So...the children at Davis and Willow Dale will have an extra 30 minutes of class time (or depending on how you look at it, MacDonald will have 30 minutes less)? Is that really the proposal?

This isn't right. Why is mcDonalds school a half hour less?

I think that is too long of a school day. I am a teacher (not in this district) and believe adding an extra hour to the school day may not be beneficial. Also how are teachers at Willow Dale and Davis expected to work an extra half hour more everyday than teachers at McDonald?

I think it is completely unfair to have certain children stay in school longer than others. And how it was "unanimously" passed is beyond me. I am assuming these people do not have elementary aged children going through Centennial School District. Very disappointing to read this.

It was just an error in the article, most likely. When the agenda was posted on the web site, the attachment showed a start time of 9 am for Davis and Willow Dale.

Not liking this decision at all!!! The Education Committee may have unanimously approved it but lets see how many parents approve it! What about the kids who have afterschool activities? Who made the decision on what school gets out at what time? My son takes the bus and everyday it is on time to pick him up to go to school and is always there on time or even early to bring him home!
Just another way for Centennial School District to say "Screw You Kids"!!!

I do believe the times are wrong in the article above. WD and Davis would be starting at 9:00 and ending at 3:45. McDonald would be starting at 8:30 and ending at 3:15. It will be exactly the same amount of classroom time in all three elem. schools.

The time for Willow Dale and Davis was incorrect. The article has been corrected. Apologies for the mistake.

Willow Dale now starts at 8:45am and is done at 3pm. Next year they will start 15min later at end 45min later? Who decided what school got what times? Mr. Robinson YOU can come and tell my son to his face that he can no longer do karate on Wed and Thurs because he won't be out of school and off the bus in time to go! Thanks for screwing with our lives even more!!!

This is wrong. Since Willow Dale already starts earlier, it should stay that way. Make the other schools start later. Us Leary families have had enough changes already, so leave Willow Dale alone!

What is the big deal? Isn't there anything more serious you could worry about

Obviously some people do not have children in after school activities, and do not have to worry about their children finding time to finish homework and eat dinner. This has nothing to do with our children waiting for buses and everything to do the fact that the District does not want to add buses to the existing fleet. (as stated in the attachment from the Ed Comm meeting). However did everyone notice how the Board wants to buy new bigger buses? I say we keep the smaller buses and just buy more of them. This will allow all of our children at all 3 schools to start at 8:30am and end at 3:15pm. If the Board can keep spending our money on the never ending high school construction, they can certainly spend money on a few new buses for our younger children.

This is not good this means my kids won't be home till after 4:15pm Not good don't have time to do homework or any extra curricular activies

Should we also not that the sale of the old school properties is tentative for $1.2 million and that Board also apporve a $92,870 agreement with Reynolds Consulting Engineers to commission William Tennent, Willow Dale, McDonald and Davis after the construction projects are completed. The group will test and review all of the buildings' systems and utilities and ensure they meet the estimated performace specifications...Reynolds Consulting...Reynolds Construction...I guess they couldn't find someone cheaper...Can we see the proposed bids that came in...

Monday April 23rd at 7pm is board meeting all parent concerns need to be voiced. If we don't stick up for the kids at the meeting they will go ahead and do what they want. Just like the lovely hill over at the new Davis school they want all the kids to walk up all these steps (4 sets of 12 steps) to play king of the hill. It will take at least 15mins. to get the kids situated for recess. Crazy how things are happening.

I agree 100% with you Jennifer!!!! I am sure that there are different karate times that he can take. I use my lunch hours for the week to run home on Wednesdays to get my son to PREP at 4:15. I have much more important things to worry about. My kids are taken care of and are being taught very well. What ever they need to do just do it. @ Pamela, I am a single mom with three children all in many afterschool activities. Really is 15 minutes going to affect your life so trememdously. And besides if all of you parents have such a problem with buses and getting the kids home in enought time you can go pick the kids up at school. Isn't school supposed to be #1 prioroity over afterschool activities???? Just saying...

