The Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education agreed at its regular meeting on November 4 to contract with School Exec Connect in its search for a new superintendent.
The board will meet in a work session November 18 to discuss the timeline for the search. School board President Bill Laidlaw said the board hopes to have a candidate selected by March of 2011.
Laidlaw added that the process will have a lot of input from both the staff and the whole community.
Current LCS Superintendent Debbie Thompson is retiring at the end of the 2010-11 school year in June. She has served the district as its superintendent since August 2005.
Showing posts with label Superintendent Debbie Thompson. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Superintendent Debbie Thompson. Show all posts
Friday, November 5, 2010
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Meet Mr. Scott Roper, Lapeer East's new Principal
Mr. Scott Roper, Principal at Brown City Junior/Senior High School for the past five years, is the new Principal at Lapeer East High School.Current Lapeer East High School Principal Kelly Paige is retiring at the end of the school year.
Mr. Roper’s education career began as a middle school teacher in Danville, Illinois 13 years ago. Later he became a middle school teacher, then high school teacher and basketball coach at Schoolcraft Community Schools near Kalamazoo.
He obtained a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science Degree with a Major in English from Illinois State University. Mr. Roper also serves on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP) and committees for the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA).
In addition to enjoying his family and friends, Mr. Roper is a fan of the outdoors and enjoys hunting, fishing, snowmobiling as well as landscaping, gardening and a recent interest in golf.
“I am a big fan of high school sports and activities, and I look forward to supporting the students at Lapeer East in their various programs of interest,” Mr. Roper said. “Lapeer Community Schools has many great traditions including its commitment to academics.
“It is evident that there is a dedication to provide a school environment which promotes academic, social, and emotional growth. I look forward to collaborating with the staff, students, parents, and community members of Lapeer East in our quest to raise student achievement and promote life-long learning through opportunities which inspire and challenge our students to reach personal, academic, social, and career goals.”
“We are pleased to welcome this dedicated educator to Lapeer East and to our District,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Superintendent Debbie Thompson announces plans to retire at end of 2010-2011
Superintendent Debbie Thompson’s 40-year education career that began as a second-grade teacher at a private school in Oxford will end June 30, 2011 in retirement.
Last week, Mrs. Thompson informed the Board of Education that she will retire next year allowing the District plenty of time to find a new superintendent and create a seamless transition.
In her tenure as Superintendent she and the Board of Education navigated the District through difficult budgets brought on by Michigan’s financial woes, but also oversaw a successful bond campaign that brought two long sought after new middle schools to the District. Both schools open in the fall.
In 1974, Mrs. Thompson started her career with Lapeer Community Schools as a third and fourth grade Chapter I Reading teacher at Hadley Elementary School. Previously she had been a second-grade teacher at Kingsbury School in Oxford starting in 1971.
During her career she held a variety of posts including Title I teacher, Administrative Assistant for Staff Development, Curriculum Coordinator, Director of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Interim Superintendent of Schools and finally in 2005, Superintendent.
From 1988 to 1992 she was an elementary school principal in Linden, the only time she was absent from the Lapeer District during her long career.
“I am excited to continue working next school year as we open and operate our two new middle schools,” said Mrs. Thompson. “It is a dream a long time in the making! In addition, I am energized by the enthusiasm of our current staff and the potential of the new staff we are in the process of hiring. I look forward to leading the District as we work to make LCS the best possible learning environment for all of our students.”
Mrs. Thompson received a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and did advanced course work in educational leadership at Eastern Michigan University. She is listed in the 1988 Who’s Who in American Education and was named the 1984 Distinguished Educator for Lapeer Community Schools.
“At a time when the District needed strong leadership and vision, Mrs. Thompson admirably exemplified those assets during her time as Superintendent with Lapeer Community Schools,” said Board of Education President Bill Laidlaw. “She has been a pleasure to work with and a team player with the Board of Education in moving the District forward. She will be deeply missed when she retires.”
Last week, Mrs. Thompson informed the Board of Education that she will retire next year allowing the District plenty of time to find a new superintendent and create a seamless transition.
In her tenure as Superintendent she and the Board of Education navigated the District through difficult budgets brought on by Michigan’s financial woes, but also oversaw a successful bond campaign that brought two long sought after new middle schools to the District. Both schools open in the fall.
In 1974, Mrs. Thompson started her career with Lapeer Community Schools as a third and fourth grade Chapter I Reading teacher at Hadley Elementary School. Previously she had been a second-grade teacher at Kingsbury School in Oxford starting in 1971.
During her career she held a variety of posts including Title I teacher, Administrative Assistant for Staff Development, Curriculum Coordinator, Director of Curriculum, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction, Interim Superintendent of Schools and finally in 2005, Superintendent.
From 1988 to 1992 she was an elementary school principal in Linden, the only time she was absent from the Lapeer District during her long career.
“I am excited to continue working next school year as we open and operate our two new middle schools,” said Mrs. Thompson. “It is a dream a long time in the making! In addition, I am energized by the enthusiasm of our current staff and the potential of the new staff we are in the process of hiring. I look forward to leading the District as we work to make LCS the best possible learning environment for all of our students.”
Mrs. Thompson received a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and did advanced course work in educational leadership at Eastern Michigan University. She is listed in the 1988 Who’s Who in American Education and was named the 1984 Distinguished Educator for Lapeer Community Schools.
“At a time when the District needed strong leadership and vision, Mrs. Thompson admirably exemplified those assets during her time as Superintendent with Lapeer Community Schools,” said Board of Education President Bill Laidlaw. “She has been a pleasure to work with and a team player with the Board of Education in moving the District forward. She will be deeply missed when she retires.”
