the State Ethics Committee. We have filed NUMEROUS complaints with them regarding conflict of interest issues on behalf of not only Neil Kinnon but with the City of Malden, Chris Finn, and in the hiring of family and friends by Neil Kinnon. Unfortunately while a number of these have been filed on behalf of various individuals, a fair amount have also been filed anonymously which means we have no way of knowing what action (if any) has or will be taken. We do know that no action has been taken on at least one complaint at this point but are still waiting to hear on the outcome of others.We hope that the State Ethics Committee is at the very least taking our complaints seriously and not being misled, misinformed, or misguided by the folks at MVRCS. On the up side, we have heard rumors of certain individuals lawyer shopping for firms that handle ethical complaint allegations. We shall wait and see before we decide if this agency is one that one should call.
As for Governor Patrick, we must say that our letter to him did result in a response (at the very least) from Jeff Wulfson. We would have liked for more to have come from our contacting his office but at the very least, we know that he heard us! Another one we'll be contacting in the future.
The IRS and Inspector General - these too were anonymous complaints so unfortunately we have no way of knowing if our efforts resulted in any action being taken. It also may be too soon to tell.We'll keep you posted on this agency.
In closing, we've come to the conclusion that we are not the type of group to give up easily as we will continue to bring the many issues and concerns we have regarding MVRCS to those who SHOULD be able to help correct them.

Our Theory - Exactly!

From Wrightslaw  http://www.wrightslaw.com/blog/?p=4470

One Person is a Fruitcake, 50 People are a Powerful Organization!

12/27/10
by Wrightslaw

Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?” - Martin Luther King

Millions of children attend under performing schools. Millions of parents struggle to get appropriate educational services for their children.

What can you do to help these parents and children? What can you do to improve the lives and educational outcomes for children in your community?
To boost your creative thought processes, we’ll tell you what others are doing…



Loni Allen, an educational advocate from California, began a From Emotions to Advocacy group and has trained hundreds of parents.

Jackie Igafo-Te’o and Deborah Canja from Michigan built a dynamic website that is improving the lives of parents and children in the U.S. and Canada. Check out bridges4kids.org.

Not convinced that a few determined people can make a difference? Still wondering what can one person do?

Mom gathers petitions for school takeover.  CA parents force an overhaul of failing school - using a new state law to force the failing school to be taken over by a charter school operator, the first such move in the country.

If you think that you alone cannot do much to improve your school, you are probably right. You’re more likely to get what you want for your child if you work with other parents.
If you are in a school that is not parent-friendly, this is how you might be perceived.

1 person = A fruitcake
2 people = A fruitcake and a friend
3 people = Troublemakers
5 people = “Let’s have a meeting”
10 people = “We’d better listen”
25 people = “Our dear friends”
50 people = A powerful organization”

If you collaborate with other parents and organizations, you can make a difference. There is strength and power in numbers.

Source: 12 Things Parents (and Teachers) Need to Know About and Expect From Your Schools - and Yourself.  (Originally from Parent Leadership Associates)

UPDATE ----- Information FOUND - Malden Observer Police Log

UPDATE
A reader has provided the following link (thank you!) that many parents will be relieved to hear, neither the school nor any student was involved. The incident took place in the parking lot and was with two individuals who knew of each other.

http://www.wickedlocal.com/malden/news/x1599383295/Police-Charter-School-not-involved-in-rape-call


We have heard that the Malden Observer printed the following in the police log:

Saturday December 18 @11:45am statutory rape of a child, Mystic Valley Charter School, 770 Salem St

We have no other information regarding this incident but one must wonder if was a school event that was going on or did this incident occur on MVRCS grounds? Is this when the event occurred or when it was reported? Was the child a student of MVRCS? Was it an adult and child or 2 teenagers? Does anyone know what was going on at the school on Saturday the week before Christmas?

We don't want to alarm parents unnecessarily but are looking for more information that either justifies parents being alarmed or can ease parents fears. Does anyone have more information on this incident?