Couldn't have been better stated than what Jennifer and Lisa both said. Unfortunately, changes will benefit some and be more difficult for others. I am happy that the district is staggering start and end times. It seems as if it will result in fewer buses on the road at the same time, which logically (to me, anyway) seems safer for the children. The bottom line is that we need to adjust accordingly, and yes, school takes priority over extracurricular activities. As a result of these changes, my children will likely be a little bit late for their religious school classes, but those teachers will just have to understand. The district is keeping the best interests of the children in mind with many of their decisions.

Oh yes the District is sooo concerned about your children safety and teaching is their #1 priority...maybe you should actually read their minutes , find out their reasoning , and the number of teachers they want to fire before commenting. It is all about money. If you want to fool yourself, fine but please don't insult the rest of rest of us. Just because some have the luxuary of "running home" at lunch, doesn't mean everyone else does. It may be easy for some, but the rest of us find it hard enough without the District making it harder. Willow Dale starts at 8:30 and ends at 3:00 now, how does changing the time effect the teaching?????......It doesn't....the District doesn't want to buy more buses because they told us that the population of students was declining....(school and bus route consolidation)

very well put Dawn. longer days what next a longer year. We are already the last school to get out for the summer. Cram the kids in crowded classrooms, Cram the busses not worry about the safety. It's bad enough we are on our 3rd assembly about behavior on school busses. If they didn't cram these kids in the kids wouldn't be so miserable on the bus and fight for a seat. Parents who work till 5:30 don't worry cause that is a better time for them to worry about where the child will be going. I work 2 jobs. 1 day and 1 night. I guess I will have to make an appointment to visit my children just to say hi. Really do we need 30 more minutes to class time. Teachers won't like that. Is that in their contracts? Who is going to pay for that? When you find the money tree out there let me know I could use some.

Actually, Dawn, I communicate with the teachers at the religious school. They understand that with my long commute, and lack of control over factors such as traffic and bus schedules, there will be times when my children are late. My children have been taught that they are still responsible for their work. I suggest that before we attack via our comments, we take the time to do a little research. I placed a call, and had a conversation with the necessary personnel in the district so that I could understand the philosophy/thought process behind the decision. One factor about which people may not be aware is that the school day was extended for the teachers. So, the teachers are working harder/longer, most likely without an equivalent increase in pay (I am not necessarily saying there were no raises, just that they may not be commensurate with the time extension). There are always emotions tied into initial reactions to the news; it would behoove the community at large to understand all aspects of the issues at hand prior to rushing to judge the decision-makers.

Do you see the part that says "WITHOUT the requirement of additional vehicles and drivers to our existing fleet!!" So you tell me its about the teachers!!

With all due respect, Dawn, I did see the following: "The following chart shows the adjustments required to safely and efficiently transport our students morning and afternoon without the requirement of additional vehicles and drivers
to our existing fleet." Prior to reading this article and speaking with the district, I read every attachment to the agenda for the recent meeting. Yes, I understand that there was focus on the economic and/or financial impact of the decision. However, as the statement above reads, the decision was also focused on the safe and efficient transport of the students. Any logical, well-planned decision has a variety of factors leading to said decision. It's not just about the finances involved, but kudos to the district for keeping that in mind as well. It's very easy for everyone to judge, and again, there are always emotions because our children are involved. Unfortunately, we cannot have access to every single discussion, meeting, etc. leading up to the meetings with public access. I have had children in this district for 13 years, and am assured that the primary focus is the children. Everyone is entitled to their opinion.

Everyone is whining about what is essentially a schedule change in your life. Get over it. Make the adjustments that you need to and deal with it. When these kids get to middle school, you will have to make adjustments then. If your job changes, your schedule will change, their activiites change, the schedule changes....that's life! Oh, and the school busses that you want, they cost money, tax payers money. So assuming you're a tax paying citizen, that's more money out of your pocket, less to pay for those extra curricular activities. And maybe we could put that 1/2 hour towards additional recess or phys ed so these kids can make it up a few set of steps.....just saying.

