Before the recent rain storm, schools had only been closed for 2 snow days despite several delayed openings according to Dr. Nast. Since last weekend schools have been closed for 3 days, (there is no school on Wednesday 3/17 for students and teachers, however administrative staff are expected to report to work) and school officials are looking at the situation day-by-day.
Under Connecticut Norwalk
Dr. Nast cautioned however that a snow storm in late March or early April could cause schools to shut down again and so the number of days could change.
Dr. Nast says that he has been in constant contact since the storm with Mayor Richard Moccia who has been keeping him apprised of CL&P’s repair schedule. He also speaks regularly with the city’s Public Works Department, the bus company and neighboring superintendents as he decides each day whether to open Norwalk
“My primary concern is for the kids. safety” said Dr. Nast. “There are still live wires hanging and children should not be near them.”
Dr. Nast said that the April break will not be cancelled because there is not enough time for parents to change plans that they have made.
So, how has your week been so far? What kinds of arrangements are you making for your kids? How do you feel about extending the school year?
Posts
My week has been all right. I'm a stay at home mother, and I've helped out a few friends who work outside the home and could not take off to be home with their kids. I personally am relieved that the April vacation will not be affected, because my son is a high school junior, and we have plans to visit several colleges during the April vacation.
ReplyDelete“My primary concern is for the kids. safety” said Dr. Nast. “There are still live wires hanging and children should be near them.”
ReplyDeleteTypo I know but it was a good one!
Oops!! It was clearly late when I posted. Thanks for pointing it out.
ReplyDeleteHate the thought of making up the days but think missing these days was necessary for the kids safety.
ReplyDeleteWhat about the fact that it is a state of emergency? I am shocked to hear that the days need to be made up. Gov. Jody Rell saw first hand the damage caused. Is anyone going to ask her to make an exception? I agree the safety of the kids comes first.
ReplyDeleteHey, I have a novel idea! Instead of having five half days in June (16,17,18,21 & 22)which wreck havoc with most working parents, why not make those FULL days. Yeah I know, it seems too easy.
ReplyDeleteit does not matter if it's a full day or a half day. most likely, the extended days will be half days.
ReplyDelete7:51 - they won't count as the "extra days"even if they are full days. Nice thinking outside the box, however!
ReplyDeleteWhy shouldn't the district make up the days? If there weren't enough days before the end of June, I could see requesting an exemption, but there are enough. I know it gets hot, but schools are no hotter now than they were many years ago.
ReplyDelete8:42 - it messes up the summer camp programs.
ReplyDeleteThere is very little "learning" going on that last week of school when it is hot. Many other schools districts take days away from April vacation. "Dr. Nast said that the April break will not be cancelled because there is not enough time for parents to change plans that they have made." This statement is ridiculous. Do you think anyone "made plans" for these 3 days?
ReplyDeleteMost summer camp programs do not start until after July 4.
ReplyDeleteNot the sleep away camps.....
ReplyDeleteMany schools have no AC or AC systems that do not work....it is unfair to go so late into June for the kids. Some systems in the tristate area have taken away spring break days or are going to school half days on Saturdays to avoid going late in June.
ReplyDeleteAs a NPS teacher in a room where it gets to be 98 degrees WITH fans during June, I am absolutely open to other suggestions on how to make up these days. I am willing to take on two classes if it's difficult for other teachers to come in on Saturday mornings. I want my students to be well-educated and prepared for great careers. When it is that hot in my room students are not learning.
ReplyDeleteThe state isn't going to grant a waiver because people don't want to be in hot buildings. The majority of schools in the state lack air conditioning, and in a typical year, there are many that have classes close to the end of June. I know it's hot and miserable, but the state won't do it. And when one considers the pitiful number of instructional hours in Norwalk (compared to many other districts), there is even less of an argument.
ReplyDeleteMy days haven't been that bad (relatively speaking), but I've had power. My poor friends who have been home since Saturday without power and without school - they're on the brink of losing their minds! The kids are out of their routine and just need to be back in school. We did have a very fun day with Naramake kids and parents playing at the Naramake playground today. We all hope to be back tomorrow - dropping the kids off at school!!
ReplyDeleteAs for the make up days - take our Spring break. Let them be in school when they're actually learning and in the mindset of being in the classroom. Those half days at year end are a joke, minimal learning and lots of cleaning.
So I guess we should be considerate of the vacation plans that some people might have in April instead? Many other districts simply take the days away from April vacation. Why is that so hard for Norwalk to consider? Yes, it would be unpopular, but there really is no learning going on when it's 98 degrees and fans are blowing papers all over the place.
ReplyDeleteWe are one of those families who have plans (and unreimbursable plane tickets) for spring break. I would rather the kids lose the spring break and my children to have absenses during those days than to see all children suffer by going to school till the end of June.
ReplyDeleteI agree--so how can we let our opinions be known??
ReplyDeleteWho can we contact?
ReplyDeleteThe BOE and the acting superintendent. http://portal.norwalkps.org
ReplyDeleteWhat about teachers and administrators who have already paid for vacations?
ReplyDeleteSo another day to make up......why do we have to make this up if it is a natural emergency??
ReplyDelete2:40 That's what really going on here. It's the concern for the teachers who would be out of pocket not the students who will be deprived an education.
ReplyDeleteAs for what can be done? I suggest that everyone call the BOE and ask to speak to to the Superintendent or call him. Also speak to the BOE members and tell them that it's OK for vacation to be cancelled.