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Lapeer Board of Education studying 'difficult' budget cuts in 2010-2011 school year
“Everything is on the table” as the Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education and administration officials look for ways to overcome a budget shortfall of between $5 million and $6 million for the 2010-2011 school year.
The Board looked at a long list of potential cuts and budget savings during a difficult meeting Thursday night, May 20, at the Administration & Services Center. The meeting lasted more than three hours, but no decisions were finalized. The discussion will continue at the June 3 Board meeting.
The Board also scheduled a budget hearing for June 17, at which time the budget could be adopted.
“This is my fifth year as Superintendent and this year’s budget cuts are the most painful,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “We are talking about friends and colleagues. These are tough times we face with a unique set of circumstances, not of our making.”
The size of the budget shortfall will depend on how much or how little the state cuts the individual student allowance. The District is required to submit a balanced budget by June 30.
The Board looked at 59 possible budget reduction items, including contracting food, custodial and dean of students services.
A representative of Chartwells, the food service company that currently manages the breakfast and lunch program in the schools, said that by transferring the hiring and supervision of food service employees to Chartwells, the District could save about $350,000 annually.
The District administration also outlined a plan to contract custodial services by replacing retiring school custodians with contract employees at a savings of $209,000. The District would save an additional $791,000 by turning over custodial services to a private company without waiting for employees to retire.
Currently the District has a $6.9 million fund balance, which through careful financial management has helped the District avoid layoffs or major mid-year cuts as experienced by other school districts. While some fund balance could be used, the District will move cautiously with a future that appears to be grim.
Some items from last night’s discussion include:
· A potential need to close an elementary building in the following (2011-2012) school year, likely the Seaton campus, at a cost savings of $350,000 per year.
· Reduction of custodial staff by 1/3 and alternate day cleaning at a savings of $470,000.
· Create more efficient bus routes at an annual savings of $250,000 through reduced hours and benefits to transportation employees.
· Reduce the number of new bus purchases with a savings of $210,000.
· Contract dean of students services at a savings of $105,000.
· Eliminate all deans of students for a savings of $470,000.
· Eliminate only elementary deans of students to save $357,000.
· There were several staff reductions discussed including Media Center employees, a reduction in secretarial staff, central office administrative staff reductions, partial reductions in counseling staff, reductions in support staff. The complexities of those cuts are too difficult to recount here.
The Board looked at a long list of potential cuts and budget savings during a difficult meeting Thursday night, May 20, at the Administration & Services Center. The meeting lasted more than three hours, but no decisions were finalized. The discussion will continue at the June 3 Board meeting.
The Board also scheduled a budget hearing for June 17, at which time the budget could be adopted.
“This is my fifth year as Superintendent and this year’s budget cuts are the most painful,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “We are talking about friends and colleagues. These are tough times we face with a unique set of circumstances, not of our making.”
The size of the budget shortfall will depend on how much or how little the state cuts the individual student allowance. The District is required to submit a balanced budget by June 30.
The Board looked at 59 possible budget reduction items, including contracting food, custodial and dean of students services.
A representative of Chartwells, the food service company that currently manages the breakfast and lunch program in the schools, said that by transferring the hiring and supervision of food service employees to Chartwells, the District could save about $350,000 annually.
The District administration also outlined a plan to contract custodial services by replacing retiring school custodians with contract employees at a savings of $209,000. The District would save an additional $791,000 by turning over custodial services to a private company without waiting for employees to retire.
Currently the District has a $6.9 million fund balance, which through careful financial management has helped the District avoid layoffs or major mid-year cuts as experienced by other school districts. While some fund balance could be used, the District will move cautiously with a future that appears to be grim.
Some items from last night’s discussion include:
· A potential need to close an elementary building in the following (2011-2012) school year, likely the Seaton campus, at a cost savings of $350,000 per year.
· Reduction of custodial staff by 1/3 and alternate day cleaning at a savings of $470,000.
· Create more efficient bus routes at an annual savings of $250,000 through reduced hours and benefits to transportation employees.
· Reduce the number of new bus purchases with a savings of $210,000.
· Contract dean of students services at a savings of $105,000.
· Eliminate all deans of students for a savings of $470,000.
· Eliminate only elementary deans of students to save $357,000.
· There were several staff reductions discussed including Media Center employees, a reduction in secretarial staff, central office administrative staff reductions, partial reductions in counseling staff, reductions in support staff. The complexities of those cuts are too difficult to recount here.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Public invited to Zemmer Middle School ribbon-cutting, open house in August
A new era in education is about to be launched at Lapeer Community Schools, and the District wants to celebrate with the community that helped make it happen. Before the opening of Rolland-Warner Middle School last summer, it had been more than 30 years since a major school building project was completed.The opening of the new Zemmer Middle School, 1920 W. Oregon Road, will be celebrated at a Ribbon-Cutting and Open House at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 12. Members of the public are invited to attend to mark not only the opening of the state-of-the-art school their support helped build, but also the launch of a new educational program designed to better prepare middle school students for high school and college.
Zemmer will join Rolland-Warner as the District’s middle schools. The schools will house students in grades 6-8, and the District will debut a new curriculum designed to better integrate those grades into students’ academic and social preparation for graduation and college.
But first, the open house will be a chance to view the beautiful new school built with voter support.
