Reaction Positive To Change: Year-Round Revision A Relief for Parents
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Academy Heights parents breathed sighs of relief after Thursday’s meeting with Superintendent Susan Purser, but questions regarding year-round school in Pinehurst still remain.
Parents learned that Purser has submitted a revised budget recommendation that would still close Academy Heights Elementary School but move its year-round program to Pinehurst Elementary School for grades kindergarten through second grade and to West Pine Elementary School for third through fifth grades.
Pinehurst and West End Elementary now are both traditional K-5 schools
Before making the information public, Purser met with parents at West Pine Elementary School Thursday to explain the recommendation.
“I have reviewed and reflected,” Purser said. “My staff has done a great deal of work on how we can serve all children of Moore County schools.”
Purser told parents that she was moved by their desire to find another alternative that would not only provide the year-round option, but also keep the option in Pinehurst, where the demand for the program originated years ago.
“Based on that, I felt it was necessary to alter my recommendation to the board,” she said.
Purser did not take questions from the audience, but she asked parents to write down questions or concerns on comment cards that she and her staff will either address on the system’s website or individually.
“Any time we talk about adjusting, there are also going to be logistical details that need to be worked out,” she said.
Purser said that both schools could accommodate all the students at Academy Heights if they choose to continue the year-round option. However, the system will have to use portable classroom units to expand enrollment capacity at each school with the addition of the program.
Pinehurst Elementary School already has trailers on site that are currently not being used as classrooms.
Purser said the system has two to three units that it can place at West Pine Elementary as well.
Purser told parents that she held the meeting in an effort to honor their requests for better communication regarding the issue.
“I don’t control some of the other factors out there, but my intention was to make sure you heard the recommendation from me,” she said.
Purser also said she is interested in forming a task force of parents of year-round students from both Pinehurst and Southern Pines to create a campaign that could work toward ex-panding the year-round option in Moore County.
“I do believe the year-round program is one of the county’s best-kept secrets,” she said.
‘Hopeful Now’
After the meeting, Academy Heights fourth-grader Alex Monroe stood in the West Pine auditorium considering that she could be standing there next year as a fifth-grader.
She was unsure of how to react to the idea of Academy Heights closing, but she did say she liked the idea of being able to stay with her friends by going to West Pine.
If the year-round option does not remain in Pinehurst, Monroe would either go to Southern Pines for the year-round program there or go to Robbins Elementary School, where she wouldn’t know anyone.
“I’m hopeful now,” her mother, Lisa Monroe, said. “It’s a lot better than the first time we came [here for a meeting]. I don’t know why the board would vote no when [Purser] made it clear that it can be done.”
Dr. Sushma Patel, whose children attend Academy Heights, said she was glad Purser and her staff were receptive to parent suggestions and that Purser took the initiative to meet with parents before making the new recommendation public.
The new recommendation is based on an idea suggested by parents.
“It’s encouraging that they tried to make this happen for us,” she said. “For me, it was the right step in breaching a lot of anger in the initial presentation of the information and the way it was handled.”
Parents were angered when they learned of Purser’s initial budget proposal to close Academy Heights and consolidate the year-round program to Southern Pines via a Connect-Ed voice mail message March 14.
Like other parents, Patel said her main concern now centers on what will happen to Academy Heights teachers if the school closes.
“The teachers are a big part of the success,” she said. “We need to make sure they’re part of the plan.”
Purser told parents that teacher positions are uncertain across the county, not just at Academy Heights, as the system anticipates significant budget cuts.
She said she would not know about year-round staff positions at Pinehurst Elementary and West Pine Elementary until parents let her staff know where they will be going next year.
“That is data I will need in order to make determinations about staff,” Purser said. “Right now, I don’t know the implications about staff next year.”
Concerns Raised
After the meeting, Dr. Pete McKay had questions about potential implications of the new recommendation as the school system must consider enrollment capacities along with projected population growth in the Pinehurst area along with budget cuts.
West Pine Elementary opened this year as a brand new school, but it would require mobile units in order to accommodate both the traditional and year-round programs.
The school was built to ease overcrowding at Pine-hurst Elemen-tary and West End Elementary.
McKay also questioned the justification for closing the system’s highest performing school, which he described as the “shining star” of the county.
He said he is unsure if splitting up the successful collaboration among teachers, administrators and parents now at Academy Heights would help students continue to achieve at levels much higher than their peers at other schools in the system.
“That’s not brag, just fact based on past performance,” he said. “Why disassemble something that’s already winning?”
Academy Heights PTA president Carol Ray was very pleased with the meeting’s outcome and said the PTA board is ready to work with Purser to help make the transition happen.
She also expressed hopes that the equipment, including 12 to 14 Smart Boards and playground equipment, purchased for the school by the PTA, will travel with the students to the new locations.
“Then there won’t be that expense for the schools that we’re coming to,” Ray said.
Purser reminded parents that the Board of Education must approve the new recommendation before she and her staff can begin working on the transition.
“No action is going to be taken until the board makes a decision,” she said.
The Board of Education is scheduled to vote on both the new recommendation and Purser’s entire proposal for the 2011-2012 budget during a meeting at 7 p.m. Monday at Union Pines High School.
Contact Hannah Sharpe at hannah@thepilot.
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Comments
PESParent 2 years, 1 month ago
Why doesn't this article touch on the impact this proposal will have on PES and WPES? Why hasn't Dr.Purser met with parents from these two schools to lay out her new plan? We are very concerned about how this with impact our school and our children. How will Specials work (art, music, etc.)? How will it impact playground and lunch time? Will our class sizes be affected? What happens as our enrollment increases? Will we run out of classroom space? Dr. Puser and the Board have delayed meeting and had extra meetings to accommodate AHES parents. Where are our informational meetings? Why isn't Monday's vote being delayed? None of us have seen the actual proposal. This new proposal will have an effect on 800 current PES and WPES students. We just want the same consideration the 250 students from AHES have received.
noname 2 years, 1 month ago
as well, you should have your say! Come speak out on Monday as that will be the last chance you get!