The BOE members can be found here:
http://portal.norwalkps.org/BOE/Pages/Board%20Members.aspx
Superintendent Nast can be reached at
Phone: (203) 854-4001
Email: Nast@norwalkps.org
This is just so painful.
ReplyDeleteAnother week at the end of the year is not going to kill anyone. Many schools have summer school programs anyway. Comments about it being "too hot to learn" are silly. It's not too hot to tan on the beach all day though. I don't get it. This is why the education of our students is failing. We pamper out children and they have become so lazy. Our kids need to learn that things happen and we suck it up. Stop crying and be thankful they even get summer off to begin with. They can all use extra time learning in general. I am scared for the future of our childen. I bet students in Haiti wish five days was all they had to worry about.
ReplyDeleteHey, Susan Marks, do you still want to come to Norwalk?? When Haiti gets mentioned in a blog concerning make-up days, it may be best to thank your lucky stars for Montgomery County, MD. Just sayin'....
ReplyDeleteIt's a good thing they're only half days. That gives the custodians the rest of the day to clean up all the melted students and teachers. Oh wait, what? Oh we're not made out of snow? No way the average temperature in June is only 79? I read the comments on this blog Norwalknet and I would swear the avg temp in June must be at least 160 maybe even higher.
ReplyDeleteBeing a NPS teacher as well, I agree with many of you and I also feel that if we are in a state of emergency...NO DAYS SHOULD BE MADE UP....this is very clear to some and maybe not to others...that God is truly in control of all things..I can only hope and pray that someone at the state level thinks this situation out very carefully and make the right decision...I hate to say this....BUT... we are not in control....All we can do is wait to see what happens. We all have our different opinions. We must agree, to disagree!!!
ReplyDeleteBeautifully said! You can educate my children anytime!!! Sooner, rather than later, lol!
ReplyDeleteI work a full time job. My husband and I have had to alternate taking the time off to be home with our son. For planned school closing such as Spring Break and end of the school year it is easier to work that out. You know it's coming. I already have paid for camp during Spring Break and mini-summer camp between when school ends and fulltime summer camp begins. Who is going to reimburse me for that. Not to mention I have already worked out work coverage for those days. Life does not always go as planned and I'm sure no matter what the BOE decides there will be people upset and people okay with it. My vote is to keep Spring Break and to extend the school year.
ReplyDeleteWhat about adding to the school days? To make up 5days (since we have thursday off now) we need 30+ hours. Extend the day by adding 5 minutes to each middle or high school class period for 7 periods a day or a total of 35 minutes a day. Shift all schools end times, elementary, middle and high school and buses by 35 minutes. If we do that from next Monday until June 18 we make up 32 hours - the 5 days we missed! I don't know about anybody else, but my kids are happier in school than not, and the extra few minutes a day will only make less time for battles about computer and video games at home.
ReplyDeleteIf there aren't a certain percent of students in class, does the day even count? For example, if spring break got cancelled but only 60% of the kids showed up, would that count as a school day? It seems a little risky to cancel the break, only to find out that a large number of middle and elementary kids won't be there anyway because their parents would prefer an absence to going later in the year.
ReplyDeleteThere are days available in June to make up the ones we've lost this year. April vacation cannot be used until all of the June days are used. This has nothing to do with teacher's prepaid vacation days and everything to do with a contract between Norwalk and its educators. We are in it for the long haul!
ReplyDeleteSomeone loses whether you take days away from spring break or summer break. Hey, BOE, (in case anyone actually is listening) HALF DAYS ARE NOT THE ANSWER! We are taking summer vacation when we planned it and it's preferable to the waste a few last half days which make a great year end on a WIMPER.
ReplyDeleteAdding minutes to the school day? Great idea. Myrna has the kids, including the KG, lined up long before the Marvin day ends and those kids walk out the door at 241pm. Let's see, 9 minutes per day x 180 days a per year equals 27 hours per year my kids are cheated out of their education! Not to mention us working parents who race to school to find our kids have been standing outside in the rain for 7 or 8 minutes already.
ReplyDeleteI am a teacher in Norwalk. I happen to teach at one of Norwalk's more affluent elementary school. I have booked plans for me and my spouse (who is not a teacher) to go on a wonderful, expensive vacation during April break. We do this every year; as we believe this is well-earned. It is booked far in advance.
ReplyDeleteYou have GOT to be kidding me if NPS is seriously expecting any teachers to cancel their April plans/vacations (that they've already spent non-refundable $$$ on for flights and hotels/crusies on, etc). This is FAR different from the days added on in June....which has ALWAYS been the policy they've followed.
Furthermore, how many of these affluent parents/students do you think will actually be in Norwalk during April vacation??! Not many! It makes ZERO sense to keep the schools open. People just can't cancel their expensive travel plns with 3 weeks notice. NOT fair!
Assuming their are nor more snow/electricity days after Thursday...when will the new last day of school be in June (if April vacation is not taken away?)
Remember...Norwalk Public Schools sports camps begin on Monday June 28th......as long as we don't have to go to school on June 28th, there should be no problem!
First let's realize that many many Norwalk students qualify for free or reduced lunch. These are not families that are going on any vacation. Also the large majority of middle class families are not going to go on vacation. I would argue that a minority of people are going away and these folks should have purchased trip insurance.
