In fact, I flash back to the original Valley Oak meeting, when the decision was made to close the school, because it sheds light on the contrast of styles. At that time it was Interim Superintendent Richard Whitmore’s first meeting and he sat back and allowed his staff to make their presentations, to set the tone for the meeting, and then he made some comments.
Flash forward to last night, new Superintendent James Hammond was first to speak. All week long we had read in the papers the staff report, the lawyer’s report, and we were prepared for the worst. But James Hammond took control of this meeting. Instead of having staff present their report, instead of allowing them to set the tone for the meeting, something very different happened.
James Hammond spoke in very general terms and then suggested that they had options, that they did not have to make a decision this evening. And that gave Board President Jim Provenza, in his last meeting, the opening that he needed. And he suggested that if it were possible that the district could meet with the petitioners and that they could hash out their differences.
So instead of conflict from the start, the tone was set that compromise and reconciliation was a possibility and the rest of the board to their credit followed this lead.
Outgoing member Keltie Jones said that if we were going to do this, the best opportunity to succeed would be to work out the differences together. And she acknowledge that many of the issues were small things, although some were large things.
Mike Egan, one of the drafters of the petition, was asked his feelings and he said from the start that they had wanted to sit down and talk through the differences.
According to law, they have 60 from the date they submitted the petition to make a decision on the petition. That would put the 60th day at January 4. However, by mutual consent they can extend that another 30 days. Mr. Egan was not unwilling to extend that deadline but suggested he would also like to see progress.
Should the school board reject the charter proposal there is ample recourse for the petitioners. First, it would go to the county board of education and then the state.
Gina Daleiden also made a good suggestion that each of the board members express their concerns to the district and the petitioners so that these issues can ultimately be addressed.
Tim Taylor was very agreeable to that suggestion and also agreeable to the idea of working out the differences because a rush decision would leave a lot of unhappy people and probably a number of unresolved questions.
For Tim Taylor as for Gina Daleiden the number of students who would attend and if few attended, the viability of the program given the size was the biggest concern.
Julie Cuetara, a parent, PTA president, and school mascot, addressed this point very well later on. First of all, this was not a reason that they could deny the charter. She also pointed out that the state law only required them to gather half the petitions for the projected students. The general belief was that students would come eventually, however, Ms. Cuetara also suggested that they gathered those petitions in a short period of time and she felt that she could collect 400 or 500 if needed.
Sheila Allen wanted to see some of the details such as special education and fiscal services fleshed out. She wanted to see MOU’s (Memorandum of Understanding) not necessarily signed, but at least general points spelled out.
Jim Provenza spoke last. He was appreciative of the work of James Hammond and suggested that he will work in good faith. He thanked the Charter School Proponents for their good and hard work and then spoke in general terms about some of the key programs at Valley Oak. He wanted to preserve the uniqueness of the school, he talked about how special and effective the EL program is, and he urged creativity and cooperation on both sides and suggested that this flexibility can keep this unique school open. He said this is not about lawyers or administrators or even board members, but rather about kids in a school.
James Hammond really took the lead here and suggested good faith efforts to come to an agreement. Such efforts that did not seem possible this week given the tone of the reports coming from staff.
Fred Buderi, one of the leaders from the Davis OPEN group spoke during public comment about his concern about the tone of the staff report but also emphatically said he was very encouraged by comments from the board and superintendent, particularly about having good faith discussions.
Freddie Oakley, the Yolo County Clerk/ Recorder, also spoke during public comment, she gave an impassioned speech about duty, morality, and values. She emphatically told the board and the district to do the right thing (keep Valley Oak open and approve the petition) but also to do it with due diligence.
However, I come back to Superintendent James Hammond now. Because during the course of this week, really just since Sunday, the rhetoric was increasing and Fred Buderi was exactly right, the tone of the staff reports were very negative and divisive.
People on the blog even suggested that the Superintendent had not said anything. They suggested that this was very telling. It is actually fairly typical that his staff draft staff reports, not the Superintendent himself. However, once James Hammond came forward and took the lead on this issue, the tone and rhetoric changed.
There was no doubt during this meeting who was in control, who had set the tone, and who was not very happy about it. A number of people remarked to me about Associate Superintendent Ginni Davis, the author of the resolution. Her body language was atrocious. To the point where people who did not know who she was, were very angry at her and asked me who that was. She was literally writhing in her seat during the time in which James Hammond spoke and difused the situation. She was clearly not happy. Frankly her body language, probably off-camera from those at home, bordered on insubordination.
Staff was used to running the show under previous administrations, but there was no doubt who ran this show. The entire course of this debate changed in the first five minutes, when James Hammond instead allowing the staff report to be presented per the usual, instead, talked about options that the board had to either approve, reject, take no action, or allow staff and charter petitioners to work it out.
Now that the tone has been set and the gauntlet thrown down by the Dr. Hammond that these will occur in good faith, we can sit back and watch to see it unfold. However, one thing I take away from this is how important a strong and confident leader is to this entire process. It was a subtle manner in which Dr. Hammond seized control of this but it is a model that all Superintendents, Chiefs of Staff, City Managers, etc. should look at when their boards are on the brink of a divisive and heated discussion. For the first time, I see why the board decided that James Hammond was the guy for this job, and for the first time, I hope that maybe, just maybe, things are going to get better.
—Doug Paul Davis reporting
Vanguard, Your commentary this morning is right on the money about the leadership skills and negotiations talents exhibited by Dr. James Hammond and the board of education at last eve’s BOE meeting. As has been the case at countless showdowns at the council chambers, the stage was set for a harsh dialogue and divisive decision making process. The recommendation was issued to deny the charter, the charter proponents were there in force, and community members had their two minutes of commentary written. Then a strange thing happened. Board Chair Jim Provenza followed up on the breath of fresh air given to the room by Dr. Hammond, and Jim used his considerable skills to bring the other members of the board along to concensus that the proposal to save Valley Oak School as a charter had merit with some serious good faith negotiations. I can say in all the years I have attended school board and city council meetings, this time I left the chambers thinking: “This is good governance in action”. Of course, a deal is not inked, and heavy lifting is still in order. The expectations are high now in the community that the admin and the charter proponents will hammer out a deal that will be in the best interests of all our students. Nice going, and Happy Holidays! Don
Vanguard, Your commentary this morning is right on the money about the leadership skills and negotiations talents exhibited by Dr. James Hammond and the board of education at last eve’s BOE meeting. As has been the case at countless showdowns at the council chambers, the stage was set for a harsh dialogue and divisive decision making process. The recommendation was issued to deny the charter, the charter proponents were there in force, and community members had their two minutes of commentary written. Then a strange thing happened. Board Chair Jim Provenza followed up on the breath of fresh air given to the room by Dr. Hammond, and Jim used his considerable skills to bring the other members of the board along to concensus that the proposal to save Valley Oak School as a charter had merit with some serious good faith negotiations. I can say in all the years I have attended school board and city council meetings, this time I left the chambers thinking: “This is good governance in action”. Of course, a deal is not inked, and heavy lifting is still in order. The expectations are high now in the community that the admin and the charter proponents will hammer out a deal that will be in the best interests of all our students. Nice going, and Happy Holidays! Don
Vanguard, Your commentary this morning is right on the money about the leadership skills and negotiations talents exhibited by Dr. James Hammond and the board of education at last eve’s BOE meeting. As has been the case at countless showdowns at the council chambers, the stage was set for a harsh dialogue and divisive decision making process. The recommendation was issued to deny the charter, the charter proponents were there in force, and community members had their two minutes of commentary written. Then a strange thing happened. Board Chair Jim Provenza followed up on the breath of fresh air given to the room by Dr. Hammond, and Jim used his considerable skills to bring the other members of the board along to concensus that the proposal to save Valley Oak School as a charter had merit with some serious good faith negotiations. I can say in all the years I have attended school board and city council meetings, this time I left the chambers thinking: “This is good governance in action”. Of course, a deal is not inked, and heavy lifting is still in order. The expectations are high now in the community that the admin and the charter proponents will hammer out a deal that will be in the best interests of all our students. Nice going, and Happy Holidays! Don
Vanguard, Your commentary this morning is right on the money about the leadership skills and negotiations talents exhibited by Dr. James Hammond and the board of education at last eve’s BOE meeting. As has been the case at countless showdowns at the council chambers, the stage was set for a harsh dialogue and divisive decision making process. The recommendation was issued to deny the charter, the charter proponents were there in force, and community members had their two minutes of commentary written. Then a strange thing happened. Board Chair Jim Provenza followed up on the breath of fresh air given to the room by Dr. Hammond, and Jim used his considerable skills to bring the other members of the board along to concensus that the proposal to save Valley Oak School as a charter had merit with some serious good faith negotiations. I can say in all the years I have attended school board and city council meetings, this time I left the chambers thinking: “This is good governance in action”. Of course, a deal is not inked, and heavy lifting is still in order. The expectations are high now in the community that the admin and the charter proponents will hammer out a deal that will be in the best interests of all our students. Nice going, and Happy Holidays! Don
It’s a miracle! A breath of hope, a light in the darkness! I have heard of nothing like this happening in my 37 years in Davis. A weary soul rejoices. A great commentary DPD. Thank you, Dr. Hammond for a new beginning.