“It is hard to believe we are at the end of a community-based initiative that resulted in a successful bond vote in May 2007 and the completion of these two beautiful buildings,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “We hope the community will join with us in this celebration of these new schools and what they will mean to our students now and in the future. We again thank our voters for making this possible.”
The new facility includes separate science and computer laboratories for each grade and a large shared media center. A cafeteria space includes a stage for band, drama and musical performances. New art and music rooms also are included.
Friday, January 22, 2010
2010-2011 Budget cuts subject of discussion at Board of Education meeting Thursday
School budget cuts were once again the focus of a January Board of Education discussion.
A projected State foundation grant cut for school year 2010-2011 of $268 per student, will result in a loss of $1.7 million to the District based on the current student population. That cut is added to a $165 per student reduction, a $1 million loss in the current 2009-2010 school year.
With mandatory increases in retirement and health care costs for 2010-2011, the District is facing a $3.6 million shortfall even without the additional $1.7 million loss. The District faces further cuts if a new All-Day, Every-Day kindergarten program is started. The additional cost for that program is $500,000.
The discussion at the Thursday, January 21, Board meeting was led by Kevin Rose, Assistant Superintendent of Business and Finance. Information was presented, that led to questions and a productive dialogue at the meeting.
“While extremely unfortunate, Michigan’s economic woes continue and we are faced again with trimming a budget that frankly is already cut to the bone,” said Mr. Rose. “Our efforts, and I include the many sacrifices made by all our employee groups, have positioned us in many ways better than most, but it still leaves us with some hard decisions this year.”
The District has worked ahead of the downward curve to make cuts and preserve a fund balance of about $6.6 million, or about 13 percent of the District’s $52 million budget. The prospects for Michigan’s economy remain bleak for one or more years in the future and the District must continue to guard those funds, while using them carefully to preserve vital academic programs.
Potential retirements and possible federal stimulus funds could lessen the impact on the budget shortfall, but those decisions have not yet been made.
As in past years, the District will review all expenditures and prioritize all its options to trim as much as possible outside the classroom for the 2010-2011 school year.
“Everything is on the table and we will work together with all our employee groups,” said Board President William Laidlaw. “We are going to do this as a team.”
The administration will again meet with all principals, department heads and union groups, who will then work with their respective staff to decide where belts can be tightened to realize savings.
A projected State foundation grant cut for school year 2010-2011 of $268 per student, will result in a loss of $1.7 million to the District based on the current student population. That cut is added to a $165 per student reduction, a $1 million loss in the current 2009-2010 school year.
With mandatory increases in retirement and health care costs for 2010-2011, the District is facing a $3.6 million shortfall even without the additional $1.7 million loss. The District faces further cuts if a new All-Day, Every-Day kindergarten program is started. The additional cost for that program is $500,000.
The discussion at the Thursday, January 21, Board meeting was led by Kevin Rose, Assistant Superintendent of Business and Finance. Information was presented, that led to questions and a productive dialogue at the meeting.
“While extremely unfortunate, Michigan’s economic woes continue and we are faced again with trimming a budget that frankly is already cut to the bone,” said Mr. Rose. “Our efforts, and I include the many sacrifices made by all our employee groups, have positioned us in many ways better than most, but it still leaves us with some hard decisions this year.”
The District has worked ahead of the downward curve to make cuts and preserve a fund balance of about $6.6 million, or about 13 percent of the District’s $52 million budget. The prospects for Michigan’s economy remain bleak for one or more years in the future and the District must continue to guard those funds, while using them carefully to preserve vital academic programs.
Potential retirements and possible federal stimulus funds could lessen the impact on the budget shortfall, but those decisions have not yet been made.
As in past years, the District will review all expenditures and prioritize all its options to trim as much as possible outside the classroom for the 2010-2011 school year.
“Everything is on the table and we will work together with all our employee groups,” said Board President William Laidlaw. “We are going to do this as a team.”
The administration will again meet with all principals, department heads and union groups, who will then work with their respective staff to decide where belts can be tightened to realize savings.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Letter to elementary parents on suspicious incident
The following letter is being sent home to parents today with elementary school students.
January 13, 2010
Dear Parent/Guardian:
Today the Lapeer County Sheriff’s Department made us aware of a suspicious incident involving students shortly after they were dropped off by their bus at Pratt Lane and Five Lakes Road in Attica Township about 4:20 p.m. Tuesday, January 12th.
After the children got off the bus, a medium-sized turquoise pick-up truck, possibly a Ford F150, with one white man about 40 years old, approached the children as they walked down Pratt Lane and yelled, “Hey, come here.” After their attention was drawn to the truck, the children took off running and the truck left.
If you have information regarding this incident, or any other suspicious event, contact the Lapeer County Central Dispatch Center at (810) 667-0292.
We are committed to protecting our students and know that you, as parents, will continue to teach your children how to best protect themselves and seek assistance if necessary. Please reinforce with your children the lessons about interacting with strangers and, of course, immediately notify the police or sheriff’s deputies if you see or hear anything out of the ordinary.
Sincerely,
Debbie Thompson
Superintendent
January 13, 2010
Dear Parent/Guardian:
Today the Lapeer County Sheriff’s Department made us aware of a suspicious incident involving students shortly after they were dropped off by their bus at Pratt Lane and Five Lakes Road in Attica Township about 4:20 p.m. Tuesday, January 12th.
After the children got off the bus, a medium-sized turquoise pick-up truck, possibly a Ford F150, with one white man about 40 years old, approached the children as they walked down Pratt Lane and yelled, “Hey, come here.” After their attention was drawn to the truck, the children took off running and the truck left.
