PEPTalk : A PPS Pupil's Perspective

Here Your Chance...

2011-12-08T17:04:00.002-05:00

Come Join Us!

2011-12-02T07:37:00.002-05:00

Join Us Today

2011-09-23T10:30:00.000-04:00

APP.Com Highlight Plainfield P.A.C.T. Buyback Program

2011-08-03T23:11:00.002-04:00

For your reading pleasure: http://beta.app.com/article/CN/20110803/NJNEWS/308030028/1401/NEWS05

Spread The Word

2011-08-03T22:49:00.000-04:00

P.A.C.T.

Police and Clergy Together

Gun Buyback Program

NO QUESTIONS ASKED!

UP to $200 Cash for: UZis, handguns, rifles, semi-automatics and others

August 6, 2011: 12 PM to 4 PM

Drop Off Spots:

- Shiloh Baptist Church - W. 4th Street

- Grace Episcopal Church - Cleveland Avenue

- Rose of Sharon Community Church - W. 7th Street

August 13, 2011: 12 PM to 4 PM

Drop Off Spots:

- St. Mary's Catholic Church - W. 6th Street

- Ruth Fellowship Ministries - South 2nd Street

- Mount Zion AME Church - East Front Street

- First Park Baptist Church - W. 7th Street

World's Greatest Dad...

2011-06-19T12:51:00.001-04:00

My Dad!!!

Alejo Hernandez, Jr.

Calling All My Classmates

2011-06-14T00:15:00.000-04:00

Come Join Me for Dinner and Dialog as we, along with our community, view this documentary about the issues facing you and I everyday as we try to obtain our education.

Please join me this WEDNESDAY (6/15) @ 6:30 PM - EMERSON SCHOOL

We need to let them know -- Enough is Enough!

We have DREAMS Too!

It's A Really BIG ShoeeeW!

2011-05-21T15:05:00.002-04:00

Amaazzziinnggg Play = ) !!!!

2011-05-14T21:45:00.000-04:00

Today I had the honor to attend a play called Doubt. It was put on none other then PHS Kids! Yessss! In our community we always feel the need to talk about all the wrong things, but what about this? Here it was this amazing play and today only 10 people showed up? What’s up with that? But watch something incredible crazy happen and bloggers, news reporters, teachers, parents and even some students would have been there! Just imagine the impact they would have had if there was a full house! They needed OUR support and WE let them down!

This play was absolutely BRILLIANT! It truly left me in doubt and had me thinking the whole play. I felt as if I was a witness to all that was happening. It was so amazing that even after the play was over it was hard to separate the actors from the characters they were portraying. They owned those characters. For them to only be in high school and put on a show like this it was just . . . indescribable.

This play made me think about a very important question that still I cannot answer. What do you do when your religion and moral standing conflicts with getting to the truth? You tell me. What do you do? How will you find the truth?

Sooo. . . Comment = ) !!

Come Support My School Mates!!

2011-05-14T11:18:00.000-04:00

Today: 10 AM - 1 PM

Corner of Rock Avenue and W. Front Street

$5.

Hey Oprah!!!

2011-04-22T13:38:00.000-04:00

Hey ~~Oprah~~ -- PLAINFIELD:

This video was cast, scripted and filmed by the Plainfield Youth Summit Students; we are residencts and students of this community and have been working hard over the past 8 months to develop a Youth Summit: By us, For us and About us. Your attendance at the Parent/Adult Workshop on Saturday at 3PM and to hear our Keynote Baruti Kafele at 4PM will show your support in our efforts to improve this city.

Para Mis Amigas

2011-03-28T12:07:00.000-04:00

Come On Classmates -- Register and BE THERE! -- It's Going Down @ PHS

2011-03-20T20:26:00.001-04:00

For A Better Plainfield!

2011-03-11T13:43:00.000-05:00

Missing Girl : FOUND!!! Yeah!!!

2011-03-08T12:59:00.000-05:00

Alexis Stevenson was found uninjured, in Harlem at approximately 11 p.m. Tuesday night when she approached a New York City Police Department officer in the 23rd precinct and told him that she ran away from home the previous day.
"She was taken into protective custody by the NYPD who contacted the Summit Police Department," said Lt. Steven Zagorski in an e-mail Wednesday morning. "The Summit Police department in turn contacted her parents who responded to NYC to take custody of their daughter."

Zagorski said the daughter of Board of Education Vice President Michelle Stevenson and husband Kenneth, was alone when she approached the officer.

"We are relieved and thankful for her safe return," Michelle Stevenson said by e-mail late Tuesday night.

Stevenson was reported missing on Monday morning after she was seen walking away from Summit High School shortly after 7:45 a.m.

It is still unknown at this time why the teen ran away from home.

We Need Your Help!!!

2011-03-07T20:14:00.000-05:00

I'm Soooooooo Excited!!!

2011-03-05T20:41:00.000-05:00

Let's Get Together!

2011-02-26T07:52:00.002-05:00

KINYARWANDA -- It's a Hit!