To Dr. Marie J and Lisa: My son takes karate very seriously. It has raised his self confidence level and made him a better student in school by focusing. It also teaches RESPECT FOR OTHERS - Maybe the two of you should take a class or two!! There have been so many changes in the last year for many of the students and parents. I am a working mother who works damn hard at her job and works a 48hr week. If my child likes karate and wants to do it than I will do what I have to to make sure he can. People say that kids nowadays are lazy and overweight but I get blasted for having my child in an activity that keeps him active and away for the TV??? Yea, I can see how having my son SIT in a classroom for an extra 30min is better....just saying

I agree. My kids are very devoted to school and sports (Baseball and Football) They both require alot of practice many days a week. They are not bothered by change. They addapt. That is what we should be teaching them. We as a family have had major adapting to do over the last 2 years. It is not easy and that also builds character and the ability to think and solve problems.

Look I am not getting into a spitting war with you over this. I am just tired of hearing all of the whinning that is going on. When I was a kid my parents did not take me to practices or games. I had to walk. I found my own way. I am not going to let my kids go that far but they will learn to adapt because that is life. IT IS FULL OF CHANGE WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT..... SORRY JUST SAYING.

HAVE A NICE DAY PEOPLE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We could go around in circles for hours and still not agree on any of this. If this is such a burden , move out of the district and take your whining with you, i am sure the next school district would love to hear all your petty complaints........meanwhile your kid is probably the school bully but you are too busy worrying about minor issues to notice

DR. J do even have a child in this school district??? Are you even a parent?? Do you even know what my kid has been through? Trust me we have had to adjust and adapt over the last year when Leary closed and we were forced to go to Willow Dale. Had to adjust and make changes and we did. But give us a break!! Never said the world revolved around me or my kids but I am teaching my kids to stand up for what they believe in and that things wont change unless someone has the guts to stand up an say something! It's not whining its standing up and saying enough is enough...

I just wanted to say that I have no problem extending the school day for my children. The concern I have is about the time. I have been a teacher for the last 20 years and feel it would be more beneficial for Our Children to have an earlier school day. I work in a much bigger district with many more financial issues than this one but even they can agree to start earlier and everyone starts and ends at the same time.

Whats so sad is this school district is literally becoming the laughing stock!!! Maybe if ANYTHING ever got thought through fully before implementing changes that ultimately in the end effect elementary age children we coukd eliminate all the bs!

I really don't have a problem with the time change, but for the record it is a 45 min extension to the day, at least at Willow Dale. Classes don't actually start until 9:00 and right now they are out at 3. The problem I have is with the busses. Supposedly these time changes will allow for more busses to go to each school, so less crowding? I am hoping this change means my child doesn't have to catch a bus at a time that Is almost an hour before school actually starts. Getting to school almost 45 minutes before the school day starts and sitting around in a specified classroom is rediculous! If they are making those changes then they hopefully can set up a better schedule for the busses. Why should they have to spend that amount of time sitting around which then actullay would make their day 1 1/2 hrs longer.

I moved close to the Blue Ribbon School "Leary" in order to get a good education for my young children. They robbed me and my children of the convenient superior school and raised my taxes substantially. Then they put my children in a dug out basement they now call a school.
Now they want to change the times my children go to school without the decency to even ask the parents? I got news for everyone. If you dont have children in the school you shouldnt have a say in the time!!!!
Many people have a difficult time getting the children to school and then getting to work by 9am as it is. Now it will be impossible. My children will now also be held a half hour longer in their dug out basement.
The only thing worse is this horrible "Everyday Math" in which they try to teach them advanced stuff before learning the basics required to do the advanced stuff. Who makes these horrible decisions?
Hey lets build a 3 million dollar football field so we can save some change on a couple buses. These people dont care if little kids will go crazy by 3:45. I hope mine scratch their eyes out!!
I regret "Every Day" I moved into this Centennial School District!!!!

Apologies Correction: I Mistyped: I hope mine DONT scratch thier eyes out!!! (Because they will get upset after having to stay a half hour longer)...

Dont they have to pay the teachers and staff for an extra half hour? If so where is the savings? Isnt there any state guidines as to what these Rodeo Clowns (School Board Members) can do?
I tried speaking at a meeting once. They only allowed me to write a question on paper and then never addressed it. Its like I am living in Communist Russia!!!