It’s a miracle! A breath of hope, a light in the darkness! I have heard of nothing like this happening in my 37 years in Davis. A weary soul rejoices. A great commentary DPD. Thank you, Dr. Hammond for a new beginning.
It’s a miracle! A breath of hope, a light in the darkness! I have heard of nothing like this happening in my 37 years in Davis. A weary soul rejoices. A great commentary DPD. Thank you, Dr. Hammond for a new beginning.
It’s a miracle! A breath of hope, a light in the darkness! I have heard of nothing like this happening in my 37 years in Davis. A weary soul rejoices. A great commentary DPD. Thank you, Dr. Hammond for a new beginning.
When I was involved in racial/school climate issues, our circle use to talk about people in the school district and the City. The question was if a certain person “gets it.” This referred to whether or not their words about caring about the underprivileged, people of color or the misunderstood came from their souls or was just a bunch of hot air. Then there were those that “got it” but didn’t have the guts to stand up for what they felt. It is refreshing to hear that the district and City finally have someone in a place of prominence that both “gets it” and has a back bone. Now there is hope that Davis might actually see actions that match the words and less of the smokescreen/double talk that permeate decisions made here.
When I was involved in racial/school climate issues, our circle use to talk about people in the school district and the City. The question was if a certain person “gets it.” This referred to whether or not their words about caring about the underprivileged, people of color or the misunderstood came from their souls or was just a bunch of hot air. Then there were those that “got it” but didn’t have the guts to stand up for what they felt. It is refreshing to hear that the district and City finally have someone in a place of prominence that both “gets it” and has a back bone. Now there is hope that Davis might actually see actions that match the words and less of the smokescreen/double talk that permeate decisions made here.
When I was involved in racial/school climate issues, our circle use to talk about people in the school district and the City. The question was if a certain person “gets it.” This referred to whether or not their words about caring about the underprivileged, people of color or the misunderstood came from their souls or was just a bunch of hot air. Then there were those that “got it” but didn’t have the guts to stand up for what they felt. It is refreshing to hear that the district and City finally have someone in a place of prominence that both “gets it” and has a back bone. Now there is hope that Davis might actually see actions that match the words and less of the smokescreen/double talk that permeate decisions made here.
When I was involved in racial/school climate issues, our circle use to talk about people in the school district and the City. The question was if a certain person “gets it.” This referred to whether or not their words about caring about the underprivileged, people of color or the misunderstood came from their souls or was just a bunch of hot air. Then there were those that “got it” but didn’t have the guts to stand up for what they felt. It is refreshing to hear that the district and City finally have someone in a place of prominence that both “gets it” and has a back bone. Now there is hope that Davis might actually see actions that match the words and less of the smokescreen/double talk that permeate decisions made here.
Populism on the march again! The Davis spirit LIVES!
Populism on the march again! The Davis spirit LIVES!
Populism on the march again! The Davis spirit LIVES!
Populism on the march again! The Davis spirit LIVES!
Did you catch Harris’ body language?
Grimacing and deflated like a balloon that had just been punctured.
Did you catch Harris’ body language?
Grimacing and deflated like a balloon that had just been punctured.
Did you catch Harris’ body language?
Grimacing and deflated like a balloon that had just been punctured.
Did you catch Harris’ body language?
Grimacing and deflated like a balloon that had just been punctured.
I was standing in a position to see the entire audience throughout the evening. I really don’t agree with the assessments about “body language.” This is a very positive outcome and I think the staff will be on board. The Board and Superintendent set the tone, and the staff has been given clear direction. That is what was missing before.
I was standing in a position to see the entire audience throughout the evening. I really don’t agree with the assessments about “body language.” This is a very positive outcome and I think the staff will be on board. The Board and Superintendent set the tone, and the staff has been given clear direction. That is what was missing before.
I was standing in a position to see the entire audience throughout the evening. I really don’t agree with the assessments about “body language.” This is a very positive outcome and I think the staff will be on board. The Board and Superintendent set the tone, and the staff has been given clear direction. That is what was missing before.
I was standing in a position to see the entire audience throughout the evening. I really don’t agree with the assessments about “body language.” This is a very positive outcome and I think the staff will be on board. The Board and Superintendent set the tone, and the staff has been given clear direction. That is what was missing before.
that’s great to hear. hopefully this will all work out.
that’s great to hear. hopefully this will all work out.
that’s great to hear. hopefully this will all work out.
that’s great to hear. hopefully this will all work out.
Kudos to Hammond!!! Let’s face it. He knows the charter school petition is viable, the VOCS proponents will appeal if necessary, and to have the school board’s resolution to deny the charter petition overridden by the county/state would be a black eye on his watch. There was no way he was going to support that!!!
As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling. The public comment portion of the evening was the most informative, and interesting. It showed the charter proponents are cooperating in every way they know how. Frankly, it made the school board’s comments appear small in comparison. It also made the love fest at the beginning an embarrassment.
Dweezil was magnificent. Freddy Oakly was masterful. The teacher from a successful charter school was outstanding. Good for the lady who said to make this decision by January 10. And I would have to say even the school board itself was not enamored of their own lawyer!!!
DPD got it exactly right. Hammond could see the writing on the wall, and had the guts to do what was in the best interests of EVERYONE, including the school board, even if they don’t know it yet!!!
The school board has created its own financial nightmare, and is now going to have to find other solutions to their fiscal problems than closing a viable school. This was one of the greatest examples of “people power” I have ever seen!!! Citizens can make a difference when they stand up for what they believe in, and do whatever is necessary to make things work the right way.
No question, our other leaders in the city, county, state, and federal gov’t could take a lesson from 1) the VOCS proponents; 2) those who have spoken out about corruption at the school board; 3) our new SUPER SUPERintendent, James Hammond – who stepped up to the plate and had the courage to not allow district staff to provide cover for a bad decision. What a great new beginning for Davis schools and our children!!!
Kudos to Hammond!!! Let’s face it. He knows the charter school petition is viable, the VOCS proponents will appeal if necessary, and to have the school board’s resolution to deny the charter petition overridden by the county/state would be a black eye on his watch. There was no way he was going to support that!!!
As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling. The public comment portion of the evening was the most informative, and interesting. It showed the charter proponents are cooperating in every way they know how. Frankly, it made the school board’s comments appear small in comparison. It also made the love fest at the beginning an embarrassment.
Dweezil was magnificent. Freddy Oakly was masterful. The teacher from a successful charter school was outstanding. Good for the lady who said to make this decision by January 10. And I would have to say even the school board itself was not enamored of their own lawyer!!!
DPD got it exactly right. Hammond could see the writing on the wall, and had the guts to do what was in the best interests of EVERYONE, including the school board, even if they don’t know it yet!!!
The school board has created its own financial nightmare, and is now going to have to find other solutions to their fiscal problems than closing a viable school. This was one of the greatest examples of “people power” I have ever seen!!! Citizens can make a difference when they stand up for what they believe in, and do whatever is necessary to make things work the right way.
No question, our other leaders in the city, county, state, and federal gov’t could take a lesson from 1) the VOCS proponents; 2) those who have spoken out about corruption at the school board; 3) our new SUPER SUPERintendent, James Hammond – who stepped up to the plate and had the courage to not allow district staff to provide cover for a bad decision. What a great new beginning for Davis schools and our children!!!
Kudos to Hammond!!! Let’s face it. He knows the charter school petition is viable, the VOCS proponents will appeal if necessary, and to have the school board’s resolution to deny the charter petition overridden by the county/state would be a black eye on his watch. There was no way he was going to support that!!!
As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling. The public comment portion of the evening was the most informative, and interesting. It showed the charter proponents are cooperating in every way they know how. Frankly, it made the school board’s comments appear small in comparison. It also made the love fest at the beginning an embarrassment.
Dweezil was magnificent. Freddy Oakly was masterful. The teacher from a successful charter school was outstanding. Good for the lady who said to make this decision by January 10. And I would have to say even the school board itself was not enamored of their own lawyer!!!
DPD got it exactly right. Hammond could see the writing on the wall, and had the guts to do what was in the best interests of EVERYONE, including the school board, even if they don’t know it yet!!!
The school board has created its own financial nightmare, and is now going to have to find other solutions to their fiscal problems than closing a viable school. This was one of the greatest examples of “people power” I have ever seen!!! Citizens can make a difference when they stand up for what they believe in, and do whatever is necessary to make things work the right way.