ReplyDeleteThose who have pre-paid for camps during Spring Break probably have a better argument but even here the money can probably be refunded because these companies don't have to rent facilities or pay minders if they are not needed.
Will cancelled vacations cost some people money. Yes. But ultimately the price is worth it.
Let's see what other towns do.
It is not about vacation plans or teachers (who do an amazing job--I think no one is giving them the credit they deserve--go visit your child's classroom before you are so negative about the wonderful, caring teachers that Norwalk has. It is an extremely difficult job that they have. I have elementary students and can say that we have had nothing but the best). When the weather gets warm--kids check out because of the heat and the notion that school is out. Cabin fever? And yes we do pamper our kids a lot--but making them sit in a classroom where learning is difficult because of 23 other unfocused students and it being too hot is not the answer.
ReplyDeleteStop pampering your kids in other ways, but don’t punish them this way. By fighting for this we are not pampering our kids! No one is saying not to make up the time—time added on to the school day, Saturday classes, or take away April vacation—there are other solutions. But to make students sit in their classroom until school June 29th is crazy and unfair.
What is the criteria for determining when a district should close the schools? And what needs to happen today to ensure the kids are in school tomorrow?? Are we waiting for 100% power restoration??
ReplyDeleteExcuse me?? Norwalk has an elementary school with "affluent families"??? Yeah right.
ReplyDeleteI have been in my children's classrooms in June--hot, stuffy, poor air quality, diffifult teaching and learning situations. Never mind on the High School level where teachers actualy tell students that they can stay home (excused) the last few days or come to school to watch a movie or help clean up.
ReplyDeleteWhy isn't the Board of Ed getting involved to say that they will ask for this......in the paper today it states that it is uncommon for the govoner to approve an exception--but this was an uncommon storm and uncommon situation.
Anyone know what Greenwich or Stamford is saying?? Have they (like Norwalk) already declared an extended school year?
Moina what are your thoughts?
ReplyDeleteYou have elementary kids.
It would be premature to ask for the dispensation prior to our returning to school (that's when we'll know how many days will need to be made up).
ReplyDeleteSupt. Nast had indicated to me that he will be talking with the other Fairfield County superintendents about collectively asking for the 180-day waiver. But, once again, until we know how many days were missed, we can't know how many days would need to be requested.
Like all of us working parents, I am just as concerned as the rest of us trying to figure out how to handle the gap between the end of school and the first day of summer programs. Not knowing when that last day will be adds a whole lot of consternation along with all the other worries we all have.
Thank you Steve--your comments help me feel as though Dr. Nast is on top of things--as is our B of Ed. Please let him know that parents are ready to help, if needed, to make a plea for students.
ReplyDeleteI agree--our worries are many and if we work together our kids will benefit!
I am an NPS teacher who wants to go back to school. I am a Norwalk resident who has been without power since Sat. at 4 pm...and still counting. I have young children and have been displaced for 6 days now...with no clean laundry, food, or a place to sleep. Maybe concerns should be sent to CLP...don't compound our misery by asking us to teach in an enviroment not condusive to learning. Don't believe me...our doors will be open!!!
ReplyDeleteAs a matter of the precedent it would set, I see a problem with any request for a waiver. How does this differ from a bad snowstorm that closes school for four days in January? Are exceptions granted for that? It isn't that schools haven't had days off in March -- and even in April -- before. What about central and northern Connecticut school districts that have a lot of days off every year because of snow and ice in their hillier terrain? It isn't unusual for some of them to close very late in June. I never attended an air conditioned school and I'm sure that I was very uncomfortable when we went to school in late June. My children never attended an air conditioned school until high school, but before then, I never recall a conversation with them when they complained that they didn't want to go to school because it was too hot. They just went because that is what kids are supposed to do, just as adults often work in stifling environments. But that is what it takes to support oneself and one's family.
ReplyDeleteTo the person who commented about high school teachers, I wonder what excuse there would be for such behavior because both NHS and BMHS are air conditioned.
I think it's too late to cancel Spring Break, although personally I wouldn't be opposed. I agree with a lot of the comments about half days; if we extend those days to full days, maybe we'll have fewer days to make up. My biggest concern is all the instruction my kids are missing. My fourth grader had CMTs the week before the storm which cut into the day, much of the rest of the day was prepping for the next day's CMT and specials. Now the storm. I'm not sure when he last learned something new.
ReplyDeleteThe state requires 180 days but it doesn't specify the length of the days, and so having a school day of 8 hours doesn't give the district any more credit than having one of 7 hours. In other words, there is no strategy that will allow districts to count a school day as 1 1/4 days by extending it. This would also create problems because staff members who have been working (secretaries and administrators) would deserve compensation for having to work the longer days. That won't fly.
ReplyDeleteThe suggestion of school on Saturday will never work. Trust me. There have been years when schools were in session very close to the end of June, and somehow people survived.
If this is our idea of a major problem, then America is an even greater country, and Connecticut is an even better place to live than I ever thought before.
Steve—you have my vote! You are the first person telling us that there will be a plea to the governor. This storm is unprecedented, as should be the waiver.
ReplyDeleteWe are still with no power and waiting. I think people are forgetting that a few days is not what will create a better education for our kids--smaller class sizes would. But that is another topic. We as parents have the power to teach our kids new things every day--even in a black out.