How Much Do You REALLY Know?

You Don't Know What You Don't Know.....

Many of our opponents have accused us and others of not being involved with the education of our children. We have been challenged regarding how many board meetings we attend, are we room parents, part of the PTO, and the list goes on. More recently we've received comments regarding how uninformed so many parents are as to what actually goes on at MVRCS. This started us thinking about how little access to information we as parents have regarding the school day of our children. As a result, it has made us realize how little access we have to not only information regarding our children but also access to 'our' school. It has caused us to come to the conclusion that the Board and Administration of MVRCS do not want informed parents but rather prefer them to be kept clueless and uninvolved. You Don't Know What You Don't Know.

Our first case in point relates to how much we, as parents, know about our child's day while they are at school. While many schools not only encourage classroom teachers to publish weekly newsletters, they require it. Newsletters are a way for teachers to maintain open communications with parents, keep parents abreast as to what is going on in the classroom, and provide parents with a starting point or prompts as to helping children talk about what they are doing in school. Wouldn't it be so nice to be able to have a specific question to ask about a lesson or activity rather than just the standard 'how was school today'?  How often do parents get the opportunity to visit the classroom, stop in and catch up with teachers (other than the 5 minutes during pickup), or see other students work? The school has eliminated any opportunity for parents to access the buildings as they are not permitted in the classrooms before or after school. It is even more upsetting that the children are not even permitted back in the building after school regardless of the reasoning (i.e. forgot something, bathroom visit, want to show their parent something). With all of the cameras in place (with a lip reading program attached no less!) and the staff that are required to be there until 4pm, it is incomprehensible that the school has adopted such policies. As parents we should have full access to the facilities that house our children for 37.5 hours a week, 200 days a year. This is just another way for the Administration to limit access of information to parents because they rely and depend upon parents being ignorant and uninformed. As for the arguments about being room parents or 'involved' - only 2-4 parents are room parents and therefore permitted to attend the occasional party or event and how do you stay involved when you have such limited access to the building and teachers? Again, You Don't Know What You Don't Know.

We have heard from many teachers that the powers that be at MVRCS have strict limitations and restrictions on what teachers can and can not speak to parents about. In all honesty, they are permitted to speak to parents about very little and any teacher-parent correspondences (notes home) must be pre-approved. MVRCS is the only school that insists upon such control placed upon their teachers. The Administration has been quoted as saying that they do not want to provide too much information to parents as then they would be required to continue in that manner. Try asking teachers some tough questions like 'what level group is my child in (i.e. should I be concerned that my child is in the lowest reading or math group and still struggling)'? Or, 'how was my child's placement determined?', and heavens forbid you request a level change for your child - DENIED but unfortunately, the teachers have such limited say all of this. In hindsight we wished we had provided parents with a list of questions to ask during their 15 minute conferences last week. On that note, did you meet with the teacher who actually teaches your child reading and/or math daily or their homeroom teacher (if they are not the same). Do most parents even know that the homeroom teacher is not necessarily the teacher that their child spends the majority of their day with? Again, You Don't Know What You Don't Know.

We would agree that parents are permitted to attend the Open Meeting portion of the Board of Trustees monthly meeting but must also acknowledge how uninspiring the experience is for the majority of most parents. As we've discussed in the past, Neil Kinnon treats the parents with blatant disregard that borders on contempt. At the same time, the Board too often (and many times illegally) resort to Executive Sessions which exclude parents. The Board has shown just how little importance they place upon these meetings as not only are they not welcoming to parents but they make obtaining the minutes for these meetings near impossible to obtain. At the very least, the Board COULD post the minutes for both sessions on their web site as a means of ensuring all parents are informed and kept abreast as to issues. While many parents have determined that attending the Board Meetings serves no purpose considering the dismissive and demeaning tone of Neil Kinnon, many would appreciate having access to an agenda and/or meeting minutes to allow them to be better informed. We bring up TitleI funding as an example, why would a school who makes it clear that they do not have access to the funding that our public schools have, refuse funds and assistance in reading? In an Annual Report the board said it was so that they could control the curriculum and methodology but Title I is meant assist and ensure the reading success of all students. We think it is again, because it would allow too much information to be revealed AND because they could not control (to the degree it is now) what told to parents.Again, we see this approach and attitude as just another example of the Administration wanting to keep parents uninformed and ignorant. Let's not forget, it is difficult to challenge or question what you don't know about, or you don't know what you don't know.

