AimeeBolender  2008-04-23 18:37  DISD (Schools)   

Alliance/AFT is on the record as having reported and been present when individuals reported serious concerns with Spence Principal Davies. We have also been present during discussions with Principal Mary Davies where some of the complaints were laid out for her. We have been clear in communicating our claims with central administrators.Our reporting history spans two school years.

While the principal can not touch me, the folks who work in her building know she can make their lives miserable. Hence, no one else is on the record.

AimeeBolender  2008-01-30 16:54  DISD (Schools)   

Alliance/AFT is not happy with the progress made at Roosevelt. The teachers on the ground tell us there was no change after the visit from Leslie Williams.

Although I asked for Mr. Williams' timeline--in writing--I did not get one. He said he was taking all issues seriously, but would not give me a timeline. It seems to be taking too long to address serious issues which are erroding the school.

AimeeBolender  2008-01-30 12:47  DISD (Schools)   

UPDATE: January 30, 2007 - Principal Myrtle Dixon at center of grade changing allegations (Read the story here) 

On December 20, 2007, at the request of more than 20 Roosevelt staff members, 98% of who are teachers, Alliance/AFT made a public school board presentation. The presentation was the first time we had gone "public" regarding the issues at Roosevelt. However, we deemed the concerns to be serious--enough to warrant a public statement. Below is the full text of the presentation made.

Following the meeting Leslie Williams, the administrator in charge of Roosevelt, made a commitment to us that, following the winter break, he would personally go to Roosevelt. At that time he said he would talk to the teachers and school employees, without the presence of the principal.

Additionally, at the actual school board meeting, Lew Blackburn, Trustee for the geographical area which includes Roosevelt, made it abundantly clear that he did not want to hear of retaliation against the employees for coming forward.

I personally was very proud of the individuals who attended the meeting and were willing to stand up for their school. We need more courageous, passionate people like these. I am optimistic that the issues will be addressed.

AimeeBolender  2008-01-08 19:40  DISD (Schools)   

As president of Alliance/AFT, I enjoy the freedom of not being an employee of the district. (I did teach for many years with Dallas at Cowart, Kimball, and Cochran schools.)

This gives me the freedom from direct retaliation.

However, I cannot totally throw caution to the wind and must speak responsibly. Why? There is always the next issue after the current one.

Salaries, for example.

AimeeBolender  2007-07-23 07:02  DISD (Schools)   

Editorial

I work extremely hard at what I do. I believe in public education and the teachers and school employees who provide it. Bargaining and negotiating for the best deal for students, teachers and school employees in a non-collective bargaining state is very difficult.