Very sad, the board chose a building over teachers.

What about the MIS Asst Principal? Has his/her position already been eliminated or not? If it hasn't been done already, it would be better to eliminate the MIS Asst Principal in a school of 450 kids than eliminate the Asst Principal in MES (850 kids). Or even better, have one Asst. Principal oversee both MES & MIS, they're right next to eachother. Both Summit Hill and Manhattan have schools with similar enrollment as MIS and they do not staff an Asst Principal at them.

Mokena is a terrific community! One that I am proud of. Let's come together and show everyone how we can get a referrendum passed. Let's do it for our children's future and our future. Most of us came here for the wonderful schools, let's keep them going. It is a small investment every year to ensure that Mokena continues to shine as a great community. Most of us already have a lot invested in Mokena, and passing the referrendum will help us to maintain our investments wisely.

It is sad. Look at Summit Hill 161. The Mokena Messenger reported how SD 161 implemented a $2.1 million cost-containment package. No cuts, no teacher losses, no program cuts, and they will be able to move forward with putting new programs in. Gee, all without raising taxes. Too bad Mokena didn't learn from them. One of the most aggrevating things is that they talked about closing MIS two years ago. No plan was in place then. And why? Because they were going for a referendum and figured, don't worry, we don't have to make cuts, the people of Mokena will pay for it. That's why it will be so important to vote for the right board members. Each and every one of the members want the same thing, the only point that divides people is the referendum itself. If you pull out the referendum, if we didn't need it, who would you want in? Who would be the most fiscally responsible? Who has the business smarts to keep the budget on track and not be afraid to make the hard choices? Who would not side with the administration and side with the community? I know of 3.

So if the referendum passes are the 6 teachers still losing their positions? MIS is a luxury not a necessity - the children would still get a good education if the 4/5 graders moved to MES and we would have a better chance of keeping our teachers!!!

Good Morning All,
I am going “again” explain our position as to "Trusting" the board. We (all of us, Pro and Con Referendum) all trusted the board to do the right thing by closing MIS, they didn’t. Jen in a post from a previous patch report you stated Teachers certainly aren't going to get anything NEAR what they got in 2006 this time around,,,, Jen How do you know? If the referendum passes, how do you know? Once it’s done it’s done and they can do what they want with the money.
Ms. Perry has flat out lied to us and told half truths, (again last night at the board meeting). Mr. King has been “less than forthcoming” to say the least. How can we trust them? The board passed out raises to the administration and teachers like it was candy. The teachers had the opportunity to do the right thing by taking a pay freeze NOT a pay cut but a Freeze for the children and didn’t. The loss of those 14 (plus the 8 from last night) teachers hurt our children and those teachers.
How can the pro ref residents expect us to give them more money and” hope” they will do the right thing for the children, when they haven’t yet?
I am supporting Markham and Ford because Perry and the rest of the administration are not, and I believe they (Markham and Ford) are as sick of the lies, half truths and less than forthcomings as we are.
I hope this explains why we are not supporting the referendum and why we support Markham and Ford.

I am a proud Mokena resident. I am proud of our village and community. I am not proud of the way our school board and school administration have been conducting themselves. They have tried, and continue to try, to pass this referendum with fear and guilt tactics, misinformation and outright lies. This administration does not listen to the residents, instead it comes up with ways to circumvent them or bully them into submission. For example - The administration always says 'children first', but when budget cuts have to be made, invariably extra-curriculars get cut first - Not 'professional developement', not 'training for the school board' it's always the extra-curriculars that end up on the chopping block first. The administration does this to coerce our vote for the referendum. Since the very first cuts, the idea that extra-curriculars should be supported solely by the fees of the families invovled has been put forth. The administration stubbornly will not listen to this, ostensibly because of 'Title IX' issues, but in reality because the want to use the 'extra-curricular' card to try and force votes for a very un-popular referendum. At last nights meeting, the idea to make extra-curriculars self-susataining , was again presented - Supt. Perry said that she would look into it. We have been asking for this for over a year, and she still is just going to look into it? I'm tired of being ignored. I'm voting 'NO' for thier referendum, let them try and ignore that.

It's a shame that the process to close MIS wasn't started a few years ago. The downward trend in enrollment started in the '05-'06 school year....then in the beginning of the '07 -'08 school year enrollment dropped below the level they had before the new MJHS was built. Once that happened, and with enrollment predicted to continue to drop to 1750 students before leveling off, the board should have been looking into closing MIS once enrollment dropped pass a certain point. As it stands right now, we are at 54% capacity with all 3 schools operating.

We need to elect future looking board memebers who can and will spend the taxpayers money in the most effective ways that will reduce the impact that budget constraints have on the education of our children. That is why I will be voting for Markham & Ford this next election.

@Bill I would like to know what the Markham Ford plans are for saving all this money besides phasing out MIS. I have three small children, two of which will start school soon. My main concerns are lower class sizes and full day kindergarten. How can they accomplish reinstating all these cuts without a referendum they do not support? And if they are elected and the referendum passes will that refuse to use the money the referendum generates?

I will be voting yes. I am doing my research on candidates and asking questions, some of which are answered thouroughly and some are not answered at all. I urge others to do the same. These are the people that will be using our tax dollars from the referendum or steering the boat without them.

Shana whats the POINT, it is leadership and management that Bill is talking about, at least as i read it. let us not argue , present views, maybe help develop better ideas.

I look at the candidates and want someone who is NOT a buddy of the current board / admin / etc.

Two candidates are being supported by admin / pro tax committee and two are not. If we dont bring in people with no other agenda or interest other than putting the children first and cutting fat we will be in the same boat again. MARKHAM / FORD are two that speak of what the community is saying.

If we dont get independant leadership that MARKHAM / FORD represent who will stop the insanity like paying for all of the health insurance for the current administration? Top notch health insurance that the average taxpayer cant even afford?

One of the other candidates is a union school teacher, how can we elect that candidate to negotiate with the teacher union in the best interest of the community?

Thats what bill was saying Shana, at least how i read it.

So to be clear cutting administrative benefits and closing MIS will solve all of our financial problems? As soon as those cuts are made we can reinstate everything? It seems like candidates that have community support and appear confident of a win are doubting their own abilities to use the money for the interest of the community.

Umm...that is my point. We need this referendum.

I am voting yes! I am voting yes for our children and the future children of our district. I refuse to get pulled into a "he said, she said" argument. When it all comes down to it, the State is no longer funding our children's educations. It now falls to our community. While my budget it very tight, as is everyone else's, I refuse to let our children suffer. I will cut back on the Starbuck's and McDonald's trips and put that money toward our children's education.

I am for the kids of Mokena. They ARE the community. I will VOTE YES to give them every opportunity to be excellent instead of settling for mediocre or worse--complete collapse. Criticizing the school boards' decisions are fine, but in the meantime we need to pass this referendum. While the adults banter back and forth, the ones who are suffering are our children. Let's work out slowly replacing our school board--fine--but either way we need this referendum to pass. VOTE YES. Let's remind ourselves of a simple fact--the STATE cut our funding, period. It's not coming back. So if we care about our kids, we need to pay to keep our schools running by simply VOTING YES!

Shana,

Markham & Ford are not against a referendum, but they are against this one. Reason being is that since the 1st referendum failed, Ford & Markham and a group of other concerned parents have tried to gather financial & other info to look at other areas to cut instead of sports, band, teachers, etc.. But at every turn we were stonewalled by the administration.

When financial info was FOIA’d we were told that there were restrictions as to who can look at the info with us…..LIE!

FOIA requests were denied because we did not word the name of the docs we were requesting 100% correctly. When the same thing happened w/ other districts we requested info from, they made a simple phone call to clarify what we wanted.

We FOIA’d the detailed budget from both 159 & 161. Not the general budgets that are posted on the websites, but the FULL detailed budget. The docs that we received from Summit Hill were very detailed. For example, they had a line item for each custodian employed by the district. Unlike 159, who only listed 3 line items, custodians for (MES, MIS, & MJHS). How can anyone make an informed analysis from data like that?

I did vote yes for the 1st referendum because I did not educate myself on the situation. However, I cannot in good conscience support another referendum until we get some representation on the school board that will fight for TRANSPARENCY. Is that too much to ask for? That is why I am supporting Markham & Ford.

To Just a Thought-if not this referendum Spring 2011 we will not be able to attempt another until Fall 2013. The board has been indecisive and MIS should've been closed but let's not punish the children for the board's lack of action. It is up to our community to act on voting day and through our voice to our representives who have been apparently absent throughout this difficult time in our community. Vote yes! Question candidates for board and make sure you are represented appropriately and not by individuals not willing to make the difficult decisions.

I would like to add a few things for both sides to think about. Prior to the first referendum attempt, the Southtown printed an article that stated if you cut every administrative position in the district, you would still have a gaping hole and no one to manage anything. So people can say that cutting administrative staff makes sense, but it doesn't. They may need to make reductions or have to pay for some of their insurance but who do you think you will call when your child gets bullied or when their teacher makes a mistake if their are no administrators. Clearly there are very few out there who understand what our administrators do for our children. If you are mad a Mrs. Perry, then say, Mrs. Perry and be done with it. Don't attack the other administrators if you are upset with Mrs. Perry.
Secondly, trust is a very fickle and fragile friend; quickly lost and hard to build. Clearly there is a lack of trust for Mrs. Perry and for some of the board members, but I would submit that some board members have been consistent and are on the side of the children and taxpayers. Often there is much more information that the boards are privvy to and they often have a perspective that others do not have. I agree that we need to bring new blood on the board, but I would guess that once they are there, they will find that there is not much you can do when the state takes over $5 mil away from you for no reason.

So you advocate cutting all of the administrators? That is ridiculous and I hope you and everyone who reads this understands that you need teachers in the classroom, counselors to help our kids and we need administrators to make it all run.
I am also having a little trouble with your 54% claim. I think you are using the maximum capacities based on fire codes. This number is dramatily inflated. I remember just a few years ago whn MJHS had over 900 kids and the place was bursting at the seams. That study you are quoting says that MJHS could hold another 500 kids. Again misleading the public is wrong. Using statistics in a misleading way is wrong as well.
I have found it fairly easy to get reliable information and I have been told that several citizens have checked the books as well -including Mr. Ford.
You will never convince people if you manipulate data or mislead.

Just like you Thoughtful citizen I like to look carefully at both sides of an issue. However, the adminstration and board would NOT have put the MIS closure up for a vote if MJHS really was that crowded a few years ago. And I have taken a look at the numbers and classroom availability and it is a feasible option. Also Mr.Stein himself presented how the closure could be incorperated into MES.

I voted for the ref before but not again. I believe there is little trust left in the community for the board or the adminstration. I sincerely believe there are other educational options available but WILL not even be considered. Why? I can't anwser that but there is something that is not being disclosed from the district and board. I have attended several meeting and found the lack of common sense deafening!

Sorry but this is no longer about the kids or educational standards this is about something else.. Hopefully when Markham and Ford are elected to the school board we will find out. I have put my emotions aside to look at this issue and truly can't find a reason to vote yes again until there is more accountability from the district. I feel bad for the teachers and kids because even they are at the mercy of these two entinities.

How will Markham and Ford solve the financial problem without the referendum? Have Markham and Ford stated how they will balance the budget and erase the deficit?

I care about the children and their future.. Vote yes for the Referendum!!

You made my point. Those capacities are if we were at absolute maximum. There is no way the community would stand for that many kids in a school. If MJHS had 900 kids just a few years ago then 1200 would still be overcrowded.
I am fairly certain that no matter what anyone says, there are those who do not want to be educated. I agree that there is a reason for the mistrust, but I venture to say that by the time the new board understands the depths of the issues there won't be much left to save. I have stated before that I am voting for Markham and Ford AND Zacula. I am also voting for the referendum because it is the right thing to do. If the Markham Ford team can clean things up why wouldn't you trust them with the funds from passing a referendum?

You are right, this is no longer about the kids or educational standards. If anyone read the Messenger yesterday they would have seen an article about Summit Hill SD 161. Due to the plan they put in place, no teachers will be cut, class sizes will not increase, programs will not be cut AND NO TAX INCREASE. Imagine that, even in this economy and the declining funding from the State, they still were able to maintain a spending plan that stays in line with their budget and allows them to not only continue the current programs they have, but will be adding new as well. Plus, test scores are higher. Do we need the money? Who really knows? I'm certainly not going to take Perry's word for it, Moore's or King's. Perry lies at every opportunity she gets. King new what was going on and Moore voted for all of it. Let's wait for the new board, give them a chance to right what is wrong. Maybe then, we will finally get the truth. VOTE NO!!!

Plus with Governor Quinn's proposal, why would you vote in favor of the ref? Chances are we will be consolidated. We have continuing declining enrollment and should only have two schools. It only makes sense for us to be first on the list to consolidate. VOTE NO!!!

As for candidates, we need a board that is unbiased and in favor of what is right for the children, not the administration. VOTE MARKHAM AND FORD. They are independents wanting what's best for our children and their future, and for us, the residents of Mokena.

Those of you saying you care about and the future of the children and that is why you will vote YES, do you really think that saying that will help sway people. To a ex-ref person such as myself that statement is very PROVOCATIVE in the fact that it insinuates that those of us who have a different opinion DON"T CARE. Well, I care very much about the education of my children! As do most parents in Mokena. It is rather arrogant to assume otherwise. And most parents in Mokena are well-educated and successful.

I know that Markham and Ford may not have the all the answers but sometimes a little shake up makes for a better drink! And what choice does this district have now?

The current school board will never see a dime of the tax increase if the referendum passes; the district will not recieve the new taxes until 2012. However if we do not vote YES for this referendum, the new school board members will be left with nothing but more grim cuts.

MIS should be closed, but that alone will not fix the problem. I am voting YES for this referendum because the new school board will need to have the right tools available to start making good decisions and reinstating programming and resources that, while not mandated, are essential to preparing Mokena's children for the future.

Vote YES to this referendum to be pro-active and set the new school board up with the right tools to educate Mokena's children.

As the article states, we are no longer talking about just extra-curricular activities and full-day kindergarten (which I believe to be importat, but others may not). We are talking about staffed libraries and tech labs. These are not "extras"; these are essential 21st century learning tools. They may not be mandated by the state, but they are certainly necessary to a quality education.

Is hot lunch part of quality education? Is a building part of quality education? Is full day kindergarten part of quality education? Are 20% average administrative increases part of quality education? Are having more administrators per student than any other school quality education? These are only some items. Perry stated, hot lunch program is a wash, it is a break even cost. A November article in the patch showed how eliminating the hot lunch program would save us $100,000 and that was stated in a board meeting. Was hot lunch cut? No, but teachers were. MIS should have had a plan in place to close 2 years ago. Was MIS cut? No, but teachers were. If and when MIS closes, did you know that Perry does not want to eliminate both administrators. Of course not, she would rather eliminate the teachers. Sorry, they had a surplus a few years back of $20 million. Rather than put the money where it was needed, it was spent on administration's increases. Yes, what is done is done, but I've given my share, make due with what you have. I have too. Oh and did anyone find out why the extra curriculars weren't cut in January if what was needed was $250,000 to reinstate them? Because $250,000 wasn't needed, it was a scare tactic.

(con't)
A way to make it seem like more is needed when it's not. Go ahead, ask the Principals or the board members what the amount was that was provided to reinstate the extra curriculars. I'll guarantee you it was no where near $250,000. So now you want me to believe that a referendum is needed too. Yeah, I'll jump on that band wagon, NOT. VOTE NO. As the song goes, Don't be fooled again.

Here is an article on full day kindergarten. I just chose one of the first ones that popped up.
http://www.ernweb.com/public/942.cfm

How is this NOT about the children...It is MOST certainly all about our children! When you vote no you are voting NO to a good quality education for the ones who matter most..THE CHILDREN. Waiting for a new board is not going to solve the budget crisis. Without the referendum it is the children who will suffer the consequences of those parents who are holding grudges. With a passage of the referendum you will give the newly elected board the power to make a difference and bring back some of the cuts that were made last night. At this point the only option is to vote YES. We can not waste another year or two waiting to try again to pass a referendum. The thinking that a new board is going to come in a magically make everything better is crazy. There is no money- and without the referendum there will be less money for a new board to work with if our community does not come together for our children and vote YES. Voting yes will give the new board a budget to work with. Without that money they will be concentrating on where to make deeper cuts. Voting NO proves nothing except that you want a the new board to take on just as much or more finanical constraints as the current board. Why would you want to punish the new board members that you plan on voting in? Give them a chance to make to necessary changes. Vote NO and you can sit back and complain about the cuts that they will have make as they take their new position. IT IS ALL about our kids...bottom line.

As old-fashioned as this may sound, parents used to educate their kids at home or in small schools and guess what, America still progressed and actually thrived. Are our schools thriving now? Are our kids? Most are not in the public school systems. Just take a look at the stats out of WI this week. Over 60% of 8th graders can't read proficiently. And WI spends more money per student than any other midwest state. So money is not solving anything. I am all about the kids but the system has to change and maybe its time for Mokena 159 to be a pioneer. Think outside the school system box that we seem to be in. I alsorefuse to believe that the sky is falling scenario the board and district keep putting us into. My kids will thrive because I (their parent) will be sure that they do regardless of the school system.
I will supplement their education. Online curriculms cost about $1000/year/student and will almost guarantee your child a 30 on the ACT. I worked on part of my Masters via the internet and videoconferencing. What about using technology to reduce some costs or outsourcing with private companies such as Suzuki for music and Young Rembrandts for art? i think money could be saved that way!