Ummm...to the person at 5:24 a.m. who said that "Norwalk doesn't have any schools that have any affluent families."
ReplyDeleteare you serious?
Ever hear of Rowayton Elementary School? That is in Norwalk and is part of the Norwalk Public Schools. In fact, I believe it is the 2nd or third biggest elememtary school in the city. No...it is NOT part of Darien. It is part of Norwalk...and it has MANY MANY AFFLUENT WEALTHY families.
Yes, but try suggesting to a Rowaytonite that they are part of Norwalk. They will flip their Tod's at you and drive away in their SUV.
ReplyDeleteA couple of important links:
ReplyDeleteLink 1:
NORWALK -- The city is urging Norwalk residents to report damage caused by Saturday's storm.
Residnet without power are being urged to call the city customer service line at 203-854-3200.
Residents who have sustained property damage are requested to report basic details of the damage by March 22. To report damage an online survey is available on the City's Web site: www.norwalkct.org and click on the March Storm link.
Link 2:
ReplyDeleteSenator Boucher Reminds Storm-Impacted Fairfield County That The State Department Of Insurance May Be Able To Help
Fairfield County residents impacted by the past weekend's storm can call the state Department of Insurance's toll-free hotline if they have questions about claims. Also, they may visit the department's website for information regarding the claims process.
The toll-free hotline is: 1-800-203-3447. The hotline is staffed during regular business hours and voice mail messages left after-hours will be returned the following day. The website address is www.ct.gov/cid.
 As always, I encourage you to contact me if you have questions and concerns. I can be reached at my legislative office in Hartford at 1-800-842-1421, or via e-mail to Toni.Boucher @cga.ct.gov.
To the Anon Norwalk Teacher who "happens to teach at one of Norwalk's more affluent elementary school".. I am glad you "have booked plans for me and my spouse (who is not a teacher) to go on a wonderful, expensive vacation during April break. We do this every year; as we believe this is well-earned. It is booked far in advance.". We have NEVER been on a wonderful, expensive vacation, I guess we should teach to be able to afford that.. and your grammar tells us that you're not worth the salary you are being paid. What a poor example you set for the rest of the NPS teachers!!!
ReplyDeleteWhat will happen tomorrow? There are still trees down, wires on the ground.....
ReplyDeleteI am sad that teachers are gettig hammered on this blog. I know many teachers who work their tails off for their students. Yes, to the teacher going on the fancy trip--good for you, but that is not typical. It sounds like your vacation is more important than your students.
Most teachers would agree that they would fight for their kids not for their summer vacation to be longer. Make the teachers go for prof dev and keep the kids home. (Hey, why not take PD day away from teachers next week and have that be a makeup day for the kids? Has anyone thought of that?)
Thank you to Steve for your comment. Please keep us informed.
It is pointless to open school for one lousy day at this point. Let families take the weekend to get themselves together and students can start fresh on Monday. I feel bad for teachers if schools open for one day. Teh kids are going to be out of sorts. I can't believe how unprepared Norwalk seems. What if this was a worse natural disaster? Yikes!
ReplyDeleteHow is it that people are so concerned about the start date for the Norwalk sports camps. It's simple. Change the start date. It can be done.
ReplyDeleteI think rading what Steve Colarossi wrote something will be done and if not, Steve and Parents Not Politians will get incolved. THey ran on the forum to get parnets views as main stream voices and I think reading this most parents do not want school for their children until June 30th. Other things can happen---take away a few days of April break, how about next Friday as someone pointed out??, Saturday school for a few weeks? People need to realize that these kids are not "pampered" in school, but pushed hard and they deserve some time to just be kids--to play and socialize!
ReplyDeletehey you, yeah you, with the first class airline tickets.
ReplyDeleteYOU'RE FIRED!!!
Now you have all the time in the world to sip martini's in the bahmas.
To the hardworking, passionate, dedicated, professionals that are trying, against all odds, to provide some basic level of education to our children, help is coming. It's just a slow boat, but its coming.
We know there are more dedicated teachers than those like the tourist that is upset about his/her vacation plans.
Teachers who's passion, to reach children and watch that light come on, never wane's, no matter the time of day, nor the season, nor compensation.
We know your there and we wont paint all teachers with the same broom.
Dont worry, we will weed them out.
Count on it.
support a teacher that you kid loves, they know and take out the boots and kick some tail round here.
Its 6;30pm and no announcments on closing for Friday, yet? Many roads are still impasable for busses and some still with wires down. Probably trying to target a delayed but really silly to attempt. Just declare school open for monday, so safety is not an issue.
ReplyDeleteIt is now 645 PM and they still have not announced a decision . . . come on! And they should cancel those professional days and have regular school days . . . professional days can be scheduled at the end of the school year . . .
ReplyDeleteI am embarrassed to be a teacher after reading the comment made by the above teacher. She should be ashamed of herself!
ReplyDeleteDuff is the only one out here getting info out. Duff announced an announcement will be released at 8pm by Nast regarding schools reopening. DCF is having some major issues so everyone is pushing hard for opening schools friday. Unfortunately, we still have some safety issues around town and that must be a priority, no matter how bad DCF is throwing a tantrum.
ReplyDeleteno school again--so do we go into July??
ReplyDeleteNorwalk Public Schools will return to a full schedule on Monday March 22. Schools will remain closed Friday March 18, to students and teachers. Its a safety call and a good one.
