Chanhassen Villager | www.chanvillager.com
November 3, 2011 | Page 5
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Robert Hoyt Chaska
Technology is the key I was disappointed to read your editorial urging a “no” vote on the Eastern Carver County technology levy referendum. As a former Carver County school board chair, I strongly believe that to better serve today’s student, education must be personalized to best meet individual student’s needs in both learning style and content. Technology is the key to doing so. By incor porating worldwide resources and expanding the classroom beyond its walls, curriculum programs can be tailored to most effectively address students as individual learners. Without up-to-date technology and its classroom possibilities, we are shortchanging our students as they enter college or the world of work. I certainly hope your readers vote “yes” on Nov. 8 to help our students compete in the fast changing world they are living in.
Michele Helgen Minneapolis
Technology is essential The recent editorial position regarding the upcoming technology referendum states, “…it’s unclear what is essential.” es•sen•tial /i senSHəl/ adjective: absolutely necessary; extremely important What is more essential than well-prepared learners? The current technology referendum is designed to ensure that kids in our district are well-prepared students able to compete and be successful in the classroom, in future education and careers, and in the global economy that they will contribute to in the near future. Ou r commu nity is dedicated to a tradition of quality education. A key goal of our public schools is to give kids the critical thinking skills that they can apply to whatever educational and career path they choose to follow. Being able to use technology is not optional. It is essential. The passage of the technology referendum is essential to ensuring that all students have access to the tools they need and a learning environment that allows connection to current materials and ideas, the ability to receive instant feedback, and the means to connect beyond the classroom. It is essential that voters recognize that all students and schools will benefit from the passage of this referendum and their ‘yes’ vote will allow this district to continue to build on its strong tradition of excellence in education. W hi le the editors might be busy asking the district to “sharpen their pencils,” the kids of the district have moved beyond pencils and are busy submitting papers via Moodle accounts, using Facetime to practice speaking Spanish with their classmates, and accessing electronic textbooks to study for exams.
Natalie Larson and Jill Anderson Citizens’ Committee for Technology Referendum co-chairs
Questionable positions The editor of the Chaska Herald has expressed a number of questionable positions
Tim Klein Chanhassen District 112 School Board member
Well-intended, but misdirected The local newspapers allowed a g uest commentary a few weeks ago by a wellintended resident, Kristi Jackson ( “Voti ng ‘no’ to enac t change,” Oct. 20). I write the words “well-intended” purposefu l ly because Jackson feels that a ‘no’ vote for the technology levy is needed to bri ng about cha nge i n t he district regarding perceived or real inequities between the two high schools. Voting ‘no’ for her stated reasons is often referred to as a symbolic vote. Symbolic votes are well-intended, but misdirected in my opinion. Jackson cites a nu mber of concerns all of which I cannot address due to space limitations. * Chanhassen High School has newer facilities and more advanced technology. If one looks at the technology plan Chaska High School will benefit more than Chanhassen in the fi rst two years, rightfully so. In speaking with district officials items such as the tennis courts, track, hall lockers, etc. at Chaska are on the capital improvement list for either this year or next and a 10-year facilities plan is in the works to further ensure equity. * Test scores – Yes the state mat h test discrepa ncy be tween the two high schools is 17 points. Next year will be the initial year all students are required to take a math course beyond Algebra II. Let’s look at the math scores as this requirement takes place. It is important to note that Chaska and Chanhassen are even on the state reading test scores. * The enrollment discrepancy is noticeable, yet part of the discrepancy is due to the Alternative Learning Program being housed at Chanhassen High School. Also the bound-
aries were drawn before the collapse of the housing market. Hindsight is 20 -20. Because enrollment impacts program and services, this certainly needs to be monitored. Jackson advocates for an immediate change in the high school attendance boundaries and that the way to secure that is to vote ‘No” on Nov. 8. Constant transition of boundaries isn’t good for students and there needs to be very solid rationale for doing so before undertaking such changes. Let the district tackle this issue with appropriate facts, figures, and strategies. In the meantime residents must vote ‘yes’ for technology that is much needed throughout the district and for a referendum that will balance technology opportunities between the two high schools. I certainly haven’t agreed with every decision made over the years, but voting ‘no’ to send a symbolic message isn’t going to help students in whatever school they attend.
Tracy Leggett Chaska
In support of technology Regarding your editorial in last week’s paper, I was initially skeptical of the tech referendum and initiated a meeting with our Superintendent Jim Bauck to discover the vision. A f ter meeting with him and his team, I am convinced of their passion and the direction they are likely to head with the technology. They have my vote! I am very biased in favor of technology in education for many reasons but am guarded with the expense if not associated with a vision for its use. These are incredible times for technology and there are opportunities to reinvent the delivery of education. Lessons are coming out of textbooks and going online in rich media formats. Fantastic lecturers and live experiences can be presented virtually anywhere. Learning is not location dependent. Parents can be more i nvolved by havi ng on li ne tools that reveal lessons and encourage collaboration.