WPEMom 2 years, 1 month ago
It's parent's like you that have made PES and WPE want nothing to do with the year round program at our school's! We deserve the same courtesy you got to have informational meetings and a chance to propose what we think would work.
AllNatural 2 years, 1 month ago
@PESParent: All very good questions.......I'm a PES parent also and I'll be waiting for the answers!
Clearview 2 years, 1 month ago
The Pilot really needs to do some investigating. There are many parents and members of the community who are NOT happy with the new proposal and are scratching their heads as to how it makes sense and how it saves money. If it only saves 375K I think it makes much more sense to leave the school open for another year and use that time to carefully investigate and think through a plan. The "study" about closing AHES is a joke and was not done with any research methods I am familiar with - it is just a one page summary of talking points.
placid 2 years, 1 month ago
I'm curious.....PES and WPE are closed to transfers for the 2011-2012 school year. How is it that they can accommodate AHES students but not others?
Also, there is talk of moving the 3rd grade at PES back out to the trailers to accommodate the AHES program. We finally had all the students inside the school building where they are safer in severe weather and have larger room capacity this does not make sense.
Clearview 2 years, 1 month ago
Yes, and interestingly, those schools were closed to transfers since prior to the BOE meeting on March 14. Makes you wonder if this was the plan all along? And, I agree, for a brand new school to have to operate with trailers in its 2nd year is absurd. What if 100 BRAC families move to Pinehurst this summer?
concerned_parent 2 years, 1 month ago
@PES Parent, thank you posing many of the questions that we WPE families have as well. My child had to leave PES last year due to overcrowding to potentially be an oversized classroom again. Personally, I don't see how this makes sense. I understand the frustrations of the Academy Heights parents and am very pleased thet Dr. Purser listened to your suggestions and allowed your voices to be heard. The families of PES and WPE are simply asking for the same consideration. We have lots of questions and need a chance to have them answered before the board vote on Monday. We simply need more time.
Clearview 2 years, 1 month ago
Please show up at the BOE tomorrow at 7 and sign up to speak your concerns. Also, email the BOE and Dr. Purser.
PESParent 2 years, 1 month ago
I agree about BRAC. How are these schools going to accommodate the projected influx from Bragg? Splittting AHES between PES and WPE will put us near capacity. I think it's important to have the out of district AHES students go to the schools in their district. We simply don't have the room! It is SO important for parents to e-mail and call BOE members and Dr. Purser to voice their concerns.
jog123 2 years, 1 month ago
I don't understand the difference between the children going to PES and WPES versus SPES. From my understanding quite a few of the parents from Academy Heights live in Southern Pines and drive their children to school each day. So why is it ok for the kids to go PES & WPES but not SPES? It still means AHES will close. I certainly hope it's not because of the socioeconomic status of the children at SPES.
placid 2 years, 1 month ago
If you read the report, AHES uses 2 buses to transport 12 kids in the morning and transport 50 kids in the afternoon. Do the math.....
Clearview 2 years, 1 month ago
Not all, but the majority of AHES children live in the Pinehurst area.
noname 2 years, 1 month ago
plus many of the families work in pinehurst
ImATeacher12 2 years, 1 month ago
What bothers me is how the AHES parents think that the teachers across the county aren't as qualified as the teacher's at AHES. "McKay also questioned the justification for closing the system’s highest performing school, which he described as the “shining star” of the county.
He said he is unsure if splitting up the successful collaboration among teachers, administrators and parents now at Academy Heights would help students continue to achieve at levels much higher than their peers at other schools in the system.
“That’s not brag, just fact based on past performance,” he said. “Why disassemble something that’s already winning?” Statements like this can cause resentment among teachers!
blessherheart 2 years, 1 month ago
It bothers me too. To me they are shooting themselves in the foot the more they speak.
jog123 2 years, 1 month ago
I totally agree with you. So why is it ok for their kids to go to WPE next year but it wasn't last year. I am having a hard time understanding this agrument.
noname 2 years, 1 month ago
I don't believe, even though it's been said, that SP can accomedate all 250 kids. The curriculum is the same no matter year round or traditional.
Wittmer 2 years, 1 month ago
I am confused by many of the concerned parents of PES and WPES questions. Why do you think your classroom sizes would change due to the influx of year round students? The traditional students would be on the same schedule they are on now. Therefore, the year round students who choose this option (if the BOE votes approval for this proposition) would be in different classrooms that are YR classrooms. They would be 6-7 weeks ahead of the traditional schedule, so they wouldn't be in the same class.
Please understand, not all AHES parents think that this is the right decision. In fact, many still are standing strong in belief that this decision needs to be delayed, at least, one year to make sure that the changes being proposed are not only cost effective for the county, but best for ALL involved... not just AHES, but everyone. Also, we have not said that the other county teachers are inadequate or underqualified, we are simply stating that our teachers are wonderful and should stay with the year round program wherever it lands.
PESParent 2 years, 1 month ago
We have heard that AHES will not take any students during the year and that they will have two classes per grade, no matter what your numbers. That is 6 classrooms per school. This limits our space for expansion. With the number of BRAC families predicted to move into our district this could cause a major problem. The traditional program will have to take all those new kids even if AHES numbers are smaller. Now, let me state, we have not seen the proposal. Dr. Purser has not made it available to us. This information is based on conversations with BOE members and word of mouth. All we want are answers. AHES is certainly a successful program, but we don't want it to negatively affect our successful programs. I agree with you, the easiest thing to do would be to keep the school open one more year and really study the matter. Out of curiosity, do you know the number of students at AHES that are out of district?