I assume the teachers will not give our kids as much homework to do now that there will be less time after school to get it done. Seriously, maybe Willowdale, where my child attends, will have a "half-hour homework session", instead of letting the students just sit and wait for buses to come. The school board will politely (I think), just listen to our feeble excuses and do whatever they want. We have to organize and vote the S.O.B.'s out and new candidates in.
Matplus

Jeanette- First, learn how to spell; second, you know nothing about my profession; and lastly you and all the other whiners prove my point. Find something that's worth getting upset over. I will take my PhD over your illiteracy any day.

I hesitated to respond, but I think people are really getting too emotional and illogical about a relatively simple change. I have been reading all of the comments that have been posted, but the most recent ones from this evening really are irrelevant and/or unfounded (in my opinion). In response to Jeanette (pulling direct quotes from what she wrote):

"do you karate is not just an after school ativity is it teaching our kids valueable life skills to stand up to bullies like yourself! Therefore it is essential to childhood developement." No, karate is not essential to childhood development. It is an extra-curricular activity which, in my opinion, could fit into a schedule after required school time, homework time, etc.

"The bigger issue at hand here is that the extra time added is for the "special" classes NOT math and reading which is where this district falls short. This administration needs to wake up.!" I hope that the extra time will allow for "special" classes, such as music, art, physical education, etc. When this is eliminated in schools, the students suffer. Students should continue to have access to and be exposed to a varied curriculum. It's not all about a state test.

"If this goes through many working parents will be paying more for aftercare and will need to adjust their work schedules." Possibly. Parenting isn't about somebody else adjusting to our needs. Accept the change, adjust as needed, & teach your kids that change doesn't have to be negative.

If the change goes through we will have less time with our children, that is the issue. Yes, I let my emotions get the better of me, it is just frustrating that eveytime we turn around there is another chance being thown at us. Most of us work and I like many other working parents have changed my work schedule so I can be there for my child. Yes school comes first, by all means and there are many other times for after school activites, I agree with that. The main frustration is that this district is spending so much money elsewhere when they could have thought this out a little better and had the money to spend on extra buses so the children could be home at a reasonable time. Change is good, but when it conflicts with family time there is a cause for concern. We are all good parents here and we are just trying to do the best for our children. That is what good parenting is about

Here is my two cents..and that may be all it's forth but here it goes.

All of these comments are about more then a bell change or bus routes or the sale of a few buildings at a low price. It is about ALL of it. As I wrote in a comment on another article...You would think the administration and the school board would take notice of these type of comments. Don't they find it a little unnerving to hear that people are so disenfranchised, with feelings their voice will NEVER be heard, they are unwilling to be subjected to attending their meetings? Maybe this is all by design in order to keep their meetings running "smooth" and gives them the perception everyone believes they are doing a fantastic job. Perhaps this attitude and show of arrogance they have perfected should be changed before we as voters change it for them...

The school board just voted and approved to purchased 2- 24 passenger buses, 4-77 passenger buses, and 1-48 passenger bus w a lift for a total cost of $550,160.00..So where are these buses going to be used if not at the elementary schools?

the problem is not the end time. It is the start time. Most parents have to be in work prior to 9a. We are forced to enroll our children in BEFORE school care to cover the time prior to 8:30, now we will be forced to pay for another 1/2 hour to extent it to 9am.

Wow. After reading these comments I feel sorry for the teachers in this district. They earn all they get having to deal with these parents/taxpayers/board....

I pay for BEFORE care at the school from 7 til 8:30. Now I will have to pay from 7 to 9. I don't know who is at the other schools in the morning, but I do know at WIllow Dale the only people there in the morning are the BEFORE school personnel and that is paid child services. The teachers are not there to watch the children in the morning before school starts.

Most of the parents aren't really complaining because their children can't do extracurricular activities. (I hope) It's because of the extended day and how this board just does things behind everyone's back! They sit up there like kings & queens and dictate to us parents and taxpayers the way it's going to be and we have to take it or find somewhere else to send our kids. They have no care what parents have to say. There's so much fighting between the board members & the parents. No one goes to the meetings, because we really don't have a say. They just pretend we do. That's what the bottom line is. The board knew since 2009 that they were going to extend the day, but they didn't post it to the public until right before the new school year. Talk about sneaky!! (I heard it was also in the teacher's contract) They pretend they are going to vote on extending the day, when they already know that it's going to happen. Where's our say? This is a long day for the kids to be in school. Are they going to shorten the school year, because in reality it's like adding about 15 extra days to the school year? Most school districts add a few minutes to the school day at the end of the year to make up for snow days. Not our district, they add about 15 days to the school year because of buses. For the last 2 years we had to adjust for the new school buildings (which we needed), now they want us to adjust to a longer day! What are they going to dictate next? God help us!