If you have information regarding this incident, or any other suspicious event, contact the Lapeer County Central Dispatch Center at (810) 667-0292.
We are committed to protecting our students and know that you, as parents, will continue to teach your children how to best protect themselves and seek assistance if necessary. Please reinforce with your children the lessons about interacting with strangers and, of course, immediately notify the police or sheriff’s deputies if you see or hear anything out of the ordinary.
Sincerely,
Debbie Thompson
Superintendent
Friday, January 8, 2010
Custodians and Maintenance employees agree to wage concession to help District
At the request of the Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education, the AFSCME Unit, which represents the District’s 35 custodial and maintenance employees, reopened their current Master Agreement and agreed to wage concessions that will save the District $31,000 this school year.
The revised agreement was ratified by the union on December 22 and approved by the Board of Education at a meeting Thursday, January 7.
The Unit agreed to a two percent wage reduction applied retroactive to July 1, 2009. The agreement also extends the current contract through June 30, 2011. The contract was set to expire this June.
A formula in the contract addresses any potential wage adjustments for the next school year, but most likely will result in a pay freeze due to Michigan’s current economic climate.
“Once again, one of our bargaining units has stepped up and made a sacrifice during these difficult economic times,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “The AFSCME Unit had a choice whether or not to reopen the contract, but did so to help the District and the children serves. This is another positive step in helping us address this year’s tough budget.”
The revised agreement was ratified by the union on December 22 and approved by the Board of Education at a meeting Thursday, January 7.
The Unit agreed to a two percent wage reduction applied retroactive to July 1, 2009. The agreement also extends the current contract through June 30, 2011. The contract was set to expire this June.
A formula in the contract addresses any potential wage adjustments for the next school year, but most likely will result in a pay freeze due to Michigan’s current economic climate.
“Once again, one of our bargaining units has stepped up and made a sacrifice during these difficult economic times,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “The AFSCME Unit had a choice whether or not to reopen the contract, but did so to help the District and the children serves. This is another positive step in helping us address this year’s tough budget.”
Board of Education passes "Intent," but final decision on 'Race To The Top' is Monday
With several open questions about the local impact of approving a Memorandum of Understanding with the State on new Race ToThe Top legislation, Lapeer Board of Education members Thursday night, January 7, decided to wait on voting on the issue.
Instead, as allowed by the State, Board members approved a motion to signal the “intent” to approve the Memorandum of Understanding at a special meeting next Monday. The “intent” motion will be sent to the Lapeer County Intermediate School District today, Friday, January 8th.
“It’s still a moving target,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
Recent legal opinions received by the District indicate that approving the Memorandum of Understanding could encumber the District with additional, long term financial commitments.
The action provides the District more time to get further opinions on the full impact of the Memorandum of Understanding before taking a final vote at the special meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, January 11, at the Administration & Services Center, 250 Second Street in Lapeer.
Instead, as allowed by the State, Board members approved a motion to signal the “intent” to approve the Memorandum of Understanding at a special meeting next Monday. The “intent” motion will be sent to the Lapeer County Intermediate School District today, Friday, January 8th.
“It’s still a moving target,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
Recent legal opinions received by the District indicate that approving the Memorandum of Understanding could encumber the District with additional, long term financial commitments.
The action provides the District more time to get further opinions on the full impact of the Memorandum of Understanding before taking a final vote at the special meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, January 11, at the Administration & Services Center, 250 Second Street in Lapeer.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Statement on an incident at Lapeer East
Statement from Superintendent Debbie Thompson:
On Friday, December 18th, we became aware of an incident at Lapeer East High School that occurred at the school on Thursday night, December 17th. We immediately began an internal investigation. The nature of the incident caused us to promptly request an investigation by the State Police and the police immediately responded and began their investigation.
The safety of our students is our primary concern and the students involved in the incident were immediately suspended from school pending the outcome of our internal investigation.
Our first choice is to keep students and parents informed. However, the State Police has asked us to make no statements in reference to the specific details of the incident because it could hinder their investigation.
On Friday, December 18th, we became aware of an incident at Lapeer East High School that occurred at the school on Thursday night, December 17th. We immediately began an internal investigation. The nature of the incident caused us to promptly request an investigation by the State Police and the police immediately responded and began their investigation.
The safety of our students is our primary concern and the students involved in the incident were immediately suspended from school pending the outcome of our internal investigation.
Our first choice is to keep students and parents informed. However, the State Police has asked us to make no statements in reference to the specific details of the incident because it could hinder their investigation.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Lapeer staff, students and families chip in to make holidays brighter for many local residents
Lapeer County families in need were the recipients of thousands of food, gift and clothing donations this holiday season from the Lapeer Community Schools family.Schools throughout the District sponsored Goodfellows food drives in November and early December. Not all kept exact records of donations, but a few examples show the generosity of the students, the students’ families and staff.
Most of the Goodfellows non-perishable food and paper products come from donations from the Lapeer schools and this year’s result was larger than the 2008 drive, said Karen Rykhus, Goodfellows president.
“We were able to help more than 200 Lapeer County families,” Mrs. Rykhus said. “They did an awesome job. They came through like gangbusters.”
Lapeer East and Lapeer West each collected more than 2,800 individual food donations for a total of more than 5,700 donations.
Students and staff at Lapeer West also helped a number of families with gifts through a “Giving Tree” effort.
A Toys for Tots effort at Lapeer East collected more than 650 toys, the best in the school’s history. All are destined for Lapeer County children. East National Honor Society students also helped with the packing of the food for distribution.