Wittmer 2 years, 1 month ago
I do not know all the numbers, however, Dr. Purser and the MCS website AHES FAQ page say that 64 are PES district and 84 are WPES district. I believe it also stated somewhere that only 12 children ride the bus in the morning and 50 in the afternoon, so I'm sure there would be combining of the buses. This seems to offer a small savings but certainly not any huge amount.
noname 2 years, 1 month ago
it doesn't matter how many are out of district, they will not be kicked out no matter where the AH program ends up.
mollym01 2 years, 1 month ago
If year round is voted in or not it is still going to affect WPE or PHE. Both schools will be crowded and there will not be enough room for growth. I can only imagine what the pick up and drop off lines will be like at WPE with 100 more cars. Imagine what it will be like on 211 once the road construction starts!
Bflat 2 years, 1 month ago
All of you are being blindsided. Meanwhile a multimillion dollar federal sized JAIL is being constructed in Carthage. Surely the commissioners will come up with the paltry sum to fund the $500,000 shortfall at AHES ! The only thing Purser is now doing is trying to gloss over everything with sweet alternatives when in fact children at the #1 school will be uprooted into a different environment. Purser and others have known this budget shortfall was coming for quite some time, and now it has reached the day of reckoning. Poor planning on the fly and waiting until it has to be done are not in the best interests of Education and the children. Now some are going to sit back and just take all the poor excuses being dished out on why certain things have to be done?
placid 2 years, 1 month ago
I don't think we are all being blindsided - we're all being forced to accept reality. We just spent mulit-millions of dollars on new elementary and middle schools with state of the art equipment, so it's not like we haven't poured millions into our education system. There is room in the current facilities to accomodate the AHES students, especially if they attend the schools in their districts. Why should they get any different treatment than any other student living in Moore County? It's tough times - we've all got to deal with it. And eventually you are all going to have to transition out of AHES to the other schools - i't's not as big a deal as you are making out to be. If anything, they should focus on making the least cuts to the High Schools - no ones looking at Elementary School transcripts.
Bflat 2 years, 1 month ago
The point is being missed. There is money to keep this school and all others without raising a penny of property tax. It's called value stream taxes that create revenue for the county. Look at your cell phone bill and cable tv bill and you will see the Moore County tax on there. Waiting till last minute and dropping the bomb that the #1 school is going to close is absolutely ridiculous. Now, you're going to back down and accept that these children can be absorbed into other schools. That is absolutely wrong and the reality is that you will allow the politicians to forge ahead with their pet project (JAIL) that pads their pockets while children take a back seat due to poor planning and poor funding of education. Repeat after me: "It was known to Purser and the County Commissioners that the national and NC budget cuts were inevitable and funding to make up the shortfalls should already be in place." That is the reality of what is going on. Education does not take priority in this county. A JAIL takes priority. They're spending multimillions on that and can't even fund education properly! Too many people are asleep and not facing reality in the county.
Clearview 2 years, 1 month ago
Thank you, Bflat. You are spot on!!
Bflat 2 years, 1 month ago
Some people are asleep and do not know how the political machine works. It's obvious. And they mindlessly vote a straight ticket without even knowing what the candidates have in mind. The good ole boys club stays in power to pad their pockets, and Education is on the back burner.
ImATeacher12 2 years, 1 month ago
@Wittmer... I am glad you stated that you don't feel that other teachers across Moore County aren't inadequate or underqualified to teach the children from AHES but I was just repeating what Dr. McKay seem to be saying. I agree that the teachers at AHES as well as all teachers in Moore County are doing a wonderful job. But I would love to see these wonderful teachers at AHES teach at a Title 1 school!
jog123 2 years, 1 month ago
me too!
twocentsworth 2 years, 1 month ago
About 33% of the children in AHES are not in the PES or WPE district. Alot (not all) of AHES children are children of hospital employees, so there are children from all over Moore County. I know of someone that called about their child attending AHES and the first question to them was, "do you work at the hospital?". When she said no, then she was told that there was a waiting list. I think that parents of AHES have different reasons for putting their children in AHES and it's not just because of the year round program. Some just don't want their kids attending the district that they live in. As it stands now, if you go to AHES then you automatically go to West Pine Middle and Pinecrest High School. I think that it should also be considered that once the year round program runs out after 5th grade and they go into middle school, then they should be required to go back to the district they live in. This would show how many are really in it for the year round program and who are just placing their child there to avoid going the their own district. I think that the new proposal is not the best choice. Why disrupt 2 schools of 800 for 250, if Southern Pines has the room for them, then they should go with the first plan, should AHES be closed. There has already been an adjustment to West Pine Middle School's start/end time to accommodate the traffic problems between WPE & WPM. This will just add more chaos.
WPEMom 2 years, 1 month ago
Exactly!! Why do 250 students mean more than the 800 who are already at the 2 schools? If it was truly about saving $500,000 then the only option is to go to the Southern Pines schools that already offer year round and have the room for the AHES students.
PESParent 2 years, 1 month ago
33% is ridiculous! Especially since I know many Pinehurst families that tried to get their children into AHES and were put on a waiting list. I think these out of district students should be sent back to the schools in their districts. This would really help with over crowding.
CSmithson 2 years, 1 month ago
It's a sad but true fact that a some AHES parents have been burning up the phone lines to the private schools in Southern Pines, like O'Neal and Episcopal Day School.
So much for it all being about the year-round schedule or the YR public schools in Southern Pines being "too far away." EDS is across the street from Southern Pines Elementary and runs on a traditional schedule. O'Neal is about as far from the traffic circle as SP Primary and also runs on a traditional schedule...