I'm voting YES! for Mokena kids and Mokena property values.

@Just a Thought... You are suppose to do it for your kids and your property value

Former Teacher, Concerned Citizen
I can't believe that anyone would not vote for the referendum??? I have no children, but I know that a well educated society is a productive society. It is all about our
"Children"!!! They are the future, and we are their only advocates. I'm so disappointed by some of the nonsense that has been written. Summit Hill has increased their rate over the past 10 years, as the population increased. Mokena should have done that, but now it is up to the community to support this referendum!!! Vote Yes for our children.

If you need a guilt trip to come to terms with the reality of this situation..then so be it! I cannot believe the rudeness that you extend through your comments.. Based on that alone I think you will end up making NO supporters turn YES supporters

Along with the teachers and the other cuts an assistant principal position has been eliminated. I also see that the Board directed the administration to continue working on a plan to lease and close MIS, at which point the Prinicipal position will be eliminated. There seams to be a consensus among the current Board and new candidates as well that MIS should be closed and leased. The point of difference that I can see is timing and planning. Some Board members want to plan for the closure and others want it closed without any plan. There is validity to both arguments. Even Markham and Ford, who do not support a referendum, presented a plan for phasing out MIS to the Board. Should there have been a plan in place in the past, of course, but I can't go back in time.

I am voting yes for the referendum and for Markham and Ford.

Hi Beth, Kathleen, Katie and Diane
I’m glad to see you ladies are supporting what you truly believe in. I will be paying almost $1000 to put my four children through MES, MIS and MJHS. I believe it would be less expensive for us (Gina and I) if we voted for the referendum. I’m sorry but I cannot support something I cannot believe in. I will not try to Guilt you into supporting something that you truly do not believe in. Ms. Perry, and Mr. King cannot be believed nor trusted. She can look you in the eye and lie to your face and smile while she is doing it. I saw her in the board meeting yesterday and all I saw was Charlie Browns teacher. Remember when Bradbury was receiving his extravagant raises they knew what was coming, the state already started cutting back. Was the board thinking of “The Children” then or about the almighty Dollar? At the time they were giving Bradbury his raises they should have been closing MIS. Forgive me if I do not support the Referendum and I will be VOTING NO. I will also be voting for FORD AND MARKHAM.

Wow! I am amazed at what I am reading. Why is nobody using their real name? So they can smash others? I am voting a BIG YES...YES...YES. Because if we don't pass that referendum who loses? Our children. Guilt trip or not, it is the plain truth. And if not this referendum (as one said above) which one? What difference does it make? I"m not ashamed to say who I am and what I stand for. Ask yourself this.....why did you move here? Every homeowner KNOWS that schools make all the difference to a community. I'm not bashing anybody....vote YES and get the ball rolling. How can you vote NO and then install new board members with no new tools to work with? PLEASE VOTE YES TO THE APRIL REFERENDUM. VOTE YES, VOTE YES!!!!

Firstly, I agree. Use your name!

Secondly, I don't appreciate the posters above who insinuate that a "NO" vote means I don't care about the children in our district. Nothing could be further from the truth. I volunteered at school for 8 years, I was a PTA board member and active volunteer for 5 years, and I have lived in this district for 20 years. What is best for our children , I think we can all agree on, is what we ALL want.

Personally, I am frustrated that the board does not feel this way. Punishing our kids by taking away the things they love about school, like extracurriculars, seems to be their top priority. THIS is why I am voting NO this time around. I voted YES twice. But, after listening to many board meetings, I don't think giving this board more money to play around with is going to improve their fiscal decision making skills. I have seen them make weak attempts to "trim the fat" but never really do so. Until I see that the board can manage the money they have, I am not comfortable giving them more!!

And, those of you voting yes seem to be band/sport parents who are worried about extracurricular cuts. Don't kid yourself. Passing the referendum does not mean extracurriculars will return. Notice, it is the 5th thing on the list to return if it does pass. And, Perry has said at many meetings that even if the referendum passes, cuts will still be made. There is absolutely NO GUARANTEE that extracurriculars will return if you vote yes. In fact, if you ask Perry, and if she is honest with you, she will tell you that they won't be returning no matter what.

Gee Bill...I wonder if Summit Hill District 161 ability to go on without making cuts has anything to do with the higher tax base that Frankfort residents pay? How many dollars above our base, which hasn't changed in... was it 35 years???

Because our District didn't ask for more money during the "fat" years...because our District didn't have a crystal ball to foresee that the State of Illinois would back off it's obligations to the schools!
Trust me… I agree that there is room for cuts, I agree that Mrs. Perry has threatened cuts too often without the backing of the board and I think administrative cuts should be some of the first to be investigated. I too am disappointed that the board chooses to keep a building.. over staff, manageable class sizes, and programs that round out education.
We are looking at a new school board either way, as somone else stated we won't be seeing funds from this referendum until 2012. If we can't revisit another referendum until fall of 2012, when would we see thoes funds...2014? What do you think your new "miracle" board is going to work with until then? Even if they can trim the "fat" to some degree how many more cuts that effect the children and the name of this community are you willing to see?
Even though I just lost my job…I don’t want the largest single investment I have…property value... to sink any lower then it already has! I voted YES, I’ll VOTE YES again and pray that the no voters of this community wake up!

Isn't there anyway to get Perry out b4 her contract ends?

Also, what about the teachers coming to the table. They got 5% raises this year. Come on! I'm all for raises (within reason) when things are good but not now. What could be saved if they paid say 2% for healthcare and pensions? How can people forget Pat Quinn just raised our taxes by 2%. And the school district wants more when it can't cut its luxuries. I will not give up something small and inexpensive such as a trip to Starbucks that I do once in awhile when no one at the district is willing to do the same. At all!
Remember if the money was that bad then the board would have closed MIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! There would have been NO choice. Obviously there is!

To Pam W.

I’m Sorry maybe you haven’t seen my posts, my name is BILL ZOETVELT and I am Voting NO for the referendum. I have 4 children in the school system that I believe is not run appropriately due to Ms. Perry. I was the bald guy in the front row at the board meeting, sitting in front of Joe and Carrie. I already lost bus service for two of my daughters (one at MIS and one at MJHS) I have to drive them both to school in the morning for band.

To Laura NOLASTNAME

Per Karen Perry, the board was aware approximately 4 or 5 years ago that the state was not paying their full share. but 2 -3 years ago the BRADBERRY raises came. If the state hadn't told the board you couldnt increase wages by more than 6% where would we be today?? They probably made that law because of what we and they are going through. Did anyone stop and think WHY the state stopped paying their bill to us?? Is it possible its because of the raises given to Bradbury?? I AM VOTING NO, VOTE NO, VOTE NO, VOTE NO

PS. I’m giving a shout out to MR R!!! I truly believe your doing a great job!!

I understand people want to vote no, but this MIS thing is a red herring. No one, not even the new candidates want to keep it open, its a matter of timing and plannning. Markham and Ford who are against the referendum even suggested a plan to phase out MIS. Please if you want to vote no, I respect that, I don't agree with everything the Board did but I think having a plan for transitioning a school and leasing it is the right thing do.

Lastly, a new Board is elected every two years.

@Mad Dad,

MIS will not have an asst. prinicpal next year regardless of the outcome of the referendum. The reinstating of the AP was separate from the motion to reinstate the other cuts like EC's and kindergarten, etc. Perry asked if the Board would like to make the separate motion to reinstate the AP if the ref passes and no board member made the motion, no vote, therefore no reinstatement. I asked a board member who concurred. Also the RTi coodinator position will not be brought back regardless of the referendum, they took that out of the recommendation. The Board also told Perry to continue planning leasing and closing/phasing out MIS and working with village leaders and real estate professionals, which work will likely be done/overseen by the new Board.

I am voting YES for the referendum because I care about families in the community who CAN NOT afford to send their kids to private sports, music or art lessons. I believe in the spirit of subsidized public education and I know that an education is not only academic, but atheistic as well.

And I understand that many people are experiencing financial hardship. But without a sound compulsory education that includes -everyone-, the hardship will become systematic.

To Bill Z:
My comment was obviously not directed at you. I'm just voicing my opinion about the referendum....everyone has that right, that is why we are here. I, too, have 4 children (3 in 159)and have to drive 2 of them to school and will pay for bus service and probably drive next year as well. It's just dis-heartening to hear all this negative talk. Passing the referendum is the ONLY way we will get ANYTHING back....regardless of the board. If you have children in the school system, I can't see why you would vote against it. All we will do is lose teachers, activities, programs and eventually a quality education.
To Laura: I completely agree. Our homes are our BIGGEST investment we can make. I'll state it again....why did we all move here? Because we knew Mokena had some of the best schools around. Like many, I can't afford a tax hike....but our children are our future. We must give them every opportunity we can. I was a NO voter in the very begining but voted YES twice and will do it again. VOTE YES! VOTE YES! VOTE YES!

Interested Parent,

You make it sound like the Assistant Principal was fired. She wasn’t, A Teacher was fired in her place and she took that teachers position. I guess that’s just politics.
As for the RTI coordinator position, from what I heard at the board meeting, that position was created because the Federal Govt. gave us a grant to run the position. That Federal money was no longer available so we can no longer sustain the position. Am I wrong here? Maybe I am, please let me know.
Also the Board asked Perry to look into leasing or selling MIS a year ago, she stated nobody wanted it. I found it funny (Charlie Browns teacher funny) when she stated she was “still working on it” when asked to look into leasing the building. How long does it take to get information on leasing a building? A day, week, month, YEAR?? I would think Real-estate agents would be jumping out of their shoes to get a potential job like that one.
Thanks
VOTE NO FOR THE REFERENDUM AND YES TO MARKHAM AND FORD

I was exactly the opposite. I was a yes voter who turned to no. I don't believe that the only way to get these items back is to pass a referendum and this is why...We have been lied to, over and over and over again. According to a board member, Ms. Bogdan is a full time employee but she works two positions, AP at MIS and RTI. I'm assuming she assists the RTI coordinator Ms. Flaherty. The AP position is not needed at MIS. Many schools of MIS size do not have an AP. The position is not being eliminated because of budget woes but rather there is no longer a need for one.
In regards to property values, the decline is due to shear economics. This entire country is in a crisis, there is no one state that is thriving and not making budget cuts across the board. Are you aware that seldom does a referendum work to the extent people think it will? Are you also aware that seldom when a referendum passes that what happens to the school never really does? Our property taxes are very high to begin with. I had several neighbors who moved over the last 3 years strictly because they couldn't afford the current property taxes. With our taxes as high as they are, no new business to speak of, no real growth potential, our property values will drop anyway. Property values is a poor argument in my opinion when you look at our foreclosure rate, unemployment and the countries economic condition.

(con't)
Let's also look at gas prices. Economists are expecting gas to increase to $5 a gallon. With this prediction, we are slated to go right back into a recession. Do you honestly think that this referendum will solve the problem? Most definately not.

Pam W.

I’ll tell ya what Pam, You get the teachers unions to make a statement that there will be no more raises for the teachers for the next 5 years and you get the administrators to state they will receive no more raises for the next 5 years and I’ll be good with that and I will support you 100%, No, 150%
I know that’s an absurd idea, just as absurd as the raises they have received over the years.
That way I know the money is going to the CHILDREN!!!!
It’s Time we all feel the PAIN of the recession.

Interested Parent,
Sorry I need to be clearer; I reread my post and can understand the confusion. NO I don’t want to see anyone lose their jobs!! Let’s get that straight and up front!! I don’t exactly agree with the Politics of Tenure, All that means is it makes the WORST teacher as good as the BEST teacher, But that’s another story for a time when you and I can sit down and have a cup of coffee and chat.
As for the RTI Coordinator I am agreeing with you, we do not have the additional funds to sustain the position. The position must be cut.
Remember All (Pro and Con) we did not want this mess!! The actions of some current and previous board members and previous and current SUPERENTENDENTS caused our little village to go up in arms and be angry with each other during the worst financial crisis any of us have ever seen in our lives. I/we have a good friend that, I tell ya the truth I was afraid of losing because she is Pro and we are Con. I’m glad we didn’t because that would have been worse than losing tax dollars for the wrong reason.

GROUP HUG

Sorry Still Voting NO

This whole country is getting hit hard during these tough economic times, my home is worth 30% less than it was in 2007. Without this referendum, it will spiral even further downward. The school district I grew up in was one of the top districts in the state, every referendum they went for they received. Within the last 20 or so years the referendum attempts have failed, then the demographics changed. The people that bought the forclosures and homes people fled due to a broken school system got them cheap, since the value plummeted. Those people won't be able to afford any future referendums, so they are trapped in a sad, endless cycle, and at present the State cannot even help them. Argue all that you want, any realtor will tell you, the fact is that school systems mean everything when people are looking for homes. I've seen the foreclosure rate in Mokena, who do you think are going to buy these homes without a strong school district? We will be more worried about funding security companies than teachers and admins when our schools are in the gutter, maybe I can find out where my alma mater purchased their metal detectors to keep their kids safe. I will be voting yes for the referendum so that Markham, Ford, Spalla and/or Zakula can have all the tools they need to strengthen the district NOW, not in the future. History has a funny way of repeating itself. That's all I have to say, I will listen but not argue.

I think we all agree that Perry is one BIG problem in our school district, so I have to ask again, how can we get rid of her b4 her contract is up? Is there anyway?

I sometimes struggle with these posts because often we are talking about parts of the facts but not all of the facts. If you have read my posts before, my biggest concerns are that we are often unfair in our comparisions because posts don't include all of the information. For example: we are often comparing 159 to the surrounding school districts. This is like comparing your household to your next door neighbors and saying that they are exactly the same. We both know that this isn't true and it doesn't work for school districts as well. If we are going to compare the financial acumen of Summit Hill, New Lenox and Frankfort to Mokena, then we need to look at the actual comparisons; you need to compare supt. to supt., teacher to teacher and custodian to custodian. Mr. Ventura did a study of the LW feeder administrator full compensation packages and found that the 159 administrators are underpaid when comparing apples to apples. The same can be said for the teachers and most of the support staff as well. When you look at student to teacher ratios and administrator to student ratios, you will still find that Mokena is in line with our neighbors.The calculations for student to administrator ratios that has been bandied about still makes no sense to me and saying that the IIRC gave you the numbers is still wrong if you know it is wrong. I am again calling for civility and for looking at real facts, not conjecture, speculation or opinion.Put your bias aside and do the right thing.

I also want to point out that averages for student achievement are simply that; averages. Mokena has consistently scored in the top of the state on all measures academcially. It is impossible to deny that the students are getting a first rate education in 159 and they go on to LWE to become leaders and successful adults. 159 kids are consistently in the top of the top ten at LWE and one does not need to look far to understand that they would not be there if it weren't for great families and a great school district. When you look at state and national averages you must consider that 159 is lumped in with Chicago, Rockford, Peoria, New York, LA, etc. where drop out rates are in the 50% range and the poverty rates are in the 80-90% range. I do not want to compare 159 to these places. I want 159 to have the staff and families that will put us ahead of the other schools in the nation and the state. I am willing to be involved with the system and say yes to a referendum to make sure my children have that advantage in this economy. Education is the key to success and I believe 159 to be one of the best places where my children can get that education and go on to have a better life.

Mayor Joe Werner
You have been quoted in the other mokena paper of saying mokena is a great town. So why dont you support the (cup of coffee) increase for the school system. It will increase the values of the community and you cant have a split in the ranks on this issue. You are suppose to be a leader and stand up for your community.

Jim

Whats with all anger?? Do you need a HUG????

Jim, you're a little late to the party aren't you? Now your just pissing everyone off because you're flooding our inbox's!

@ thoughtful citizen
The student to administrator ratios are listed on each disctrict's "School Report Card". Just because mokena 159 has many less students per adminstrator then some other school districts dosent make the #'s wrong. Sometimes the truth just hurts.

I have a question? How can we expect the community to come together at a time like this when you people are talking the way you are? Im reading all of these posts and I can't believe the way that "just a thought" is responding to people. You are crazy. I hope to god you are not running for a board seat. That will be like adding another Tim King to the table. He talks to the community the same way. Who do you think you are? EVERYONE is angry, NO ONE wants to see any of this happen. Thats the problem with these message boards, everyone gets angry at eachother and it gets us no where. We need to accept the fact that things are changing, maybe for the worse...but don't act like you "mr. just a thought" know it all.

Mad Dad,

LOL!