ReplyDeleteIt is too late to cancel April vacation - but perhaps in future years this vacation should be considered for a possible make-up week and parents and teachers should be advised against planning for holidays.
ReplyDeleteWith regards to half days, they are a waste. Not only do the kids not learn anything they often spend the day packing the classroom up or playing games so that they teacher pack. Let's do away with these days altogether and put our kids' education at the forefront.
I have no problem with the schools being open a week later in June. Clearly, the stats show our kids are behind the neighboring districts. I agree with a previous blogger who complained about kids being let out of school early each day - add this up for 13 years. How many months have we cheated our kids? This is not just a Marvin issue but an occurance that happens at many schools.
Can you imagine how difficult it will be for the parent who is paid hourly to deal with the 2 weeks of 1/2 days? These parents have to struggle to pick up their kids mid-day and return to work. Their kids are left alone because they can't they cannot afford afterschool care/programs. Employers don't want to hear about daycare issues - not unless, of course, you work for the Norwalk Public School System. Sorry, I couldn't resist.
Good luck with the remainder of this school year. Teachers, hold on to your hats. Remember, this is Norwalk, where Murphy's Law tends to reign. Vacation plans? Wait until July, because it's been a wonderful week, and you just had a vacation without even knowing it! Don't hold your breath for some kind of waiver. Wrong place at the wrong time. Time to take one for the team, and call your collegues in Stamford for advice. Has anybody heard anything about the new superintendent? Bet she can't wait.
ReplyDeleteHow is it possible for anyone who has a social conscience to ask to shorten Norwalk's school year because it may be uncomfortable in June? There isn't nearly enough instructional time in the scheduled year, but to shorten that is simply crazy. Until attitudes change, there will be no academic improvement. Suck it up and teach.
ReplyDeleteIn future, why not consider reducing the February break instead of the the April one? Take a day off for President's and have the Friday before if we really need a four day weekend. That is plenty. The first part of the school year is overloaded with holidays anyway - there is not one full month of classes without at holiday until March. A shorter February break allows better use of time for CMT prep for the beginning of March and gives more leeway for storms etc. Leave the April break as a definite vacation. There is no other time off between the April break and the end of the school year except Memorial day.
ReplyDeleteLet's BOYCOTT half days!
ReplyDeleteFar as the superintendent candidate, Dr. Marks, that is under review. A couple of members were supposed to hop down to Maryland this week, but with the weather and the storm clouds looming over Dr Marks's unproven skill sets, perhaps its prudent we all take a breath and see where we are at. This one we cant screw up or Norwalk can throw in the towel. Rename ourselves Norport.
ReplyDeleteBoycott half days.
ReplyDeleteHey, March 18, Anon 12:41:
ReplyDeleteI am not the NPS teacher who wrote the post that you are bashing on the issue of grammar. However, I am NOT opposed to educating you on the issue of objective case pronouns. The teacher was absolutely,and grammatically, correct when she stated "for me and my husband." "Me" is the object of the preposition "for"; therefore, the phrase requires the objective case "me" and not the subjective case "I." Before you get ready to bash, check your arrogance at the door, if you don't mind. The only error in her syntax at all was the use of the semi-colon when a comma was warranted. However, you'd be hard-pressed to find half of the average population who gets the semi-colon rules under control unless they are grammarians. I think we could be generous enough to excuse the lack of an "s" after the word "school" as a typo. I hope you approve of my grammar and syntax in this post. Now, how about you stick to the issues and hold off on the ad-hominem attacks?
I am an administrator, and I never considered for a moment when booking my April vacation that it would be a guaranteed done deal that I would get the time off. You see, I work in the field of education. As a thinking adult professional, I understand that there might be weather issues. That is why I did the responsible thing, and I sucked it up and paid the extra $150 for trip cancellation insurance. I know full well that I will still have to pay a nominal fee to the hotel for cancellation, but that is the risk I take when planning an April vacation when I work in my chosen field. You see, I used to teach in Bridgeport many, many years ago. One year we had a horrendous winter, and the BOE determined we must lose days from the April vacation because we had already blown through all of our June days that were reserved for snow. We were told last minute in March, and we all just had to deal with it. The next year, the BOE put out a policy that informed all faculty and staff the April vacations are up for grabs if we exhaust the June reserves of snow days. We all put up and shut up because that is the way we were told it would be. That is why they call it work and not play. . .sometimes you have to gird up and do what you have to do. Also working in Bridgeport, there were plenty of times we went to school into late June. In fact, one June in 90 degree heat, they actually tarred the roof that was adjacent to my classroom windows. Not pleasant, but the work had been contracted in advance and the school year was unexpectedly extended. So we just dealt with it. Not ideal, but had to be done. I also think it is absolutely absurd that so many people are upset about the prospect of attending school into late June without air-conditioning. I never had air-conditioning in parochial school as a child, yet I survived many school years in a wool jumper and blouse sitting in a sweltering classroom in mid-ninety degree weather. Guess what? I learned what was being taught to me, also, because my parents and my teachers had the expectation that I was there to do my job and learn. Everyone sounds like a bunch of spoled children on this blog. Let's be adults. Either solution would work fine--school year into late June is not the end of the world; school vacation in April losing some days will not be Armageddon. Let's get a grip and stop being so God-awful self-indulgent. If this is what we consider to be a crisis, we need a reality check.