In addition to the Goodfellows food drive, Zemmer Junior High School staff, students, parents and general contractor Barton Malow employees at the Rolland-Warner Middle School site, donated $2,200 through a “Penny War” to make Christmas a happy one for 11 children from four families. Student council shopped for the children and each family also received a gift card from Meijer.
Murphy Elementary School students collected 2,163 cans of food and the Murphy staff adopted several families.
The Murphy community also donated nearly 100 new and gently used coats. Students in one Murphy class made scarves for special needs students at the Lapeer County Intermediate School District Education and Technology Center.
At Lynch Elementary, 1,305 items were donated to the Goodfellows drive and three families were adopted. Student council also held a returnable can drive for another family and raised $52.
Students in one Lynch sixth grade classroom donated $5 each and purchased items off the giving tree. A retired teacher who now lives in a nursing home was also adopted by the Lynch staff and will enjoy a happy Christmas.
“This has been a very tough year for so many of our families,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “Once again the generosity of our staff, students and their families astounds me.”
Mayfield Elementary students and staff collected 1,099 items of food for Goodfellows and adopted a large family for donations of Christmas gifts.
Turrill Elementary students collected 1,745 cans of nonperishable items for the Goodfellows drive. The school has also started a fund, patterned after a similar one at Maple Grove Elementary School that helps families all year round.
Students at Elba-Seaton, Maple Grove and Schickler Elementary Schools also had successful Goodfellows drives, but totals were not available.
Staff at the Administration & Services Center adopted a family with a “Giving Tree” effort and supplied them with gifts, food and gift cards to brighten their season.
A couple of school support groups also kicked in with help for the community.
At the November luncheon, members of the Lapeer High School Alumni Association donated $540 to Goodfellows, $89 to Holiday Depot, donated six large black plastic bags full of toys, 43 grocery bags full of food and three large boxes and three large bags of new and gently used winter clothing, such as coats, hats, blankets, scarves, mittens and leggings.
A Craft Fair at Lapeer East in early December included a food drive for Kids In New Directions and visitors brought nearly ten boxes of donated food.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Transportation employees agree to wage concession, thanked by Superintendent
At the request of the Lapeer Community Schools Board of Education, the Lapeer Transportation Association, which represents the District’s 59 bus drivers, reopened their current Master Agreement and agreed to wage concessions that will save the District $37,000 this school year.
The revised agreement was ratified by the Association on Thursday, December 17 and approved by the Board of Education at a meeting also on Thursday, December 17.
The LTA agreed to a two percent wage reduction applied retroactive to July 1, 2009. The agreement also extends the current contract through June 30, 2011. The contract was set to expire this June.
A formula in the contract addresses any potential wage adjustments for the next school year, but most likely will result in a pay freeze due to Michigan’s current economic climate.
“We appreciate the LTA working with us during these difficult economic times,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “The union did not have to re-open the contract, but did so in the best interests of our District and the children it serves. It is a significant step that helps us address this year’s difficult budget.”
The revised agreement was ratified by the Association on Thursday, December 17 and approved by the Board of Education at a meeting also on Thursday, December 17.
The LTA agreed to a two percent wage reduction applied retroactive to July 1, 2009. The agreement also extends the current contract through June 30, 2011. The contract was set to expire this June.
A formula in the contract addresses any potential wage adjustments for the next school year, but most likely will result in a pay freeze due to Michigan’s current economic climate.
“We appreciate the LTA working with us during these difficult economic times,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson. “The union did not have to re-open the contract, but did so in the best interests of our District and the children it serves. It is a significant step that helps us address this year’s difficult budget.”
Elementary realignment, new boundaries discussed at Board of Education meeting
Only three percent of the District’s 2,900 elementary school students will be impacted by a proposed realignment of the District’s elementary schools boundaries for 2010.
With continued State funding cuts, the previous closings of Attica, Irwin and Hadley Elementary Schools, the future closing of Elba Elementary School in June and the opening of two new sixth, seventh and eighth grade middle schools, the need to realign and rebalance student population among the remaining buildings was a necessity.
In designing new bus routes and boundaries, the District’s elementary principals, central office administration and transportation department were able to keep all but 101 students within their current school boundaries.
Even with the realignment, there will be room for In-District Schools of Choice that will allow parents flexibility in keeping their students in a particular school even if it is outside the particular boundary for their children. In those cases parents will have to provide transportation to the selected school. There will also be room for Out-of-District Schools of Choice.
“We expect every student will be able to remain in his or her current school if parents choose Schools of Choice,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
“Our administration and transportation department should be commended for proposing boundaries that affect only three percent of our elementary population. Through Schools of Choice, all of our students have the opportunity to remain at the schools they now attend for the 2010-2011 school year,” said Board of Education President William Laidlaw. “This decision illustrates the District’s commitment to providing a stable learning environment for our students and families within the community.”
In January, all elementary parents will receive a letter about the changes and be invited to meetings where the changes will be discussed. The In-District Schools of Choice will open in February and close in March. Staffing for each school will be determined in March and tentative teaching assignments announced in April.
With continued State funding cuts, the previous closings of Attica, Irwin and Hadley Elementary Schools, the future closing of Elba Elementary School in June and the opening of two new sixth, seventh and eighth grade middle schools, the need to realign and rebalance student population among the remaining buildings was a necessity.
In designing new bus routes and boundaries, the District’s elementary principals, central office administration and transportation department were able to keep all but 101 students within their current school boundaries.