Hi Jim! Nice interview! Well where do I start? Your insults to the Tea Party and those of who believe in theideals they represent are so typical of someone who doesn't want to debate but wants to force their agenda. I voted for the ref 2x as well as my spouse but we are conservative. We voted yes because we TRUSTED the board and the district. Unfornutately those in leadership have lied and double-talked and dispersed misinformation about the financial situation of 159. And refused to make common sense choices that would greatly benefit the kids and education not the adults. The teachers have refused to make any type of concession.
Would the bank accept an excuse of "I just wanted a new motorcycle" if we did not pay our mortgage? I doubt it! They would tell us to start makes some choices and change our lifestyle. Your argument just doesn't hold water in the real world. This how the real world works when times get tough you ADAPT. Life gives you lemons you make lemonade. Instead of the "SKY IS FALLING" scenario we are getting from our leaders. Our family will have to make changes to pay for bussing and fees and outside enrichment anyway. Let me make it clear you won't win the ref with the attitude that you, Jim, are exhibiting. You are just firming up their resolve. Additionally, please don't call me and my family narrow-minded or knee-jerkers. Remember get your facts first!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I like Bills suggestion...if the teachers and administrators agree to a 5 year pay freeze, heck, I would be OK with a 3 year pay freeze, then I will vote yes. Then I know my tax dollars REALLY are going to the kids and not for pay and benefit raises. Hmm, something to think about board of education!! Thats two more yes votes....

Hey Kim,

I bet you would get a lot more than just 2 votes,,, Id bet they would bet a unanimous YES vote if they told us they needed the money and the teachers and Administrators took a 5 year pay freeze.

Buuuuut until that happens im still voting NO

GROUP HUG

This is why it's so hard for me to agree to any referendum. We haven't even negotiated the teachers contracts yet. And now, with Quinn's new proposal on consolidation, the referendum could prove to be a moot point. To Jim, as I know you are as pationate for the ref as I am against, just so you know, all 12 of us on this site who have been bickering back and forth, will not change our mind one way or another. Those voting yes will stay yes, those voting no will stay no. Just for informational purposes, it is difficult for us "NO" voters to agree with a ref for several reasons.
1) Perry - "The state will take us over. We will be broke by 2014." The state hasn't taken over a school since the 1980's. There is no way they could take us over, they have no money either. She's not using that excuse this time around.
2) King, Moore, Connelly, Peters (I think) and Bradbury - Yes this is old news, however, they did vote for the Bradbury's increases, free retiree medical for 3 years for two administrators, school name change, and various other (kept behind close door) issues.
3) Bradbury - called a session with several community members regarding the ref. Behind closed doors (I'm not at liberty to say who told me this but it was someone in attendance who was requested by Bradbury to attend), "Don't advertise the referendum, push for it in February as fewer people come out to vote and it's easier to slide it under the table. That's how you'll get it to pass." (con't)

4) $20 million surplus - happy days come and gone. Where did all the money go? Salaries.
5) Perry - I asked her directly,"Why can't we close MIS and sell it or lease it to one of the colleges? Enrollment is low, this would bring revenue in." Perry's answer - "No one is interested in the building. " I sent her an e-mail stating I was unaware that the board hired a real estate consultant to see what other uses the facility could provide. If they knew no one wanted it, they had to have tried this path and requested a consultant to provide information to them. I asked her specifically for the report and who the consultant was. I never received an answer. I know, you are probably as shocked as I am.
6) Extra curricular costs - When first speaking with Jim Connolley, he informed me the extra curriculars cost between $145,000 and $175,000 but a breakdown was not yet completed. Then the cost went to $185,000. Then Perry stated $250,000. $125,000 was raised and $125,000 was all that was needed. When speaking with the principals, they stated, the amounts requested to reinstate the extra curriculars was much less than $250,000. Connolley and Perry kept it at $250,000. (con't)

The school actually had 2 parties interested in leasing MIS next year before the board voted it down. It is amazing how this is never mentioned!!!!

7) Bus Service - I requested from the board if a formal RFP was completed to determine if outsourcing was the best choice. No RFP was completed. How can anyone make a decision about what to charge or whether or not to outsource if you haven't done an RFP? I explained that in all the years I have done an RFP, I have never seen where outsourcing costs more than keeping it inhouse. We own many of the buses which means we have maintainance costs, storage facilities and salaries and benefits. Yes, I said benefits. Perry stated, we don't pay our bus drivers benefits. According to one of the bus drivers I know, they get a small pension. Now I'm still trying to have this confirmed with one of the board members, but you get the gist.
8) Ytterberg may have retired 2 years ago, but she was still being paid. You don't see her salary on the website though do you. Most people are unaware that she still was being paid. Still may be, I haven't had the opportunity to find that out yet.
9) We care about the children, they are the first priority, yet the extra curriculars were the first item cut during the first pass. Not administration, but all extra curriculars. When asked why all had to go and not just keep the ones that were most beneficial to the kids, the answer was, because how do you pick and choose. It has to be all or nothing. But, at the board meeting this week, they did pick and choose, didn't they.
(con't)

10) Perry - "We can't charge for extra curriculars. It's against Title 9." Really, then why was it that they last night on the news, when Perry was asked why they couldn't charge for the extra's her choice was because it was the best option. In fact, in the meeting, did she mention it was against Article 9 when Tony brought up charging for the extra's? No she didn't, and you know why? Because she is LYING.
11) When I asked Perry why can't we eliminate the hot lunch program, she said that it was a no cost expense. It was break even and didn't cost us anything. Then in the November meeting, there were 7 scenarios, several that included discontinuing the hot lunch progarm. If full day stayed in place, it would save $100,000. If reduced day happened, it would save $135,000. When I asked why last year it didn't save anything but this time it would save $100,000, her response to me was because that was only if we reduced the hours in the day and didn't have lunch. Funny, but that's not what was said at the meeting.
12) Putting kindergarten to half day saves us $300,000, according to Perry. Also, she stated that full day kindergarten is not required, and she is correct, it is not. So then why is reinstating full day kindergarten coming back if the ref passes? Don't you think the $300,o00 could be utilized in better ways, such as rehiring some teachers to MJHS? Stats show, by the end of 1st grade, full day kindergarten has no effect, levels are the same. (con't)

This is only 12 points, I can go on , but I think you get the idea. This is outright lies. Why the sudden push for the 3rd pass? Because statistically, refs pass by the 3rd time. It is the approach that changes to try and sway people. There are numerous studies as to how to get a referendum passed. I can't believe word one that comes out of most of the board's mouths and Perry herself. So now, I want them to prove to me before I give them a dime. It's a shame that they are going for it now. Oh, and one more point, Perry was asked if she has spoken with a realator yet about MIS. Her answer, as of the night of the board meeting, was no. She didn't know who to contact. So when will the plan be in place? When is she going to make a move? She won't, why? Because she is banking on the referendum. The first attempt always should be to make cuts BEFORE you go to the community, not after you ask for money and it failed twice. It's the blatent lies, the misuse of money, the half truths, the scare tactics. I'm sorry, but I don't feel comfortable giving my money to a group of people who have been anything but honest. As for those that say, don't you trust Markham and Ford? Yes, I do, but does everyone else, enough to vote them in? There is no guarantee they will make it on the board so how can I vote yes to the ref if I don't know who will be on board? How can I vote yes when I can't even be assured the teachers are going to do what it takes during negotiations?

Drop the ref this time around so it doesn't have to wait two years, get independents in there, like Markham and Ford, to find out the truth, wait until the teachers negotiations are completed, and then if needed, ask for the ref. You can't have it both ways.

Jim, what you are asking for is a leap of faith from us knowing that many of the board members are proven liars. Tough thing to swallow, don't you think? Do I want what's best for my kids? Of course I do. I have four in SD 159. But I'm not comfortable with handing over money assuming they will do the right thing afterwards. Not anymore.

I am still waiting to hear if the teachers are going to agree on a freeze in their salary until we are out of these hard economic times. NO to the refernedum until we know if the teachers are going to share the sacrifice.

To Jim A

If I understand your arguments correctly what you're basically saying is - Trust blindly in the board and administration, they know whats best so just shut-up and pay the money, and our money problems are basically minor 'blips' that we shouldn't be too worried about. Are you new here?
Have you not seen/heard/read all the under-handed stuff this board and administration has done?
You appear half-way intelligent - How can you defend the board and the admin? It makes no sense. It also doesn't make sense that a pro-admin/pro-ref person would condemn anyone of fear-mongering. In fact its outright hypocritical for ref-supporters to do that, since they and the admin have been fear-mongering from the very beginning . Your postings are like bad propaganda, and you seem to think that repeating the same mantra over and over again will make it true or that we will believe it - we wont.

You are correct, I am asking you to trust, but not blindly. The future performance is based upon historical trends including years of Affordable, Academic Excellence as 17 Bright Star Awards are testimony to. I hear they don't come too easy and that less than 10% of the schools get these awards.

Again, these awards are brought to us (as we banked our low tax payments over decades of excellent achieving students) by the School teachers and administrators. The Board gets fresh blood every two years but the succesful teachers and admins do not. Keep the faith, but to call it 'trusting blindly is plain silly.

I see very clearly. and I'll be voting Yes on April 5th.

Bright Star Award - school districts that shine in spite of low funding (SchoolSearchä is not a proponent of low funding for school districts). This award helps families find a strong school district in an area with more affordable housing.
Have heard the Bright Star Award about a dozen times mentioned had to look it up and see what it was.
Yes, high test scores in spite of low funding, ok, translation of that to me....you do not have to overpay to have quality education. A teacher with a $50,000 yr salary, can teach just as well as and some cases better than one with a $90,000 yr salary

This award helps families find a strong school district in an area with more affordable housing. ......
More affordable housing can be found from finding schools that have won this award. Wow, guess you could kiss this number 18 award good bye, Jim, if this ref passes. No one is going to be able to afford to live here any more, or maybe they will be able to afford to live here when they are buying all the foreclosed homes at a discount because so many families were unable to pay their tax bills.
Trying to figure out why so much push on this award, and I just don't see winning this award 17 times would be changing views on things

What I would love to see, is all of the pro ref persons that have all that fighting energy in them right now telling the "No" voters, that they are voting "Yes" for the good of our community... our schools need more money..... take all that energy --- skip the next school board meeting---go to the next Village Board meeting instead. Push your Village Trustee's to get the ball rolling on Meijer, when is it going to be built, our schools need the money we need the tax dollars, when are you going to attract more businesses into all the empty store fronts by JcPenny, Wolf Rd, Front St. I used to hear all the time "Shop Mokena, put your tax dollars back to work for you" Well, there is no place to shop for all my needs in Mokena, get the dang building built already so I can shop for my family and support my Mokena schools instead of supporting Frankfort and New Lenox schools. The Village is not commenting on the school situation right now, because they know they are partly to blame for not attracting the businesses our surrounding areas did. Frankfort has given it's taxpayers a refund check before, as New Lenox has also. The "No" voters are not going to change their minds, take your energy and put it to better use, push your trustees to bring revenue into our district!

Dee Miller-That may be the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. We should all be fighting for Mokena, shouldn't matter if you're for or against the referendum to urge the village to lobby for new business. If you believe that they won't listen to you because you are against the referendum then it just proves that you and some of the other posters here seem to have a serious problem with authority and is paranoid that everyone is out to get you. Obviously the 5 no voters on this board are never going to change their stance, so be it.

Markham and Ford supporters-Thanks for opening my eyes, I will not be voting for them.

Heading for Disaster-I couldn't agree more.

Vote yes!

OMG!!! They smoke cigarettes? That's it, I'm changing my vote to yes.

Here is my question to the pro-ref group. Can you tell me what the permanent concessions are that the board has offered? Other than the AP and the RTI coordinator, if the referendum passes, everything that was cut, they are bringing back. Where are the permanent cuts? Are we going to be in the same boat a year from now? Pass the ref and then what? Here's what I invision: "Hey Mokena, it's 2013. We need more money for the schools or we will have to cut the extra curriculars. We are going to have to pay for bus service. We are going to cut kindergarten to half day. We are going to have to cut teachers." So tell me, where are the permanent cuts?

Hey Jim,
Couple of comments here,
1) Thanks for posting, you’re really making the Anti Ref people look Good, and you’re pissing off a lot of Pro Ref people that may agree with the Tea Party!! 
2) You state: "Mike - I'd love to keep it local and see how the vote turns out...but I have to read characterizations of how bleak things are and how many mistakes everyone has made and how everything is so overwhelmingly rotten. People on this blog have been painting with such dark colors that it just makes me wonder what the agenda is”
What, the Truth Hurts? Also The Truth Has No Agenda, Sorry
3) Really you could smell the cigarettes the opposing team , that’s one of your arguments?? Damn, Glad they didn’t break wind, We would be reading about that. Although you did almost get me to change my vote. Next time you go to give them a GROUP HUG ask then to use a breath mint first.
4) Gina posted 12 FACTS that nobody has refuted, we are looking for a debate or corrections.

Hi again Jim! Idisagree adamantly with you! Most of the people posting are NOT painting a dark picture at all! PRO-ref people are saying they are doing it to support community and the kids and No people are stating their facts. Both are doing what they think will bring a brighter future for their children. Your insults and negative comments is where the DARKNESS lies. It is interesting that you and your family were chosen for the FOX interview, though.

Bill-I can't speak for everyone else but I'm sure tired of hearing about you and your wife's winded postings about Mokenagate. You got your message out there, we don't need to dissect it. Just as you won't budge, neither will we. When all is said and done, we all must stand together.

I find the timing of the ref notable. This started in a tight 1 and half year election cycle. 3 chances to vote before a 15 month hiatus. Ref generally don't pass until #3. Also, the drastic teacher cuts coming before the next election before the hiatus. Maybe trying to scare people?

About full day kindergarten-- well my oldest daughter attended another school that had full day but was cut before she entered due to budget cuts. She has had high honors every semester since entering Mokena. Let's get past this full day kindergarten thing already. It is a luxury and a convenience!!!

Get rid of Perry she has been nothing but bad for the district
Close MIS, it is time.
Teachers take a 1 year or better 2 year salary freeze. Of course they won't do anything until after the vote.

Then I can accept voting Yes.

To those who want to use this vote as some sort of punishment for past decisions, you realize you are not hurting anyone but the children. Since the board will be different and the administration has completely changed. Look at the curent facts and figures and not at conducting some sort of weird punishment vote. At this point I have seen no candiate with any ideas on how to actually solve the problem long term. I have heard a lot of political jibber jabber from supporters and the like, but as usual no real solutions. Everyone thinks they have the solution until reality sets in. I am a true undecided voter waiting for some good information and decisions and not secret agendas or vendetas of various people.

@waiting for superman, there is a consensus among the board members and new candidates to close MIS. It will be closed, they are planning leasing and transition. The question was never should it be closed but what is the best way to plan its closure and transition. The Board already eliminated the AP position at MIS.

Wow!...Information overload!! Folks, let's try and keep it simple:

1.) Did the current board members make some bad decisions recently and in the past?....Yes.

2.) Thanks to all you people who have "woken up" on the operation of Dist. #159, are we in a better position for the future?...Yes

3.) Are we going to be able to finance our local schools without more financial help from the local taxpayers even if superman comes in and fixes everything that's wrong...No!

4.) Should the head of the teacher's union announce a 2 year wage freeze to help pass the referendum, save necessary jobs, and understand that the term "shared sacrifice" is going to be heard alot over the next several years....Yes

5.) I, of course, will be voting YES for the referendum, YES for more cost orientated board members, and YES to keeping all the programs that make Mokena schools the reason I moved here 12 years ago and sent my children through the system.

The "everyday" people that make up Mokena Dist.159: teachers, janitors, aides, bus drivers, cafeteria, and support staff are those who make it great!

Alright, so how about this equation ......

Save:
$350,000.00 - close MIS
$100,000.00 - no hot lunch
+ Make administrators pay for their own health care benefits like the rest of us
___________________________________________________
= No teacher cuts and no extra curricular cuts

Just thinking Ahead:

Amen.
Well put.
Enough of the bickering back and forth. No one's mind is changing - we all sound like little kids. Everyone get out there and vote for how YOU want to vote. End of Story.

I will be Voting YES.
Thanks.

I will talk to Gina's 12 points:
1. State taking us over - They, the board, continue to make cuts to avoid this. Deficit spending has been reduced, not in the areas that you would like but the teachers contract has not been negotiated yet, that’s the biggest item.
2 Bradbury's increase/name change/admin healthcare - Old news, old board, did the name change go through, no, the current board did not allow it. Bradbury's raise, previous board, is it in the current Supt. contract? No. Admin healthcare retirement perk goes back over ten years ag0, it was removed as a perk by the current Board. No one can change the past, it looks like the current board addressed these issues.
3. Bradbury closed session - Bradbury is gone, old news, who cares, is it even relevant?
4. 20 millin surplus - Yes most of it went to salaries, a five year teacher contract @ 5% year and state funding diminished, yeah, your going to burn cash. What admin salaries were approved by the current Board? 2.0% 2009 and 0% 2010.
5. Close MIS - It's being phased out, there is a consensus among board members and new candidates even the candidates you support, Markaham and Ford, have a plan for phasing it out.

6. Extra-Curriculars - The Board let EC's run for a year on promise of funding by the Mokena Organizational Leaders, an estimate was made and it comes in for less, the cash was raised and the kids had their extra-curriculars.
7.Bus Service - The state cut funding on bus service twicee and now its threatening to eliminate it totally. The district changed their gas buying this year to coop with lincolnway to save money. Even if there are savings through sending out a request for proposal is it hundred of thousands?, millions? and have you read the papers about the problems with these private bus carriers.
8. I do not believe Yetterberg is being paid salary, FOIA this if you want. Her healthcare is being paid for 3 years because of an over ten year old board vote that the current board terminated for any new retirees.
9/10. Extra-Curriculars - For some reason EC's are part of the teachers contract, Schedule B to be exact, look on the district website its there. The teachers contract is being renegotiated this year so they can do what they want now.
11. Hot lunch - It did not get eliminated, it supports itself, if its making money, why cut it?
12. Kindergarten - Full day or half day, the age old battle, is it daycare or education. Its not a reason to vote no for a referendum.