2010-12-19T21:31:00.003-05:00

Saturday I went to go see Kinyarwanda’s private VIP screening. This was made by Alrick Brown who happens to be a Plainfield resident and graduate from Plainfield High School. The movie was about the 1994 Genocide in Rwanda and how the mosques became places of refuge where Muslims and Christians, Hutus and Tutsis came together to protect each other.

This movie is different then most. It is a collection of 6 short films weaved into one to create one picture and some how all of the vignettes connected magically. The different viewpoints that collapsed into a single movie made the ending more unpredictable and it made you think, and feel – laugh and yes – cry!

I would like to ask anyone who has Facebook to lookup the “KINYARWANDA” page and select “Like” because if it gets enough publicity it has a better chance of getting out in theaters. This is a great movie for families, students and communities; so you guys log onto "KINYARWANDA" via Facebook and click “like” so that you can get a chance to see the film in a theater near you!

Here's a picture of me and Director Brown. He was very gracious to allow me this photo op!

Thanks Jalani (Our resident Photographer)

The Bucks and The Books...School Budget 101

2010-12-09T16:29:00.000-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOMMY!

2010-10-29T14:04:00.000-04:00

Stop On In

2010-10-28T00:26:00.002-04:00

Bullying

2010-10-16T12:13:00.002-04:00

This topic has been very serious lately. As most know of the young man that jumped off the bridge who killed himself around three weeks ago. He happened to go to Rutgers and did this act because someone had posted his business on Facebook.

I just really thought that I would talk about my past experiences with bullying and being bullied.

When I use to bully I didn’t find it as a way to vent or anything like that. I didn’t really want the person to feel bad it just kind of happened, it wasn’t purposeful it was just something to do I never really thought about it as they could potentially kill themselves over something that to me didn’t t seem so important. That’s the real reason I stopped.

As far as my being bullied, I don’t really get bullied I mean all of us get made fun of because of something we have did or said. Last year I did have a couple of incidents where I was in a way cyber bullied and a lot of things got on Facebook, but I wasn’t really into that it wasn’t something that made me feel bad it was just a situation where I thought immature people will be immature and I’m ok with that. In other words I have never been bullied to the point of wanting to kill myself or harm someone else.

Some advice i can give on the subject is if you are being bullied TELL SOMEONE! I don't care if they threaten you TELL SOMEONE, it actually does work! If you are they one doing the bullying then look up some instances where people killed themselves because of that , it will really get you on the right track!

So now that I have shared some of my experience give me your ideas on this topic I would love to know what you guys think, or your past experiences with this subject!

A Fantastic Play

2010-10-16T12:12:00.012-04:00

Last Friday I saw a play called Confirming the Search: That Girl's Still Here Somewhere By: Nadine Mozon. Unlike most plays this had only one person and was a collection of poems instead of a script with multiple characters.

This play was very interesting. The writer told about her life and the different stages she experienced, and it always went back to what she did as a kid. I think that it is important not to lose the kid in you because you lose everything. I believe being a kid helps you know what you'll enjoy as a grown up.

This play was more then something to just sit back and listen to, it got you thinking and wondering how you can keep the inner kid in you. It also gave you an appreciation for the small things and keeping child-like amazement by expecting so much. One of the most important things I got out of this is to learn to live free from your mind and don't go searching for you, but let it come to you.

This program was part of the "Women in Power Conference" series sponsored by United Way of Greater Union County and Kean University. My sisters and I as part of Tiaras To Crowns started attending this annual event last year. There is really good information shared and lots of fun too. We meet girls from all over the area and talk about issues that face teens.

As a bonus to the evening I received a signed copy of Ms. Mozon's book, Kiss It Up To God -- I'll be reading it to fulfill my homework for English. If you get a chance click on the link above and look into some of her work.

Life At PAAAS

2010-09-19T19:31:00.003-04:00

Now that I am all settled in at the school there is a lot to tell you! Let me just show you a day at PAAAS.

1st Period
We have the lovely English! These past two weeks we have been writing about why we commemorate past events such as 9/11. I have come to the conclusion that we commemorate past events to show respect, give the survivors something to remember and also like the quote by George Santayana says "If we don't learn from history, we are doomed to repeat it."

2nd Period
I have Spanish; since Plainfield is coming to be more then half Hispanic and the world is multi-cultural it is important that today's students speak many different languages. In Spanish we are learning more about the Spanish countries including Brazil even though they speak Portuguese because we do a lot of business with this country it is important we study and understand their culture.

3rd Period
We have wonderful Earth Science! I’m not a fan of very earthy things such as bugs (Lol), but I enjoy this class mainly because I LOVE labs and that usually what we do. I also LOVE taking notes which tends to be important in this class because we do a lot of observations to prove our hypothesis and get our conclusion.

4th Period
BEST CLASS EVER!!! I LLOOVVEEE technology! We have the best teacher!!! He does different accents during class and he always makes class fun! Now we are really getting into computer parts and what’s in the computers, also Microsoft programs and things like that!