Even with the realignment, there will be room for In-District Schools of Choice that will allow parents flexibility in keeping their students in a particular school even if it is outside the particular boundary for their children. In those cases parents will have to provide transportation to the selected school. There will also be room for Out-of-District Schools of Choice.
“We expect every student will be able to remain in his or her current school if parents choose Schools of Choice,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
“Our administration and transportation department should be commended for proposing boundaries that affect only three percent of our elementary population. Through Schools of Choice, all of our students have the opportunity to remain at the schools they now attend for the 2010-2011 school year,” said Board of Education President William Laidlaw. “This decision illustrates the District’s commitment to providing a stable learning environment for our students and families within the community.”
In January, all elementary parents will receive a letter about the changes and be invited to meetings where the changes will be discussed. The In-District Schools of Choice will open in February and close in March. Staffing for each school will be determined in March and tentative teaching assignments announced in April.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Suspicious incident prompts letter to elementary parents
The following letter is being sent home to parents with elementary school students. The information is also being provided to the high schools and junior high school.
December 16, 2009
Dear Parents,
The Lapeer County Sheriff’s Department has made us aware of a suspicious incident involving a Lynch Elementary School student waiting for a bus this morning, Wednesday, December 16, 2009, on Vernor Road.
A man driving a green Chevrolet four-wheel drive pick up truck with running lights on the roof and a long bed parked in the middle of the road and began talking to the girl about being out of fuel. When the father of the girl yelled at her to come back to the house the man jumped back in the truck and drove off west on Vernor Road.
The only other description of the man was that he was wearing a black baseball cap. The police were notified immediately.
In addition to a warning to children about the incident, we are asking if you have any information regarding this man or the vehicle that you contact Lapeer County Dispatch at (810) 667-0292.
We are committed to protecting our students and know that you, as parents, will continue to teach your children how to best protect themselves and seek assistance if necessary. Please reinforce with your children the lessons about interacting with strangers and, of course, immediately notify the police or sheriff’s deputies if you see or hear anything out of the ordinary.
Sincerely,
Debbie Thompson
Superintendent
December 16, 2009
Dear Parents,
The Lapeer County Sheriff’s Department has made us aware of a suspicious incident involving a Lynch Elementary School student waiting for a bus this morning, Wednesday, December 16, 2009, on Vernor Road.
A man driving a green Chevrolet four-wheel drive pick up truck with running lights on the roof and a long bed parked in the middle of the road and began talking to the girl about being out of fuel. When the father of the girl yelled at her to come back to the house the man jumped back in the truck and drove off west on Vernor Road.
The only other description of the man was that he was wearing a black baseball cap. The police were notified immediately.
In addition to a warning to children about the incident, we are asking if you have any information regarding this man or the vehicle that you contact Lapeer County Dispatch at (810) 667-0292.
We are committed to protecting our students and know that you, as parents, will continue to teach your children how to best protect themselves and seek assistance if necessary. Please reinforce with your children the lessons about interacting with strangers and, of course, immediately notify the police or sheriff’s deputies if you see or hear anything out of the ordinary.
Sincerely,
Debbie Thompson
Superintendent
Friday, December 4, 2009
Board approves resolution for State demanding school funding issues be addressed
A strongly worded resolution demanding State leaders put in place a “fair and equitable” funding plan to finance Michigan’s educational system was passed unanimously by the Lapeer Board of Education Thursday, December 3.
The resolution called for the Board to do a complete evaluation of the State’s financial process and establish a fair method to tax citizens for needed services.
Additionally, the resolution demanded that the State establish a funding system that is in place before school districts must set their annual budgets on July 1st of each year.
The resolution is in response to the State’s recent record of passing along budget decreases long after the State required budget decisions are made by local public school districts.
“The long-term economic health of our state, and opportunity for our citizens is conditioned on meaningful structural reform to provide stable and fair funding for education,” the resolution said in part.
On July 1, the Lapeer Board of Education approved a balanced $56.2 million budget based on State funding projections at that time. To balance that budget the District used $1.2 million from its savings account to off set the projected loss of State money.
In mid-October after missing its own September 30 budget deadline, the State Legislature adopted a budget that cut $165 per student from those projections causing a shortfall of $1 million in the District’s budget. And beyond that, the governor added a $127 cut for an additional deficit of about $800,000, which is scheduled to take effect later this month.
“It is time for State leaders to put aside politics and deal with an issue that has long term consequences for the State’s most valuable resource, its children,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
Complete text of the resolution follows:
WHEREAS, education is the cornerstone of a successful economic turnaround and investment in education is the key to a new Michigan; and
WHEREAS, the children of Michigan deserve educational opportunities that allow them to compete on a national and international basis; and
WHEREAS, it is imperative to combine needed investments in education with meaningful, money-saving reforms in the delivery of educational programs; and
WHEREAS, the long-term economic health of our state, and opportunity for our citizens is conditioned on meaningful structural reform to provide stable and fair funding for education; and
WHEREAS, given the crippling effects on our citizens and our educational institutions of continuing short-term, temporary measures and budget impasses over education funding.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of Lapeer Community Schools demands that the governor and legislators make a commitment to this State and to the citizens to make the necessary budget decisions that allow for the education of our children;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Education of Lapeer Community Schools demands that the governor and legislators do a complete evaluation of the State’s financial processes and create a financial system that funds the educational system in a fair and equitable manner. This system should ensure that the educational budget is in place prior to the start of the district’s fiscal year. Further, we urge the governor and legislators to review processes for funding of this State’s needs and to explore all options to stabilize the State revenues and to establish a fair method to tax citizens for needed services. This Board holds the governor and legislators responsible for creating these processes in a timely manner.