Will Ahern Chanhassen
MINNETONKA SCHOOL BOARD
A leader and volunteer I a m w riti ng to endorse Charlie Kanan for Minnetonka School Board. I have worked with Charlie Kanan since 2004 as a fellow volunteer for the Minnetonka Diamond Club. Charlie has been an instrumental leader and key volunteer for the past seven years. Most importantly, Charlie has this unique ability to listen to constituents and stakeholders, effectively understand what he has heard, and make those changes happen through our board so the entire community will benefit. I endorse Charlie Kanan for School Board as he can make those same kinds of changes for our schools and our children. He has my vote.
Frank Kuzma Chanhassen President of the Minnetonka Diamond Club
Voting for new leaders Yes there is an election this year on Nov. 8 and there is a great reason to go out and vote. Unlike past years, the school board race has four new non-incumbents running: Stoltenberg, Torrili, Eitreim and Maire. They don’t sit on any foundation boards and they have not been selected by any inside school forces. These candidates will be a fresh new voice that will represent the vast majority of voters. Sot this year I’m voting for new leadership. Please join me by going to the polls on election day.
Dale Johnson Minnetonka
Stoltenberg is a dynamo If you have not met Laurie Stoltenberg, you have missed an absolute dynamo. The people who work with her in soccer programs comment that her commitment and dedication to her children and other families is amazing. She is a small-business woman who
owned a bead store and now is part of the management tea m of a n I nter net-based company. We have a clear choice with Laurie. She brings a clear outside perspective and I know that she will always be accessible if you have questions and concerns. I’m voting for Stoltenberg.
Fred Peterson Minnetonka
Not afraid to speak his mind Joe Torelli is an outstanding candidate for our school board. First of all he is not an incumbent. I like that. We need new voices that are not the status quo. Secondly, he is not afraid to ask the tough questions. He will set the bar high in reuiring the district administrators to deliver the best education possible at a cost-effective price. He will guide the school district to live within its means. We need this kind of person who is not afraid to speak his mind. Join me in voting for Joe Torelli.
Carter Glendenning Minnetonka
Independent and hard working I am so glad that Derek Eitreim has stepped up and run for the school board. He has the experience we need on the board. He not only grew up in Minnetonka and graduated from Minnetonka High School, his daughter is a member of the MHS class of 2011. He is independent and hard working, which makes him a clear choice fro my vote.
Kanan and Lisa Sumner for school board. I believe these four candidates are running because they have the best interests of our children in mind. Wagner, Walkowski, Kanan, and Sumner have each spent many years volunteering in our schools and working to make them better places. They are each thoughtful and articulate, and they each bring positive energy and enthusiasm to their campaigns for seats on the school board. I urge all Minnetonka School District voters to learn more about the candidates. This is not an election we can afford to let others decide! Too many important issues are at stake. With seven members on the school board, a majority of just four people will set policy that will affect every aspect of the Minnetonka Public Schools. Your vote is impor tant, so please learn about the issues and the candidates, and vote on Nov. 8!
Deb Roberts Chanhassen
Supporting Lisa Wagner Lisa Wagner has served on the Minnetonka School Board for the past four years. She has proven to be a dynamic leader with a strong connection to our community. She has elementary- and middle schoolaged children in Minnetonka schools so she is knowledgeable about the current issues facing Minnetonka families from a parent perspective as well as from a school board member’s perspective. Lisa is a natu ra l leader a nd h as b e en a n ef fec tive
and valued leader in multiple aspects of ou r com mu nit y outside of her experience as a school board member. Lisa is responsive, approachable and has g reat perspective. Lisa is knowledgeable about the needs of our children at an individual level as well as from a district level. In addition to wanting to provide the tools necessary for our current students to succeed, she also wants to help ensure the success of future Minnetonka students. I am proud to support Lisa Wagner.
Linda Roslansky Minnetonka
Maire is one of my choices I recently talked with Minnetonka School Board Candidate Kevin Maire. I am writing to tell you about a side of him you may not know. I learned that Kevin’s 91-year-old father has been going through health issues and has needed Kevin’s full attention these past few weeks. I also learned that Kevin Maire’s father is a WWII Pearl Harbor survivor. His father’s unit was bombed during the Pea rl Ha rbor at t ack. I a m writing to support Kevin in this way because he set aside his campaign to put his father’s interest above his own. Kevin is demonstrating with his actions that his family comes fi rst. We need to thank all candidates for running for office because of the stress it puts on their families. I will be voting for Kevin Maire as one of my four choices. Please vote on Tuesday Nov. 8.