We could really go on and on with this as it has become overly apparent that the Board of Trustees and Administration do not want involved, informed, questioning parents but would much prefer to just maintain unilateral control similar to a dictatorship. Oh yes, and is that Dictator Neil Kinnon with the control?

And We ARE THANKFUL for Much at MVRCS.....

With Thanksgiving quickly approaching and at the suggestion of one of our readers, we'd like to show thanks for all the aspects of MVRCS that we are thankful for. A few have accused us of being 'haters' or 'bashers' of MVRCS and we cannot reiterate enough how far from the truth that is. If we truly 'hated' the school, we would not put the time and energy into this blog in the hopes of ensuring the school's future viability, we would walk away like many others before us have. On that note, here is what we are thankful for in regards to MVRCS (and we welcome your additions for anything or anyone we may inadvertently overlook).

• We are thankful to Neil Kinnon and the other founders of MVRCS for their tireless efforts and perseverance to create the foundation that MVRCS is based upon; 
• We are thankful to the many teachers of MVRCS who are passionate and committed to providing ALL of our children with an exceptional education and especially:

o   those teachers who have endured and been subjected to the many challenges placed upon them by the Board of Trustees, Administration, and a few of their colleagues;

o   those teachers who go above and beyond the expectations of MVRCS in an attempt to create a positive, nurturing learning environment that goes beyond just the curriculum;

o   All the teachers who should have made the Top 50 paid employees and didn’t yet continue to be passionate and dedicated to teaching our children without taking offense by those who did.

o   We are thankful to the many High School teachers who are dedicated and passionate about ensuring our students succeed.

• We are thankful that MVRCS offers our elementary children foreign language while many of our district schools do not offer them in the lower grades;
• We are thankful to Mike and Wei An who work tirelessly to keep up the lower school facility;
• We are thankful to Bob Kravitz not only for his contributions to the upkeep of the school facilities but also for being a ‘Kinnected’ individual who takes his position and responsibilities seriously and does not abuse it.
• We are thankful to the real school nurses who take care of our children when they are sick, hurt, or just not feeling well.  
• We are thankful to the receptionists in the fishbowl who are also kind, patient, and helpful to both the many students and parents who seek their assistance.
• We are thankful to the many teachers of the past who helped create the curriculum and lessons that are not part of the monkey training that the school uses (specifically the history and science lessons).
• We are thankful to the many teachers who help our students succeed by committing their time and energy to MCAS tutoring, coaching, drama productions, and the likes.
• We are thankful to the art teachers who have been conducting some amazing art projects that are truly impressive and inspiring.
• We are thankful for all of the teachers who have come and gone who suffered harassment, retaliation, and abuse for trying to do right by the students they felt were not receiving the education and services they needed.
• We are thankful for the many years of free transportation the school was able to offer parents during prior years and for the low cost of transportation this year (even if we don’t agree with their policy or handling of the same).
• We are thankful for the efforts and progress that past parents have made towards bettering the school and specifically, the Special Education Department and PAC.
• We are thankful to Ms. Goggin for all of her efforts and accomplishments with the Booster Club including the awesome Haunted Houses they did in prior years and the numerous coat drives.
• We are thankful to all of the school athletes who are committed to their sport and are working to put MVRCS on the map in the athletic arena.
• We are thankful to the uniform policy as it not only ensures an appropriate dress code and creates a sense of equality and unity but also makes mornings incredibly easy for many parents.
• We are thankful for the math and reading program in the lower school as it provides most students with a strong foundation in both.
• We are thankful for the behavior management program (when it works and followed correctly) as it sets clear expectations for the students and the warning system allows for gentle reminders to the students.
• We are thankful for Craig Turner who manages Chris Finn’s office for his handling and ‘babysitting’ of those students who are frequent visitors.
• We are thankful to the cleaning crews who come in like fairies in the night and bring the building back to shape before the students return each morning.
• We are thankful to the food staff that ensures many of our children receive their meals each day.
• We are thankful to the many staff members and crossing guards who stand outside in miserable weather conditions to ensure the safety of our children.
• We are thankful to the Action Service students who provide our children with a safe and fun environment after school hours. 
• We are thankful to the students who have to do Community Service and clean up our parks, streets, collect food for the hungry and the other kind actions that they perform.  