###
The resolution called for the Board to do a complete evaluation of the State’s financial process and establish a fair method to tax citizens for needed services.
Additionally, the resolution demanded that the State establish a funding system that is in place before school districts must set their annual budgets on July 1st of each year.
The resolution is in response to the State’s recent record of passing along budget decreases long after the State required budget decisions are made by local public school districts.
“The long-term economic health of our state, and opportunity for our citizens is conditioned on meaningful structural reform to provide stable and fair funding for education,” the resolution said in part.
On July 1, the Lapeer Board of Education approved a balanced $56.2 million budget based on State funding projections at that time. To balance that budget the District used $1.2 million from its savings account to off set the projected loss of State money.
In mid-October after missing its own September 30 budget deadline, the State Legislature adopted a budget that cut $165 per student from those projections causing a shortfall of $1 million in the District’s budget. And beyond that, the governor added a $127 cut for an additional deficit of about $800,000, which is scheduled to take effect later this month.
“It is time for State leaders to put aside politics and deal with an issue that has long term consequences for the State’s most valuable resource, its children,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
Complete text of the resolution follows:
WHEREAS, education is the cornerstone of a successful economic turnaround and investment in education is the key to a new Michigan; and
WHEREAS, the children of Michigan deserve educational opportunities that allow them to compete on a national and international basis; and
WHEREAS, it is imperative to combine needed investments in education with meaningful, money-saving reforms in the delivery of educational programs; and
WHEREAS, the long-term economic health of our state, and opportunity for our citizens is conditioned on meaningful structural reform to provide stable and fair funding for education; and
WHEREAS, given the crippling effects on our citizens and our educational institutions of continuing short-term, temporary measures and budget impasses over education funding.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of Lapeer Community Schools demands that the governor and legislators make a commitment to this State and to the citizens to make the necessary budget decisions that allow for the education of our children;
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Board of Education of Lapeer Community Schools demands that the governor and legislators do a complete evaluation of the State’s financial processes and create a financial system that funds the educational system in a fair and equitable manner. This system should ensure that the educational budget is in place prior to the start of the district’s fiscal year. Further, we urge the governor and legislators to review processes for funding of this State’s needs and to explore all options to stabilize the State revenues and to establish a fair method to tax citizens for needed services. This Board holds the governor and legislators responsible for creating these processes in a timely manner.
###
Friday, November 20, 2009
Follow up to suspicious vehicle at school on Thursday
The issue regarding the suspicious person at one of our schools yesterday turned out not to be a threat. The following letter was sent home to parents today from the Superintendent:
"November 20, 2009
Dear Parent/Guardian:
A report about a suspicious person and vehicle at one of our schools yesterday, that we reported to you in a letter sent home with your child, turned out not to be a threat to students. The circumstances surrounding this incident present an important lesson for all of us.
As it turned out the woman and vehicle involved in the incident was a parent of a student trying to contact her child during the school day. As soon as she heard about the incident she reported that she was the “suspicious” person to the principal.
We are grateful that the incident was not one that presented a threat to our students, but it does reinforce the rules for contacting your child at school during the school day.
If a need arises that causes a parent or guardian to visit a child in one of our schools it is required that the contact be made through the school office. The reasons for this are obvious, and ones that I’m sure all of our parents and guardians can appreciate.
Anytime there is an attempt to contact children, other than through the office, our staff has been directed to call the police and make a report. We are pleased that the staff at the school reacted in a quick and responsible way to ensure the safety of the students.
Sincerely,
Debbie Thompson
Superintendent"
"November 20, 2009
Dear Parent/Guardian:
A report about a suspicious person and vehicle at one of our schools yesterday, that we reported to you in a letter sent home with your child, turned out not to be a threat to students. The circumstances surrounding this incident present an important lesson for all of us.
As it turned out the woman and vehicle involved in the incident was a parent of a student trying to contact her child during the school day. As soon as she heard about the incident she reported that she was the “suspicious” person to the principal.
We are grateful that the incident was not one that presented a threat to our students, but it does reinforce the rules for contacting your child at school during the school day.
If a need arises that causes a parent or guardian to visit a child in one of our schools it is required that the contact be made through the school office. The reasons for this are obvious, and ones that I’m sure all of our parents and guardians can appreciate.
Anytime there is an attempt to contact children, other than through the office, our staff has been directed to call the police and make a report. We are pleased that the staff at the school reacted in a quick and responsible way to ensure the safety of the students.
Sincerely,
Debbie Thompson
Superintendent"
Friday, August 28, 2009
Superintendent Debbie Thompson at the Rolland-Warner Middle School ribbon-cutting
(The complete text of the remarks of Superintendent Debbie Thompson at the Rolland-Warner Middle School ribbon-cutting and open house, Thursday, August 27, 2009.)"May 8, 2007 was an important day for the Lapeer community and Lapeer Community Schools in particular. On that day the community passed a bond supporting renovations to our schools, the infusion of much needed technology into our classrooms, the replacement of some of our most outdated furniture, and most importantly, the creation of two middle schools by renovating two of our existing buildings.
It was a long time coming but the passage of the bond spoke of the community’s recognition that education is essential for our future, and providing quality learning environments for our students helps our students become independent and confident learners for the future.
Today we are celebrating part one of the middle school dream, the completion of the first middle school. The name chosen for this building is especially fitting as it recognizes the work of two long time Lapeer educators who set the path for us as we embark on this new era of education in Lapeer.