No question, our other leaders in the city, county, state, and federal gov’t could take a lesson from 1) the VOCS proponents; 2) those who have spoken out about corruption at the school board; 3) our new SUPER SUPERintendent, James Hammond – who stepped up to the plate and had the courage to not allow district staff to provide cover for a bad decision. What a great new beginning for Davis schools and our children!!!
Kudos to Hammond!!! Let’s face it. He knows the charter school petition is viable, the VOCS proponents will appeal if necessary, and to have the school board’s resolution to deny the charter petition overridden by the county/state would be a black eye on his watch. There was no way he was going to support that!!!
As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling. The public comment portion of the evening was the most informative, and interesting. It showed the charter proponents are cooperating in every way they know how. Frankly, it made the school board’s comments appear small in comparison. It also made the love fest at the beginning an embarrassment.
Dweezil was magnificent. Freddy Oakly was masterful. The teacher from a successful charter school was outstanding. Good for the lady who said to make this decision by January 10. And I would have to say even the school board itself was not enamored of their own lawyer!!!
DPD got it exactly right. Hammond could see the writing on the wall, and had the guts to do what was in the best interests of EVERYONE, including the school board, even if they don’t know it yet!!!
The school board has created its own financial nightmare, and is now going to have to find other solutions to their fiscal problems than closing a viable school. This was one of the greatest examples of “people power” I have ever seen!!! Citizens can make a difference when they stand up for what they believe in, and do whatever is necessary to make things work the right way.
No question, our other leaders in the city, county, state, and federal gov’t could take a lesson from 1) the VOCS proponents; 2) those who have spoken out about corruption at the school board; 3) our new SUPER SUPERintendent, James Hammond – who stepped up to the plate and had the courage to not allow district staff to provide cover for a bad decision. What a great new beginning for Davis schools and our children!!!
I’d like to make a point here. We have a rare opportunity at the moment, a fairly narrow window in which the consensus seems to be moving towards a charter approval. There are lots of details to be worked out. But a few days ago I would have said that the direction was towards confrontation, whereas now it is towards cooperation.
Members of the school board, current and incoming, read this blog. Staff members read this blog. Continuing to demonize people could harm the atmosphere and impede the process.
Keltie Jones made a comment last night, in her outgoing remarks, about the impact of hostile emails on people in public life. The blogosphere, as Arianna Huffington likes to call it, has different rules. But please be aware that remarks made here can poison the atmosphere elsewhere.
I’d like to make a point here. We have a rare opportunity at the moment, a fairly narrow window in which the consensus seems to be moving towards a charter approval. There are lots of details to be worked out. But a few days ago I would have said that the direction was towards confrontation, whereas now it is towards cooperation.
Members of the school board, current and incoming, read this blog. Staff members read this blog. Continuing to demonize people could harm the atmosphere and impede the process.
Keltie Jones made a comment last night, in her outgoing remarks, about the impact of hostile emails on people in public life. The blogosphere, as Arianna Huffington likes to call it, has different rules. But please be aware that remarks made here can poison the atmosphere elsewhere.
I’d like to make a point here. We have a rare opportunity at the moment, a fairly narrow window in which the consensus seems to be moving towards a charter approval. There are lots of details to be worked out. But a few days ago I would have said that the direction was towards confrontation, whereas now it is towards cooperation.
Members of the school board, current and incoming, read this blog. Staff members read this blog. Continuing to demonize people could harm the atmosphere and impede the process.
Keltie Jones made a comment last night, in her outgoing remarks, about the impact of hostile emails on people in public life. The blogosphere, as Arianna Huffington likes to call it, has different rules. But please be aware that remarks made here can poison the atmosphere elsewhere.
I’d like to make a point here. We have a rare opportunity at the moment, a fairly narrow window in which the consensus seems to be moving towards a charter approval. There are lots of details to be worked out. But a few days ago I would have said that the direction was towards confrontation, whereas now it is towards cooperation.
Members of the school board, current and incoming, read this blog. Staff members read this blog. Continuing to demonize people could harm the atmosphere and impede the process.
Keltie Jones made a comment last night, in her outgoing remarks, about the impact of hostile emails on people in public life. The blogosphere, as Arianna Huffington likes to call it, has different rules. But please be aware that remarks made here can poison the atmosphere elsewhere.
In my dealings with the District, Ginni Davis has proven an able administrator. I’ve not always agreed with her, but she is decisive, fair, and willing to make tough decisions when need be. Let’s hope Dr. Hammond is everything you paint him as, but it sounds to me like he is a skilled politicial/administrator, who saw that the school board was being put in a tough position, and helped them to navigate through to a nondecision. He gave them excellent cover, especially Jim Provenza. I personally am rooting for the Valley Oak charter school, but I also have enough respect for Ginni Davis to believe there is some substance to any objections or concerns she and other district staff may have. It may be that concern is not actionable, as it is more likely budget-driven than related to the actual charter proposal, so Dr. Hammond gets kudos for his steering. But I also believe it quite difficult to believe that the new Superintendant had nothing to do with the resolution to deny the charter, or that he didn’t give his blessing to it prior to being issued by the district. The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
In my dealings with the District, Ginni Davis has proven an able administrator. I’ve not always agreed with her, but she is decisive, fair, and willing to make tough decisions when need be. Let’s hope Dr. Hammond is everything you paint him as, but it sounds to me like he is a skilled politicial/administrator, who saw that the school board was being put in a tough position, and helped them to navigate through to a nondecision. He gave them excellent cover, especially Jim Provenza. I personally am rooting for the Valley Oak charter school, but I also have enough respect for Ginni Davis to believe there is some substance to any objections or concerns she and other district staff may have. It may be that concern is not actionable, as it is more likely budget-driven than related to the actual charter proposal, so Dr. Hammond gets kudos for his steering. But I also believe it quite difficult to believe that the new Superintendant had nothing to do with the resolution to deny the charter, or that he didn’t give his blessing to it prior to being issued by the district. The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
In my dealings with the District, Ginni Davis has proven an able administrator. I’ve not always agreed with her, but she is decisive, fair, and willing to make tough decisions when need be. Let’s hope Dr. Hammond is everything you paint him as, but it sounds to me like he is a skilled politicial/administrator, who saw that the school board was being put in a tough position, and helped them to navigate through to a nondecision. He gave them excellent cover, especially Jim Provenza. I personally am rooting for the Valley Oak charter school, but I also have enough respect for Ginni Davis to believe there is some substance to any objections or concerns she and other district staff may have. It may be that concern is not actionable, as it is more likely budget-driven than related to the actual charter proposal, so Dr. Hammond gets kudos for his steering. But I also believe it quite difficult to believe that the new Superintendant had nothing to do with the resolution to deny the charter, or that he didn’t give his blessing to it prior to being issued by the district. The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
In my dealings with the District, Ginni Davis has proven an able administrator. I’ve not always agreed with her, but she is decisive, fair, and willing to make tough decisions when need be. Let’s hope Dr. Hammond is everything you paint him as, but it sounds to me like he is a skilled politicial/administrator, who saw that the school board was being put in a tough position, and helped them to navigate through to a nondecision. He gave them excellent cover, especially Jim Provenza. I personally am rooting for the Valley Oak charter school, but I also have enough respect for Ginni Davis to believe there is some substance to any objections or concerns she and other district staff may have. It may be that concern is not actionable, as it is more likely budget-driven than related to the actual charter proposal, so Dr. Hammond gets kudos for his steering. But I also believe it quite difficult to believe that the new Superintendant had nothing to do with the resolution to deny the charter, or that he didn’t give his blessing to it prior to being issued by the district. The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
I thought Davis worked for Hammond.
In any event, Hammond is relying upon outside community organizing to empower him inside the District offices and with the Board, and that might have displeased Davis.
With new board members about to arrive, it is critical that this relationship be strengthened. Otherwise, at some point in the future, a coalition of Board members (past and present) along with disgruntled long time staff, will take advantage of public apathy to reassert themselves.
It is possible that everyone has seen the light, and is willing to move forward to make the Valley Oak charter school a reality, but, as a conservative Republican President once said, “Trust, But Verify“. I suspect that once the new Board members are seated, there will be a few more rocks in the road to be removed.
–Richard Estes
The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
I thought Davis worked for Hammond.
In any event, Hammond is relying upon outside community organizing to empower him inside the District offices and with the Board, and that might have displeased Davis.
With new board members about to arrive, it is critical that this relationship be strengthened. Otherwise, at some point in the future, a coalition of Board members (past and present) along with disgruntled long time staff, will take advantage of public apathy to reassert themselves.
It is possible that everyone has seen the light, and is willing to move forward to make the Valley Oak charter school a reality, but, as a conservative Republican President once said, “Trust, But Verify“. I suspect that once the new Board members are seated, there will be a few more rocks in the road to be removed.
–Richard Estes
The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
I thought Davis worked for Hammond.
In any event, Hammond is relying upon outside community organizing to empower him inside the District offices and with the Board, and that might have displeased Davis.