Like Stephen Colbert said in his commentary on the Wake County Schools situation, "what's the use of living in a gated community if my kids go to school and get poor all over them?"
RT 2 years, 1 month ago
I am not sure if I understand this. Are you saying that the fact that "some AHES parents" (How many anyway? Do you have numbers?) have made calls to O'Neal and/or EDS makes all AHES parents hypocrites when they express the strong wish to have a year-round option in the Pinehurst area?
CSmithson 2 years, 1 month ago
Nope, not saying that at all. By the way, Southern Pines is "in the Pinehurst area."
Clearview 2 years, 1 month ago
Seems like you are just trying to be inflammatory.
CSmithson 2 years, 1 month ago
What's more "inflammatory" than some parents' refusal to send their children to ANY public school in the area that is not AHES? The point I left unsaid in my first post was that for some AHES parents, even a traditional calendar IN Pinehurst is apparently less preferable than paying for private school elsewhere.
Once you pull the YR schedule and AHES out of the equation, what becomes one of the biggest differences between the various schools? Socioeconomic status, of course. I went to O'Neal for high school. My son is currently at EDS for preschool (he's going into the YR program at SP Primary later this year). There aren't many poor kids at O'Neal and EDS.
RT 2 years, 1 month ago
Now seriously, how many AHES parents do you know of that refuse to send their children to any public school that is not AHES. I haven't heard this from any AHES parent.
CSmithson 2 years, 1 month ago
I'll work on the explanation for you: 1)AHES closes or is threatened 2)Year-round school is offered at SPPS and SPES (schedule like AHES) 3)Traditional calendar is offered at PES or WPES (close to AHES)
So, AHES parent X has the option of YR school at SPES and SPPS and traditional calendar at PES or WPES.
When Parent X chooses "none of the above" and instead chooses a private school both farther away and without the coveted YR schedule, they are choosing to avoid public schools that are NOT AHES. Pretty simple.
And no, I do not have numbers I can share with you, but I can definitely say without betraying any confidences that EDS has been encouraging parents to get their renewals in so they wont be forced out by former AHES students coming in and taking their classroom seats.
runorbike 2 years, 1 month ago
Thank you CSmithson.
blessherheart 2 years, 1 month ago
Yes... I think Smithson hit the nail on the head. It's not about year round but about a perceived notion of private
WPEMom 2 years, 1 month ago
The Pilot needs to check sources! Dr. Purser did NOT meet with any PES or WPE parents to discuss anything with us. We were blindsided by this. We have asked to be given time just like the AHES parents and staff were given and guess what? We aren't going to be given any extra time, we don't get the same courtesy. So needless to say there will be a lot of people voting differently for the Board in the next election.
mollym01 2 years, 1 month ago
What was the reason for not giving you more time? Was this from the county office or school board? Why the rush?
WPEMom 2 years, 1 month ago
None has been given! We've all been asking those same questions and no one has answered them.
Bflat 2 years, 1 month ago
Add to that the need for a whole new set of County Commissioners who allocate the school funds. TPo3 (Caddell, Picerno & Melton) put the JAIL project through at multi millions, yet didn''t plan for properly funding education. They knew this budget shortfall was coming.
Alistener 2 years, 1 month ago
Can I understand from comments above that AHES will be moved to two separate campuses but the PES and WPE students will not be allowed to attend the year-round program? As a PES parent I am fine with the traditional calendar. But if I choose the year-round option for my (minority) child, will he not be allowed to apply? That's going to make the outrage you've heard in the last month sound like a whisper. If AHES is dismantled, it needs to be dismantled and become PES and WPE not a subset of precious little darlings who are too good to mingle with the general population. What kind of "family" is that?
Wittmer 2 years, 1 month ago
Wow, once again I am astonished at the comments made when referring to the children of AHES! I think that the question of whether or not the YR program will be open to everyone is a GREAT one that should be addressed at the board meeting tomorrow night PRIOR to their vote. I think that they should open it to any and all that would like to take advantage of the YR schedule. However, those who wish to be welcomed into the program should really try to avoid making such obnoxious references to my children and their friends. Shame on you. The decision is up to the county, but I guarantee we want the YR program to grow as much as possible. We are not the ones who put a cap on our program, that was the county. If you and your child wish to join our schedule I welcome you w/ open arms and no snide remarks.
Alistener 2 years, 1 month ago
Hey, hey, hold on there! I am asking for information - notice the question mark. And your own comments (check 10:20 a.m.) and others, made me ask. Of course class sizes might change in the YR - if others are allowed to apply. I'm glad you think others should be accepted - shame on you for accusing me without reading carefully. Don't be so sensitive! But, honestly, haven't you been reading all of these posts over the past few weeks? AHES parents have slammed our wonderful teachers and students in ways I can't believe. It's too late to take those comments back. I'm not accusing you personally, Wittmer, but lots of bitterness has been created by parents who think AHES teachers and students are somehow different and better. Take a deep breath and try to see this from the viewpoint of those who have been insulted and demeaned.
ImATeacher12 2 years, 1 month ago
AMEN ALISTENER... AMEN!!!
girlymonster 2 years, 1 month ago
I totally agree Wittmer- there is no need to be so hateful to us and our children . We didn't ask for this. We don't want our school closed and why some are taking this a personal attack is beyond me. I don't recall reading anything written by an AHE parent even coming close to implying that our "precious little darlings" are too good to mingle with anyone. We don't make the rules Alistener- but you are right on one thing...if the year round option is brought to your school, all existing students should be able to choose which track they want.
CSmithson 2 years, 1 month ago
Wittmer,
I have read your comments and I believe you mean well, but you may be making things worse.