Bethany Tjornhom Chanhassen
Bruce Brown Minnetonka
He has high standards We have both known Kevin Maire for over 10 years having two of our children involved in activities with Kevin and Angie’s (Kevin’s wife) soccer, band, and orchestra programs in addition to attending Groveland, MME and MHS. We both know Kevin and Angie to be smart, kind and positive while maintaining high standards for t hei r chi ld ren bot h i n terms of educational as well as personal integrity. Beyond everything else, we personally view, as his unique value add, his understanding of deliveri ng best i n class useable technology solutions i n a dem a nd i n g ch a n g i n g environment while aggressively managing costs. We’ve known Kevin in a professional capacity and know him to be extremely technically competent as well as a sound decision maker. In these rapidly changing times, given Minnetonka’s world class commitment to educ ation i ncludi ng ef fec tive use of technology, Kevin would be a terrific asset and representative of us all. We could use what Kevin brings to the table : positive attitude; works well with people; knows Minnetonka schools; mai nt ai ns u nquestionable integrity; highly competent; is committed to serving his community.
Eric and Renee Holm Minnetonka
Hands-on experience Check your mail box for the “News Flyer from Minnetonka Schools” that arrived this week. What a great article on “Breaking the Curve” and how proud I am of my children attending Minnetonka district schools! Congratulations to the district board, staff, teachers and administrators on another outstanding academic year. Additionally, I’d like to add my thanks to the many volunteers working so hard on behalf of the district and our children every day. On Nov. 8 you have the chance to vote to keep the Minnetonka school district strong. Lisa Sumner, Charlie Kanan, Lisa Wagner and Karen Walkowski have the depth and breadth of hands-on experience to keep our district strong today and moving forward in the future.
Jamie Grivich Pelletier Chanhassen
Board majority at stake I a m suppor ti ng i ncu mbents Lisa Wagner and Karen Walkowski, as well as Charlie
New to the area? We’ll help make the move easier. • packet of helpful information including maps, civic and county resources • hundreds of $$$ in local merchant gift certificates • answers to your new-to-the-area questions
Welcome Neighbor! has helped new residents learn about their new community for over 20 years. CALL 952-442-9000 OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE PACKET. www.welcomeneighbormn.com welcome@welcomeneighbormn.com SERVING: CARVER, MCLEOD, SCOTT, WRIGHT & WESTERN HENNEPIN COUNTIES. Business owners interested in building your customer base – call us for more information.
The World Learner School OF CHASKA
PUBLIC ENROLLMENT MEETINGS FOR PROSPECTIVE PARENTS Meeting dates are
October 18 & November 15 7:00 – 8:30 pm 112050 Hundertmark Rd., Chaska Attendance is strongly urged at both meetings prior to enrollment.
• • • • • •
Montessori Public Charter School, NO TUITION Individualized, Multi-Level Classrooms Hands-On Materials; Montessori Philosophy Integrated Spanish, Music, Art and Phy. Ed. Serving Grades 1st through 8th Highest Level of Parent Involvement!
Limited space available for students entering 1st – 8th grade, Fall of 2012. Please call 952-368-7398 for more information or to schedule an observation.
216679
M a ny p a r ent s at t empt to minimize the time their students spend in front of a TV with a controller in their hands. Then when they send them to school, the teachers give the students a responder or controller. I saw the pictures in the Herald (“Technology upgrade comes at a price,” Oct. 20), with the students holding the responders/controllers. It looks and sounds to me like this “technology,” or in my opinion this “boondoggle,” has but one purpose. That purpose is to see to it that the teachers do not have papers to correct because the answers go straight to a computer. A computer does not teach, a teacher does, so there goes some of the student/teacher interaction.
in opposition to the proposed technology levy for District 112. Despite acknowledging that technology is “integral to teaching,” the editor chose to hide behind the timeless strategy of asking for more data. As a parent of four children in the district, I believe that the information available is more than sufficient to support this referendum and the cost of following the editor’s direction is too great. I have no idea what re search the editors conducted. However, you need only visit the District 112 website to hear from teachers and students as to how technology positively affects student performance. You can also learn specifically what types of technology is planned (much more than hardware and software), where it will be implemented and see specific projections. You will also learn how woefully behind District 112 is to its neighboring and peer school districts in technology investment. Most importantly, I implore you to open your minds to the data that surrounds us all. Talk to your children, teachers, and parents in other schools that have more or less technology (even across District 112). From these discussions you’ll fully appreciate that the beneficial impact technology is having on learning is far from fuzzy. Please consider the technology investments at reputable peer school districts like Wayzata, Edina, Minnetonka, and Eden Prairie. The editor would apparently prefer we wait for clearer data to avoid following these districts down some path of educational folly. While it would be fantastic to wait for comprehensive plans and studies as the editors suggests, this is a luxury of time and money we simply don’t have. The district is already recovering from $2.4 million i n budget reductions from which ad mi nist ration was hardest hit. How would the editor suggest these efforts be funded? Lastly, because of the economy and the burdens of a growing district, the levy proposes funding levels at a fraction of our peers but necessary to remain competitive. Yes, these are difficult times, and as we strive to provide our children the best education possible, we are forced to consider “Can we afford to?” However, when surrounded by evidence of technology’s importance and while competing with districts for homebuyers and students, “Can we afford not to?”
218908
Straight to a computer