With new board members about to arrive, it is critical that this relationship be strengthened. Otherwise, at some point in the future, a coalition of Board members (past and present) along with disgruntled long time staff, will take advantage of public apathy to reassert themselves.
It is possible that everyone has seen the light, and is willing to move forward to make the Valley Oak charter school a reality, but, as a conservative Republican President once said, “Trust, But Verify“. I suspect that once the new Board members are seated, there will be a few more rocks in the road to be removed.
–Richard Estes
The same goes for the legal opinion. If Ginni Davis had poor body language last night (didn’t see the meeting myself, and appears to be differing viewpoints on that in this blog), my guess is it was because she got stabbed in the back by Dr. Hammond and the board as the approach changed after gauging the political winds.
I thought Davis worked for Hammond.
In any event, Hammond is relying upon outside community organizing to empower him inside the District offices and with the Board, and that might have displeased Davis.
With new board members about to arrive, it is critical that this relationship be strengthened. Otherwise, at some point in the future, a coalition of Board members (past and present) along with disgruntled long time staff, will take advantage of public apathy to reassert themselves.
It is possible that everyone has seen the light, and is willing to move forward to make the Valley Oak charter school a reality, but, as a conservative Republican President once said, “Trust, But Verify“. I suspect that once the new Board members are seated, there will be a few more rocks in the road to be removed.
–Richard Estes
I’m with Don Shor, now’s a time to be nice. I feel my remarks last night were too preachy…I didn’t get my point accross as nicely as I should have. I think we need to give Hammond a chance. He gets high points from me for naming the elephant in the room — that Valley Oak serves the poorest families in Davis — God bless him for that.
We always have an appeal available if it turns bad.
I’m with Don Shor, now’s a time to be nice. I feel my remarks last night were too preachy…I didn’t get my point accross as nicely as I should have. I think we need to give Hammond a chance. He gets high points from me for naming the elephant in the room — that Valley Oak serves the poorest families in Davis — God bless him for that.
We always have an appeal available if it turns bad.
I’m with Don Shor, now’s a time to be nice. I feel my remarks last night were too preachy…I didn’t get my point accross as nicely as I should have. I think we need to give Hammond a chance. He gets high points from me for naming the elephant in the room — that Valley Oak serves the poorest families in Davis — God bless him for that.
We always have an appeal available if it turns bad.
I’m with Don Shor, now’s a time to be nice. I feel my remarks last night were too preachy…I didn’t get my point accross as nicely as I should have. I think we need to give Hammond a chance. He gets high points from me for naming the elephant in the room — that Valley Oak serves the poorest families in Davis — God bless him for that.
We always have an appeal available if it turns bad.
i dunno. i watched the meeting, as well as many others. Hammond is great & smart but lets keep our expectations high for a 200,000 per year public employee, or any city leaders for that matter. we’ve settled far too long for mediocrity and talkers instead of listeners.
i’m all for heaping praise as this blog post has but lets give some credit for the passion and tenacity of the valley oak proponents who ultimately brought us to this position.
everyone knows this is the way forward. what freddie oakley had to say was simply awesome. she is one of the few leaders this community has. i hope James Hammond becomes one as well.
i dunno. i watched the meeting, as well as many others. Hammond is great & smart but lets keep our expectations high for a 200,000 per year public employee, or any city leaders for that matter. we’ve settled far too long for mediocrity and talkers instead of listeners.
i’m all for heaping praise as this blog post has but lets give some credit for the passion and tenacity of the valley oak proponents who ultimately brought us to this position.
everyone knows this is the way forward. what freddie oakley had to say was simply awesome. she is one of the few leaders this community has. i hope James Hammond becomes one as well.
i dunno. i watched the meeting, as well as many others. Hammond is great & smart but lets keep our expectations high for a 200,000 per year public employee, or any city leaders for that matter. we’ve settled far too long for mediocrity and talkers instead of listeners.
i’m all for heaping praise as this blog post has but lets give some credit for the passion and tenacity of the valley oak proponents who ultimately brought us to this position.
everyone knows this is the way forward. what freddie oakley had to say was simply awesome. she is one of the few leaders this community has. i hope James Hammond becomes one as well.
i dunno. i watched the meeting, as well as many others. Hammond is great & smart but lets keep our expectations high for a 200,000 per year public employee, or any city leaders for that matter. we’ve settled far too long for mediocrity and talkers instead of listeners.
i’m all for heaping praise as this blog post has but lets give some credit for the passion and tenacity of the valley oak proponents who ultimately brought us to this position.
everyone knows this is the way forward. what freddie oakley had to say was simply awesome. she is one of the few leaders this community has. i hope James Hammond becomes one as well.
I wouldn’t worry, Doug Paul will evicerate him when the opportunity arises. I don’t always or even often agree with this blog, but I will give it one thing, he tends to praise people when he feels it is warranted but he’ll turn on them on a dime when the opportunity arises. They don’t call it the dark underbelly for nothing.
I wouldn’t worry, Doug Paul will evicerate him when the opportunity arises. I don’t always or even often agree with this blog, but I will give it one thing, he tends to praise people when he feels it is warranted but he’ll turn on them on a dime when the opportunity arises. They don’t call it the dark underbelly for nothing.
I wouldn’t worry, Doug Paul will evicerate him when the opportunity arises. I don’t always or even often agree with this blog, but I will give it one thing, he tends to praise people when he feels it is warranted but he’ll turn on them on a dime when the opportunity arises. They don’t call it the dark underbelly for nothing.
I wouldn’t worry, Doug Paul will evicerate him when the opportunity arises. I don’t always or even often agree with this blog, but I will give it one thing, he tends to praise people when he feels it is warranted but he’ll turn on them on a dime when the opportunity arises. They don’t call it the dark underbelly for nothing.
Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.Public expressions of “Aren’t we wonderful!” and then a return to inattention and apathy will allow the torpedoing of this early positive movement. I’m sure no one labors under the illusion that the VO Charter School opponents experienced a religious conversion last evening .
Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.Public expressions of “Aren’t we wonderful!” and then a return to inattention and apathy will allow the torpedoing of this early positive movement. I’m sure no one labors under the illusion that the VO Charter School opponents experienced a religious conversion last evening .
Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.Public expressions of “Aren’t we wonderful!” and then a return to inattention and apathy will allow the torpedoing of this early positive movement. I’m sure no one labors under the illusion that the VO Charter School opponents experienced a religious conversion last evening .
Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.Public expressions of “Aren’t we wonderful!” and then a return to inattention and apathy will allow the torpedoing of this early positive movement. I’m sure no one labors under the illusion that the VO Charter School opponents experienced a religious conversion last evening .
If the comments from charter school supporters seem a bit biting, then readers should realize that it’s out of frustration from trying to work in good faith with people who already have an agenda and their minds made up.
It’s a typical pattern in this town—people try to make things better by being nice, then get frustrated when they realize they’re being played the fool, they voice their frustration and are labeled “angry activists” by those who aren’t involved and don’t know the whole history.
Now that Hammond re-opened the channels of dialogue, I have faith that the charter school supporters will continue to act professionally and “nicely”. It’s heartening to hear that the new superintendent might “get it” with respect to students of color and those not considered by some as “real Davis material.” Only time will tell if Hammond is for real. Remember how long David Murphy had people fooled…
If the comments from charter school supporters seem a bit biting, then readers should realize that it’s out of frustration from trying to work in good faith with people who already have an agenda and their minds made up.
It’s a typical pattern in this town—people try to make things better by being nice, then get frustrated when they realize they’re being played the fool, they voice their frustration and are labeled “angry activists” by those who aren’t involved and don’t know the whole history.
Now that Hammond re-opened the channels of dialogue, I have faith that the charter school supporters will continue to act professionally and “nicely”. It’s heartening to hear that the new superintendent might “get it” with respect to students of color and those not considered by some as “real Davis material.” Only time will tell if Hammond is for real. Remember how long David Murphy had people fooled…
If the comments from charter school supporters seem a bit biting, then readers should realize that it’s out of frustration from trying to work in good faith with people who already have an agenda and their minds made up.
It’s a typical pattern in this town—people try to make things better by being nice, then get frustrated when they realize they’re being played the fool, they voice their frustration and are labeled “angry activists” by those who aren’t involved and don’t know the whole history.
Now that Hammond re-opened the channels of dialogue, I have faith that the charter school supporters will continue to act professionally and “nicely”. It’s heartening to hear that the new superintendent might “get it” with respect to students of color and those not considered by some as “real Davis material.” Only time will tell if Hammond is for real. Remember how long David Murphy had people fooled…
If the comments from charter school supporters seem a bit biting, then readers should realize that it’s out of frustration from trying to work in good faith with people who already have an agenda and their minds made up.