You wrote: "However, those who wish to be welcomed into the program should really try to avoid making such obnoxious references..."
If AHES is closed and the student body sent to other schools, there is no "program" for Alistener to be "welcomed into." Certainly, there will be no program in which you as a parent have some level of welcoming authority.
You wrote: "If you and your child wish to join our schedule I welcome you "
Again, it is not a schedule that belongs to anyone ("our schedule"), especially not to a group from a school which has been closed. AHES (or Moore County Schools for that matter) did not invent and does not have ownership of the concept of the year-round school schedule.
I am sure you don't mean it, but your comments play right into the image that some have of AHES being an little elitist, pseudo-private, school/club (but paid for by tax dollars) where people must be suitably reverent and "welcomed" (granted admission) to be part of.
Wittmer 2 years, 1 month ago
Mr. Smithson, Just as we have always referred to AHES as a family I also think of our YR program as a family. Wherever we land that feeling will remain intact. It is very unfortunate that so many outside of AHES have taken on the "us vs them" mentality. The "program" I referred to is the YR program and I certainly have the authority to welcome anyone I want to anywhere I wish to. I am shocked that my very kind comments are causing you such distress. I don't feel that anyone at AHES feels, as you put it, "elitist, psedo-private, school/club" but many from other schools certainly seem to have self esteem issues and keep portraying us that way. I only want what is best for ALL IN MOORE COUNTY. For the most part all the parents involved have stressed, from the start, that this was a rushed decision with little to no valid evidence to back up the Superintendent's claims. Now it seems that many more have joined our fight. Now that other schools really see how Dr. P's manipulations ARE going to impact everyone there sure seem to be a lot more people shouting that this decision has been rushed.
Let me be clear... Dr P's new proposal is workable for my family. I will have one upcoming Kindergartener and one 4th grader. So I would be one of the parents shuffling between two elementary schools. However, although her newest proposal suits my family's location and schedule, DOES NOT MEAN that I am convinced it is what's best for the county. I do not see documentation where any money will be save by this proposal. Common sense tells me that closing one small campus only to keep two additional campuses open more days a year can not result in savings. (Regardless of the age of the buildings) Not to mention, the previously referenced $20,000/yr in repairs to AHES seems pretty reasonable to me. I'm curious what the repair cost per year are to each of the other schools in the county. Many are almost as old and I can only assume in need of the same type of repairs. Also, please note, no upgrades of any measurable size have been done at AHES in years. It seems to me that this $20,000/yr number comes from repairing toilets, sinks, floors, etc. and I'm pretty sure every other school in the county requires similar maintenance (esp. the older ones).
Regardless, I am hoping that the school board has been paying attention to everyone's concerns... those from ALL schools in the county and taxpayers in general. I think that most can agree that very little documentation has been given and what has is inadequate. The only right decision for the BOE tonight is to remove this line item from the budget. Let's spend the next few months getting all the facts and figures straight and make the best and most informed decision that benefits all of our county and it's children. We will reap the benefits or consequences of tonight's decision for decades to come.
cmr 2 years, 1 month ago
Well said.
cmr 2 years, 1 month ago
For the record, "Well said" is directed at Wittmer and girlymonster.
twocentsworth 2 years, 1 month ago
I found this on the AHES FAQ on the MCS website: "If families at PES wish to switch between the year-round program and traditional program, it may be possible; however, that is dependent on the numbers. The same applies to WPES." It sounds like there will be waiting list. Since not everyone will get a choice, why make PES and WPE year round and traditional? http://www.ncmcs.org/1906104289595160/blank/browse.asp?a=383&BMDRN=2000&BCOB=0&c=56622
placid 2 years, 1 month ago
Since PES and WPE are closed to transfers already, then only those in district should be allowed to attend the YR program. If you live outside of the PES/WPE district then you are on a waiting list. Period.
twocentsworth 2 years, 1 month ago
I was actually referring to the ones that were ALREADY in PES/WPE traditional transferring into the year round program at PES/WPE.
stang 2 years, 1 month ago
Wow, I am shock my your comment! How shallow can an adult be! If you wish for your child to attend simply contact the BOE and they will instuct you on how to apply! I hope your child has a better attitude then you do! Just becasue you a minority things are not handed to you!!!
WLD23 2 years, 1 month ago
WHAT????
slickwilly 2 years, 1 month ago
I cannot believe the parents of the other schools did not think that closing AHES would not affect them. Where did they think the children were going to go? This scares me to think that they are so blind. If this is the case the county really needs to turn all the schools in to year a around and be more like AHES!
WPEMom 2 years, 1 month ago
How about all the school's be traditional! I for one have had nothing but outstanding results from PES and WPE. Oh and by the way my chillds EOG scores (percentages) were higher than the 98% from AHES. So you see there are children who have success that are not from AHES.
slickwilly 2 years, 1 month ago
WPEMom- you are the typical parent I am talking about. I did not mention the test scores. I really do not care about the test scores. I cannot believe that you did not think that closing this school would not affect you and your family. I am very happy that you child was above the 98.4 %. You should be very proud and I hope that YOU can learn from them. Grow up and I hope you do not lead you children by your example.
WPEMom 2 years, 1 month ago
@slickwilly, why do you think I didn't think this wouldN't impact (closing AHES) my childs school or any other school? I NEVER have said that! Of course it would impact other school's. My issue is why over crowd WPE and PES when we have 2 other schools that offer the year round program? Oh that's right, some AHES parent's dont like the Southern Pines location and not because of the distance. When you have to add trailers to schools to house a year round program that's over crowding and with the BRAC project what happens then? IF being a "typical" parent like you are referring to is being VERY involved in my child's education and school, then YES I am a typical parent! As for being proud of my child, that goes without saying! And if being concerned about my childs education ( As I expect all parent's are) means I need to grow up so be it. Take a LONG look in the mirror yourself!