ReplyDeleteWOW--very sad to hear a Norwalk administrator talk like that--harsh words to call many concerned parents "God-awful self-indulgent"
ReplyDeleteI am the teacher that posted yesterday about my April vacation, that upset so many people.
ReplyDeleteFirst, I'd like to thank the grammarian two posts above that proved that my grammar wasn't so bad; that it was mostly just a few typos and such.
Secondly, I want to reinforce that I really meant what I said.
I've been teaching in the classroom for over 25 years now, and like so many others, I'm dedicated to my students. When the school calender comes out the previous year....I sit down with my husband...who works in the business world....and we schedule our vacation around MY teaching vacation. He needs to notify his boss when he is going to use his vacation days. Mine are already picked out for me. If my April vacation is stripped at the last minute, we are both left with are pants down, so to speak. Do you now understand?
Thank God we have a strong teachers' union, which would never let this happen. The end of June is much better in my opinion. That's why it was put it in the first place.
I do think that all 182 days should be made up....just at the end of the year.
Not everyone has family here in Norwalk, or even within driving distance - personally we use the April Vacation for our children to see their grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins, trip insurance or not it would cost hundreds of dollars just to change the flights- trust me I won't be doing that and I'm sure many others are in the same boat - how would taking the April break away be an effective teaching week if tons of kids are absent?
ReplyDeleteThe last week of school is a waste due to the half days whether it falls in mid-June or late June. But at least we have time to prepare so the extra time before the half days begin (5 days later than scheduled) will be when the days are really made up, think of it that way.
And for the comment on Affluent families in Norwalk - don't be ridiculous, there is so much negative stereotyping going on but let's face it, there are certainly many affluent families and neighborhoods in Norwalk, not just Rowayton. Take a look at the rest of the country people. If all our most affluent residents actually sent their kids to our schools and spent their money and time invested in the Norwalk public schools rather than in all the private schools around here we'd see a big impact.
7:41 Anon, talking to everyone, not just parents. Never heard such hoopla in 28 years in the field over the extension of a school year. All I'm trying to say is we need to use our heads on this one. It's not the end of the world. What we wish to have happen and what might have to happen might not be the same thing. So we need to be flexible. For the record, are the parents on here the only ones who are allowed to provide an unvarnished opinion?
ReplyDeleteI am a parent of a high school senior who has to go to a mandatory orientation for college on June 29th.She also has classmates that are leaving for various programs at their colleges on June 28th. Is it fair for these students to not be able to walk with their graduating class after 4 years of hard work? Unfortunately if the school year is extended there isn't going to be a lot of learning going on.The state calls for 181 days but will they be quality days? I think mot.
ReplyDeleteThe state calls for 180 days, not 181.
ReplyDeletePlease see the Hour...Moccia has written a letter asking for the 5 days to be excused.
ReplyDeleteOn another note, I completely agree with the person who said to do away with February break on all points. One week in April is enough and the extra time could be better spent preparing for CMT's.
I agree it is too late to cancel April vacation - but I am disgusted with all this complaining about extending the school year. Whose fault is it if there is not a lot of learning at the end of the year? Let's work together to fix this problem not accept it.
ReplyDeleteWe all know about the inconveniences of having to cancel plans. My guess is that a lot of people had to take vacation time and personal days to stay home with kids and to keep their house afloat during the storm. I would also guess that many people are cancelling their vacation plans due to the financial impact the storm may have had on them.
Speaking of financial impact, don't many of us send our kids to the same hot schools for summer programs such as PF camp? My kids seem to enjoy these programs. Is there a loss of income to the City if these camps are postponed or are they run on a not for profit basis?
The schools have already lost substantial instructional time due to the CMTs and the CAPTs.
We need to toughen up as a society - I'll remind my kids of how hot those recently graduated seniors are in Iraq or of the poor guys paving the street in the middle of the summer. Of course, if the heat conditions are dangerously high - close the schools.
I would suggest casual wear for the last week -but unfortunately almost anything goes already.
This is not complaining--there are valid reasons not to go until June 30th.
ReplyDelete7:17 - If by "valid reasons" you mean conflicts with vacation plans and uncomfortable conditions in the schools that lack air conditioning, I'm not with you. The bottom line is that students are not performing well on the standard assessments that NCLB and colleges use, namely, CMT, CAPT and the SAT. For that matter, AP results leave much to be desired. And so the answer is that the schools should have FEWER days of school because it may be hot during the last part of June? Where is the logic in that?
ReplyDeleteThe state tests may have ended, but instruction now should be preparing students for next year's testing. But this isn't only about testing; it is about student learning. Students learn more when they are in school.
I think the reason why people are bringing up the whole "PF camp and NPS sports camps start on June 28" deal is because they are HUGE moneymakers for the city. And we know the NPS loves money! (I teach in Norwalk) The PF camp and one or two other NPS sports camps do make NPS or the athletic programs tons of money evey summer, ue to their popularity and enrollment figures. Take away a week of each camp and NPS loses a goldmine! Even take away a few days...that's my point. And who knows if the teachers who run the camps will be around if NPS decides to extend the sessions later into August to make up for the delayed start.
ReplyDeleteI don't have a dog in this summer camp fight.....I just know how NPS thinks about money! They don't like losing any revenue! LOL
Silvermine is the affluent area.
ReplyDeleteFYI - PF Camp does not start until July.
ReplyDeleteCranberry is an affluent and wealthy area.