It’s a typical pattern in this town—people try to make things better by being nice, then get frustrated when they realize they’re being played the fool, they voice their frustration and are labeled “angry activists” by those who aren’t involved and don’t know the whole history.
Now that Hammond re-opened the channels of dialogue, I have faith that the charter school supporters will continue to act professionally and “nicely”. It’s heartening to hear that the new superintendent might “get it” with respect to students of color and those not considered by some as “real Davis material.” Only time will tell if Hammond is for real. Remember how long David Murphy had people fooled…
Major kudos to David Greenwald and The Davis Vanguard!
Your blog has become THE premier blog in our city and our county. I don’t always agree with The Vanguard, but it doesn’t matter. What does matter is that your blog provide us with the most up-to-date information and analysis while allowing us the opportunity to vent, debate, discuss, and dialogue.
Thank you DPD! Keep up the great work and Happy Hanukkah!
Major kudos to David Greenwald and The Davis Vanguard!
Your blog has become THE premier blog in our city and our county. I don’t always agree with The Vanguard, but it doesn’t matter. What does matter is that your blog provide us with the most up-to-date information and analysis while allowing us the opportunity to vent, debate, discuss, and dialogue.
Thank you DPD! Keep up the great work and Happy Hanukkah!
Major kudos to David Greenwald and The Davis Vanguard!
Your blog has become THE premier blog in our city and our county. I don’t always agree with The Vanguard, but it doesn’t matter. What does matter is that your blog provide us with the most up-to-date information and analysis while allowing us the opportunity to vent, debate, discuss, and dialogue.
Thank you DPD! Keep up the great work and Happy Hanukkah!
Major kudos to David Greenwald and The Davis Vanguard!
Your blog has become THE premier blog in our city and our county. I don’t always agree with The Vanguard, but it doesn’t matter. What does matter is that your blog provide us with the most up-to-date information and analysis while allowing us the opportunity to vent, debate, discuss, and dialogue.
Thank you DPD! Keep up the great work and Happy Hanukkah!
“As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling.”
It is obvious that Jim did his homework and worked with James Hammond to come up with a solution before the meeting ever occurred. This is very much Jim’s style – doing the hard work, but letting others shine – and his low-key style during meetings is often misinterpreted as being ineffectual. Rather than having the meeting to turn into something ugly and divisive, a solution was found that will go a lot further in getting toward the goal of opening a charter school, than a long public comment period. Jim has spoken out numerous times in support for Valley Oak, so I don’t know where this criticism comes from. Kudos to James Hammond and Jim Provenza for working this out and keeping the VO Charter proposal very much alive.
“As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling.”
It is obvious that Jim did his homework and worked with James Hammond to come up with a solution before the meeting ever occurred. This is very much Jim’s style – doing the hard work, but letting others shine – and his low-key style during meetings is often misinterpreted as being ineffectual. Rather than having the meeting to turn into something ugly and divisive, a solution was found that will go a lot further in getting toward the goal of opening a charter school, than a long public comment period. Jim has spoken out numerous times in support for Valley Oak, so I don’t know where this criticism comes from. Kudos to James Hammond and Jim Provenza for working this out and keeping the VO Charter proposal very much alive.
“As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling.”
It is obvious that Jim did his homework and worked with James Hammond to come up with a solution before the meeting ever occurred. This is very much Jim’s style – doing the hard work, but letting others shine – and his low-key style during meetings is often misinterpreted as being ineffectual. Rather than having the meeting to turn into something ugly and divisive, a solution was found that will go a lot further in getting toward the goal of opening a charter school, than a long public comment period. Jim has spoken out numerous times in support for Valley Oak, so I don’t know where this criticism comes from. Kudos to James Hammond and Jim Provenza for working this out and keeping the VO Charter proposal very much alive.
“As for Provenza – how about his comment to eliminate or cut short public comment??? To me, that was very telling.”
It is obvious that Jim did his homework and worked with James Hammond to come up with a solution before the meeting ever occurred. This is very much Jim’s style – doing the hard work, but letting others shine – and his low-key style during meetings is often misinterpreted as being ineffectual. Rather than having the meeting to turn into something ugly and divisive, a solution was found that will go a lot further in getting toward the goal of opening a charter school, than a long public comment period. Jim has spoken out numerous times in support for Valley Oak, so I don’t know where this criticism comes from. Kudos to James Hammond and Jim Provenza for working this out and keeping the VO Charter proposal very much alive.
I agree with campaign watcher. Television watcher needs to give credit where credit is due. Repeatedly, Provenza has been a supporter of Valley Oak – and it was In large part BECAUSE of his support and leadership, not to mention his hard work that Valley Oak wasn’t ‘killed’ last night. You obviously are putting a certain spin on last nights events that don’t jive with the observations of others who were at the meeting or who also watched it on television.
Also, don’t be so darned critical! ALL out going members of public bodies make statements about their years of service to the community. It was not a love fest. Would you rather that the board members said nasty things about each other. I thought the remarks of ALL the board members were appropriate and with merit. Quit being such a sour grape!
I agree with campaign watcher. Television watcher needs to give credit where credit is due. Repeatedly, Provenza has been a supporter of Valley Oak – and it was In large part BECAUSE of his support and leadership, not to mention his hard work that Valley Oak wasn’t ‘killed’ last night. You obviously are putting a certain spin on last nights events that don’t jive with the observations of others who were at the meeting or who also watched it on television.
Also, don’t be so darned critical! ALL out going members of public bodies make statements about their years of service to the community. It was not a love fest. Would you rather that the board members said nasty things about each other. I thought the remarks of ALL the board members were appropriate and with merit. Quit being such a sour grape!
I agree with campaign watcher. Television watcher needs to give credit where credit is due. Repeatedly, Provenza has been a supporter of Valley Oak – and it was In large part BECAUSE of his support and leadership, not to mention his hard work that Valley Oak wasn’t ‘killed’ last night. You obviously are putting a certain spin on last nights events that don’t jive with the observations of others who were at the meeting or who also watched it on television.
Also, don’t be so darned critical! ALL out going members of public bodies make statements about their years of service to the community. It was not a love fest. Would you rather that the board members said nasty things about each other. I thought the remarks of ALL the board members were appropriate and with merit. Quit being such a sour grape!
I agree with campaign watcher. Television watcher needs to give credit where credit is due. Repeatedly, Provenza has been a supporter of Valley Oak – and it was In large part BECAUSE of his support and leadership, not to mention his hard work that Valley Oak wasn’t ‘killed’ last night. You obviously are putting a certain spin on last nights events that don’t jive with the observations of others who were at the meeting or who also watched it on television.
Also, don’t be so darned critical! ALL out going members of public bodies make statements about their years of service to the community. It was not a love fest. Would you rather that the board members said nasty things about each other. I thought the remarks of ALL the board members were appropriate and with merit. Quit being such a sour grape!
By the way, public comment was not cut short. Everyone was given a full three minutes to speak as has always been the case under Provenza’s leadership.
By the way, public comment was not cut short. Everyone was given a full three minutes to speak as has always been the case under Provenza’s leadership.
By the way, public comment was not cut short. Everyone was given a full three minutes to speak as has always been the case under Provenza’s leadership.
By the way, public comment was not cut short. Everyone was given a full three minutes to speak as has always been the case under Provenza’s leadership.
The kudos goes to JAMES HAMMOND. He had the courage to make this suggestion AND go from negative to positive.
Provenza had the chance to do this, but didn’t until Hammond took the lead.
Good work VO parents, activists, community members! Power to the people.
The kudos goes to JAMES HAMMOND. He had the courage to make this suggestion AND go from negative to positive.
Provenza had the chance to do this, but didn’t until Hammond took the lead.
Good work VO parents, activists, community members! Power to the people.
The kudos goes to JAMES HAMMOND. He had the courage to make this suggestion AND go from negative to positive.
Provenza had the chance to do this, but didn’t until Hammond took the lead.
Good work VO parents, activists, community members! Power to the people.
The kudos goes to JAMES HAMMOND. He had the courage to make this suggestion AND go from negative to positive.
Provenza had the chance to do this, but didn’t until Hammond took the lead.
Good work VO parents, activists, community members! Power to the people.
Dweezil for School Board!!!!
Dweezil for School Board!!!!
Dweezil for School Board!!!!
Dweezil for School Board!!!!
Valley Oak supporter – Jim Provenza had much to do with this, more than you realize. Do you really think that Jim and the Board did not talk to the Superintendent before meetings to work things out? Kudos to everyone for going along with a good and decent plan to work things out.
Valley Oak supporter – Jim Provenza had much to do with this, more than you realize. Do you really think that Jim and the Board did not talk to the Superintendent before meetings to work things out? Kudos to everyone for going along with a good and decent plan to work things out.
Valley Oak supporter – Jim Provenza had much to do with this, more than you realize. Do you really think that Jim and the Board did not talk to the Superintendent before meetings to work things out? Kudos to everyone for going along with a good and decent plan to work things out.