At the end of the day you can parse out so many of Perry's statements, its easy fodder, however you do not convince me of your position and I do not believe that anyone could convince you to change your mind.

Reduction in state funding, close to 3 million a year, is REAL and looking at the State permanent. I am voting YES for the referendum.

Everyone, educate yourself, ask questions, get informed, give the new Board the funding it needs to right the ship.

Won't all this bickering be for naught if this happens:
http://www.illinoistrack.us/legislation/GA97HB1886

Oh and Brian, for my "Winded" posts, I've been married for 22 years and my husband can't get me to stop, what makes you think you could? Besides, didn't know posts could be "winded". Verbose maybe, but not winded.

Hey, is anyone going to respond to my earlier post? Is anyone aware of what the permanent cuts are going to be? All the cuts mentioned will be reinstated if the referendum passes. So where is the permanent plan to reduce costs? Does anyone know?

Another Reason to vote NO For those of you that will not go to the link above,it looks like our state govt is breaking it off in Ms. Perrys Backside, this is what it says:
Synopsis as Introduced
Amends the School Code. Provides that within 60 days after the effective date of the amendatory Act, on a date set by the State Board of Education, a special election must be held in each county to elect members to a county school board. Provides that on July 1, 2012, (i) all school districts in this State in existence on June 30, 2012 (other than the Chicago school district) are dissolved; (ii) their school boards are abolished; (iii) the terms of all board members end; and (iv) all of the powers, duties, assets, liabilities, employees, contracts, property, records, pending business, and unexpended funds of each school board are transferred to the appropriate county school board or boards. Provides that on July 1, 2012, each county shall constitute one school district to be governed by a county school board, unless the county school board has divided the county into 2 or more school districts, in which case each of those school districts shall be governed by a school board elected as provided under the Code, and the county school board shall be dissolved upon those school board members taking office. Effective immediately.

does anyone know what teachers are being cut for the 2011-2012 school year

My understanding is that the morale of the staff is extremely low because of all the cuts. I have an idea to improve the staff morale. Get rid of all the teachers and hire new ones for next year. There are thousands of teachers out of work in Illinois. Can you imagine how happy and grateful these new teachers would be working in a great town like Mokena. These are hard times teachers! Be happy you have a job.

Bill, below is what our school district would look like under that legislation you reference. The source is from the Will County Clerk's website, 2009 tax rates. Mokena 159 is 32 of 38 Districts in Will County in tax rate. District 159 is close to last place among all Will County elementary districts. Chicago school system is not the example that I think we should follow. Consolidation is not the answer, but it is plainly, and painfully, obvious that without further funding Mokena 159 will be on an uneven financial playing field, which will negatively impact our childrens education, test scores, and opportunities.

VOTE YES

Will County School 2009 Tax Rate
1 School District 201-U Crete Monee 5.2375
2 School District 308-U Oswego 5.06
3 School District 200-U Beecher 4.9541
4 School District 365-U Valley View 4.9435
5 School District 202 Plainfield 4.5876
6 School District 204-U Indian Prairie 4.4934
7 School District 5-U Manteno 4.1377
8 School District 203-U Naperville 3.9495
9 School District 209-U Wilmington 3.6674
10 School District 30-C Troy 3.421
11 School District 114 Manhattan 3.35
12 School District 207-U Peotone 3.343
13 School District 89 Fairmont 3.2223
14 School District 157-C Frankfort 3.21
15 School District 255-U Reed-Custer 3.1063

16 School District 122 New Lenox 3.0229
17 School District 33-C Homer 2.9967
18 School District 161 Summit Hill 2.9894
19 School District 201-C Minooka 2.9561
20 School District 1-U Coal City 2.8899
21 School District 91 Lockport 2.8026
22 School District 194 Steger 2.7901
23 School District 92 R/L/Walsh 2.7522
24 School District 86 Joliet 2.6112
25 School District 70-C Laraway 2.5774
26 School District 17 Channahon 2.5651
27 High School 111 Minooka 2.3027
28 School District 81 Union 2.2846
29 High School 206 Bloom 2.2832
30 School District 88 Chaney-Monge 2.2503
31 School District 203 Elwood 2.2344
32 School District 159 Mokena 2.1281
33. School District 88-A Richland 2.1247
34 School District 90 Taft 2.0322
35 High School 204 Joliet 1.8972
36 High School 205 Lockport 1.6801
37. High School 210 Lincolnway 1.6067
38 School District 84 Rockdale 0.9801

Average for all schools 3.0379

Average for just Elementary Schools 3.2021

VOTE YES, get informed

correction, avg for elementary schools is 2.783, I inlcuded unit schools by mistake. The schools with a U are Unit Schools K through 12. In any event you get the idea, we are way below the average not to mention the lincolnway feeder schools, even with the 29 cent referendum.

VOTE YES

Hi interested,

I'm assuming you didn't understand what you read, we may not have a choice, its what the state of Illinois is looking into. To save thousands or millions of dollars in state funding, They are looking into consolidating ALL the countys school districts into one or two districts. This is potentially going to happen in every county accept CPS. If we pass a referendom and this consiladation happens we just gave the state all that money. Believe me WE DON'T WANT THIS EITHER, but we may not have a choice. Look up the Orland Park Patch report, they are freaking out over this!!! They have 50million in the bank and the state will take it and spread it around cook county if it passes.

STILL VOTING NO

Bill, you are correct. The link I listed yesterday provides the detail that this is House Bill 1886 and was presented at the same time Gov. Quinn proposed mandatory consolidation. This proposal is one of two that is being reviewed. Hence my statement that all the bickering may be a moot point if this piece of legislation goes through. I suggest people should right their reps and find out about where they stand for this consolidation. It appears people may be fighting the wrong battle here.

Hey Bill Z - its getting so Dark in here, I can hardly see.

Hey Jim A

Umm, don't know how to help you with that one buddy. Try comming over to the right side
We can see just fine!!

Have a nice day:)

STILL VOTING NO

Bill, that legislation is DOA.

You missed my point, even if the referendum passes, Mokena 159 is still well below the average funding in terms of tax rate. Even, if there is a huge amount of savings in this farce of mass consolidation, which we all know there won't be just look at CPS, the likely tax rate would still be higher than what we are charged now or post referendum. Your post did spur me into looking where Mokena stands in Will County, thus my list in the prior post, and the dismal fact that Mokena 159 is close to dead last in Will County elementary school district tax rates.

I really did chuckle that a reason you and Gina offer for voting no is Perry’s statement, or as you characterized, a threat, about the state taking us over. Now there is actually legislation to that affect, albeit legislation that will go no where, and now you want to vote no because the state is taking us over. I just thought that was a funny twist of logic.

Everyone - VOTE YES, educate yourself, get informed, ask questions

How do you figure this is the state taking over? There is legislation on consolidation of districts, which, I might inform you, has been one of the directions the board as well as a couple of the candidates, if not all, have been looking at. The legislation is stating that the SD will be consolidated county wide. The state won't be funding or taking over the district, the county will by having current members of all boards reside on a new county board instead of individual sections. Consolidation is a real viable choice, not to the level the state is proposing, but it is still a good option. What Perry said is that if the referendum doesn't pass, the state will take us over. The state is coming up with consolidation because they DON'T want to take us over or any school for that matter. That is why it never happens. A state takeover is where State officials run the school. A consolidation is where you still run the school by voting in a board. So there is no twist of logic. It's understanding the definitions of consolidation verses take over.

Everyone - VOTE NO, educate yourself, get informed, not misinformed.

http://southtownstar.suntimes.com/news/3976119-418/officials-question-quinns-school-consolidation-plan.html

Hi Interested Parent,

From what I read in the above article, it doesn't look DOA to me! Unless they killed it yesterday. Do you have an article that states its DOA? Please advise

Thanks

VOTE NO to the Referendum.

Talk to your legislators, this bill is DOA, it has absolutely no support, Quinn pulled it out of a hat, none of the Leaders support it. It will be relegated to committee where it will die.

Let me see if I understand your logic though Gina, when the State via legislation orders the school district to be disbanded, assets relinquished, local board disbanded, and a county school district formed, it is not a state takeover, its only a take over when the state physically takes over the building. I think your making a point without a difference. Mandated mass consolidation is a state takeover with the state passing the check. It will not happen.

I am happy though that you support local voluntary consolidation, pick from the list in my previous post of which district you would like to consolidate with and then let me know what the appropriate tax rate should be after consolidation. Good luck getting any district to agree to accept Mokena 159's tax rate in a consolidation, remember we're almost dead last in tax rate in Will County. Oh wait someone call Richland or Rockdale they are dead last in tax rate, the geography might make for a strange consolidation :)

VOTE YES, its common sense.

Bill, here is the article, that consolidation legislation is DOA.

www.herald-review.com/.../c5177e34-43be-11e0-8d35-001cc4c03286.html

"Top Democrat raises flaws in Quinn school consolidation plan"

StoryDiscussionTop Democrat raises flaws in Quinn school consolidation plan
By KURT ERICKSON - H&R Springfield Bureau Chief Herald-Review.com | Posted: Tuesday, March 1, 2011 3:00 am

SPRINGFIELD - A top state Democrat signaled Monday that Gov. Pat Quinn's push to reduce the number of school districts in Illinois may be flawed.

Senate President John Cullerton said he agrees the state needs to reduce the number of school districts from 869, but is against Quinn's proposal to force districts to merge.

Cullerton prefers an incentive-based system.

For example, the state could help two merging districts build a new high school as well as establish a way for the state to help retire any debt from a financially strapped district that wants to consolidate with a wealthier district.

"If you try to force this on schools and communities, I'm afraid it will go nowhere in the legislature," Cullerton said Monday. ...... " DOA

VOTE yes, educate yourself, get informed, ask questions.

Good Morning IP
Thanks for the information, This is sometimes how WE the NO VOTERS find out as much as you do. I would have to agree THIS BILL is DOA! But you must also agree both Kosel from New Lenox and Senate Pres Cullerton are both in favor of consolidation in some form. That is only a matter of time before they come up with the bill that will pass.
State Rep. Renee Kosel (R-New Lenox) said she’s in favor of finding a way to make consolidation work... “Will this be a walk in the park? No,” Kosel said.

Senate President John Cullerton said he agrees the state needs to reduce the number of school districts from 869, but is against Quinn's proposal to force districts to merge. Cullerton prefers an incentive-based system. For example, the state could help two merging districts build a new high school as well as establish a way for the state to help retire any debt from a financially strapped district that wants to consolidate with a wealthier district.
Something else you haven’t read in all of our posts, We don’t have a problem with paying additional money if that’s the last resort (we won’t like it but we will do it) Again you will get my 150% Support (I will even hang signs) to support the referendum if the teachers and admin take a 5 year freeze like they took a 5 year 25% raise and 2 year 20% raise. THAT Way we know its going for the CHILDREN not the SALARIES!!!
VOTE NO to additional raises

OK IP,
You seem like an intelligent man I like that! Please answer Gina’s Question from above. Where are the “permanent cuts” and if the ref passes how long will it be before they ask for an additional ref? Also IF (hypothetically) this passes and they do ask for a second ref are the pro ref people going to go back on their “you hate your children if you vote no” kick again?

VOTE NO to the Ref and Yes to Markham and Ford!!

Good Morning,

In the past there were financial incentives to District's merging, these incentives have been greatly reduced. What Cullerton supports and what is reasonable is putting these incentives back into place to spur local consolidation.

But this consoldiation thing is a red herring, look at my previous post list, which district do you want to consolidate with? Mokena 159 is at the bottom of the list of all schools in will county for tax rate. Its obvious that consolidation will produce a higher tax rate, no district in its right mind would accept Mokena 159's pawltry tax rate.

With respect to your 150% support, you keep quoting old news and old boards. The problem I have is you want the district to live with a tax rate that is almost dead last in will county. The inequitable disparity in funding will affect our children, test scores, etc.. And you won't even consider voting yes unless the teachers take a 5 year pay freeze. That's just unrealistic.

I think if people look at the totality of the district finances, state finances, and a fair and honest look at the 159's low tax rate, that it is common sense to VOTE YES.

I completely understand, I think, sorta, not really. I believe it is just as unrealistic to give the teachers and admin a pay freeze in difficult financial times (biggest recession since the great depression 75 years ago) as it was to give them 25% raises when the times were great 5 years ago. I don’t know what you do for a job but most every private sector company has made cuts not freezes. All I’m asking for are freezes!! That would equal up to 25% in raises in 10 years. VOTE NO
How about those Permanent Cuts!!! Where are they????

Honest question here? To save me from tearing things apart looking for file folders, that I know is right where I left it, with my past tax bills paid over the years. I know several years ago I paid tax for Mokena schools and it was around 2.45%, I was looking at it not that long ago and now do not know where I put it. How is that, that it was so high that year? I have looked at the Will Co, treasurer site and it shows last five years of tax bill, but only shows amounts paid not what each rate was for that year.

Dee,

Go to the will county clerk website, click tab for tax extensions, there you will find tax rates that I posted above, they have the 2008 and 2009 rates, listed for all will county taxing bodies.

Thank you, I will look, I know the 2.45% I remember seeing was back farther than that, maybe 2005 or 2006, I am going to do some more looking, thanks, appreciate the help!

I am a proponent of consolidation. Mokena, Summit Hill, New Lenox, Manhattan and Frankfort elementary districts should be consolidated with the Lincoln-Way High School District to form one K-12 Unit district. This would mean one district. One tax rate. One superintendent. One school board. I understand that we would have to merge our tax rates and Mokena would most likely see a $.80 to $.90 raise in our taxes, but this would make it an even playing field for all. It would make it so high school and elementary school teachers would be paid the same. I understand also that this would really not save much money because when this happens in other places, they keep the highest paid superintendent and make the others assistant superintendents to govern the larger district. It just doesn't make sense for there to be two or three or six districts all feeding into one. Let's get this ball rolling and forget about all the other bickering.

No matter what way you look at it even we do merge we have a tax increase so lets just pass the referendum and get back all of our good teachers that have been let go because we are not receiving funding by the state anymore. I would rather have a .29 cent increase than a .90 cent increase if we do merge. The facts are out there about what percent goes to the school and as you can see it is not that much. We shouldn't split the community on the no voters and yes voters we need to come together as a community and work together so that we can have the best school district and people will be moving to Mokena because of the school district. It is America and you are free to vote any way to want to vote.

New to Patch, but not new to Mokena. Have read both sides and have a feeling I will get jumped upon for this. Is the proposed savings of about $400,000 correct if MIS were to close? The budget they have is difficult to read. I do not see expenses listed for each individual building I see all three buildings grouped together as one. So far all of the figures passed out by the board have been stretched out from what they really were whether it has been a savings or an expenditure, they were off by $100,000 in their estimate to raise money for extra curriculars this year (I realize they wanted more money instead of less). That being said, we have three children, one in Mokena Schools. Back in 1998 when our first child attended MES, there was no MIS, in 1998 there were only 105 more students in the district than there is now MES was K-5 and it was Crowded. I have see people list here on the Capacities of each building. How about how many Classrooms there are? Having ten people live in a five bedroom house is alot different that having ten people live in a three bedroom house, some one is going to have to share a room with more than others. Everyone wants smaller class sizes, smaller class sizes need more classrooms. To move grades 4 & 5 back to MES is going to need about 22+ classrooms, it is going to be a tight squeeze, like it was back in '98. Two more grades will need a lunch hour if full day K comes back that will be 3 more grades needing a lunch hour=late lunches

(cont.) Our two younger children were fortunate enough to attend MIS and I would like to be able to see the future 4&5 graders have the great experiences there that my children had. It was a great adjustment in time change for them to be ready for the earlier starts at the MJHS and high school. Arbury hills school has 208 kids 1-4 Frankfort Square has 274 prek-4 there is more that I could list. It is not far fetched that Mokena has only 450 in MIS. I do not want to see them close MIS, and parents of younger children really should not be saying that they were voting yes before but they are a no now that they did not close MIS. Be careful what you wish for.

I think "Undecided Still" made a decent arguement about capacity that some seem to be ignoring. I have shared before that capacity should be considered the same as "grossly overcrowded." I thought the analogy to the home was good, but it is clear that it is not getting through. Regardless, I think in due time, MIS will close, I just think it should be transitioned out and done properly.
I took my own advice and spoke with one of the principals about this and was told that closing MIS would have only meant that different teachers would have been laid off than the ones currently on the list because of some changes in the needs of the buildings. Not sure on the details of that, but it made sense the way it was explained. It was clear that no matter what, it wasn't a trade between teachers and a building, it was more an issue as to whether they could balance things with a mass of cuts (some very uncomfortable ones) in three years or four and how much into the reserves the school should dip.

I am still voting for Mr. Ford and Mr. Markham and I am still voting Yes for the Referendum because even with all of the ranting and raving on this site, I still think it is the right thing to do. I don't think you are a bad person if you are voting No, I just don't agree with you and being in America that is okay. I also can't really afford the raise in my taxes, but I can't live with the consequences and how it affects my children negaitvely if I vote anyway but yes.