ReplyDeleteI was originally referring to Marvin, but that's okay.
ReplyDeleteFirst off...can we stop comparing school districts and how well-off they are?! That is just so childish!
ReplyDeleteNow...I don't think it's a big deal if NPS summer sports camps start on June 30th or July 5th rather than June 28th. Or if they end a week later in August. Or if they cut a week off of it all together. I know a few of the teachers who instruct those camps and these seem very nice, dedicated, and flexible. They can reschedule your sessions for you if you would like to change your week that you have already signed up your child (children) for. (They have done this for me and my family in the past when something came up). I'm sure there will be no worries or problems and everything will work out fine.
Bottom line.....summer camps should be the LEAST of anybody's concerns these days regarding make-up days, etc.
I'm curious also- did no one realize that the calendar included Makeup days through the 30th from the start? If we'd had more snow days would everyone be freaking like this? I have friends in Maryland whose kids lost 10 days of school from the snows in February, my sisters kids lost tons of days in Florida a few years ago due to the hurricanes. These things happen and we have to deal, this is what the calendar had ALREADY planned for. In 2003-2004 we were in school until the 26th,were people freaking then? That was a Friday, we are looking at going just 2 more school days than that year.
ReplyDeleteI can understand the high school graduation concerns but there must be options for the seniors. As for the college orientation - that can be a conflict no matter what - I remember having to go down south for mine June 15 and then coming home to finish my last 2 weeks of school and graduate. Why can't they have Graduation as scheduled the week of the 21st and figure something out for the seniors the last 2 days?
Also, what about going to school on Good Friday - is that an option here or will that spark a whole new debate?!
And another question - has the calendar committee been restarted? It seems that now might be a good time to get that ball rolling again!
Anon 9:16, in my opinion you raise many valid points. I'm with you! There should be no surprise that anyone (parent, teacher, or administrator) is taking a chance by scheduling any activity that conflicts with the make-up days that are built into the calendar. People have to be flexible. The educators should be the LAST people to be surprised by the idea that school might be in session until June 30th or that if there are more closings then we might lose a couple of days from April vacation. That's just the way it works in school systems. They might not choose to accept that reality, but it looks ridiculous when they stamp their feet and pretend that they are caught totally off guard. This is your profession! You know better! Stop with the hype about kids being unable to learn in the summer heat. It sounds like a thin argument to cover up that you prefer not to have to put in the extra days. And Mr. Mayor shame on you for saying that half days are a waste and that nothing is learned on those days. If half days are such a farce in Norwalk, where the heck are the principals that are supposed to supervising the teachers in their buildings? I would think that they could make it clear that they expect to see quality teaching going on in the classrooms, and I would bet that they could go in a few classes to see what's going on and to prove that they are serious about it. Teachers and administrators and the Mayor all look bad when publically say that they hold such low expectations for learning on half days. You are the people that are supposed to be holding the standard. That all boils down to kids rising to your level of expectations. We need to get darn serious about expectations in Norwalk. No more lip service. Are we concerned with educating our kids, or are we concerned about our own personal needs above all else? Bottom line is, you'll never make everyone happy with any decision like this one. What we need is a no nonsense leader to raise the bar.
ReplyDeleteOne more thing...my daughter will be in school if that is what the officials say we need to do. The rest of you can go on your vacations if that is what you need to do. We play by the rules in my house.
ReplyDeleteIt is very, very sad that the school system has this concern about having schools open until June 30. I agree with the poster who said that the school calendar already designates the final days as make-up days, so what difference does it make if the days off were due to a blizzard or a rain/wind storm?
ReplyDeleteNorwalk won't get better until people begin treating education as a much more serious matter. This means doing what needs to be done, not doing what is comfortable. And by the way, how does anyone know with certainty that the end of June will be unbearably hot?
I hope the state dept of education refuses to consider the waiver of days for Norwalk, which has already been labeled a failing school district. Norwalk students need more time in school, not less.
Interesting to think so many of you rely on the NPS system to educate our children—it is a two way street and that is the core issue with why Norwalk is a failing system. As a parent, I do my part and my children are not failing. I am not wealthy, but we expose our kids to a lot of things (mostly free programs) and require them to try their best. AS I see my kids get older and that they are doing well—I know it was because of the home school connection! Adding a few days in June is not the “cure” to get our students a better education and make Norwalk a city that succeeds. Make parents do their part!
ReplyDeleteLet’s reflect--How many of you made your kids read every day this week? Research something new? Create a new gadget? Help your kids think outside of the box? Push them to read to gain new knowledge? My guess is those people who want a longer school year have not.
To the person who commented about CMT’s and their child not learning anything new—do they know all the info they read on those passages? They are learning lots more than we think!
I agree! Parents need to do their part—as a society we rely too much on our school to do it all. Impossible when there are 22 students in one room with 22 levels and one teacher. My daughter has an amazing, energetic teacher—but she can only do so much. I have been in her room volunteering. She has no help.
ReplyDeleteThink about this: half the kids in her room don’t do homework, she cannot take away recess to have them complete it (or punish them) and those parents are not supportive for whatever reason. Here lies our true issue.
Ditto--we all need to do our part. But--keep in mind that we pay educators to instruct so they should be doing that--every day, no matter if it is September or June.
ReplyDeleteIt takes a village!
And don't forget that teachers were paid for last week. They need to make up the days by teaching their students in late June.