Have anyone or anything to add? We welcome your comments!

Absolute Power Corrupts - Absolutely!

Is there any truth to the old adage is true: Absolute power corrupts - absolutely.

We think so especially since reading (and re-reading) the statements made by Neil Kinnon in the recent Boston Globe article, we have been both incensed and humored by his self-serving interest in defending the Boards refusal to set term limits out of necessity. Neil Kinnon stated that only ‘through a long-serving board that has full understanding of the charter’ can a Board of Trustees’ ‘remain true to the charter’. We take issue with his position and question if the Board has in fact stayed ‘true to the charter’. Further we believe that just as the President of our country is limited to term limits, so too should Board members.

As a side note on this matter, Neil Kinnon has stated that ‘the state Department of Education has repeatedly questioned the trustees’ long tenure’, yet he fails to mention that they have not simply questioned the Board but have issued directives regarding the setting of term limits. Also, as we have mentioned in earlier posts, other charter schools have had their charter renewal contingent upon the adoption and incorporation of term limits into their by-laws. It still befuddles and exasperates us as to why the same has not been required of MVRCS (up to this point we have not heard back from Associate Commissioner Wulfson who we have been communicating with).

The 22 Amendment to the US Constitution addresses the number of terms an individual may serve as President of the US. While Mr. Kinnon believes that continuity is the only manner in which the Board can stay true to the charter, we question how the knowledge, insight, experience required of the Board of Trustees’ of MVRCS can so severely outweigh that of the individuals elected as our President? We think not and just as with the restrictions placed upon our President, we believe they should be adopted for good reason and purpose. Neil Kinnon himself has proven this by his self-created dictatorship that has removed the components found within a democracy. Unfortunately just as the Founding Fathers of our country did not believe it necessary to incorporate term limits into the Constitution (it was an unspoken but agreed upon rule), neither did the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education when drafting the original laws and regulations that govern charter schools. It wasn’t until Roosevelt’s disregard for the unspoken and his attempts to ensure judicial support for his programs did it become required to incorporate term limits into the Constitution. The same situation has arisen in the current standoff between the Board of Trustees and the DESE, as we are sure that the individuals who drafted the laws and regulations at no time intended for a Board to become a monarchy corrupt with cronyism. 

Report: Schools, Teacher Ed Programs Ignore How Kids Really Learn

We are including this article not because we feel the teachers are ignoring how our children learn but to stress the importance of quality teachers in our classrooms and an Administration that values teachers and their abilities. To discredit Neil Kinnon's belief, monkeys can not (and should not) be teaching our children. Our children deserve only the very best teachers and staff members. Much research has been done documenting the importance of having quality teachers within our schools. This is where Mr. Kinnon's lack of experience and credentials outside of MVRCS has very negative, long lasting implications on our children. Again, please know that we are NOT criticizing our teachers, we know that our school is very fortunate to have many of them. We also know that just as we all want to be the very best that we can be, so too do they. In order for them to be the very best educators they can be, they must have a highly qualified Administration and Board that values their profession and dedication to our children.
In the financial reports the school spends an impressive amount of money on professional development and travel (which we would hope was related to professional development of the teachers - anyone know of staff doing any travel?) yet we must question what the content is based on and who is delivering it. We've heard of too many instances of the current Administration standing before the staff reading from either a power point or handout for hours. We have also heard that the staff are so incredibly uninspired and uninterested in the content that they are typically doing other things (we even heard of one training session where John Baglio fell asleep). Again, we stress, OUR TEACHERS (AND CHILDREN) DESERVE BETTER!