I also want to say that I am going to vote for village trustees with a little more foresight. The district would not be in such dire straits if the village would have promoted a balanced growth plan in the last fifteen years. For a communtiy to survive we need a balance of homes, comercial and light industrial properties within our boundaries. We have a lot of homes which equals a lot of services, and some of the other two, but the balance is way off and we are paying the price. It pains me every time I go to Target or Wal-Mart because I know that part of every item I buy goes to support Tinley Park, New Lenox or one of the other local communities who thought ahead. There is a much bigger picture here. Last Novemeber we all voted out Halvorson and many of the other bad representatives in Washington and that ball needs to continue rolling. Time to see a change on our school board, our villiage board and in a couple of years, let's change Springfield and bolster Washington.

@thoughtful citizen, I agree with you.

I also will be voting Yes for the referendum and yes for Markham & Ford.

Thoughtful Citizen and IP

I/we respect your decisions to Vote Yes and your right Thoughtful Citizen that doesn’t make you wrong or me/us right its makes our decision different. Our decisions are based on different views, and that is what makes this country Great and worth fighting for. It appears Markham and Ford have the vote which tells me both the yes and no Ref voters know something isn’t right on the board and there needs to be a positive change. We are not saying you can’t have our money, we are saying you can’t have it right now. We want to see what the teachers contracts do first and would like verification that the $$ is actually needed. As you can’t live with the consequences if you vote no and it doesn’t pass, I can’t teach my children to go with the flow if the superintendent telling you to go with the flow is a proven liar.

I respect your vote, I truly do!

Markham and Ford YES, Ref NO

I was just wondering if someone can explain to me what will happen to MES, MIS, and MJHS if the referendum does not pass this time? What will happen to the district next year and what will the day to day look like for the children in the schools? My other question is, what will happen if the referendum does pass? What WILL BE brought back, not whats the intention to be brought back? And one other question I have, is the referendum still going to be for .29? I heard differently. If some one can answer these questions for me, I would really appreciate it and maybe not be so annoyed :) Thanks

Well I will TRY to answer that question, and if I am incorrect anywhere someone please let me know.
OFFICAILLY at this time nothing will happen, to the 3 schools, I state that because there has been a vote to keep MIS open. UNOFFICIALLY there has been talk on the board and by the candidates running for office that in time it will close. According to the board members that voted to keep it open, they wanted a plan to close it. According to Markham and Ford they have a plan to phase out the school keeping the new 4th graders at MES and the new 5th graders will stay at MIS, and so on till the 5th graders move onto 6th at MJHS and the 4th graders again stay at MES for 5th.
I believe as for the day to day, we will be down 7 teachers, busses will be paid for by the parents and the VP of MIS will be moved to a teacher position. A RTI coordinator position was also cut. We will have I believe 4 extra curricula’s that are education related (not sure which ones)stay and the rest of the EC’s will be cut.
If it DOES pass, the 7 teachers will be brought back, the Extra curricula’s will be brought back and the busses will stay the same. The VP position at MIS ant the RTI coordinator will not come back. I’m sure I am missing something but not sure what it is.
As far as I know it is still .29 and that has not changed.
Hope this helps, Please if I am wrong let me know (gently) lol

Markham and Ford have a website that has questions and answers of what they would like to do, it is www.childrenfirst159.com I found their website easy to read and informative. Carrie Zakula that is also running has a website, have to look to see what it is, she posted it on here on a previous page, I found her site just a bunch of talk and quotes, did not see any solutions on her page, and thought it was rather confusing to read. The other guy running have not seen anything yet about his opinions. Spalla something, I think is his name.

To be fair, this is the website for Carrie, http://web.me.com/czakula/Site/Welcome.html

This is Joe Spalla's Web site

http://sites.google.com/site/joespalla/home

As an added note...Basically, the board has made cuts. If the refendum passes, all cuts will be reinstated with the exception of the RTI coordinator and the AP. So the only permanent cuts made are two positions. Oh, and also, full day kindergarten will come back next year if ref passes as well. Here is how I envision this. If the referendum passes, the cuts made will be reinstated, including kindergarten. Two years from now, depending on who gets voted in, we will be approached with another referendum. I envision the next referendum going something like this..."Please vote yes for the referendum or we will have to cut full-day kindergarten to half day, we will have to charge for bus service, we will have to get rid of all the extra-curriculars, etc. " I think a big factor that plays into all of this is where the candidates stand on the teachers contracts, the administration in regards to benefits and salary, and who is going to back Perry. I can tell you that Markham and Ford truly believe in children first. Mike Ford has two twin boys who will be starting kindergarten next year so he is very much for doing whatever it takes to keep whats important and that cuts to student programs should come after cuts to administration and salary and benefit cuts, as well as other expenditures. Pat Markham and Mike Ford have been listening to the community and believe in open discussions. I think that's where the differences lie.

Does any know if the AP that was cut from MIS, I have heard will be a teacher again, will her salary remain the same or is it going to change?

I understand that the AP will be reassigned as a teacher due to tenure laws. Look at the district website where all the admin and teacher salaries are posted. I think you will see that all three of the AP's currently employed do not make the big bucks. I think what happens is that the AP's salary when reassigned will be determined by where she falls on the teacher contract salary tables with respect to years of experience and education. The teachers contract with salary tables is also on the District website. However, the contract it is due to expire this year.

Just a few questions...........

1. If the referendum passes how much money, if any, will go towards the raises that the teachers will be receiving along with their new contract?

2. If Karen Perry agrees to resign if the referendum passes would the "NO" voters vote "YES"?

3. Has the school district or school board reached out to a consulting company to help them with some decision making? If not, why? If so, did they follow the consultants advice.

Bill,

Bill how much has general state aid has been reduced? $3 million/year and counting.

After all of this discussion and the back and forth, the plain issue confronting taxpayers today is the huge decline in General State Aid (GSA). I think you and everyone else who has and should be following this issue has to agree, its the decline in GSA. Those numbers are not made up, or lies, or smoke in mirrors. I think we need solutions/ideas that are sound, practical, and in the communities best interest. I just don't think yours are. Markham and Ford while good candidates do not have a magic wand and unless they have $3 million a year to donate there is not much they can do that the current board isn't already doing.

The question each of us needs to ask ourselves is whether we as a community are in a better position with the passage of the referendum or without it. Please VOTE YES.

Bradbury/Yetterberg, the recipients, are gone and so is the old Business Manager. The administrators receiving those benefits retired just after the current Board was seated and Perry was hired. How is Perry responsible for that? The insurance provision that you are talking about were uncovered by the current board and have been removed by the current Board for any new retirees. You know, the "new ideas" and "new faces." thing. The current board stated that they do not support those benefits. Those insurance benfits were voted on over ten years ago. Now unless you can figure out a legal way to remove retiree benefits or Markham and Ford have a magic wand to waive over the Illinois constitution, I suggest you get over it.

I stated that it was the current board that discovered it and eliminated it and now it wasn't done quick enough for your liking. Come on even you have to give them a break on this one, they did the right thing. I think it was last year, look at the Board minutes, so yeah it took them a year or less to find it. Remember the community elects board members not forensic auditors. Everything you are complaining of is old news.

I just find that there is no common sense debate anymore on this issue.

Community, use your common sense, ask yourselves are we better off with or without passing the referendum.

VOTE YES

Wrong again, she was hired by the previous Board. Any other "relevant facts."?

1. no, actually it is your misinformation. The current Board did not hire her.
2. Wrong again, the Board has been split on her "plans". Many of her plans have been voted down.
3. Four new board members were seated in 2009. Moore was one of them, why did you vote her back in? Three Board members voted to appoint Brouzas.

As a non-resident who pastors a church here in Mokena and a former 5th grade teacher in Mokena Public Schools, I am finding myself in a quandary. Reading through all the articles and corresponding comments, I see that this is a very complex situation where people have many very strong feelings about what should be the proper outcome. If I were a tax payer within the district during these financially trying times, I too would be reading, researching, discussing, attending board meetings, and maybe even rallying the troops.

However, where I am struggling in all this is how people, real people, are being devalued and their character is being maligned. Yes, no doubt mistakes have been made and they will continue to be made no matter who is elected to serve this community, but maybe it is time to recognize our own flaws and extend grace to others who deserve it. Maybe it is my just my

Christian worldview, but I wonder where has common civility and respecting and honoring as fellow flawed humans gone.

IP:
1. I must admit you are right. I have based my ideas about Perry's hiring based on information garnered from the districts website (past meeting minutes). I looked at the meeting details on one meeting where Bradbury was listed as the supt. to the next meeting where Perry is the supt. Since the current board was the board of record, I concluded that this board were the ones that made the change. My bad, I assumed that the minutes information provided by the district was complete and accurate, considering some of the other info distributed by the board/admin I should have known better.

2. As far as Perry is concerned, she is either following the boards directions or she is not being reprimanded for not following the boards direction, either way its the boards responsibility.

3. Who says I voted for her?

P.S. Sorry I took so long to reply - got busy at work and then I had stuff to take care of when I got home.

Thanks Just a thought,

To Rev. Vroom, I agree, I have always aspired to: "There but for the Grace of God go I."

Whether you vote yes or no, please support the District, get involved, this is our community, and our commitment to it does not stop on election day.

To Kippur:

Well maybe the other side thinks Jesus is a union worker since he was a carpenter. In that case, he would ask for a raise in taxes. LOL.

Want the facts on pay well here it is http://www.familytaxpayers.org/
check out what they report to the secretary fo education and what they are telling us on the districts website alot of discrepencies in the amounts .Lies continue and this board and Perry need to leave so we can get a more suitable board who actually care about our children and not about themselves or their personal agendas .
Amazing all the southland towns are havign the same issues and were the only district who cant handle it and didnt have a back up plan .This economic downturn started years ago in regards to fundign and the other surrounding district planned ahead and made wise decisions while our board continued to spend and hand out more pay VOTE MARKHAM AND FORD VOTE SMART

Vote NO for the tax increases until the school board becomes realistic with their budget. Taxpayers are already overburdened. This school board jumped the gun in building an extra school which we don't need. Due to the downturn in the economy and a flat housing market it might be ten more years before these schools even approach 90% of their capacity. Why don't we consolidate districts and eliminate a Million Dollars per year in administrative salaries / benefits.
Mokens area schools are in the top FIVE PERCENT of all schools in Illinois. If we cut our schools budget by 20 % we would still be among the best in the state. Maybe our school administrators salaries should be based upon whether or not they balance a budget. After all it is their job to plan ahead and plan for the unexpected events like a downturn in revenues. The school board should hold the administrators and principals accountable for this mess not the taxpayers. If this was a business, the administrators and managers would have been fired.......

I had to chime in on this, being a resident of Mokena for 15 years, having three kids graduate from Mokena Junior High. I know that roughly $2100 of my property taxes goes to school district 159. Divide that by 3= $700 a child. If you do not pay taxes and have children in the school district you have no reason to complain or judge about the school board. Your children are getting a free education while there are senior citizens who are paying for your children's education. Sure, they could sell their home & rent an apartment, but then the renters who have children should be legally forced to buy a home, pay property taxes and contribute to their children's education. They are not spending your money if you don't pay property taxes!

After reading this blog for quite some time now, I would like to chime in on some areas that I feel strongly about. First of all, I appreciate the people who are completely honest about why they do or don't want the referendum passed. Personally, I am for the referendum because I believe that this school district has been very prudent with their spending over the years, having test scores close to 90%, while having one of the lowest per pupil expenditures in the Chicagoland area. Even the most ardent anti-referendum person cannot argue those facts.

With that said, if someone is against the referendum because they're having a hard time paying their bills (as is my family), I can respect that as long as they're upfront about it. I have a feeling many people in these blogs just don't want to pay extra taxes (which I understand) and hide behind other reasons to vote against the referendum.

Whatever your reasons are for being for or against the referendum, I can respect them as long as you're upfront about them and you're not trying to be misleading. As others have said, the vast majority of the people in this forum have their minds made up already, so there is very little that can be said to change that.

I've seen many people in these blogs question why Mokena is asking for these tax increases now. The obvious reason is that the state took millions of dollars out from under the district, thus changing their entire financial outlook. The people of Mokena have had extremely low tax rates forever now (much lower than any other LW feeder district) and unfortunately, many don't seem to appreciate how little they've spent on such a quality educational system.

Some ask ,"well why did they ask for a $0.49 increase originally"? To me, its a simple answer: Mokena 159 wanted to keep all of their programs in tact as well as their high educational standards. In order to do that, the district would have needed a sizeable tax increase, but one that still would have kept the citizens of Mokena on the low end of LW feeder schools. Some people were outraged by that, apparently enough to cloud the reasoning behind it.

Since the first attempt didn't succeed, Mokena 159 listened to its citizens and came back with an even lower choice. The $0.29 referendum would still have Mokena residents paying the lowest tax rate in the LW area, although many cuts would have to be made in order to keep the district afloat. Even though even with the new tax rate Mokena residents would still be paying the lowest rates in the area, people still weren't happy.

To me its obvious that the people who still weren't happy felt that way for one reason; they didn't want their taxes raised......

.....I could respect that as long as someone was upfront about it. Instead, I see many people point to other districts, saying that they aren't asking for referendums now because they care so much more about their community. The thing is, all of the surrounding districts got raises over the last decade and have been collecting higher taxes for years and years now. So ironically enough, the people who praise the other districts for not asking for new referendums now, would have been paying increased taxes for years and years had they lived in those other districts. Things like that don't make sense to me.

As far as voting for new school board members, I would strongly encourage anyone to do so in order to express their democratic rights. Do yourself a favor though and ignore the posters on the boards. Do the research yourself. There are a lot of lies on these boards as well as misinformation. Don't take the word of anyone on these boards. There is an old saying that goes,"Believe only half of what you see and none of what you hear." Take that to heart and do some research yourself. Some of the information that you find may make you raise an eyebrow.

There seems to be a lot of misinformation and speculation on these boards about the "lofty" teacher and administrative salaries in the district. I have a question for some of you; have you actually compared these salaries to other LW feeder schools or have you just taken the outspoken people at their word? If you want to better understand how teachers are paid instead of letting people pick out a few random teachers in the district and posting their salaries, please check out the Illinois Teacher Salary Study. Each school year, there is a very thorough report that shows a ton of information on district salaries, not just individual salaries with no explanations.

In regards to those "lofty" teachers salaries, if you look at the report, you'll see that even after the 5% pay raises which started several years back, the starting salaries in Mokena 159 ranges from $5,600-nearly $9,000 LESS than districts 157C, 122, and 161. The sizeable raises were given years again just to catch Mokena up to the rest of them and keep them in the ballpark and it obviously still hasn't done that. Please don't believe me, instead inform yourself by look at the 2009-2010 Illinois Teacher Salary Report on Google.

If you want to look at administrative salaries, check out the Illinois Interactive Report Card and compare Mokena 159's adminstrative pay to local districts. Like I said, don't take my word for it, don't take any other poster's word for it. Educate yourself.

How many times did New Lenox ask for a referendum how many times did it fail??? I voted yes the last two times and then I saw first hand what they did to my child and then I made my mind up support a real candidate who has a voice for the kids and stand up and choose! I will not support this one more time and alot of my neighbors who once supported this have taken down their yes signs and placed No signs I believe it will fail by a huge majority this time !!! Close MIS vote for home rule and lets give back to the kids for once

I have a question that I am hoping someone can answer, If this referendum does not pass, will the school days for our children just be the basic, reading, writing, math, science, and social studies? I understand that there will be no extra curriculars such as atletics, yearbook, art?, computers, library, etc. Can some one confirm this for me.
What will the day look like for the kids?

William,

I don't understand what that number has to do with Mokena's situation. Mokena is in a crisis right now. They are laying off teachers left and right, thus having a negative affect on the students. The bottom line is that New Lenox passed their referendum years ago, while Mokena tried to stay tight with their money during that time, making their tax payers pay lower rates for all of those years. The residents of New Lenox have been paying higher taxes for years and years because of it. The state has caused Mokena to change their ways and ask for the higher tax rate when they've avoided it in the past.

Concerned Taxpayer:

Sorry if this posting ends up in the wrong place - the Patch website currently is giving my browser problems.
As to the 'lowest pupil expenditure arguments'
1 - Many extra-curriculars can be saved and made pay-play- they are not that expensive and they are gender neutral (no title IX) issues. Unfortunately the sports teams (the most expensive ones) probably won't be around in this scenario. As to the disadvantaged - the same standard that applies to the free hot-lunch program would apply here - anyone who gets free hot-lunch would not pay for extra-curriculars.
2. The lowest expenditure argument is a little misleading. The argument here is not whether or not we are the lowest, it should be whether or not we have too much waste. I believe we do - besides the extra building we don't need - we have been informed of at least one instance of the district paying for things (ret. admins insurance) where it should not have. What assurances do we have that there are not more if these issues out there?
I am not against ALL referendums, but I am against this one - Referendums should only be used as a last resort - all other viable options MUST be pursued FIRST. This has not been done with this referendum. We need to seat the new board and allow them to take a fresh look at the problem. It may be we need a referendum after all, but I won't trsut that coming from the current board and Supt. Under a new regime I could be more supportive

Hey Jen ~
Thanks for the clarification. So if it hasn't been approved, when will we find out, April 5th? And if the referendum does pass, all of that will be reinstated and things will be just like they are now?