PESParent 2 years, 1 month ago
That is not at all what we think! We knew that the displaced AHES students would end up at our schools. Where else would they go? Our concern has to do with having the two programs in one school. We are concerned about the traditional classes being overcrowded because they may not take new students into the YR program during the school year. All we want are class sizes to be equal in both programs. We want both programs to be treated the same way.
girlymonster 2 years, 1 month ago
Sounds like what we all want.....let's just hope the board is good enough when the vote on Purser's budget....to see how overcrowding isn't going to work for anyone.
slickwilly 2 years, 1 month ago
Think about what you just said. THEY ARE TWO DIFFERENT PROGRAMS IN ONE SCHOOL! The only time they could affect you would be lunch or PE. You guys really need to use your head.
girlymonster 2 years, 1 month ago
Same amount of kids and a lot less teachers- doesn't matter if they are two different programs- taking our space away means overcrowding in all the other schools- especially in the future as the needs grow when more people move here.
slickwilly 2 years, 1 month ago
How can the 5th wealthiest county in the state and have parents that are so ignorant?? This is really mind blowing!!!!!
twocentsworth 2 years, 1 month ago
Are comments like this really necessary? Do you have children effected by this? Oh that's right you're new to the area and your grandchildren are in school up north, but think that you know so much about the Moore County education system. You may want to take the time to read ALL of the comments from all of the articles in The Pilot pertaining to this subject. You may understand the parents/teachers of the other schools frustrations and stop being so harsh to them!
slickwilly 2 years, 1 month ago
Easy twocentsworth, I have read the articles and I have talked to people in the county. I am not being harsh. The facts are the facts. Do you plan on attending tomorrow night?
WPEMom 2 years, 1 month ago
Wow! After reading the above comment and seeing you don't even have children in school in this county is funny! @ slickwilly you have done nothing but criticize and put people down and this doesn't even pertain to you! OUR children are affected and our teachers and staff area affected, we have the right to comment and be upset! You should be ashamed of yourself!
slickwilly 2 years, 1 month ago
I cannot wait to hear how the PUPPET MASTER plays you guys tomorrow night. The schools should have really teamed up and became one force.
Bflat 2 years, 1 month ago
"Plays"....that's it.
mollym01 2 years, 1 month ago
WPEMom, why aren't you guys getting more time? Was this from the county office or the school board? Strange! Why are they in such a rush?
Clearview 2 years, 1 month ago
I think that is what we all want to know. If this plan only saves 375K - why such a rush and why such a hasty decision? Closing a school cannot be undone. To have to operate a brand new school (in a growing area) with trailers is absurd.
tgirl 2 years, 1 month ago
I can understand where a lot of people on here are frustrated with all they hype about AH; I mean, really, I too am tired of hearing about how AH has been throwing around that they're the #1 school. However, I think this whole thing has been a great distraction from the real issues at hand, and that is cutting funding and programs from our children's education. So, if I get this right, by closing AH, they would be saving money, but AH came out in full force and now to "please" them, they want to add YR programs to BOTH PES and WPE, in turn, adding a need for more funding to run the programs at these schools, when in fact, there is a YR program in SP. I don't believe there needs to be a supplement year round program at PES and WPE and I don't believe programs need to be cut from our children's education. What I do believe is that there needs to be some cleaning house in the administration and make cuts there. These kids deserve the best. They are our future.
Emerald 2 years, 1 month ago
So what is the class size going to be for this elite group of students? Maybe 10 per class? Come on. Susan Purser needs to grow a set, and filter this group into their districts, unless thy want to go to Southern Pines. Or since that may not be good enough, get up a little higher on the horse and pay for private school. LOL!
Allthewayhome 2 years, 1 month ago
Has anyone else gotten a giggle after reading the headline and all of the contentious comments? "Reaction Positive to Change" What did I miss?
teufelhunden 2 years, 1 month ago
As an observer, it does appear that WPE and PES students, parents & teachers are getting the short end of the stick. AHES parents: can you elaborate on what you think is wrong with the Southern Pines school? Can you come up with a valid reason why your children cannot possibly go to that school if you already live in that vicinity? Specifics please.
teufelhunden 2 years, 1 month ago
Allthewayhome...REALLY! I thought the same thing. Everyone seems very upset-and rightfully so. I feel for the AHES parents too. Just seems shortsighted and rushed.
truthiswelcome 2 years, 1 month ago
PERFECT SOLUTION!!!!!!!! Pete Mc Kay, and all the other Drs, elite parents !!! Buy AH from the county, keep your staff, and start paying tuition. I'm sure that with the AH Shining Star School under your wealthy wings, it could be self sustaining. Wonderful for all involved, especially since you AHPC "Academy Heights Parents Club" have torn down all the other MCS staffs self esteem. If every teacher in MC only had 12 or 15 students each, I'm sure they would all be rated first in the state. I doubt there will be many open arms waiting for you all at ANY Moore County Public School. I'll be praying for you all, even though it is not politically correct.
Wittmer 2 years, 1 month ago
Why do you think that AHES teachers have 12-15 students each... please check the website (ncschoolreportcards.com or schooldigger.com) and you will see that AHES class sizes are right on track w/ most Moore County schools. On the school report cards page it shows the 09-10 school year totals of class sizes above district average. K-22 kids, 1st - 21, 2nd-22, 3rd-21, 4th - 20 and 5th - 24... and By the way, we have 2 classes of each grade.