Report: Schools, Teacher Ed Programs Ignore How Kids Really Learn

Report: Schools, Teacher Ed Programs Ignore How Kids Really Learn    10/07/10 by Wrightslaw

And They Say They Have Done Nothing Wrong....

Opponents of this blog have continued to insist upon the fact that the school has done nothing wrong and that this site is filled with lies, hatred towards the school and Neil Kinnon, along with other such statements. We must stress (AGAIN) that we do not hate the school nor do we wish to see harm come to it. We do however want wrongs to be corrected and the school to move forward in a much more positive, legally bound, and as a highly regarded school. One way we have come up with to demonstrate the basis for our accusations, statements, and general opinions is to provide a few specific examples that CAN be confirmed through court records, DESE records, and other indisputable documents. It is disturbing to us that not only has Mr. Kinnon attempted to silence both the Malden Firefighters and ourselves, he has also led the school into practicing equally as upsetting practices that are questionable in nature and intent. In our quest to verify our information we have come up with a number of incidents that speak volumes in demonstrating this.

SO SAD and SO BAD

Since our last post we have received an incredible amount of feedback from both supporters and non-supports who are both passing along the same message: the DESE (Department of Elementary & Secondary Education aka Department of Education) has been aware of what has been going on at MVRCS for some time now yet they refuse to address it. While we had hoped that they just hadn't been properly informed or received adequate proof, we now know that is not the reason. We also know that folks at the DESE have read at least portions of our blog. We had hoped that the DESE being located in Malden would not interfere with their objectivity, purpose, or determination to do the right thing by the students and parents (and taxpayers) of our state. We have now come to question our former hope and belief. SO SAD and SO BAD.

Most residents of Massachusetts have heard rumblings about the outrageous amount of corruption within our state government and most of us, are not only sickened by it but incredibly tired of it. It also appears as though Malden has reached for the top in creating and insuring as corrupt as city as one could ever imagine. We find this SO SAD and SO BAD.
To further add insult to injury is the position that many of our political figures have taken in addressing (or refusing to address) the situation at our school. We know that Neil Kinnon and his bank thieves are aglow right now as we point the finger at his political associates who have

A GREAT Resource for Parents on What Makes an IEP Effective

This article is incredibly useful for parents of special education students at MVRCS. We suggest having your childs IEP nearby for comparision (you should have received one at your last meeting but Kathy Kinnon would be able to provide you with a copy) as you read through this.

FAPE.org is also an excellent resource for Parents. Another useful article on how to tell if your child is making progress can be found at: http://www.pacer.org/parent/php/PHP-c78.pdf . The main index can be found here: http://www.fape.org/pubs/index.html.

“Facts-on-Hand” is an easy to read series on special education and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