On average the Mokena school District gets $1500 yearly from a $225,000 home's property taxes. If you live in the district for 17 years, but 12 out of those 17 years you don't own a home, you are a renter- that is $18,000 you did not contribute to your children's education. For 12 years your children got a "FREE RIDE" while the rest of us paid every year to support our wonderful school system. If I was a renter for the past 5+ years I would have NO PROBLEM voting for a referendum- but I have a MORTGAGE to pay. I would love to have a $900 a month rental fee and NO property taxes. SO, in closing: if you don't contribute to you children's education because you don't pay property taxes- your opinion is irrelevant!

Oh and by the way, New Lenox pays on average between $265-$285 per student for "school fees". Do the math, if you have two students, one in 5th grade, one in 8th grade, a family is paying $550 for school fees. WHY? because they refused to pass the referendum many times. The finger should be pointed not at the school administration but Mokena' s wonderful mayor. Where's the big box grocery stores or home improvement stores? EVERYWHERE but MOKENA! No tax dollars coming in, no tax dollars going out to the schools!

When did it become if my neighbor gets a raise I automatically deserve one too? Oh yes my neighbor should not prosper if I'm not regardless of my personal choices and cirmcustances like retail development or economic downturns.

Hello All,
I spent all morning on the website http://www.familytaxpayers.org/ I took and made a nice little spreadsheet that is available to anyone that asks me for it. I took all the teachers salaries from all the teachers in 2005 and in 2010. I removed all the teachers that were not here in 05 and all that were here in 05 but not in 10. This way I was comparing apples to apples. It was quite interesting that of the 91 teachers Dist 159 had in 05 and still here in 10 they were handed 1.4 million in raises. WOW thats huge. That averages 34% raises over 5 years or 6.8% Annualy.

Pay 2010 Pay 2005 Raises ovr 5 yrs Avg Raise 5 yr Avg Raise per yr
$5,524,994 $4,118,743 $1,406,251 0.341427227 0.068285445

Concerned tax Payer you can verify all my information via the above website. Please explain to me how this is Prudent.
Andy, if you feel this money is for the kids, the above history states its for the Raises the teachers and administration.

IP I havnt forgotten about you I have my numbers comming in an Email from Ms. Germany hopefully tonight and will get back you ASAP

Vote No for the Referendum and Yes to Markham and Ford

That's right, at least I contributed to my children's K-8th education and an additional $1250 a year for their high school education. I still live in Mokena and my children are long gone and I have no problem contributing to the school systems. How can one moan & groan about the district's spending if one did not & currently does not contribute to the district by paying property taxes?
How's the Meijer building coming along MAYOR? or the once talked about Walmart on 191st?

Hey Jen,

Glad to see you back also, Jen question is still out there!! Where are the Permanent cuts???? I dont want the pro ref people to come to me again in 3 years and tell me I hate my kids because I say no. There have been no permenant cuts accept one VP position. If this ref passes everthing that we cut comes back!! The raises continue and it becomes a viscious circle.

Ok so what you are saying is everyone who owns a home here should rent it out and make Mokena the biggest rental community in Illinois ?? or maybe we can all just rent our houses from each other??? Oh and Now it is the Mayors fault ...........I dont like the boards of trustees and I cna hear ya on the empty store fronts but really the mayors fault get a clue stop dancing around the subjects and get the big picture we need leadership and we demand it now ...When you fail to lead noone follows the kids need a voice and choice becasue they cannot vote we need a candidate who is the voice for them Markham has the plan >>I voted yes before not this time my eeys have been wide open and after i see how they failed my daughter and the adminstrations sarcastic attitude I demand representation..Iam still waiting for all the current school board and Perry herself to call me back from November about this issue oh wait I guess when you live so far away and have to commute only three days a week to a job your prioroties are not that important must be real busy eating lunch on my tax dollars over at the Charlie horse huh oh wait yuor spending my tax dollars in New Lenox not Mokena again becasue it is the mayors fault we dotn have any restaurants here right ???? Mayor Joe You have alwasy had my vote and always will becaseu you dont sugar coat and I dont have to go the closet to get my boots on when you speak .It will probably be his fault when MIS is sitting vacant as well !!!!!

Just to be clear, I am a little lost right now in comments, my comments went up to Steve T and his remarks.

What are Marham and Ford going to do if the referendum does not pass and the state of Illinois only gives school districts one (1) of the payments that it is responsible for paying all school districts? Please, someone who is voting no because they do not trust the current board tell me. I am certainly not a fan of some things that have been done by the board, but if you really trust in your candidates then vote yes and give them the chance to put their plans into action. Without the referendum and the state support their hands will be tied. We can not change the past, we can only move forward. I understand that many no voters are fed up with the current board and the board before that, but I will say it again, we can not change the past. We can pass the referendum, give the new board a fighting chance, and pray that the state of Illinios will get it's act together and find education a priority. It is our children that will be the people that suffer the consequences of voting down this referendum. I will vote yes because my children come first, before my pride and before my bank account. I want them to have the best of the best, as I am sure every parent on here does...So we need to come together and vote yes to save our community..Because... voting no will ensure the worst is yet to come

Sorry Katie,

I have to disagree, Are you aware of the independent study that was done that states, if the teachers take a pay freeze for 3 years, we will come into the black. Are you also aware if the teachers take a 2 year freeze and they close out MIS we will come into the black.
I love my children and would take a bullet for each one!! It has NOTHING to do with PRIDE it has everything to do with the lies and BS we have been handed for years. Excuse me if I dont drink your Koolaid!!

I'am gonna sell my house and start to rent save lots of money .Then because it is the Mayor's fault we have so many empty store fronts and it is the state fault we have no money I ' am gonan do my part and sell boots because it is getting thick in here !! Bill Z can open up his Koolaid stand because I will buy his brand over Katies and due our part to support the schools .Oh wiat buy renting isnt that what Karen Perry does so she does'nt have to pay her fair share, yes it is true and can anyone answer me one question how do you becoem a superintendant that works three days a week ,oh wait I found answer thats why spring break coincides with her kids school down south .Community can i Please ahve a vote of confidence and get this clown out of the circus .I say lets close the district offices and they can also rent a store front and due their part to help out? Still waiting for a return call from any current board member who cares about the children only been waiting since November. Does anyone know how many seats are available at the baords meetings who can talk and can we have the media there !! I personally would liek to ask a few questions seeing none of my freedom of information request are beign responded too !!!! VOTE SMART VOTE FOR SMARKHAM OPPS MARKHAM
THE ONLY TRUE CHOICE AND TRUE VOICE FOR THE KIDS AND THE PEOPLE

ANYONE HAVE A HOME FOR RENT

My name is Steve and I have willingly paid my property taxes for over 15 years. A portion of my property taxes goes to Mokena School District 159 and Lincoln Way 210. I have a RIGHT to question what the school administration does with my tax paying dollars. There are thousands who do not have any children in the school system (my 74 yr old parents) who actively pay property taxes, they have a right to question how their money is spent.
Do not get me going on "home foreclosures" I lost my good job & got two piddly jobs to pay my mortgage and car payment. I did not sit around and watch the Will County Sheriff's slap a sticker on my front door or watch the bank reposses my car, I paid my property taxes. Losing a home or a car does not happen overnight.
In closing, when you are an active member of a community and your children attend the schools in the community, and you contribute to the funding of your children's schools, you have a RIGHT to question how your hard money is spent. So, when I go to the next school board meeting and village hall meeting I can proudly stand up and say "I am a taxpayer, have been for over 15 years, here's my PIN, what are you doing with our money".
Steve T. from Mokena Il, a 1982 graduate of Oak Lawn H.S, a long haul truck Driver, a father of three who never received any financial aid for my kid's college tuition, a long term dedicated employee, never filed a frivolous lawsuit, an army reservist, etc.....AN HONEST TAX-PAYING CITIZEN!

Thank you Steve for one being a Vet without you we would not have freedoms and thanks for standing up as a taxpayer I also was outsourced from y job as senior manager have paid taxes and lived in town for over 18 years where are the rest of the people like you as a freind tells me daily Semper Fi and thanks for the honesty
and intergrity you have

Mr. Phelps, I thank Steve also for being a Vet, but I also strongly believe in his earlier posts he is very very wrong, he is telling people, that people who rent should keep their mouths shut and stay out of it, they have no say so. Scroll up and read his earlier posts. What he said earlier is wrong.

How can you complain what the school board is doing with taxpayer's money if you do not contribute to the school funds? If you rent, and had to go in front of the school board and they asked you "How much of your property taxes go towards the school districts?" What if they asked you "What do you think would be a fair amount to raise your taxes to?" How would you answer the question?
The majority of us pay anywhere from $3000 up to $20,000 in property taxes. If your landlord raised your rent by $50 a month, I bet my property taxes went up $500. Oranges to Oranges
paying property taxes support schools,police, fire department, library, etc....- renting does not.

@ Bill , Are you REALLY comparing this to a mass murder/suicide..Come on now... just because many people in this community are not siding with you doesn't mean you need to be unrealistic with your KOOLAIDE reference. However, It is the children that WILL suffer with out a doubt, if we do not vote yes. I am just so confused that people wold be willing to "pay to play", pay for bus service...which alone would cover the cost of their increased taxes...Again stop living in the past and help ensure a better future for our children and our community.

The first two referendums failed, when the third attempt fails the numbers will show how many people in this community are thinking straight like Bill. I have a feeling the numbers are going to be even higher this time around.

Just A Thought, you are right on, and you beat me by 2 minutes on your PPS, I must have been typing still when you posted

@ Katie:
I hope you realize, although Mokena teachers start off the lowest paid, they have more steps and are highest ending paid teachers than any other surrounding district. Why wouldn't they stay? Higher ending salary, higher pension. I wouldn't leave either if I knew I could make more at the end than elsewhere. To have low turnover rate has nothing to do with their dedication to students and the district. In fact, most of the teachers that teach here don't even live here. If the teachers are for students then why is it that when the were asked to take a pay freeze for one year, not a cut, but a freeze, the vote was 94% NO. Does that sound like dedicated to the community, kids and district? Then days before the second attempt at the referendum, when they heard if it didn't pass, 7 more would be cut, lo and behold, a miracle, they stated they would take a pay freeze. Hmm, guess it took the action of 14 teachers to be laid off and the threat of 7 more before they realized, wow, this could be me next. Regarding teachers raises and businesses keeping quality personnel, are you even aware that the private sector had pay freezes and in some cases pay cuts for the last 3 years? Are you aware that most hard working citizens in this community have lost their jobs and those that have kept them haven't had raises for 6 years? So you're saying that us hard working Americans don't deserve raises but the teachers do? Sure glad you aren't running for the board.

Ref opponents continue to use whatever dark evocative imagery to hammer their small money-loving point home [Kool-aid? really necessary?]. I just don't think Jim Jones is on the school board or the administration, despite the slander that they're suffering in these quarters.

And boy I wouldn't bet against this referendum. I did some canvasing this past weekend and while I did run into the occassional opponent, I ran into quite a few more citizens who still have some faith in a school system with an admirable track record (17 Bright Stars - last I checked they don't give those away!) like 159's which has a decades long track record of delivering affordable excellent education and wish to maintain it.

Also, renters, pay into the system and contribute to the tax base too. Rents will not go up as the market will not allow it. Their is already a glut of rental property out there now. Do some thinking before you opine [oops I forgot], we're really just reaching for dark colors that demand that ref-opposers spread every possible fear that you can while trying to defeat this referendum,

But, too many people see that it IS the right thing to do. Vote Yes on April 5th.

There you go with that Bright Star Award again, Jim. It is not that great of an award, it really isn't, there are better ones out there that we did not get.

6.8% average annual increase over the last 5 years. In all the years I have worked, I don't think I've ever had a 6.8% increase.
75% of final pay as pension benefit. Most private sector pensions are 15% to 18%. Oh and don't forget the whopping social security check we receive because after all, teachers don't collect social security and we all know what quality of life we'll all have in retirement on our social security.
$481,000 savings a year to close MIS, $100,000 savings to cut hot lunch program. 2 yr salary freeze for teachers equals positive cash flow.
3 year salary freeze for teachers, no referendum, no further cuts equals balanced budget with potential upturn.
Potential sale or lease of MIS - revenue for the district.
Current surplus - approximately $9 million
Pupil admin ratio - 188.1 to 1, Orland Park 236.4 to 1
GSA reduction - $3 million over 3 years, total 15% reduction in GSA
Expenditures - increased 15.22% over 3 years
Governor of the STATE of Illinois $177,500 Patrick Quinn
Lieutenant Governor $135,700
Attorney General $115,600 Lisa Madigan
The average salary earned by U.S. governors is $128,735. The median salary earned by U.S. governors is $129,962.
Supt SD 159 - Karen Perry $127,500

Just putting out facts and figures.

To the NO voters, any one aware of any NO yard signs available free or for a donation to help pay for them, I would love to put one in my yard

I can't wait until April 6th so we can all stop bashing each other. The referendum has already been decided. We just won't know until April 5th. But I'd have to agree on one point, from all the people I've talked to and heard back from, I don't see this referendum passing. Now SD 210, word has it that they are going for a referendum next year. So we can all start bashing each other again in about 8 months.

WOW! Really people? Are you adults? or are you immature chilren? Just reading how you all are talking to eachother is ridiculas. Grow up and face the facts, we as a community are screwed!! Reading all of these posts makes me realize that there is a lot of negative energy within this community. If there is soo much negativity, how can anything positive happen?

Good morning!
I am voting Yes for the referendum! In order to keep good teachers and teacher positions you have to give them a little more money. What I am referring to is people who misrepresent themselves by saying "As Taxpayers"- when it is proven that they do not pay property taxes. A person shoves their family of five into a rented 800 sq feet delapitated home in downtown Mokena and then harps about the school's finances & how the school's administration spends "their" money. It ain't their money if they don't pay property taxes. It's like when a child gets free lunch because the family is "low income"- and the child bitches because the pizza slice was soggy and the mom complains because her child got white milk instead of chocolate. Did that family pay for that lunch or did other tax-paying citizens help pay for that lunch? If I'm paying out of my own pocket for my child's lunch I have a right to bitch, it is my money I worked for it!
Say yes to the referendum, BOO to Governor Quinn (who 2 1/2 yers ago said he would never want to be governor) and a big BOO to our lovely Mayor for letting our town turn into a joke!

I don't by any means want to make the waters more rough, but did anyone by chance catch 60 minutes last Sunday night? Katie Kuric (sp) interviewed an individual who put together a charter school in New York and what caught my attention was that he pays his tachers $125,000.00+ yearly. Please check it out and watch it. It was really interesting his way of doing things and what he expects his teachers to do besides just to teach. Its very interesting. Maybe we, as a district, can learn something from this..Please let me know your thoughts once you check it out online.

Hello Annoyed Parent.

I just finished watching the episode. I would definately support something like that!! I found the 10 minute mark very interesting and supports exactly what I stated about teachers that couldnt teach a fish how to swim, and still have their jobs. Too bad Illinois has that pesky tenure law!

If any are interested here is the link
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7359538n&tag=contentMain;contentAux

I will be voting YES for the referendum because I feel it is a win-win situation.

1.) After reading all these posts, I am confident we have amassed a large number of "experts" to help us manage #159 down the road.

2.) After we elect Mr. Ford & Markham& Carrie Zacula they will need that .29 to make our district even better than it is now and their election will guarantee me that I will not have to see another increase in my taxes for another 35 year period.

3.) Since I will be living in the "coolest" town around where people really appreciate a well managed school district, my house will be easy to sell and the value will only go up and UP!

What's not to love about that? See how easy it is to be positive?

Bill Y. I'm a retired teacher ( 35 years ) and i'm also a home owner here in Mokena. We all should vote our concious in the April election, i will... There are many opinions, thoughts, and beliefs about the referendum, the board candidates, and the administration. Most voters already know which way they are going to vote, as do i.. What sealed my vote was two key moves; 1. the board not closing MIS ( because they said it should be up to the new board ) then in the next breath voting to put up a .29 cents referendum.. Am i the only one who sees this discrepancy??? ( it also should be noted that not one board member up this time is going for reelection ). 2. The board has stated that most of the things to be cut would be reinstated... all but the most important the young teachers!! I have found in education that the single most important thing is not the desk, not the book, not the principle, not the superintendnet, not the building but THE TEACHER !!!!! I vote no to this disgrace....

Question.. Do they still teach French and Spanish in 8th grade or were these taken out? I think it is great to learn a second language but I do not feel it should be a requirement for 8th graders to take one of the two languages. That could be done in high school as the child chooses to do it.

Beautiful world isn't it ? Yes, I believe in the education system in this town. And I do take stock in the Bright Star Awards that this school system has amassed over the years since it measures exactly what matters right now, the delivery of affordable excellent education. Nobody has disputed this, instead all I've heard is that there are other better awards to get. Respectfully, I say, so?

I believe this is what's on the agenda, for me in this referendum. Has this school system been able to consistently deliver affordable excellent education? To that I believe a resounding YES is in order! This is not to say that they've done everything perfect. Perfection is God's business, all we can ask is that they focus on excellence and they've consistently delivered on this in an affordable manner, as the 17 Bright Stars attest to.

