In Conclusion...

...
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I received an email response and a phone call asking me not respond to the original responder, apparently something in my email was perceived as “nasty” – not sure how - (you be the judge as every word of it is right here for your review) nevertheless – perception is reality…I was told my new contact would reach out to me by the end of the day, but unfortunately I had already begun writing my response as noted…
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My Response: 9/23:

-- -- so that I'm clear with where we are currently. Given ---- ---'s email of this morning advising ------ is my new contact can I safely assume that the email with attachments I sent to you on 9/16 will be forwarded to ---- by you and the appropriate signoffs will be secured? Additionally, can I have ----‘s email for my record?

Finally, given the timeline you've shared -- can I expect that a translated version of the agenda and flyers will be forthcoming by this Thursday and that distribution will ensue by Friday; the meeting is Monday?

I want to avoid duplicating processes. Given that our flyer and agenda get posted to the PEP Website embedded in the district's website can we work the process in parallel. That being, when I send one email to all parties -- each will work their relative responsibilities to gain approvals, secure translations and coordinate distribution? Respectfully, and as a matter of efficiency I would appreciate it.

Thank you for your timely reply and direction.

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The Next Day – I received this response from my “New” Contact: 9/24:

Good morning Mrs. Hernandez,

Hope all is well, I am responding to the email that you sent to -------- with respect to distribution of information. I'm sorry to inform you that the district does not provide services such as copies and translation for outside entities such as PEP/PTO. We do have a budget allocated for such services.

Please call me so that we can discuss this further. Again, I apologize for any inconvenience.

I can be reached at
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My Response 9/24: I opted to email instead of call…

Wow! No need to apologize although it is certainly an inconvenience; and I presume your last sentence should have read ..."Do Not"...

Can you tell me what services the district does have in place for outside entities so that I do not waste our respective time reaching out for support? I had the understanding that there are Abbott District funds for Parent groups such as PEP/PTOs to be utilized in efforts that encourage parental involvement.

I would be interested in gaining clarity around this funding allocation.

Thanks,
Renata

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District Response: 9/24/08

Ms. Hernandez,

You are correct "we do not have a budget allocation for such services". The district does not have any services in place for outside entities. In speaking with Dr. Bailey, we do have Abbott District funds available; however these funds are allocated for nationally known organizations such as PTO.

Again, I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause your organization.
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And that Your Honor is the Truth – the whole Truth and Nothing But the TRUTH. As Barack Obama would say – “You can’t make this stuff up.”

The Saga continues…

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Just to wrap this situation up with a pretty bow and all... You will recall I posted last week several informational facts about the definition of a PTO/PTA/Parent group. This was in response to this event.
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I've said it twice all ready, but they say the 3rd times a charm:

Hear Ye... Hear Ye -- One and All
P.E.P. (Parents Empowering Parents)
is a PTO!

More to the POINT There is NO SUCH THING as a NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED PTO!

Dang Blammit!