ReplyDeleteI think you have not had a great teacher expereince. Teachers work really hard. I realized that when my chidl was in K and I went in to help.....you should try it!
ReplyDeleteWhat about the days that they work and don't get paid for? Most elementary school teachers go in 1-2 weeks before school starts to get ready for our children.
Pleae don't be negative about teachers--they are here for our kids!
9:44 - If you are referring to the 8:25 posting, let me tell you that I AM a teacher. While I enjoy a day off as much as anyone, I don't expect to be paid if I don't do the work I am contracted to do.
ReplyDeleteI think they were saying that u earn your pay. I think you do.
ReplyDeleteNo teacher expects to get paid for nothing but I don't think that comment was meant to be taken in that way--sounded like a compliment to me!
ReplyDeleteThank you 9:44! I don't understand why people are being so negative about teachers on this blog.
ReplyDeleteAnon 12:21-Where are all of the teachers that are "kicking and screaming" about having to make up the days??? I haven't run into one. I must have missed something.
ReplyDeleteWhat's a tod?
ReplyDeleteI am an elementary school teacher, and have many friends who teach. I have not talked to one teacher that is complaining about having to make up these days. In fact, it has been quite the opposite. Most teachers were actually quite surprised that we might not have to make them up because we always make up missed days. Make up days have always been built into the school calendar at then end of June. This is nothing new. If these were snow days that happened sporadically over the winter, we would not even be having this conversation. We have gone until the end of June before, and while it may have been alittle uncomfortable, we all survived.
ReplyDeleteI would also like to add that teaching does continue until the last day of school. Children are not packing up classrooms. That's why we have shortened days, so teachers can use that time to pack up, complete report cards, file, etc.
Our goal is to provide the children of Norwalk with the best possible education, and to prepare them for the future.
9:43 - Thank you from a fellow public school educator.
ReplyDeleteAs a parent I am appauled to read the negative teacher stuff---we are truly missing the mark by blaming them. My hat goes off to teachers!
ReplyDeleteIt is the parents who want the days waved for our kids!!! Let's make that clear.
As a teacher and parent of middle and high school children in Norwalk I will respect whatever decision is made. Either way will not make or break a child's education in Norwalk. My kids have had a fine education so far!
ReplyDeleteWow--I have never seen so much activity on this blog.
ReplyDeleteAs a teacher who has been teaching for a few years, I am shocked by the negativity.
In my personal opinion as a teacher, we will not get a waiver granted since we have the days built into out school calendar. But I feel like people feel as though teachers are getting away with a lot. And getting paid for nothing. My coworkers and I spend much more time teaching and preparing for lessons than the 8:30-3 time frame which is contractual. We are in it for your kids and take pride in our work.
This was an extreme situation and whatever happens will happen, but please know we are here for your kids. I am sad to think that so many parents think so little of us.
FROM BEEN THERE:
ReplyDeleteBelieve it or not, in Nwlk we have worked to the last week day in June on several occasions...sometimes after losing vacation weeks too. It's part of the job.
Question is why the Mayor is asking for CT to legally deny our kids their fair time at school? Norwalk has enough days to cover the days as required.. even without counting the Teacher's Professional Day scheduled for March 26 or using the April vacation.
And remember 6 FULL TIME DAYS, will be added before those half time days kick in... Most parents make the final decisions regarding those decisions in their own homes anyway.
Doing the NWLK math:
Scheduled:181 student days + 6 make up days
lOST:2 snow days, 5 March days=7 days needed:
181+6=187-7=180 days required by Ct.
THIS IS PART OF OUR CONTRACT AND COMMITMENT TO YOU...
Exactly and all teachers are ready to do this!
ReplyDeleteNow the superintendent needs to withdraw his appeal. As for the mayor, he shouldn't have tried to get involved.
ReplyDeleteWhy not? Many people want this!
ReplyDeleteEvery parent that I have spoke to who is actively involved in their child's education is for the appeal to be approved.
To all the parents who want the waiver granted, let me remind you that part of the bargain we make when we take grant funds to support our schools is that we will provide a certain number of school days in our calendar. You don't mind taking the money (as we don't want more taxes charged to run our schools); therefore, isn't it fair that we fulfill the terms of this deal we make with the state to get this funding? Where are our ethics. For godsakes, our kids won't melt in the last week of June. Get real! This is the problem with the dumbing down of American education. Parents say they demand a rigorous education and high standards, but they don't want to play by any of the rules. They don't want homework, they don't want anything other than inflated grades, and now it seems they don't want a minimum required number of school days either. Why don't you just treat the schools as daycare and we will grant your kids a certificate of attendance instead of a diploma. Both of them should be printed on Scott Tissue the way that you are diminishing the educational system. So put that in your pipe and smoke it.
ReplyDelete5:10 - You said it so well. Thank you.
ReplyDelete:et's all agree to disagree and call it a day! It is what it is--let's take things one day at a time.
ReplyDeleteI am just so happy for a "normal" school day today!
So what happened to that calendar committee? Dr. Corda started to form a committee and then he left. Did anyone take up that?
ReplyDeleteI personally think students do not need a break in February when they are preparing for all their tests--and then another one is April. A spring break after the testing is over is enough.
I'm in agreement with you 5:01. Let's get rid of the Feb. break. The kids are just getting back from Christmas break and they have MLK day and President's Day off.
ReplyDelete