An Apology to Our Readers

We (once again) find ourselves apologizing to the many individuals we have offended in addressing the US News articles rating of our school. It was not meant as an attack on the school but rather on how the writers of the article judged schools. We too believe that the school has made some outstanding achievements and their inclusion in this report provided a chance to promote the school in a very positive and impressive manner. Few could argue with the stellar reputation of US News. Many opposers to this blog keep making comments regarding removing our children from the school and have repeatedly attacked us for not coming forward. It is unfortunate that it seems as though many parents have adopted the schools climate and attitude of 'like it or lump it' approach to those who dare speak out against it. What is even more amazing is that these same parents have zero empathy or understanding as to why we choose to remain anonymous. Even more interesting is that the majority of these same parents (as one poster pointed out) also choose to remain anonymous when trying to attack or discredit our efforts.
This saddens us as our only hope is to improve upon the school by insisting upon integrity and ethical behavior on the part of the Board and Administration, improve the quality of teaching within the school by increasing moral and reduce the teacher turnover, and create a community in which all parents can expect to be heard by the Board and Admininstration with respect, consideration, and an unbiased mind (and without fear of retaliation or being considered a troublemaker), even if it means their request can not be accomodated. We also realize that although a major reason for not revealing our identity is truly fear, we have also come to realize how invaluable our anonyminity is in resolving issues and acting as an advocate or ombudsman for the parents of the school who are equally as fearful. We have come to the realization that the DESE and government officials and ogranizations have very little interest in adequately overseeing our schools (not just ours but district schools as well) and attempting to resolve issues can be a complicated and time consuming task that many parents are not able or willing to take on. For many schools  the negative implications are minimal, especially with a School Committee and Superintendent that have a checks and balance system that they must answer to. Unfortunately our school has no such system making the parental concerns and issues that much more difficult. While we can't take on every battle, we can try to address the issues that we see having the most drastic and long term implications on our children.
In closing, while we do apologize to the parents who felt we were using the article to attack the school, we do not apologize for the creation of this blog nor our decision to remain anonymous.

Our Thoughts and Answers to Reader Comments

1. In response to the posts regarding our censoring comments not as a result of foul language or mean spirited posts but rather posts that differ in opinion from our own. We find it unfortunate that you believe that to be the case as we have not attempted to censor anything other than posts that contain foul language or serve no other purpose than to attack a fellow poster. We have purposefully left up differing opinions and thoughts as we  feel that the concerns and issues of all parents deserve to be heard and  we want to hear what others are thinking. We find such comments and insight valuable in not only allowing us to see others perspectives but also as a way to ensure that we focus our efforts on the 'big' issues of our fellow parents. We apologize if you have posted something that you believe was removed without justification yet we can't recall doing so.

2.The change from 'non issue' to 'like this' wasn't (again) an attempt to censor anyone but found that some posts didn't fit into any of the previous selections. We will attempt to replace 'non issue' out of fairness to all. We also welcome ideas and suggestions for more appropriate tags and/or polling questions. We also feel it is important to point out that we have had over 2600 unique visitor yet  less than 100 have participated in the polling. That being said, we put it there more to provide those who do not wish to comment a chance to give feedback.

Thoughts on Questions for Tonights Meeting

As we prepare and look forward to the meeting at MVRCS this evening, we have compiled a list of questions we feel are in alignment with our major issues and concerns regarding our school.  We are sharing this list of questions in the hopes that the majority of them will be addressed during the meeting. Please feel free to add additional questions or thoughts in the comment section below in an effort to organize our efforts in our quest for information.

1.       Questions regarding Conflict of Issue Laws:

a.       Isn’t it legally a conflict of interest for Neil Kinnon (City Councilor) & Tom Brennan (if he is an Assistant Councilor for Malden) to also serve on the Board of Trustees considering the interactions between MVRCS & the City of Malden?

b.      Where can we find past Meeting Agenda’s and Minutes?  Per the Open Meeting Laws, the minutes of Executive Sessions (which are only permitted under the most limited of circumstances) are only permitted to remain unpublished as long as publishing them would defeat the lawful purposes of the executive session.

c.       Under both State Conflict of Issues/Code of Conduct laws and Charter school laws governing nepotism, isn’t it illegal for Mr. Kinnons family members and friends to be employed at MVRCS? (Preferential Treatment to Friends & Family Members)

d.      As a Public Official (per State Ethics Committee) and according to Charter School laws prohibiting special privileges being given to Board Members or Administration, isn’t it illegal for Chris Finn’s nieces to have been readmitted to the school after leaving the school? Is this the only time that this has occurred or has this happed on numerous occasions?