This whole thing is total garbage. Why did the district just approve the purchase of 6 buses (2-24 pass and 4-77 pass), and our children can't all start school at the same time 8:30-3pm? They told us we had to consolidate schools and bus routes because of a decline of population. We have had over crowding and unsafe conditions on the buses, even thought they tell us they know nothing about it and that it has not been reported to them. The board and the transportation supervisor can't keep their stories straight and this is just another cover up for something else that is going on. Why are transporting PRE-K children during prime school hours if we can't transport WillowDale/Davis/McDouglas students to our school all at the same start time? I am tired of OUR children being put last when it is OUR taxes paying for these expenditures.

Mr. Krenshaw, I will make an attempt to answer your reply. I hope my words will be reviewed only an effort to show my view point as someone who is very concerned about this district. Moving from six schools to three has brought about an unbelieveable amount of change to our students, teachers and above all the parents. I know the parents feel that coming to a meeting is a waste of time. I have encourged parents to come and give their view points on any subjects that feel is important to them but they feel they are not being heard. In order to have everyone see what is going on, we have our meetings broadcast and also have videos of all meetings on our website. There is nothing we do that is not broadcast. Our district is going thru change after change which is not making some parents feel these changes are in the interest of their children or themselves. I believe when all these schools are completed, the parents will feel differently but, until this is completed there will be doubt. It is my hope, that the time will come when all the parents will know their voices have been heard and be proud of their schools. If the people feel they need to elect other people to the board then, it is their choice, but the solutions for the schools will always have challenges and decisions will always have to be made. I wish the situation was different and people had more trust but I guess trust will have to be earned on both sides.

In response to the following by Kim: (copied and pasted to avoid misquoting):
Kim
12:00 pm on Monday, April 23, 2012
Well I guess Dr. Marie and ESC either A) Have kids that go to McDonald so they are not affected by the changes or B) Don't have kids in this district at all so they don't understand what we parents have gone through but feel the need to add their opinion anyway.

You are wrong on both of points A and B above. One of my children graduated from Stackpole last year, and is currently at Klinger. I still have one child at Stackpole currently, who will be at the new Davis. Let me also say that yes, I do live in the district, and have kept myself educated as to proposed changes prior to commenting. People seem to be acting in a petty, argumentative fashion because of what will ultimately be relatively minor changes. And yes, as previously stated in an earlier comment, I work full-time. I will adapt and adjust to whatever changes there are, because that is my responsibility as a parent. I would hope that when commenting, adults wouldn't stoop so low as to make assumptions about other people's lives. We all know what happens when we assume. Board meeting is tonight, and those who feel strongly about the issue (no matter what their opinion) should show up and have their voice heard, respectfully and intelligently. Logic and calm voices will have better results. Attacking can only end negatively.

OK everyone if you cannot make the meeting tonight here are the email addresses for the school board. LET YOUR VOICES BE HEARD!! W ARE TIRED OF BEING IGNORED!!

Dr. Cressman-cresje@centennialsd.org
Dr. Pollock-pollan@centennialsd.org
Mrs. Betty Huf-hufbet@centennialsd.org
Mrs. Kati Driban-dribka@centennialsd.ord
Mr. Steven Adams-adamst@centennialsd.org
Mr Michael Hartline-hartmi@centennialsd.org
Mr Charles Kleinschmidt-kleich@centennialsd.org
Mrs. Jane Lynch-lyncja@centennialsd.org
Mr. David Shaftner-shafda@centennialsd.org
Mr Mark Miller-millmb@centennialsd.org

So if you can't make it or you just want to let thm know where you stand, let your voices be heard!!

Well said Michelle!