Doris Rolland was a teacher and principal at the Woodside School at Oakdale, the original school on this site. She also was director of special education for the Oakdale facility. At the time our last new building opened she was serving on the Board of Education.
Ron Warner retired from Lapeer Community Schools as the assistant superintendent. He began his long career with the district as a teacher and then served in numerous administrative positions. Ron was instrumental in the annexation and consolidation of the former one-room school houses into the district that we know today.
Both of these individuals devoted their lives to the children of Lapeer. They were committed to providing excellent educational opportunities to all students because they believed that all students could learn.
It is our responsibility to carry forth, not only with beautiful school buildings, but with a quality educational program that serves as a spring board for future academic success. Our commitment to the community is that we will challenge ourselves and our students to reach for the top, to excel in the classroom, and go forth prepared for the challenges of a future that may not be imagined this afternoon.
To start our program I would like to ask Christopher Keller to come forward and lead us in the pledge of allegiance. Chris is an incoming 7th grader. After the pledge members of the East and West bands will play the Star Spangled Banner.
Before I begin recognizing the various dignitaries who are here today I would like to recognize the custodial staff of Lapeer Community Schools. They have worked tirelessly to get this building ready for this evening. They always want our buildings to look spectacular and tonight is no exception."
Before I begin recognizing the various dignitaries who are here today I would like to recognize the custodial staff of Lapeer Community Schools. They have worked tirelessly to get this building ready for this evening. They always want our buildings to look spectacular and tonight is no exception."
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Murphy students, parents get preview of new facilities at the future Rolland Warner campus
Students in the fourth and fifth grades at the Murphy campus of Hadley-Murphy Elementary School and their parents paid a visit Wednesday, May 27, to the new facilities they will be attending at the opening of classes in the fall of 2009.Hadley-Murphy Principal Scott Warren, Superintendent Debbie Thompson, Director of Transportation Jerry Podzikowski and Food Services Director Scott Smith were on hand to answer parents’ questions and take a tour of the new facilities.
Next year’s fifth and sixth grade students will attend classes in what will be the 6th grade wing of Rolland Warner Middle School when it opens in the fall of 2010 as a middle school.
The Lapeer Community High School students who are currently studying in the facility will move to their new campus at Cramton in the fall of 2009.
The District’s 7th grade students next year will attend classes in the soon-to-be-completed 7th and 8th grade wings of the facility.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Superintendent recommends north-south plan for middle school students
A recommendation to assign students to Rolland Warner and Zemmer Middle Schools based on a north-south geographic plan was presented to the Lapeer Board of Education at its regular meeting Thursday (May 7th) night.
A survey of current students in the 7th through the 12th grade was done to get information about how they viewed some of these transition issues.
“New middle schools are not being developed as a ‘junior high school’ program or as appendages to the high schools, but as a unique academic experience designed and focused on this special population of student,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
While both schools appear different in their outward architecture, the interior classroom, music, media center, computer, science, art, cafeteria and performance spaces will be equitable in size and opportunity for both schools.
In February, a group of 32 parents, staff and a student worked through a process that examined a number of demographic issues related to assigning students on an east-west or a north-south basis to two new middle schools set to open in the fall of 2010.
Specific student populations such as special education and economically disadvantaged students were studied in the process. It would not be academically sound to have an imbalance of either of those populations at one school. The negligible difference between a north-south or east-west plan, turned out to be a non-factor in the recommendation.
Superintendent Debbie Thompson researched transition issues that put the most stress on students. Some of those factors are obvious, like elementary students moving into a new building and learning their way around and adjusting to having more than one teacher. Socialization is a huge issue with middle school students.
A survey of current students in the 7th through the 12th grade was done to get information about how they viewed some of these transition issues.
Students noted that social networking was the most important aspect of their middle school experience. Nearly half, or 48 percent of 8th-12th graders said they developed and made new friends when they ended up at either high school after leaving Zemmer Junior High School, and only 28 percent said they met their current friends at Zemmer.
Looking at current elementary populations the Superintendent studied the demographics of keeping students together from elementary into middle school. An east-west plan keeps 74 percent of the students together from elementary school to middle school, while a north-south approach keeps 88 percent of the students together.
Looking at current elementary populations the Superintendent studied the demographics of keeping students together from elementary into middle school. An east-west plan keeps 74 percent of the students together from elementary school to middle school, while a north-south approach keeps 88 percent of the students together.
The administration believes the two middle schools will, and must, develop a unique identity and not one necessarily tied to which high school to which students will eventually attend.
“New middle schools are not being developed as a ‘junior high school’ program or as appendages to the high schools, but as a unique academic experience designed and focused on this special population of student,” said Superintendent Debbie Thompson.
Each middle school will have its own mascot, school colors and identity. (Zemmer is the bulldog and Rolland Warner is the wolf)
“One thing the new middle school plan will not do is dampen the friendly East-West high school rivalry that both we and our community enjoy,” said Mrs. Thompson “In recent years, the Lapeer East and Lapeer West competition has become a positive force in making both schools better, academically, athletically, musically and artistically. Iron sharpens iron, as they say.”
Many students make and keep friends at the rival high school.
Many students make and keep friends at the rival high school.
In recent years students from the District’s three high schools have worked, played and shared together in the Omni Council, which was designed to foster better and more healthy relationships between the schools.
The Board of Education will discuss the recommendation at its next work session, May 21, and likely vote on the plan in June.
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