If you agree then you must be compelled as I am to vote YES. And if you do vote YES, then make sure to not cast a single vote for Markham or Ford. Spala and Zakula should be the only two votes you cast; you are not obligated to cast three votes if there are only two qualified candidates, as there are, in my humble opinion.

Unless, someone knows of some magic dust that Markham and Ford can spread besides the hostility that their following seems determined to engender. Keep it positive. Reward the school system that has consistently delivered affordable excellent education in this town for decades. Vote Yes, vote Spala, Vote Zakula.

Interesting. I love how Ford and Markham are running as a team for the school board positions. I have never seen that before. Do you think that there may be an agenda they have planned? I have heard that Ford has signed his twin boys up for St. Mary's kindergarten for the 2011-12 school year and as for Markham....does he have children in the school district? I don't think so. Why does Ford have such a desire to be on our school board to fight for Mokena's children when he won't even consider sending his own children to the 159 schools? Remember this when you enter the polls. You do not need to vote for 3 candidates...choose the other two.

Thank you Mokena Patch for your unbiased coverage of this issue. The Mokena Messenger has always favored 3 "Letter to the Editor" authors---Ford, Markham, and Yunker....one of whom has a wife who is a columnist for that paper.

WHat are the other tow clowns in Perry's traveling circus show doing look at the nominating petition signatures whos name's are on there ????, oh yeah the the current Board and Perry was the first to sign them too did you know that why so she keep her voting power on the board thats why??? Markham and Ford support the same Ford is the quiet one the silent runner ,And Markham is the voice of this town An observer need some glasses look around and see how many people are fed up with insider politics maybe ill clal a few union brothers from chciago down here and we can experience first hand big city politics .Where the heck are these other candidates they sure ahev not stopped by my house or my neighborhood ?? Oh thats right we all amde our minds up alredy and voted early NO and YEs for Markham. Next time state that your a school employee and Ill cut you some slack

Markham the only true Voice for the kids and the choice of many

Hey Pat I having a sign painting party No rsvp needed !!!!!!!!!

Bright Star yeah he kids earned them you did'nt give credit where credit is do.

WHAT ABOUT THE CHILDREN PERRY ????? day 106 without a return call from any board member or you makes me wonder what you and Rolinitis are really hiding !!!!!!

Markham can't even edit his own website. I'm going to trust him to make educational decisions about my child? Nope.

Passing this referendum before the teachers contracts are negotiated is going to add fuel to the fire for them when settling out their new contract. They will have the ball in their court once again to get what they want, there will be more money in the account for them to fight for. Seat the new board, make cuts where cuts SHOULD have been made, negotiate a new contract, then if needed ask for a referendum after, there is enough reserves to get them through to another election date. Five years ago when the teachers contracts where up, they were all walking up and down Wolf Rd everyday after school with picket signs, did they have the kids in their best interest then or greed in their pockets. The kids leaving school in the buses got to wave at all their teachers holding signs on the sidewalk as they left school. All the teachers 5 years ago wore pins on their shirts everyday in class in front of the kids because they wanted more money. My kids would come home and ask why everyone was wearing the same pins, what did they mean, some of the teachers even told them what they meant, they wanted the kids to see them, so the kids would ask questions, so the parents would push the board to give them what they wanted. Maybe you all do not remember that, but I do. They wanted their increases, and if this ref passes they will want their hands on it too and if they do not get what they want you will see a repeat of what happened 5 years ago if you missed it. Now is not the time.

Just a Thought--a personal attack on me is simply making you look ignorant. I won't even bother to respond to your assertions.

I do not agree with Markham's message, either. I'm basing my vote on a difference of opinion, not just his website. However, I will maintain that if one puts himself in the public eye, one should come across as a good communicator. He is, after all, making educational decisions.

And by the way, I'm not sure what is "rambling" in Zakula's website. Her website is very nice and well-worded. Looks like she took the time to present herself well. More importantly, though, I agree with her message. And to think, an EDUCATOR making decisions on EDUCATION. What a concept! She's got my vote!

I have been off this site for quite a while and I must say that there has been a tempest of activity. As I caught myself up on the posts, I didn't know where to start to respond. I believe the thing that is common to both sides is the belief, "Give the money to the children." Both sides espouse this strong basic belief. I agree with you as well. The money should be spent on the children. Here is where many are missing the point. 85% of the spending in schools is on the people who teach the kids. Schools are people-centered institutions. When you give your money to the district, they use it to hire high quality individuals who impart an incredible education to our children. The value is in the people and by giving your funds to the district, you are giving your money to the children. Obviously there are trust issues with some of the board and the superintendent, but I have been to the schools, my children have had incredible teachers and principals, and I would argue that I have gotten an incredible bang for my buck in Mokena. Markham and Ford may have some good ideas, but they are not miracle workers. I will be voting yes for the referendum because I strongly believe in Mokena. I am now questioning whether to vote for Ford if he isn't going to send his children to our schools. As they say, Actions speak louder than words. Regardless, I am voting to give my money to the children of this community.

I also wanted to make a comment about the anger and sarcasm in these posts. I know the Junior High is implementing the concepts of Rachel's Challenge; a program to improve the climate and to make a chain reaction of kindess throughout the school and in the community. There are 5 challenges that the kids are trying to meet: 1.)Treat other the way you want to be treated 2.) Dream big and believe in yourself 3.) Appreciate everyone and mock no one 4.) Powere of positive gossip 5.) Forgive and be forgiven. It appears to me that many of us adults need to adopt these challenges when we are talking to one another and posting on web sites. As someone above said, parents are our children's best teachers. If we want them to grow into good citizens, we need to follow these rules. I challenge everyone on both sides of this issue to write these five points down and keep them next to your computer. Read them before you post and see if you are meeting the challenge. I think then, we can disagree and not be disagreeable. We can discuss rationally and maintain respect for one another regardless of our differences.

I didn't attack you--I made mention of a lack-luster website. Nor have I attacked no voters. Yet you have. I have respect for the no voter, yet I do not agree with the no voter. It's called difference of opinion.
Let me point out, however, that I am not running for school board. I am not maintaining a website. I am simply a voter. If you want my vote, be an effective communicator and take your time to convey that message effectively. Considering much of what I learn is via the web, it would behoove the candidates to be sure their message is clear--take a moment to edit. It simply shows effort.

I read these posts in disbelief. I believe in the good old U.S. of A. and as they say "nothing is as certain as death and taxes". I am a long time Mokena resident, raised my family here, but no kids in the district anymore. From what I see here parents will be paying $1600 in fees plus pay for extras without the referendum? And if it passes these things above will be reinstated? An extra couple hundred a year sounds worth it for me to give. Why put these increases only on the families with kids? Why not let homeowners like me who can afford a tax increase help ease the burden and step up for families who can't afford the fees? Either way they are taking your money. Why criticize the ones willing to help? I don't drink kool aid but I do drink beer and I will be voting yes.

Dear THOUGHTFUL CITIZEN and JENNIFER
Joe Spalla Singed MARKHAM Petition, endorsing MARKHAM to Run for School Board. Perhaps because MARKHAM is the ONLY candidate that brings the experience of sitting on Board of Directors for both business and for Special Needs Children.
A Former Supt. Of a School District (that avoided increased taxes) signed Mike FORDS petition, endorsing him to run for School Board.
Lets see;
Zakula, KAREN PERRY signed her Petition endorsing her to run for School Board (along with other administrative people in the office)
And by the way it doesn’t take a miracle to fix mismanagement of taxpayer money.
Ps. I am sure whoever manages MARKHAM website will be given a “detention” for any grammatical errors.
The truth that makes people free is for the most part the truth which people prefer not to hear. “MARKHAM FORD our best chance for the educational standards and experience FOR THE CHILDREN”

Once Upon a time in the late 70's, I moved to a town in the Midwest called "Mokena". It wasn't fancy and the major Road that ran through called, Wolf Road, wasn't even black top. Corn Fields were abundant. When I was 4 years old, I attended a ballet class at the Mokena Elementary School to watch my older sister. Most of the Park District Classes were held at MES, Willowcrest (4-5) or the Junior High (MIS). For Kindergarten, I had a marvelous teacher named Mrs. Dewitt. I believe we had a total of 4 Kindergarten rooms. For Christmas, we would all gather in one of the teacher's rooms and sing Christmas Carols to a wooden piano in the corner of the room, played by one of the teachers. There was milk and snack time, lots of recess and plenty of mom's helping the teachers. Our buses consisted of an A run and B run. All grades (K-8th) started school at the same time, the A run children would be supervised by the "recess ladies" who were parents of the children, while the B run children were being picked up. I don't recall teachers ever mentioning to us children, in the 9 years that I attended district 159, money problems. They were there to teach us what we needed to learn and we would go home, admiring our school teachers.
I can't count how many times my child has come home from school upset from what she is being told. Last year, my child would come home telling me that programs, dances, student council, outdoor ed and whatever else would be eliminated if I didn't vote yes...

I found myself going back to a much earlier post because a couple of the points bothered me. First, I am not sure how the teachers got over a 5% salary raise when their contract specifically is limited to 5% since 2005? The only thing I can think of is that teachers earned more money by doing something more, like sponsoring a club or coaching an activity or they are in the retirement cycle, but even then, for at least the past three years, people on that cycle are limited to a 6% increase per year. The state changed the law to limit retirement bumps to no more than 6% per year (they actually got something right). I am not disputing your math, but I am confused about the data. I'll go there and check it out myself. It just doesn't make sense.
Secondly, the savings from cutting the lunch program was from firing all of the aides, not from the lunch program itself. This is only possible if the schools go to a shortened day which none of us wants, nor do I want my children eating, even a sack lunch, unsupervised.
Although I agree to that MIS should be closed in time, all of the plans I saw to put the budget in the black included massive staff cuts, the loss of almost all preventive maintenance, and draconian cuts in all budgets. That plan included a salary and benefit freeze for all staff as well. These things make Mokena a place where I don't want my children to go to school. It is worth the extra $437.29 that I will have to pay when the referendum passes.

ANYONE NEED A "JUST SAY NO" SHIRT AND WANT TO JOIN ME AT THE NEXT BOARD METTING EMAIL ME PLEASE

Additionally, I still dispute the administrator to student ratio. I know the IIRC shows a ratio, but it is bad data. What I want is enough administrators in the school building to take care of my children.
Now there are two at MJHS. 750 students / 2 administrators= 375:1
There are currently two at MIS. 450 students / 2 administrators= 225:1
There are two at MES. 800 students / 2 administrators= 400:1
I also want someone to take care of Curriculum= 1 position
I want someone to manage the funds= 1 position
I want someone to maintain the buildings= 1 position
I need someone to take care of our special education students= 1 position
I need someone to manage the technology= 1 position
I need someone to supervise the entire process= 1 position
I find it horribly misleading to assert that there are administrators falling over one another in our schools. At the 188:1 ratio there would be 2 more administrators at MJHS and MES each and at least one more 1/2 person at MIS. I know what the IIRC site says, but common sense says otherwise.
Before you bash the administrator's salaries any more, know that they are currently under a pay freeze and all indications are they will be frozen for a third year. As many point to the other LW feeders as examples-New Lenox has the highest paid supt in the area and there are principals in the area who make more than our superintendent. Not a fan of Perry either, but bashing admin because they are easy targets is both juvenile and wrong.

The "Z" team,
As far as the 3000 emails you sent out completely UNSOLICITED - that was wrong. I understand you getting emails and forwarding them to people in YOUR address book - but when you take other email addresses from other emails and then solicit your views to people you don't even know.....THAT IS WRONG. And when I returned the email to Gina asking her not to send me emails on this subject her response was something like "I'm sorry, I have 3000 email address and it is hard to remember who is for or against the referendum". EXACTLY. If you don't know, don't send crap out like that. Take a seat, look back at these emails and see how immature you sound...how you ALL sound (pro and con). I'm sorry, but there will always be people on both sides of every fence....get over it and stop the bickering. We all believe in what we believe and these back and forth nonsense blogs about "taking a pay freeze" and "she only works three days a week" crap has got to go. Go and vote with your conscience and leave it at that. You won't hear from me again, but I had to say what I had to say. Get over it people, you will not win a NO vote if you're a YES vote and vice versa. BTW, I'm a yes vote and that is how I will be voting. However this ends up, we still have to live and walk amongst each other. Good luck to all of you!

WP....there is a "spell check" button....did YOU know that?

Not well versed in the law, but I am pretty sure it is illegal to send emails like that...If not illegal for sure inappropriate
William...you are certainly not helping your cause

Pam,

Gina is out of town, so she can't answer you directly. Best I can do from my phone is to say what you call solicit We call EDUCATE!!! We received many more emails requesting additional information than the I believe the 5 requests to remove. But don't worry Pam you won't be on the NEXT EDUCATIONAL BLAST!!!! HAVE A NICE DAY PAM

C'mon.........SPELL CHECK William.....

"Pam so you don't want THE sign after all NOW?"
"hope everyone has an updated SERVER, IT WOULD BE A SHAME IF we made it crash..."

Nope, don't want the sign, I already have one, thanks though!! :)

Pam,
I thought we weren't going to hear from you anymore, What happpened??

This is all great...glad you are out to EDUCATE...because if the referendum fails it will be our children that get the substandard education. Yes...there are many programs that could be cut and are not necessary...BUT that is not what I want for my children. I want them to have every opportunity possible...Are Spanish and French necessary no..are sports and activities necessary no, is full day kindergarten necessary no, but it is all of those things that help out children grow and find their nitch in life. They are also the things that help them find their way socially and put them at an advantage when they enter high school. You can be sure that there will be more cuts if the referendum does not pass. If you vote no you will ensure that our children will get the basics at best...I know we all grew up without full day kindergarten and many other things, but that does not mean that our children should not get the chance. Marham and Ford can bring their ideas to the table, but with no money from Mokena or Illinois they will not be able to do much.

I do agree that there needs to be more credibility from the board, but I also think that anyone who is elected will not be able to accomplish much without the money to do so.

Wow! Lots to read...........and Pam Widule is funny. Spell check? Now thats funny!

Tim King is a clown and must leave to save face. Maybe Mrs. Perry will do the same soon.

All educators are over paid considering that they only work 190 days a year. Then again, most tradesman are over paid as well. Promblem is - they are all specialists in their fields and not easily replaced.

A question for the Zoetvelts. (Team "Z") Any worries about bias against your children at school? You know all the teachers and staff read these posts.

I can tell you, I am a teacher and do not think that I am over paid. I went to college to ensure my future and do something that I enjoy. I also have my master's degree, that I am still paying for, so that I can make sure that I am doing the best job I can, for the children that I teach. It is also an income to help support my family. So before you (Bill, Gina, Just a Thought, Dee, anyone else I forgot) send out all the stats about how much money the teachers make..think about this..If you could fight for a raise wouldn't you..and don't say you wouldn't..because anyone who has ever had any kind of job and thinks that they do a good job would try to make more money. Also, the price of gas, milk, etc. has gone up.. Are you not buying those things? There are many, many towns that are being forced to put a referendum on the ballot due to lack of funding from the state of Illinois. I am sure you will disagree with me, and that is your choice, but as an educator, I can't stress how these cuts and the future cuts ,that will have to made if the referendum is voted down, will effect your children. Teachers are well aware of the finances of their districts. I would think that they are not planning on a big raise. They understand more that some of you think. There will be nothing positive if you vote no..no matter how many good, great, etc. members you vote in. So VOTE YES.

"Hi Teacher, I’m not sure if your part of the teachers that have been in this district since 05 or not but if you are, you received too much in raises in the 5 years. Gina also has her masters and hasn’t had a raise in 6 years let along a 6.8% raise BE REAL!!! Here is my question for you directly, the majority of the people that pay your salaries around here have not received a raise in years if not lost their jobs or took pay cuts. According to the independent study, it says if you take a pay freeze (including step) for 3 years we will come into the black. Or if you take a pay freeze for 2 years and they close MIS we will come into the black. Are you willing to take a pay freeze like the rest of America??? As I have said I will support you 100% if you’re willing to take a pay freeze."

I'm new to this whole "blogging thing" but have finally finished reading all the above comments. Bill Z....how many times do we have to hear "take a pay freeze for 3 years....take a pay freeze for 2 years and close MIS" how many times must you say this? We hear you....but their contracts are OLD and DONE with and nothing you say can or will change that. I'm very sorry to hear that Gina has not has a raise in 6 years....many people are like that....it's just the way it is right now. I have been at my job for 3 year and just got my first pay raise; but I am HAPPY that I have a job. Stop bashing the teachers....NO ONE saw this economic downturn coming....so stop preaching that take pay freeze or cut. Don't they have a family to raise too? Don't they deserve a yearly raise like everyone else? Maybe not to those magnitudes... but 05 -06 was the ToP of the scale in terms of housing sales, salary increases (I guess). Kudos to you, Teacher, wherever you work (but I don't think it is 159) you have some very valid points. Keep education at the top level, with no money, no one is going to do a darn thing, no matter who you vote in.