PESParent 2 years, 1 month ago
That's a lot less than we have at PES. I know one fifth grade class has 32. Does AHES take new students during the school year like PES and WPES do?
cmr 2 years, 1 month ago
I have been keeping up with the comments being made by both sides for weeks. It appears that AHES parents bringing attention to the amazing ranking of AHES and how the recipe of Teachers, Parents, Community and kids is seen as an attach on other schools. And, by not wanting to lose that combination that works so great, is somehow again an assault. But, when others come on here as well as other forum’s and actually attack and insult not only the school, teachers and parents, but now even the kids it seems to be getting over looked. Since when is it ok or acceptable to call peoples children names? What is wrong with these people. Simply put, Academy Heights is a great school, and they do have amazing test scores, which should be bragged about, so maybe other parents need to be spending more time trying to get their schools to follow the recipe that makes up Academy, and stop trying to tear others down. Also, the excuse has been used by other parents that the kids test so highly due to the high number of stay-at-home moms (even though no one can prove that to be the case) of Academy kids. Is this being said under the assumption that AHES has more supposed stay-at-home moms then any other school in the State? And that there aren’t tons of other schools that have that same advantage? Who exactly did that research? Or is it simply based on people stereo typing what they think Pinehurst is? Seriously, could you be any nastier, and make some more stereotypes? “Pete Mc Kay, and all the other Drs, elite parents” could this stereotype be coming from somewhat of an “elitist” standpoint? Finally, “I'll be praying for you all, even though it is not politically correct”, maybe those who live in glass houses shouldn’t be casting stones. I am so happy that you have the advantage of this not being your school, for now. Who knows maybe next year, or a few years down the road you’ll need the support of the “Elite” AHES Parents to try to keep your school in tact, then, maybe then you’ll see the error in your ways. Until then, I’ll be praying for you to find kindness, understanding and tact.
Allthewayhome 2 years, 1 month ago
If the schools my children attended were being closed, I, too, would be fighting tooth and nail to keep it open and to fight for what I felt was in his and her best interests. Having said that, it is frustrating that I haven't heard one AHES parent "own" the fact that there is a significant difference in the racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic status (demographics) of AHES students versus other elementary schools in the county. It is well documented in the research that student demographics are strong predictors of student test scores. Perhaps that is the key ingredient in the special "recipe". Please understand that my comments are not meant to take anything away from the teachers and staff-whom I'm sure are outstanding. Nor do my comments suggest that parental support isn't a strong contributing factor. However, if you matched the demographics of AHES by pulling out a cohort of like students from other schools in the area, you would likely find similar test scores. It is troubling to me that services for all students will be compromised (orchestra, AIG, reading recovery, etc). Why aren't we all fighting together for the good of ALL the precious children of Moore County?
cmr 2 years, 1 month ago
I couldn’t agree with you more. The entire community should be rallying to get the County to fight for less budget cuts. The County as a whole operates at a minimal per child rate, so there is no reason for Moore County to be asked to make such drastic cuts. The demographic is different for the Academy Heights community, I am not disputing that, but there are differences in every school in the county, that being said, it has been said countless times that the work status of the parents is the only reason that the school tests so well. That is what I have issue with. That is not the only reason, it is just part of what may help the students. The entire package is what makes the difference, the teachers and staff are outstanding, and offer a model that should be replicated, not torn down. I do have a huge issue with the fact that the AHES parents are being constantly attacked for defending their school, many of the posts have been malicious and insulting. I keep reading posts that the AHES parents have been belittling the other schools, which has been the defense for their posts, but I have not found that to be the case. If I had the time I would go back and make a list of all of the posts of AHES parents putting down the other teachers and students, and compare it to a list of the reverse. Honestly, which list would be longer? Easy answer, the second of the two. Unlike many others, these parents are fighting for the school to stay open, or at minimum for the county to take a reasonable amount of time to make such a huge decision and find actual solutions to the problems this will cause, instead of making a rash decision. But, it appears that others either want to lash out in a very offensive nature, or just want to spend a few minutes on their soap boxes. The point is being missed, closing Academy is not a well thought out venture, and the Board should vote no, until they have had an ample amount of time to work out all of the details to find a solution that works best for the entire county.
truthiswelcome 2 years, 1 month ago
In reply to cmr: Thanks for your prayers! Regardless of what you think, I find that I understand and feel much sorrow for the children all around us that are in need. Also kids that need anyone, maybe one of our counties great teachers, all of them, that says to them "good job". Maybe you need a reality check. Lots of our counties kids have been affected by parents unemployment, or maybe forclosure on their home. I worry about those who go hungry, those who are abused. I pray for those that may be cold on winter nights. I pray our government will understand that our children can't pay back China. SORRY, I don't waste time on a year-round school change. Lots of prayers, for lots of people, especially children. As for tact, I was in Pinehurst School for the first 9 years of my education, then Pinecrest. Guess that speaks volumes.
cmr 2 years, 1 month ago
“Reality Check“, maybe you should take into consideration that you have no idea what my economic status is or my current employment status is, or how that might be effecting my life or my daughters. You assume that since I’m defending the Parents of AHES that I am in some way well off. Well, you are sadly mistaken. I as well as many of the others attended Pinehurst Schools as well as Pinecrest, chances are, we actually know each other. Which is sad considering how willing you are to make assumptions and make general categorizations of groups of people.