2.       Charter School Specific Regulations & Laws

a.       Duty of Care Issues:

                                                               i.      Do all Board Members feel they have acted solely in the best interest of the school regarding the acquisition of the lot that will be used for the Athletic Facility and in negotiations regarding Roosevelt Park?

                                                              ii.      Does the Board as a whole feel that the school is in compliance with the law and that they addressed fully all relevant questions regarding the acquisition of land and in negotiations regarding Roosevelt Park?

b.       Duty of Loyalty

                                                               i.      Can all Board Members assure the parents that they have acted in accordance with the laws that prevent them from acting in any manner that has allowed them to profit personally or indirectly as a result of their position? This would include:

1.        not voting on any matter that they or a family member has a personal interest in;

2.        the hiring and retaining of friends or family members  that are not held to the same standards or expectations as others;

3.       prohibiting the use of their position in obtaining improper benefits for themselves, family members, or friends;

3. Knowledge of Public Record Laws & the Freedom of Information Act
1. Are all board members aware that charter schools must provide any record, including data files, letters, memoranda or other documentary materials made or received by an officer or employee of the school, to any member of the public who requests it? 
4. Admission into the School:
1. The Lottery & Waitlist

                                                              i.      According to the laws that govern Charter schools and must conduct their lotteries in public, with a disinterested party drawing the names. A “disinterested” person is someone who is not affiliated with the school. That being said, what is the name of the CPA Firm and individual that has and/or will be conducting the lottery?

                                                            ii.      The Charter school laws state that it is unacceptable to give preference to children of staff members or Board members or use statements that are meant to discourage diverse, ELL, or any other protected group from attending the school. What steps are all Board Members taking to ensure that these practices will no longer be practiced nor tolerated?

5.      When undertaking the building or construction of a facility, federal and state laws require compliance with public bidding laws. Has MVRCS put the contract for the new facility out to bid? When?

6.      In the article published in the Observer and advertisement taken out in the Malden paper, along with salaries the educational credentials were also provided. Would it be possible to obtain a more detailed summary that included not only the individuals listed but also information regarding the credentials and qualifications of all faculty and staff of MVRCS. According to Charter School laws, all teachers must be certified, could that be included in the summary.

7.      In one report it was noted that the Board chose not to accept Title I funds. Given these tough economic times and the reduction in funding that the school is facing, why has Board made this decision yet choosing to charge parents a transportation fee?

8.      In regards to Transportation, as MVRCS is a ‘regional’ school and entitled to be reimbursed for varying percentages of transportation expenses. What is the current percentage?

9.      The DESE is requiring all Charter schools to produce a report that identifies the steps and efforts each school will take to improve teacher retention. Has MVRCS completed this report and if so, where can parents find a copy of it?

10.  According the Inspector General and Massachusetts State Building Authority the purchasing official must complete a MCPPO (Massachusetts Certified Public Purchasing Official program, especially in light of the construction of the new facility. Does an Administrator have the appropriate certificate and is it up to date (it is only good for 3 years and recertification requires additional course work). If not, must this be complete prior to beginning construction?