WOW! It is so sad to see this school district in so much turmoil. It has been a great district for so many years. It was also well known for it's small, family-oriented neighborhood schools. I am sad to see all these closings. The kids, parents, and teachers will all suffer, trust me. I taught at Longstreth for many years and went there as a student, so my job just wan't a job for me it was home. I formed many fond relationships with the staff and families and I'm still in touch with many of them. Good luck to all of you who are dealing with the changes. And remember the teachers, who are truly there for your children, feel as much pain as you and your child does and wants the best for them!

As a parent of children that attended and graduated from Centennial School District and a taxpayer, I would like to voice my concern.

First, Centennial in past years had many more students than they do now & they found a way to bus the children in a timely manner without adjustment to any school hours. Why is Mr. Robinson having a problem with doing the same? The students all had seats on the bus, relative calm and safety on the bus also. That is not true since Mr. Robinson came into the picture. How will he handle the bus schedules once all the so-called new developments come into play? New homes/more children. Has the Board or Mr. Robinson taken that into consideration? I would bet they have not, they seem to have a problem with projection.

Third, this Board is a disgrace, pure and simple. They do not listen, do no hear, do not care what the parents/taxpayers have to say that concerns their children/grandchildren. If any member of the Board runs their household like they do the District, I would not be surprised that their lives are chaotic. Moving children from school to school is not conducive to the child feeling secure and comfortable in their environment. School should be a safety net for children and with the constant turmoil implemented by the District I am sure there are children who suffer from confusion, inadequcy and other emotional problems. Please parents, do not make it worse on your children. Stand up for your child, attend meetings, let your voice be heard, form groups of parents from Southampton/Warminster and submit your solution to the District. You do not have to accept their decision as the 'Final Word', you need to show perserverance, become involved in the District, join a committee, become a familiar sight in your child's school. Yes, it takes determination and sacrifice on your part, however; in the end it is worth it. You are your childs advocate, no one else. If you do not stand up for them, no one else will and should not be expected to. It takes a village, become the village and remove the Board at election and in the meantime, speak up, loud and clear, over and over.

Lastly, contrary to the 'Doctor' who espouses school should come first and not worry about extra curricular activities, I humbly disagree. A well-rounded child will strive to do their best while a child who only studies will not become a well-rounded adult. Children need to learn about self-esteem, winning/losing, getting along with others and life in general. I do believe however; that studies come first. The sad truth is that many children are now living in a home with a single parent that needs to work to survive or a two parent family where both work and their schedules are stretched to the maximum. These parents feel the stress of the making ends meet while at the same time attempting to meet the needs of their children and in some cases I will admit, 'Keeping up with the Joneses'. None of which is the fault of the child and therefore; they should not be punished by having 'fun' taken out of their lives. Children need their childhoods more than ever. Is it not better for a child to be playing football, soccer, baseball, karate, etc., than sitting in a home staring at a television, video game or computer? Yes, television, video games and computers play a part in all our lives but there are many children who now cannot interact with others because they are stationary and solitary with their electronic devices.

I understand the frustration from the parents. I have been there and done that and did not allow CSB to walk over my children and wish the same outcome for all of you. Make it a priority to be involved in all manners. I guarantee you will know about items before they become public, will hear from teachers the 'inside' scoop on the District, where the money is going oppossed to where they say it is going, etc. Ears to the ground and you will be amazed at the 'Back Door' tactics of some.

I would like to take this opportunity - after 93 comments to change the direction of your thoughts to the wonderful talents of our children. The district Fine Arts Festival is next week. I hope you will all come out and be as supportive of ALL OUR CHILDREN, as you say you are in your posts. Mr. Boyle - I trust you will give the festival a wonderful write up, bragging about our wonderful students in the district. I have posted the schedule below -
Monday, April 30 Ensemble Night @ William Tennent High School Auditorium
Tuesday, May 1 Jazz Night @ Log College Middle School Auditorium
Wednesday, May 2 Chorus Night @ William Tennent High School Auditorium
Thursday, May 3 Band Night @ William Tennent High School Auditorium
Friday, May 4 Showcase Night @ William Tennent High School