Valley Oak supporter – Jim Provenza had much to do with this, more than you realize. Do you really think that Jim and the Board did not talk to the Superintendent before meetings to work things out? Kudos to everyone for going along with a good and decent plan to work things out.
Campaign watcher. You do not know who took the lead before anything was suggested publicly. So why don’t you quit speculating and trying to discredit the hard work and accomplishements of Provenza if you really don’t know anything about the process. Provenza has worked his butt off for the school board. You can appreciate whomever you want, but don’t cast aspersions and motivations on to Provenza. The VO people were very pleased with the outcome – and I’ll bet behind the scenes, Provenza set the stage for the events that transpired
Campaign watcher. You do not know who took the lead before anything was suggested publicly. So why don’t you quit speculating and trying to discredit the hard work and accomplishements of Provenza if you really don’t know anything about the process. Provenza has worked his butt off for the school board. You can appreciate whomever you want, but don’t cast aspersions and motivations on to Provenza. The VO people were very pleased with the outcome – and I’ll bet behind the scenes, Provenza set the stage for the events that transpired
Campaign watcher. You do not know who took the lead before anything was suggested publicly. So why don’t you quit speculating and trying to discredit the hard work and accomplishements of Provenza if you really don’t know anything about the process. Provenza has worked his butt off for the school board. You can appreciate whomever you want, but don’t cast aspersions and motivations on to Provenza. The VO people were very pleased with the outcome – and I’ll bet behind the scenes, Provenza set the stage for the events that transpired
Campaign watcher. You do not know who took the lead before anything was suggested publicly. So why don’t you quit speculating and trying to discredit the hard work and accomplishements of Provenza if you really don’t know anything about the process. Provenza has worked his butt off for the school board. You can appreciate whomever you want, but don’t cast aspersions and motivations on to Provenza. The VO people were very pleased with the outcome – and I’ll bet behind the scenes, Provenza set the stage for the events that transpired
The last post by valley oak enthusiast was intended as a response to valley oak supporter, not campaign watcher, as I mistakenly said. I agree wholeheartedly with campaign watcher.
The last post by valley oak enthusiast was intended as a response to valley oak supporter, not campaign watcher, as I mistakenly said. I agree wholeheartedly with campaign watcher.
The last post by valley oak enthusiast was intended as a response to valley oak supporter, not campaign watcher, as I mistakenly said. I agree wholeheartedly with campaign watcher.
The last post by valley oak enthusiast was intended as a response to valley oak supporter, not campaign watcher, as I mistakenly said. I agree wholeheartedly with campaign watcher.
If Jim and the board ALL spoke with the sup., aren’t there some Brown Act violations if more that two spoke to each other?
If Jim and the board ALL spoke with the sup., aren’t there some Brown Act violations if more that two spoke to each other?
If Jim and the board ALL spoke with the sup., aren’t there some Brown Act violations if more that two spoke to each other?
If Jim and the board ALL spoke with the sup., aren’t there some Brown Act violations if more that two spoke to each other?
I don’t want to speculate on who spoke with whom, since I do not know.
In terms of the Brown Act, a staff member can communicate with all members of a body as long as they are not conveying information from the other members which would constitute a serial meeting.
I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.
I don’t want to speculate on who spoke with whom, since I do not know.
In terms of the Brown Act, a staff member can communicate with all members of a body as long as they are not conveying information from the other members which would constitute a serial meeting.
I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.
I don’t want to speculate on who spoke with whom, since I do not know.
In terms of the Brown Act, a staff member can communicate with all members of a body as long as they are not conveying information from the other members which would constitute a serial meeting.
I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.
I don’t want to speculate on who spoke with whom, since I do not know.
In terms of the Brown Act, a staff member can communicate with all members of a body as long as they are not conveying information from the other members which would constitute a serial meeting.
I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.
Since Jim Provenza is a huge supporter of following the Brown act to a tee, I doubt that any conversations occurred that deviated from those convictions. I think what Campaign watcher and Valley oak enthusiast are trying to convey, is that since you don’t know exactley what did happen, Valley Oak supporter, why try to tarnish such a successful effort by demeaning anyone on the board? You can guess all you want, as any of the writers to this blog can, but it is typical of some to try to spin this wonderful success so that a person that perhaps you do not support, looks bad. Just because you are ‘interpreting’ last nights events a certain way, there are those that see something else at play – and that is a good plan that was crafted through the cooperation of some key people. Congratulations to Hammond, Provenza, and the VO community
Since Jim Provenza is a huge supporter of following the Brown act to a tee, I doubt that any conversations occurred that deviated from those convictions. I think what Campaign watcher and Valley oak enthusiast are trying to convey, is that since you don’t know exactley what did happen, Valley Oak supporter, why try to tarnish such a successful effort by demeaning anyone on the board? You can guess all you want, as any of the writers to this blog can, but it is typical of some to try to spin this wonderful success so that a person that perhaps you do not support, looks bad. Just because you are ‘interpreting’ last nights events a certain way, there are those that see something else at play – and that is a good plan that was crafted through the cooperation of some key people. Congratulations to Hammond, Provenza, and the VO community
Since Jim Provenza is a huge supporter of following the Brown act to a tee, I doubt that any conversations occurred that deviated from those convictions. I think what Campaign watcher and Valley oak enthusiast are trying to convey, is that since you don’t know exactley what did happen, Valley Oak supporter, why try to tarnish such a successful effort by demeaning anyone on the board? You can guess all you want, as any of the writers to this blog can, but it is typical of some to try to spin this wonderful success so that a person that perhaps you do not support, looks bad. Just because you are ‘interpreting’ last nights events a certain way, there are those that see something else at play – and that is a good plan that was crafted through the cooperation of some key people. Congratulations to Hammond, Provenza, and the VO community
Since Jim Provenza is a huge supporter of following the Brown act to a tee, I doubt that any conversations occurred that deviated from those convictions. I think what Campaign watcher and Valley oak enthusiast are trying to convey, is that since you don’t know exactley what did happen, Valley Oak supporter, why try to tarnish such a successful effort by demeaning anyone on the board? You can guess all you want, as any of the writers to this blog can, but it is typical of some to try to spin this wonderful success so that a person that perhaps you do not support, looks bad. Just because you are ‘interpreting’ last nights events a certain way, there are those that see something else at play – and that is a good plan that was crafted through the cooperation of some key people. Congratulations to Hammond, Provenza, and the VO community
I applaud the decision of the BOE to work with the Charter proponents. I think they made the only choice available to them, both legally and ethically, I would just like to remind people that as concern for the Valley Oak neighborhood, we should also be addressing the fact that the district hasn’t made any decisions regarding the new boundaries or relocation of the Valley Oak students. Not all of the current neighborhood kids will go to the Charter, and the district continues to drop the ball on finalizing those decisions. As the DTA representative said last night, they are already ignoring a timeline for decisions and intent to return forms that they negotiated with DTA in October.
I applaud the decision of the BOE to work with the Charter proponents. I think they made the only choice available to them, both legally and ethically, I would just like to remind people that as concern for the Valley Oak neighborhood, we should also be addressing the fact that the district hasn’t made any decisions regarding the new boundaries or relocation of the Valley Oak students. Not all of the current neighborhood kids will go to the Charter, and the district continues to drop the ball on finalizing those decisions. As the DTA representative said last night, they are already ignoring a timeline for decisions and intent to return forms that they negotiated with DTA in October.
I applaud the decision of the BOE to work with the Charter proponents. I think they made the only choice available to them, both legally and ethically, I would just like to remind people that as concern for the Valley Oak neighborhood, we should also be addressing the fact that the district hasn’t made any decisions regarding the new boundaries or relocation of the Valley Oak students. Not all of the current neighborhood kids will go to the Charter, and the district continues to drop the ball on finalizing those decisions. As the DTA representative said last night, they are already ignoring a timeline for decisions and intent to return forms that they negotiated with DTA in October.
I applaud the decision of the BOE to work with the Charter proponents. I think they made the only choice available to them, both legally and ethically, I would just like to remind people that as concern for the Valley Oak neighborhood, we should also be addressing the fact that the district hasn’t made any decisions regarding the new boundaries or relocation of the Valley Oak students. Not all of the current neighborhood kids will go to the Charter, and the district continues to drop the ball on finalizing those decisions. As the DTA representative said last night, they are already ignoring a timeline for decisions and intent to return forms that they negotiated with DTA in October.
Doug Paul Davis said…
” I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.”
Neither did I. Jim Provenza broached the idea of discussions between the parties and asked Dr. Hammond if he was open to that idea. Dr. Hammond replied that there had recently been productive meetings, and it went from there.
There was no limit on public comments that I noticed.
I think that most of the details in the staff report can be dealt with to the satisfaction of the board members. Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help; if the proponents could show another hundred or so with at least an intent to attend, it might allay the concern. Since the budget depends on the enrollment, this may be the key issue for board members.