Why We Are Alarmed and Concerned for the Future of MVRCS

        As we continue to compile and sort through information regarding MVRCS, we must stress that our intent is to secure the future of our school and not destroy it. In light of these troubling financial times, the thought that our school has abused, misappropriated, or wasted funds, is disappointing and cause for concern. We have all seen the media expose individuals, organizations, and public officials who appeared to be abusing the system. Examples range from the recent scandal regarding nepotism within the Probation Department, ‘Disabled’ ex-cop Dotty Martin competing in triathlons, Signet Electronics rigging bids for state contracts, State Representatives abusing the reimbursement of travel expenses (State Representative Abuse of Travel Expenses), questionable salaries for the non-profit Rose Kennedy Greenway Project in Boston (High Salaries of Rose Kennedy Greenway Project Employees), Brockton City Official Joseph Vasapollo accepting bribes (Brockton Official Accepting Bribes. Lt. Governor Murray has recently been quoted as saying “We are going to continue to be aggressive with companies up and down who are abusing the law …trying to influence or rig the process." (Lt. Governor Murray Position on Companies Abusing the Law). While we do not want to see MVRCS in the headlines with words such as corruption, mismanagement, or fraud, we also do not want things to continue as they have. In light of the schools unwillingness to release information required under FIOA laws, their continued disregard for the Conflict of Issue laws, Codes of Conduct, and laws governing both our education system and Charter Schools have caused us to question the future our school. According to the laws that govern charter schools (DSES Charter School Laws and Regulations) the charter could be revoked under 603CMR1.13:

3. Charter Revocation Under 603 CMR 1.13(1), the Board of Education may revoke a charter during its five-year term for cause. Possible causes that could lead to revocation include but are not limited to:

1.13: Charter Revocation, Probation, Suspension, and Non-Renewal
(1) The Board may suspend or revoke (hereinafter, "revoke") a charter for cause, including but not limited to:
(a) a material misrepresentation in the application for approval of the charter or renewal of the charter;
(b) failure to comply substantially with the terms of the charter, with any of the applicable provisions of M.G.L. c. 71, or with any other applicable law or regulation;
(c) financial insolvency;
(d) misappropriation, conversion, mismanagement, or illegal withholding of funds or refusal to pay any funds that belong to any person otherwise entitled thereto and that have been entrusted to the charter school or its administrators in their fiduciary capacities;
(e) fraud or gross mismanagement on the part of charter school administrators or board of trustees, including but not limited to, mismanagement of the educational program and failure to provide a healthy and safe environment for students;
(f) criminal convictions on the part of the charter school or its board of trustees; or
(g) failure to fulfill any conditions imposed by the Board in connection with the grant or renewal of a charter.

It is our hope to initiate change by demanding MVRCS be managed in accordance with the laws and with transparency, accountability, and ethically. It is only then that we will feel secure about the future of our school and our children.

Welcome to the UN-Offical MVRCS Blog

As a group of parents from MVRCS we’ve grown concerned at what we’ve been reading (and hearing) as a result of the recent Boston Globe articles. After having being able to confirm enough of the information to make us want to explore things further, we've created this blog. The two things many of us do know is that 1. some students do exceptionally well there and the school has done some remarkable things, and 2. the school does not encourage parents questioning or challenging them without repercussions or consequences. This has resulted in many of us just accepting, rather than challenging, the questionable actions and often wrongdoings, of the school administration. In light of that, our hope is that this blog will act as a communication tool for our school that welcomes (and encourages) the sharing of your comments, concerns, and experiences.

As a response to Brenda Buotes article (that can be found here Globe Article by Brenda Buote ) and Rick Veilleux’s response (Rick Veilleux's Reponse), many readers have used the Boston.com forum as an outlet (which can be found under the 'User Comments' link below each story). We have followed these discussions carefully and come to the conclusion that action must be taken to ensure the success of our school. Our intent and purpose is not to destroy the school but rather to ensure that it is being managed and conducted according to the laws of the charter and public law. Should the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) take issue with these, violations, they have the right to revoke the charter. We want to avoid this at all cost and need your help to do so.

We have constructed a list of our major concerns and issues that we have either personal knowledge of or have learned about as a result of the exhaustive list of reader responses to the article Globe and schools response. While we do question the accuracy and view point of portions of the postings, we must also question the identity, motives, and intent of others. We ask that if you take the time to read these postings you do so with an open mind and with objectivity. Unlike the current Administration of MVRCS, we welcome your experiences, insight, concerns and comments. In the interest of fairness and to ensure the integrity of material, we ask that you NOT use your true identity (out of fear of repercussions), student names or identities, and remain polite and professional at all times. Should you wish to contact us, you may email us at Our Email. Welcome!