JAT,
But they are....like it was said before...what is done is done. They are taking a freeze. And I'd like to bet that these teachers work A LOT more overtime than you or I ever have. No, i'm not a teacher, but I do respect what they do. Would you like to have to come home on week days and weekends and grade homework? Would you like to have to go to back to school nights, p/t conferences, after school workshops, saturday workshops? Would you like to have to go and coach a sport just to supplement your income? They have a family too, they want to spend time too, but also have to work. We all make our sacrafices one way or another. And i'm sure they are VERY happy they have jobs, don't sell them short. And remember, not EVERYONE in this country (as has been stated before) has taken pay cuts, job losses, etc. it's very sad what we are going through right now and I wouldn't want to see anyone go into poverty, foreclosure, whatever. take the good with the bad and the bad with the good. We will come out of this, hopefully for the better.

I am so happy that I live on the Summit Hill side of Mokena. I should have no difficulty selling my house. I am sure the residents of Mokena 159 will experience great difficulty trying to sell their homes when they wish to do so. Who in their right mind would want to move to the Mokena 159 side? The Summit Hill residents have always voted to support their schools. Certain people who are commenting on this page should hope that the quality of education continues at the Mokena 159 schools. Currently the schools have been able to attract highly qualified educators/administrators. What teacher or administrator would say....."Yes, let me come to district 159 where people are being fired and they are losing all their programs; that is exactly where I want to be employed!". The students of Mokena 159 deserve the best. I know that the Zoetvelts, Just a Thought, and William Phelps (I agree--please spell and grammar check your posts and make sure your t-shirt slogan is spelled correctly too...you don't want to give your former teachers a bad name, Will) will bash this post. That is fine. I will no longer be reading these posts as well, so don't waste your breath. God bless!

UMMM MOM,

What are you talking about?? They havnt taken a freeze!!

Also MOM UMMMM they work 8 months a year!!! UMMMM help me here!

I do not begrudge a teacher her salery, They are worth what they make. again THEY ARE WORTH WHAT THEY MAKE to be clear!! THIS IS NOT THEIR FAULT I again want to make that clear!! Mr. King and the rest of board that handed out 100K to Bradbury out of our pockets is what put us here!

I heard the school board is requiring that if you want to attend the school board meetings you have to bring your last 10 years of property tax statements to prove that you as an honest Mokena tax-payer contributed to your children's education. Oops, looks like some of you will be standing in the parking lot.

We have been getting "threat" after "threat" after "threat" from this school. I have a suggestion: Pull your kids out and let's start a Mokena Homeschool Group. You have the right to homeschool your children and we, as parents, can be sure our children get the best education and extra curricular activities, for the fees they are proposing. We can take our registration money and the money they receive per student, per day from the state for attendance and join together for our children's education. We can and have the right to take matters into our own hands. Form our own school board and private home school. We do not have to take this repeated attempts of putting parents and children into a state of fear. We the people have the power. Be the Change you wish to see. Has anyone seen the documentary movie, Waiting For Superman? If you haven't, I suggest you take some time to watch this documentary which is about the Public School System and how it is failing our children. For what it will cost us to register our children next year with transportation fees, we can choose top notch curriculum for our children's education. Hey maybe some of the teachers losing their jobs would even join us. We could hire them as personal tutors.

P.S. We all have to make due with what we have in our homes. When we can't afford to professionally landscape our yard, who do we have to cry to? When we get a pay cut at work or worse yet, lose our jobs, and the cost of living is continuously rising, who will walk in that parade? Our district will still cry POOR even with the tax increase. I challenge people to vote however they want, because, until the people in charge of spending our money in our schools, come back to the real world and look around at all the foreclosures and families without food in our community, they will continue onward in their materialistic ways. When you really accept that you are in a position of servant hood, serving the people and stop trying to glorify your positions, maybe just maybe, through God's grace, you will humble yourselves and give up a little of your ego, for the sake of the kids. People, please quit bashing our schools and spreading fear of this and that, let's talk highly of our town, your sinking your own boat. We have beautiful schools, but as the saying goes; beauty is found within and all that glitters is not gold. Stand up, Be beautiful, Mokena is Awesome! I love Mokena!!!!

I was just reading the profile of the woman running for a seat on the board named Carrie Zakula. Can someone please tell me what the core values of our community are that she will be basing her decisions on? Who has set a standard of these values? This is in her profile:
"Finally, as daunting as the difficult decisions are, I will make them based on our community's core values because inaction is a decision by default. "
http://mokena.patch.com/local_facts/2011-election-carrie-zakula

First, No answer to my previous posts? That is odd.
Mr. Love - I have seen "Waiting for Superman." It is an interesting documentary, but I think you missed several important points. First, all of the schools except one that are listed in the documentary are inner city, failing schools with test scores that were abysmal. Mokena schools are not failing academicaly. 159 boasts some of the highest test scores in the area and have done so for decades. Secondly, they point to charter schools as the answer but they gloss over the fact that only 20% of Charter schools are successful! The charters who succeed are typically in urban centers where the system is completely broken. Mokena's academic system is not broken; it is the state's funding system that is completely broken. Additionally, research shows that most home school attempts fail in the first year and the students are back in public school; now a year behind.
What I do agree with in the film is the eliminiation of tenure and removing all of the obstacles to fire a poor teacher. I dont' think we have many bad teachers in Mokena, but the administration should have the power to pick who gets cut, not be stuck simply with seniority rules.
Last, in an unrelated topic - Can anyone put any fact to the acusation that Mr. Ford is enrolling his children in St. Mary's Kindergarten? If this is true, he has lost my vote and I have to question Mr. Markham for joining forces with him.

Mr. Love - How can you say it is wrong for Zakula to be pro-referendum and it is not wrong for Markham and Ford to be anti-referendum? Additionally, did Mr. Ford or Mr. Markham ask any school officials to sign their petitions? If they didn't ask, then they will never know if those school officials would have signed theirs too.
Is it wrong for a citizen of the community to sign the petition of a legal candidate simply because of where he or she works?
If that is the case, then no one in a AFSME should be able to sign a petition for any state, federal, or municipal candidate because those are the same people who legislate their raises every year.
You simply can't have it both ways. You can't be against someone and say it is wrong because they declare their position that you do not agree with and flip on the other side and say it is right to support someone else for having the opposite view. Part of our American system is that candidates declare their positions and we get to vote according to our beliefs. Bashing Zakula for her beliefs is as unfair as someone bashing Markham and Ford for theirs.

To Thoughtful:

Of course Carrie Zakula is not wrong because of her views and stances. However Her views and stances are, in my opinion, wrong for being on our school board.

1, She is being supported by Supt. Perry and some of her administration. This is not bad unto itself, except that I don't agree with just about anything Perry says or does. In my mind, Perrys support and the acceptance of Perrys support indicates an acceptance of Perry and her actions.
PERRY NEEDS TO GO - I will not support any candidate that even hints that they would be in favor of keeping her around.

2. Carrie is/has been a leader in the Pro-ref movement. Again not problematic in itself, this is america - she is allowed. However, again in my opinion, this referendum has been misguided from the start, many other things (cost saving wise) should have been done before ANY extra money was asked for from the taxpayer. The fact that Carrie supported the referendum before all of the cost-savings actions were taken, indicates to me that she is referendum friendly and will probably be so in the future. As I believe that referendums should be used as a means of last resort, I have a problem with this.

As much as we may not like it - being bashed for our beliefs seems to be a fact of life.
It's the price we pay for putting our ideas out there with a willingness to defend them if need be.

Someone accused of a conflict of interest may deny that a conflict exists because he/she did not act improperly. In fact, a conflict of interest can exist even if there are no improper acts as a result of it. (One way to understand this is to use the term "conflict of roles". A person with two roles—an individual who owns stock and is also a government official, for example—may experience situations where those two roles conflict. The conflict can be mitigated—see below—but it still exists. In and of itself, having two roles is not illegal, but the differing roles will certainly provide an incentive for improper acts in some circumstances.) She is in the teacher's Union. Pat Markham is not a union member. As part of the union, as you saw in the documentary, their votes are swayed toward self interest, as being a union member.

I will define Conflict of Interest for you: A conflict of interest (COI) occurs when an individual or organization is involved in multiple interests, one of which could possibly corrupt the motivation for an act in the other.
A conflict of interest can only exist if a person or testimony is entrusted with some impartiality; a modicum of trust is necessary to create it. The presence of a conflict of interest is independent from the execution of impropriety. Therefore, a conflict of interest can be discovered and voluntarily defused before any corruption occurs.
COI is sometimes termed competition of interest rather than "conflict", emphasizing a connotation of natural competition between valid interests rather than violent conflict with its connotation of victimhood and unfair aggression. Nevertheless, denotatively, there is too much overlap between the terms to make any objective differentiation.

Types
Self-dealing, in which an official who controls an organization causes it to enter into a transaction with the official, or with another organization that benefits the official. The official is on both sides of the "deal."
# Outside employment, in which the interests of one job contradict another.
# Family interests, in which a spouse, child, or other close relative is employed (or applies for employment) or where goods or services are purchased from such a relative or a firm controlled by a relative. For this reason, many employment applications ask if one is related to a current employee. If this is the case, the relative could then recuse from any hiring decisions. Abuse of this type of conflict of interest is called nepotism.

JAT - Notice I never said that you couldn't disagree with her ideas. I said that it is hypocitical to say that it is wrong for her to have an opinion and run for the board when the people you support are doing the same thing.
Disagreeing with an opinion is completely different. I agree with you that once you put your opinions out there, it is fair game for critizism. Clearly you disagree with Mrs. Zakula and others disagree with Mr. Markham and Ford, and almost all of us disagree with Mrs. Perry. I agree again that this is the price we pay when we run for office.
Again, we just need to play fair and know that we can disagree without being disagreeable.

"research shows that most home school attempts fail in the first year and the students are back in public school; now a year behind. "
FLAT OUT LIE!
PROVE ME WRONG, BY BACKING UP THAT STATEMENT.

She (Carrie) is in the teacher's Union. Pat Markham is not a union member. As part of the union, as you saw in the documentary, their votes are swayed toward self interest, as being a union member.
That is a conflict of interest on Mrs. Zakula's part.

"First, all of the schools except one that are listed in the documentary are inner city, failing schools with test scores that were abysmal."
They documented the worst cases to get their point across. It is all the same system and our system is under the same system. The teacher's union "tenure" issue was one of the most eye opening issues, but even more disturbing, was the fact that people are suppressed by the powers that rule over them in this country. Conditions are developed over time and because the people have allowed lower standards over time, mostly because of ignorance to their rights and the law. Keep the people poor, dumb, scared and misinformed and administration can do whatever they please.

I will home school my children if need be. Because, I have the freedom and choice to do so.
Research has shown that homeschoolers on average do better than the national average on standardized achievement tests for the elementary and secondary grade levels. Statistics demonstrate that homeschoolers tend to score above the national average on both their SAT and ACT scores.
For example, the 2219 students reporting their homeschool status on the SAT in 1999 scored an average of 1083 (verbal 548, math 535), 67 points above the national average of 1016. In 2004 the 7858 homeschool students taking the ACT scored an average of 22.6, compared to the national average of 20.9.
According to the 1998 ACT High School Profile Report, 2610 graduating homeschoolers took the ACT and scored an average of 22.8 out of a possible 36 points. This score is slightly higher that the 1997 report released on the results of 1926 homeschool graduates and founding homeschoolers maintained the average of 22.5. This is higher than the national average, which was 21.0 in both 1997 and 1998.
The 1996 ACT results showed that in English, homeschoolers scored 22.5 compared to the national average of 20.3. In math, homeschoolers scored 19.2 compared to the national average of 20.2. In reading, homeschoolers outshone their public school counterparts 24.1 to 21.3. In science, homeschoolers scored 21.9 compared to 21.1.

Boston University welcomes applications from homeschooled students. We believe students educated at home possess the passion for knowledge, the independence, and the self-reliance that enable them to excel in our intellectually challenging programs of study.
Wheaton College (IL) Director of Admissions Dan Crabtree says that “Nearly 10 percent of our current freshmen were homeschooled at one point, and about a dozen were homeschooled through high school.” Wheaton’s 1999-2000 freshman class had 104 (out of 550) students who had been homeschooled at least one year.
The following comment, made by Jon Reider, Stanford’s senior associate director of admissions concerning the success of homeschoolers, was reported in a recent article in the Wall Street Journal: “Homeschoolers bring certain skills – motivation, curiosity, the capacity to be responsible for their education – that high schools don’t induce very well.”3
A report on the accomplishments of homeschool students has been published in Brown University's (RI) January/February, 2002, edition of its alumni magazine. In an article titled, "Homeschooling Comes of Age," Dean Joyce Reed states, "Homeschoolers are the epitome of Brown students. They are self-directed, they take risks, and they don't back off."

In 2002, an employee of Ball State University reported that "eighty percent of first time freshman who were homeschooled were admitted to one of our upper levels of admission, with 67% being admitted to Honors College—our highest level of admission. They tend to be very involved socially on campus, especially in groups relating to their academic major and in student religious groups." During a fall 2004 interview, Phil Caffrey, Iowa State University's (ISU) director of admissions, stated that "homeschool students, on average, have higher grade-point averages" than the student body as a whole. Because of this, Caffrey stated that ISU is considering actively recruiting homeschool students at college fairs.

We have the right to disagree. http://www.ourcivilisation.com/pc.htm
Don't post lies.

Mr. Love - If you are so disillusioned by the public education system then I vehemently recommend that you consider following your own advice and home school your children. I have been a student of education for a long time and I think you will find that it is much harder than it sounds. As for the research. I do not have it at my fingertips, I will find it and post it on this site.
By your "Union" logic, anyone who belongs to a union should not hold public office because they will be biased toward the firemen, police, city workers, etc (all unionized workers). I am not a fan of the teacher's union and I think they often stand in the way of change, but your logic in this is flawed if you carry it out to other parts of government.
I am not sure how you can possibly compare the schools in Harlem New York to Mokena, IL. The 159 ISAT scores will show you that Mokena schools are not failing by any academic measure. If the schools in the film are the "worst case," Mokena schools are the "best case" where the system actually works fairly well; where children learn and the community grows.

JAT - I think we must play fair at all times. I would rather die on the high road than survive by taking the low road... regardless of how my opponents play the game.

Since it has been brought into question, Mr. Ford should put on his web site that he fully intends to put his children in 159's kindergarten.

There was no comparative statements between schools on my part. I simply stated that all public schools are under the same Federal System including ours. Are you implying that we are immune to falling into a similar situation as Harlem, because the majority of our children are white and not minorities? That's like saying: we could never have a nuclear melt down like the one happening in Japan. (Even though we have 13 Nuclear Power Plants in Illinois. Illinois has more nuclear power plants than any other state in the nation.) Just because it is happening in another country.

Who is disillusioned? I am well educated and informed. I do not know everything, but love to learn every day.

Mr. Love - I can see you are a big fan of home schooling. I didn't say home schooling was bad. I said that it often failed. You seem to be jumping to conclusions in both this issue and about the educational system. The last time I checked, there is absolutely no chance at a tsunami occurring in Illinois and somehow you have made the leap to put words in my mouth about minorities. All of these arguments are well off the main discussion of this blog - the condition of Mokena schools, who to elect in April and what to do about the referendum.
I will be voting for the referendum because I believe it is the right thing to do. I will not be home schooling my children even though my wife and I have five college degrees between us and we realize that our public school is the best place for our children. We cannot give them the education that Mokena can give. Last, I will not keep this argument going. Good day sir and I hope we can all get back to the important issues at hand.

LOL! WOW! Some people never cease to amaze me. I am a big fan of options, rights and freedoms, that human blood has been shed to ensure, I have some options, rights and freedoms! I haven't once bashed our community's schools on here. Actually, I have said how I love just about everything in Mokena. I have simply shared truths on here and you immediately had many negatives remarks, posted lies and even personal accusations. Let's Get back to an ISSUE? And what is that again? I don't have any issues. We have our children and their proper education's at stake here, not some ISSUES! When will everyone put aside their vendettas, self interests and motives in order to be a community that does what is right for the children and their education. You and I are not untouchable in this town of Mokena, we are not above or immune to what is happening in Japan or Harlem. Sorry to burst your bubble toots.

You and I are not untouchable in this pretty little town of Mokena, we are not above or immune to what is happening in Japan(earthquakes and tsunami's) or Harlem(people out for themselves and no greater good). Sorry, if I've burst your safety bubble. Don't tell me we can't have a tsunami when there is 6 quadrillion gallons of fresh water; one-fifth of the world's fresh surface water (only the polar ice caps and Lake Baikal in Siberia contain more); 95 percent of the U.S. supply; 84 percent of the surface water supply in North America. Spread evenly across the continental U.S., the Great Lakes would submerge the country under about 9.5 feet of water. I felt an earthquake in Illinois.

The rally was a success. The kids had fun with the signs on wolf street and on front street. Thanks to all the speakers and the referendum committe who did a great job with setting up everything. Lets hope that all of the hard work on everyone's part pass this referendum for the benefit of our property values and we can say that we have one of the best schools around. Kudos to everyone who showed up today and showed their support. I hope that everyone realizes how much this referendum is needed for the value properties of our homes. If the referendum doesn't pass you can guarantee that the prices of homes is going to decrease as if they haven't decreased enough already with the economy. If the referendum does not pass and you have 2 children at district 159 you will be paying more for bus service than you would be paying if the referendum passes. If the referendum passes you will still be ahead $100.00. So it is a win win situation if you want to look at it from a money stand point.