Tightening up the budget to address the concerns in Bruce Colby’s report will be important as well.
One under-reported comment came at the end. A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole. That is not really part of the board’s consideration in assessing the petition. But it illustrates an unspoken part of this whole process: many parents probably fear the impact of a Valley Oak charter school on their kids’ schools, don’t support the petition, but won’t speak out publicly. Just look at the election results. I think the impact on school boundaries and enrollment figures is on the minds of lots of people who will not be sending their kids to Valley Oak.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now.
A charter school provides healthy competition.
It has greater freedom to try new teaching techniques, acting as a laboratory for other schools to emulate.
It can take enrollment pressures off of other schools, allowing the district to consider consolidating programs without displacing students.
It is going to be necessary to demonstrate that this school will not be a drain on the district, will not be a liability to the district, and will be an asset to the whole community.
Doug Paul Davis said…
” I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.”
Neither did I. Jim Provenza broached the idea of discussions between the parties and asked Dr. Hammond if he was open to that idea. Dr. Hammond replied that there had recently been productive meetings, and it went from there.
There was no limit on public comments that I noticed.
I think that most of the details in the staff report can be dealt with to the satisfaction of the board members. Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help; if the proponents could show another hundred or so with at least an intent to attend, it might allay the concern. Since the budget depends on the enrollment, this may be the key issue for board members.
Tightening up the budget to address the concerns in Bruce Colby’s report will be important as well.
One under-reported comment came at the end. A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole. That is not really part of the board’s consideration in assessing the petition. But it illustrates an unspoken part of this whole process: many parents probably fear the impact of a Valley Oak charter school on their kids’ schools, don’t support the petition, but won’t speak out publicly. Just look at the election results. I think the impact on school boundaries and enrollment figures is on the minds of lots of people who will not be sending their kids to Valley Oak.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now.
A charter school provides healthy competition.
It has greater freedom to try new teaching techniques, acting as a laboratory for other schools to emulate.
It can take enrollment pressures off of other schools, allowing the district to consider consolidating programs without displacing students.
It is going to be necessary to demonstrate that this school will not be a drain on the district, will not be a liability to the district, and will be an asset to the whole community.
Doug Paul Davis said…
” I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.”
Neither did I. Jim Provenza broached the idea of discussions between the parties and asked Dr. Hammond if he was open to that idea. Dr. Hammond replied that there had recently been productive meetings, and it went from there.
There was no limit on public comments that I noticed.
I think that most of the details in the staff report can be dealt with to the satisfaction of the board members. Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help; if the proponents could show another hundred or so with at least an intent to attend, it might allay the concern. Since the budget depends on the enrollment, this may be the key issue for board members.
Tightening up the budget to address the concerns in Bruce Colby’s report will be important as well.
One under-reported comment came at the end. A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole. That is not really part of the board’s consideration in assessing the petition. But it illustrates an unspoken part of this whole process: many parents probably fear the impact of a Valley Oak charter school on their kids’ schools, don’t support the petition, but won’t speak out publicly. Just look at the election results. I think the impact on school boundaries and enrollment figures is on the minds of lots of people who will not be sending their kids to Valley Oak.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now.
A charter school provides healthy competition.
It has greater freedom to try new teaching techniques, acting as a laboratory for other schools to emulate.
It can take enrollment pressures off of other schools, allowing the district to consider consolidating programs without displacing students.
It is going to be necessary to demonstrate that this school will not be a drain on the district, will not be a liability to the district, and will be an asset to the whole community.
Doug Paul Davis said…
” I do not get the impression that this was prearranged btw.”
Neither did I. Jim Provenza broached the idea of discussions between the parties and asked Dr. Hammond if he was open to that idea. Dr. Hammond replied that there had recently been productive meetings, and it went from there.
There was no limit on public comments that I noticed.
I think that most of the details in the staff report can be dealt with to the satisfaction of the board members. Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help; if the proponents could show another hundred or so with at least an intent to attend, it might allay the concern. Since the budget depends on the enrollment, this may be the key issue for board members.
Tightening up the budget to address the concerns in Bruce Colby’s report will be important as well.
One under-reported comment came at the end. A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole. That is not really part of the board’s consideration in assessing the petition. But it illustrates an unspoken part of this whole process: many parents probably fear the impact of a Valley Oak charter school on their kids’ schools, don’t support the petition, but won’t speak out publicly. Just look at the election results. I think the impact on school boundaries and enrollment figures is on the minds of lots of people who will not be sending their kids to Valley Oak.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now.
A charter school provides healthy competition.
It has greater freedom to try new teaching techniques, acting as a laboratory for other schools to emulate.
It can take enrollment pressures off of other schools, allowing the district to consider consolidating programs without displacing students.
It is going to be necessary to demonstrate that this school will not be a drain on the district, will not be a liability to the district, and will be an asset to the whole community.
“….A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole.”
This speaker’s comment dripped with irony. ” The speaker identified himself as being on the site council of our Spanish Immersion school, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Now part of the DJUSD “establishment” and recognized as a tremendous asset to the District, the Spanish Immersion program was subjected to exactly these same challenges in its formative years.
“….A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole.”
This speaker’s comment dripped with irony. ” The speaker identified himself as being on the site council of our Spanish Immersion school, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Now part of the DJUSD “establishment” and recognized as a tremendous asset to the District, the Spanish Immersion program was subjected to exactly these same challenges in its formative years.
“….A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole.”
This speaker’s comment dripped with irony. ” The speaker identified himself as being on the site council of our Spanish Immersion school, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Now part of the DJUSD “establishment” and recognized as a tremendous asset to the District, the Spanish Immersion program was subjected to exactly these same challenges in its formative years.
“….A speaker from one of the other schools stated that the proponents will need to show how this school is good for the district as a whole.”
This speaker’s comment dripped with irony. ” The speaker identified himself as being on the site council of our Spanish Immersion school, celebrating its 25th anniversary this year. Now part of the DJUSD “establishment” and recognized as a tremendous asset to the District, the Spanish Immersion program was subjected to exactly these same challenges in its formative years.
“Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help;”
This is exactly why the legislation takes this subjective decision out of the hands of School Boards. If the VO petitioners have the required number of approved signatures, Tim Taylor’s “level of confidence” cannot be part of his decision. The rules are clear and if the petitioners respond to the School Board’s attempt to “move the goalposts”, there will be no end to it.
“Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help;”
This is exactly why the legislation takes this subjective decision out of the hands of School Boards. If the VO petitioners have the required number of approved signatures, Tim Taylor’s “level of confidence” cannot be part of his decision. The rules are clear and if the petitioners respond to the School Board’s attempt to “move the goalposts”, there will be no end to it.
“Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help;”
This is exactly why the legislation takes this subjective decision out of the hands of School Boards. If the VO petitioners have the required number of approved signatures, Tim Taylor’s “level of confidence” cannot be part of his decision. The rules are clear and if the petitioners respond to the School Board’s attempt to “move the goalposts”, there will be no end to it.
“Tim Taylor’s comments suggested that he needs greater confidence in the enrollment numbers. That will be a challenge. Perhaps another round of signature-gathering would help;”
This is exactly why the legislation takes this subjective decision out of the hands of School Boards. If the VO petitioners have the required number of approved signatures, Tim Taylor’s “level of confidence” cannot be part of his decision. The rules are clear and if the petitioners respond to the School Board’s attempt to “move the goalposts”, there will be no end to it.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now. –Don Shor
I very much want to spring from Don’s comment here. It is very important that everyone in the Davis community, charter supporters and not, begin to take a more global view of events and potential created by the charter school, and I do mean global.
Valley Oak does serve its neighborhood. It serves it by doing things differently. It does things differently because the same program, the same opportunity, does not serve all students equally well. “Equity” is not the same word as “equality.” Equity means that an equal future is offered to students utilizing the means necessary to get them there, and that holds true for GATE students as well as English learners and the learning disabled. Valley Oak Charter School has plotted a course by means of its charter to provide those means, and a true global-oriented view of the children of Davis is the most powerful argument we have for its creation. Global humankind is in a lot of trouble, and we need every single human being developed to his/her full potential if humankind is going to make it. I do not say that rhetorically, and it is why I have stayed a teacher of children for as long as I have. That wasn’t a noble choice; I am sincerely frightened for my own children’s futures.
To answer the challenge from last night’s public comment, not only does the town of Davis stand to benefit from an equitable distribution of educational opportunity, our entire species does. I see in Valley Oak children the next Caesar Chavez, the next Rosalind Franklin, the next George Washington Carver. They are brilliant. If ever there was time to not be wasting the development of all our global talent, this is it. We cannot afford to let our beautiful visionaries escape undeveloped.