I will add to the sentiment expressed about this School Board being a complete disgrace! Mrs. Lynch- your comments were empty and generic. As if anything done has been in the interest of these kids and not to save money! And how about the lies? Where is the full day kindergarten THAT WAS PROMISED? Our kids have been put through so much upheaval. Yes, you can say that kids adjust well but kids are also individuals and some adjust better than others. I have a daughter who has social problems. She struggled moving to McDonald and now she's upset because the few friends that she made are all staying at McDonald while she's going to the new Davis. Yes, I realize that change happens and friendships change, but our kids are not given any chance to have any stability, nor to establish strong bonds, because they are constantly being moved around! And now this change to a 3:45pm end time will be another upheaval. My daughter's one great passion is dance and she has been going for years to a school with limited start times, which she might not be able to make now! Of course, education comes before extracurricular activities but the point is, that there is no need for this stupid, ridiculous change of end time!!! Its just a way for them to save some money while they squander it in other areas. And there was no input solicited from the community. Shame on this Board for their utter lack of respect for the parents who they should be serving! Not one of them will ever get my vote!

So is the school district going to supply the children with flashlights also? I'm assuming they didn't think about the fact that from November to February it gets dark around 4. If the children don't get off the bus until after 4 (which most will be and later), they will have to walk home in the pitch black. Doesn't sound like a safe scenario to me considering these are children as young as 5 years old. They better be prepared to have an awful lot of traffic before and after school because I have a feeling many parents are going to decide to just drive and pick up their kids from school. This board has proven time and time again that they have no concern or thought for the children with every decision they make.

And for the Dr.'s comments. I have never heard more uneducated comments from a supposed educator. Colleges do not just look at grades, they look for well rounded children. So yes, extracurricular activities are necessary. Not only for that, but children shouldn't have to be locked up "learning" for an entire day. They should be out being kids, getting dirty, playing. That's also a part of learning. These kids have to grow up way too early as it is, why put more on them? Besides the fact that they also teach children teamwork and how to handle certain situations, which are 2 skills that they will use for the rest of their life. I take offense to the fact that you say it doesn't help. I played soccer, softball, dance, volleyball, anything I could get involved in and I was an honor student and graduated (yes, from Tennent) at the top of my class. So I'm assuming you would rather them sit home and be bored or worse because they have nothing to do, get mixed up in trouble. I for one know that my children will always be involved in after shool activities because I know this will make them more prepared for the rest of their life.

Wow! Your comprehension skills are amazing! I never said they weren't important. If you read what was written and not insinuate things made up in your tiny mind, I simply said that if an extra curricular activity were so important then finding time in their schedule shouldn't be an issue. Let me guess, you are a fan of participation trophies too... I pay the same taxes you all do and my children (unfortunately) go to the same schools as yours.

Just came from the school board meeting...Thank you Mrs. Lynch for hearing us and standing up for us.

I just wanted to thank Mrs. Lynch for doing the right thing and showing the other Board Members how to represent the people properly!!! She has more common sense than the rest of them combined!!! I also wanted to thank Mr.Cohen for saying what we were all thinking. How can they spend $500,000 on a sound system and not buy buses? Clearly the priorities of the other members are demented.

The answer to Mr. Cohen's question is simple. The Board is trying to out shine BCW and BCE. They believe that the most expensive toys make them better. They forgot that our schools became BLUE RIBBON based on our TEACHERS, and in the process our children have lost some precious that can NEVER be replaced. Dr. Cressman said it last night, "this is the best we can do" and this is the only thing option she is going to present to the district. The Operations committee will be presented with her metrics of why we need to change time at OUR schools or come up with $1.5 Million dollars to buy new buses. hey knew this was going to happen when they signed the teachers' contract as Dr. Pollack so nicely informed us last night. After all they did have the forsight to add an additional 30 minites into the contract. Well here's some facts people on March 13 the Board voted to buy 7 NEW BUSES. They said ONLY 3 REPLACED old buses, so where are the other 4.
Our public schools account for approximately 20% of the bus use in the district the rest is PRIVATE/PAROCHIAL/NON-PUBLIC that includes transportation to philadelphia schools! So why are we left to come with $1.2 million and 10 buses? Let them pay more money to the district. Why are district buses doing AM drop off for schools and not PM drop offs? Obviously these schools don't need us, so let them get some one else. There are solutions, but nobody is looking for them.