Again, you and many others are claiming that the AHES parents have “have torn down all the other MCS staffs self esteem”, where are those posts? I see AHES parents fighting for their school, and for the good of the county as a whole. Parents like you are lashing out at them for doing so. Also, you need to check your facts, as Wittmer pointed out, there are NOT 12 to 15 students in the classes at AHES, so that is another preconceived notion that you, and others have tried to beat into the heads of the public. Just because you say it, doesn’t make it true.
placid 2 years, 1 month ago
Just check out the posts from the first article about AHES being on the "Chopping Block" and you can see where this started: posts like: "Absolutely, and the teachers at West End that don't "make the grade" can pack their things because the better teachers from AHES are moving in if this plan is approved." and nbmoore posting statements about "slumming in southern pines"
peacemaker 2 years, 1 month ago
These were unfortunate posts. I was bothered by them, too. However, as I have stated many times over you cannot judge the majority by the few. Most AHES parents do not feel like this. My family is content with the board decision and we are determined to go to WPE next year with a positive attitude and a grateful heart. I know this decision is not the preferred option for the parents at WPE because of overcrowding but at the end of the day I trust that we all will join together to continue with the great things that are happening at WPE. I don't consider this a loss - it's a win for my children because their education will continue on at a great Moore County Public School. Now....the next phase of this fight should be targeted at local and state government. Rally on....we are not finished!
Emerald 2 years, 1 month ago
AHES parents have posted many times about how great and wonderful the teachers are, as if the rest of MCS teachers aren't up to par. That may not be what you mean to say but thats how it sounds. There are plenty of great teachers in our public schools. You should give yourself more credit. Parental involvement is necessary for a childs success in school. Teachers teach, but kids need parental involvement and motivation. Set the bar high wherever you go to school and make it happen. My children have wonderful teachers, and they do not go to AHES.
peacemaker 2 years, 1 month ago
I agree.
cmr 2 years, 1 month ago
As I tried to state before, the number of nasty things have been said towards the AHES community is much higher. I am not trying to say that there haven’t been posts on both sides that are out of line and uncalled for. But, I have not seen AHES parents insult the children of the other schools, on here or the other forums that have been set up. As well as numerous personal attacks that are clearly crossing a line and are not at all constructive for anyone. Somewhere along the way this fight was made a case of “Us vs. Them” and it should have been the community as a whole fighting for what is right all along. No schools should be getting closed when the community is growing daily. I agree, that there are amazing teachers in most of the Moore County Schools, but not all teachers are equal, I personally know people teaching in MCS that should not be. I also agree that parental involvement is key to the development of children. I have been in total support of my family and friends that are now the victims of not only prior rants, but now the school board itself (excluding Dale Frye). I also have family members and friends who are teachers (some of which are now retired) who I also fully support.
Again, I do not support or condone the above mentioned statements, and I truly hope that since posting those the people responsible have realized that they not only were out of line, but unnecessarily cruel and untrue. That being said, bragging about what a strong a dedicated staff AHES has, or now had, is not an attack on other teachers or schools, and shouldn’t be taken that way. It is simply parents being proud of the school that they are a part of who are fighting with all of their might to save a school that they and their children love. Something that if the roles were reversed and a different school was being targeted, I’m sure the parents of those schools would do the same.
Wittmer 2 years, 1 month ago
Well said
Alistener 2 years, 1 month ago
As Emerald just pointed out, teachers and students across Moore County have been eating these cruel comments by AHES parents since the beginning. Check out the archives in The Pilot. It’s not just the direct insults, but the insinuations that if a teacher has low test scores, it’s because of the quality of his/her teaching and that the AHES students are somehow more “amazing” than other students. The general public does not understand that it’s about a child’s home life and support, including economic status. Yes, there is the occasional bad teacher just like in any profession, but Moore County can be proud of ALL of our teachers. If you put an AHES teacher at SPE, her scores will plummet. If you put an SPE teacher (who has been insulted because of low scores) at AHES, his scores will soar. The teaching is always good – it’s about the student population.
peacemaker 2 years, 1 month ago
I agree with this as well.....We all have many reasons to be proud of our schools. Now that we are moving on we will have even more to be proud of....the receiving schools will also see that they are getting wonderful students, teachers and families.
peacemaker 2 years, 1 month ago
I was actually agreeing with cmr and wittmer. That being said I KNOW there are many wonderful teachers across the county. We are blessed!
Alistener 2 years, 1 month ago
WLD23 2 years, 1 month ago
Because of the comments of many parents of AHES, singing the praises of their faculty as if they are second to none, as it stands now, the ones that are suffering the consequences of this whole fiasco are ALL Moore Co. teachers, including AHES teachers. I have no doubt that AHES faculty is good....that's not the issue. The teachers in this county are and will be receiving the backlash from some from the comments. The kids will be just fine if the parents are as supportive as they claim to be. But then again, based on some of the comments I've read, is it really about the kids??
peacemaker 2 years, 1 month ago
Actually, for me it's not so much about my kids. I know that sounds absurd but I have never doubted that they would get a quality education wherever they end up. My concern has been for all of the employees of AHES. My hope for them has been that they have peace of mind concerning job placement. Any school will be lucky to have them just as the children from AHES will be fortunate to have the teachers at the receiving schools. The circle of parents I have relationships with at AHES feel the same way as I do. We respect the board and their decision. It is what is....my family is preparing for the change with a positive attitude.
peacemaker 2 years, 1 month ago
There are mobile units at AHES now. I have no problem with them. I 'm not looking for reasons to have an issue. Seriously, I am very low-maintenance. We're looking forward to being there!
cmr 2 years, 1 month ago
Peacemaker, according to what Dr. P said from the beginning, "all of the AHES teachers" will be placed at other schools. I guess now it's just a waiting game to see if that is the case, or if they, and/or other teachers are going to be without a job.
One thing I think everyone should be able to agree on is, no one should be loosing their jobs. There are more students each year, so if anything there should be more teachers, not less.
peacemaker 2 years, 1 month ago
Agreed! 100%!
mooremedic 2 years, 1 month ago
Man, wouldn't it be nice to have Dr. Gene Riddle back to fix this mess.....
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AHES by WPESsupporter 2 years ago