Davis community, please help us. Keep the tone positive and the rhetoric creative. The following is not an endorsement, please understand, but it really does take a village to raise a child, even if that child doesn’t go to your neighborhood school.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now. –Don Shor
I very much want to spring from Don’s comment here. It is very important that everyone in the Davis community, charter supporters and not, begin to take a more global view of events and potential created by the charter school, and I do mean global.
Valley Oak does serve its neighborhood. It serves it by doing things differently. It does things differently because the same program, the same opportunity, does not serve all students equally well. “Equity” is not the same word as “equality.” Equity means that an equal future is offered to students utilizing the means necessary to get them there, and that holds true for GATE students as well as English learners and the learning disabled. Valley Oak Charter School has plotted a course by means of its charter to provide those means, and a true global-oriented view of the children of Davis is the most powerful argument we have for its creation. Global humankind is in a lot of trouble, and we need every single human being developed to his/her full potential if humankind is going to make it. I do not say that rhetorically, and it is why I have stayed a teacher of children for as long as I have. That wasn’t a noble choice; I am sincerely frightened for my own children’s futures.
To answer the challenge from last night’s public comment, not only does the town of Davis stand to benefit from an equitable distribution of educational opportunity, our entire species does. I see in Valley Oak children the next Caesar Chavez, the next Rosalind Franklin, the next George Washington Carver. They are brilliant. If ever there was time to not be wasting the development of all our global talent, this is it. We cannot afford to let our beautiful visionaries escape undeveloped.
Davis community, please help us. Keep the tone positive and the rhetoric creative. The following is not an endorsement, please understand, but it really does take a village to raise a child, even if that child doesn’t go to your neighborhood school.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now. –Don Shor
I very much want to spring from Don’s comment here. It is very important that everyone in the Davis community, charter supporters and not, begin to take a more global view of events and potential created by the charter school, and I do mean global.
Valley Oak does serve its neighborhood. It serves it by doing things differently. It does things differently because the same program, the same opportunity, does not serve all students equally well. “Equity” is not the same word as “equality.” Equity means that an equal future is offered to students utilizing the means necessary to get them there, and that holds true for GATE students as well as English learners and the learning disabled. Valley Oak Charter School has plotted a course by means of its charter to provide those means, and a true global-oriented view of the children of Davis is the most powerful argument we have for its creation. Global humankind is in a lot of trouble, and we need every single human being developed to his/her full potential if humankind is going to make it. I do not say that rhetorically, and it is why I have stayed a teacher of children for as long as I have. That wasn’t a noble choice; I am sincerely frightened for my own children’s futures.
To answer the challenge from last night’s public comment, not only does the town of Davis stand to benefit from an equitable distribution of educational opportunity, our entire species does. I see in Valley Oak children the next Caesar Chavez, the next Rosalind Franklin, the next George Washington Carver. They are brilliant. If ever there was time to not be wasting the development of all our global talent, this is it. We cannot afford to let our beautiful visionaries escape undeveloped.
Davis community, please help us. Keep the tone positive and the rhetoric creative. The following is not an endorsement, please understand, but it really does take a village to raise a child, even if that child doesn’t go to your neighborhood school.
Those of us who support the charter school do so for a lot of reasons, but it is going to be important to develop a less parochial approach now. –Don Shor
I very much want to spring from Don’s comment here. It is very important that everyone in the Davis community, charter supporters and not, begin to take a more global view of events and potential created by the charter school, and I do mean global.
Valley Oak does serve its neighborhood. It serves it by doing things differently. It does things differently because the same program, the same opportunity, does not serve all students equally well. “Equity” is not the same word as “equality.” Equity means that an equal future is offered to students utilizing the means necessary to get them there, and that holds true for GATE students as well as English learners and the learning disabled. Valley Oak Charter School has plotted a course by means of its charter to provide those means, and a true global-oriented view of the children of Davis is the most powerful argument we have for its creation. Global humankind is in a lot of trouble, and we need every single human being developed to his/her full potential if humankind is going to make it. I do not say that rhetorically, and it is why I have stayed a teacher of children for as long as I have. That wasn’t a noble choice; I am sincerely frightened for my own children’s futures.
To answer the challenge from last night’s public comment, not only does the town of Davis stand to benefit from an equitable distribution of educational opportunity, our entire species does. I see in Valley Oak children the next Caesar Chavez, the next Rosalind Franklin, the next George Washington Carver. They are brilliant. If ever there was time to not be wasting the development of all our global talent, this is it. We cannot afford to let our beautiful visionaries escape undeveloped.
Davis community, please help us. Keep the tone positive and the rhetoric creative. The following is not an endorsement, please understand, but it really does take a village to raise a child, even if that child doesn’t go to your neighborhood school.
Thank you Bill Storm and all of the Valley Oak parents, neighbors and teachers for working so hard to save a very, very important school.
Not only are you setting a good example to the children of Valley Oak that you believe in them and support them, but you are also showing them and the community that a small group of citizens who care about an issue or their community can make a difference.
Thank you for fighting the good fight. We will continue to support you.
Thank you Bill Storm and all of the Valley Oak parents, neighbors and teachers for working so hard to save a very, very important school.
Not only are you setting a good example to the children of Valley Oak that you believe in them and support them, but you are also showing them and the community that a small group of citizens who care about an issue or their community can make a difference.
Thank you for fighting the good fight. We will continue to support you.
Thank you Bill Storm and all of the Valley Oak parents, neighbors and teachers for working so hard to save a very, very important school.
Not only are you setting a good example to the children of Valley Oak that you believe in them and support them, but you are also showing them and the community that a small group of citizens who care about an issue or their community can make a difference.
Thank you for fighting the good fight. We will continue to support you.
Thank you Bill Storm and all of the Valley Oak parents, neighbors and teachers for working so hard to save a very, very important school.
Not only are you setting a good example to the children of Valley Oak that you believe in them and support them, but you are also showing them and the community that a small group of citizens who care about an issue or their community can make a difference.
Thank you for fighting the good fight. We will continue to support you.
Murphy or Hammond? Obviously the legacy of Jim Provenza will be the new leadership that he leaves behind. Still Valley Oak is not a done deal.Don’t discount the forces representing the fears stated on this blog by those that are worried about their own neighborhood schools. The districts finances are still a mess and enrollment is still in decline. This should be seen a victory of one battle of the weak against the strong but it will be a long war.
Murphy or Hammond? Obviously the legacy of Jim Provenza will be the new leadership that he leaves behind. Still Valley Oak is not a done deal.Don’t discount the forces representing the fears stated on this blog by those that are worried about their own neighborhood schools. The districts finances are still a mess and enrollment is still in decline. This should be seen a victory of one battle of the weak against the strong but it will be a long war.
Murphy or Hammond? Obviously the legacy of Jim Provenza will be the new leadership that he leaves behind. Still Valley Oak is not a done deal.Don’t discount the forces representing the fears stated on this blog by those that are worried about their own neighborhood schools. The districts finances are still a mess and enrollment is still in decline. This should be seen a victory of one battle of the weak against the strong but it will be a long war.
Murphy or Hammond? Obviously the legacy of Jim Provenza will be the new leadership that he leaves behind. Still Valley Oak is not a done deal.Don’t discount the forces representing the fears stated on this blog by those that are worried about their own neighborhood schools. The districts finances are still a mess and enrollment is still in decline. This should be seen a victory of one battle of the weak against the strong but it will be a long war.
At what point is it too late for VOC to open for the next school year?
It does seem that if there is enough delay and VO doesn’t reopen as a charter school next year, then the movement loses significant steam.
At what point is it too late for VOC to open for the next school year?
It does seem that if there is enough delay and VO doesn’t reopen as a charter school next year, then the movement loses significant steam.
At what point is it too late for VOC to open for the next school year?
It does seem that if there is enough delay and VO doesn’t reopen as a charter school next year, then the movement loses significant steam.
At what point is it too late for VOC to open for the next school year?
It does seem that if there is enough delay and VO doesn’t reopen as a charter school next year, then the movement loses significant steam.
“Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.”
I hope that DPD does an interview with Bill Storm every 10 days or so to keep Vanguardians up to date on the progress of meetings between the District staff and VO Charter proponents.
“Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.”
I hope that DPD does an interview with Bill Storm every 10 days or so to keep Vanguardians up to date on the progress of meetings between the District staff and VO Charter proponents.
“Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.”
I hope that DPD does an interview with Bill Storm every 10 days or so to keep Vanguardians up to date on the progress of meetings between the District staff and VO Charter proponents.
“Unrelenting public scrutiny, vocal support(and criticism) and political pressure will be required to bring this to a successful conclusion.”
I hope that DPD does an interview with Bill Storm every 10 days or so to keep Vanguardians up to date on the progress of meetings between the District staff and VO Charter proponents.
Every ten days?! How about every other day this thing is changing so quickly!
Every ten days?! How about every other day this thing is changing so quickly!
Every ten days?! How about every other day this thing is changing so quickly!
Every ten days?! How about every other day this thing is changing so quickly!