5th Period
AHHHH Gym! Hmmm I didn’t do the best in this class last year. . . But it’s getting off to a really good start so I’m excited!! Football and Volleyball here I come!

6th Period
Well this lunch which really sucks,but i understand that my mom and a group of people are going to be working with Sodexo. So Woohoo, Hurry up, I'm hunrgy!

7th Period
Hmm this period we are in
Algebra 1, sadly it’s not one of my strongest subjects, but I have definitely improved since last year since I spent a lot of my summer doing math problems on a website that was provided by my math teacher, and it really has helped me get a jump start on Algebra fundamentals.

8th Period
I have Civics! I have always been in love with this class! I love the work learning about all these different things about history! This would be if not my strongest class one of them! It helps that my mom is actively involved in our community so she provides me with a great example of how civic-minded people commit to volunteering!

9th Period
This period is instrumental I would have to say I look forward to this class everyday! If I don’t have it I feel incomplete, this is one of the best classes I have ever taken, I love everything about it, it helps me with my guitar skills which gives me a sense of peace and lets me escape from reality until my mom calls me back down to do the dishes!

I've been fighting my mom about writing the blog! I took the whole summer off despite her wishes,but now i am back on it! I know that writing this blog will help me be a better student, and will help me master writing techniques like persuasive and explanatory as well as increase my vocabulary and my awareness of current events in my community.

SO PLEASE KEEP READING and send me your thoughts!

Register Today!!!

2010-09-14T16:43:00.000-04:00

Aren't We Worth It!

2010-09-11T12:03:00.001-04:00

“Taking It To The Streets

A Rally for Peace in Our Communities/

Guinness Book of World Records Double Challenge”

The mission of this event is to leverage the strength and notoriety of the Guinness Book of World Records brand to bring the Greater Plainfield community together around a positive platform, and our event vision is to bring together the community by having an event that will positively impact and highlight the rich reso...urces of Plainfield and the surrounding areas.

This rally is an answer to the negative images that plague Plainfield and other urban cities. This rally is an answer to critics who naysay and choose not to believe that cities and citizens of cities can rally around a positive cause and send a positive message. This rally will highlight a city that is determined to improve the condition of its people.

This is a rally that will make history by BREAKING TWO WORLD RECORDS! During this event, we will seek to break the records for Largest Gospel Choir (current record 1000) and Largest Number of People Performing Sign Language While Simultaneously Singing the Same Song (current record 4796). On October 2, 2010, between the hours of 9 a.m. & 6p.m., in Cedarbrook Park, Plainfield NJ, 10,000 individuals will sing with ONEVOICE. The registration fee is only $10.00 (Tax Deductible) per person to participate. There will be Food, Fun and Entertainment throughout the day.

Are you willing to be a part of something that will make a greater impact on our youth, our communities and future generations?

ARE YOU READY TO BE COUNTED!!!!

Let's Make History Together!

2010-09-09T09:03:00.000-04:00

Making A Difference - The Old Fashion Way!

2010-09-07T14:56:00.000-04:00

Hope To See You There!!!

Dear Mom

2010-07-25T21:06:00.000-04:00

Mom;

I’ve been reading all of the blogs and comments and I am very sorry that you decided to help out this school district. It’s a shame how people act sometimes, it’s as if they have no life and they just want to ruin yours for the heck of it. Just know that I appreciate and love you. Remember don’t worry about what people say just focus on the real reason why you got on the board, to serve the children not entertain child-like comments and blog post.

To all the bloggers and commenter who spend their time to attack my mother:

I really wish you guys a good life, although it is kind of sad that you are focused so much on my mother’s life and the things she does to protect herself and to express her feelings . I don’t know you guys personally so I won’t judge, (which is probably something you adults can learn from me) but I will say you have definitely influenced my level of respect for you. Also it’s not so much that you attack my mother, (She is a very strong lady so she can stand up for herself) but how can you afford to attack anyone as if you are better than someone?

I learned in church just this past Wednesday, “that as we judge, so shall we be judged”. I don’t know about you all, but I would be very careful about deciding someone’s fate or casting judgments.

My Mom is not always right and she is not perfect, but she has always been there for me, my friends, my schools and this community.

The Comparison is Undeniable

2010-07-22T19:08:00.003-04:00

Sherrod & Plainfield's BOA

The firestorm of inappropriate responses, continued misinformation and over-the-top assumptions are what make up the perfect teachable moment.

Now if only we could get President Obama to Plainfield to deliver the lesson!!!

Homecoming By: Cynthia Voigt

2010-07-19T16:49:00.000-04:00

I am currently reading the book Homecoming and I have to say it's not the best book. There were no twist or turns, there is nothing that makes me want to keep reading. I wouldn't recommend this at all. This book is suppose to be about a 13 year old name Dicey and her siblings and how their mother leaves them and they have to walk all the way to Bridgeport by themselves. Now does that sound interesting? No. Some might find it interesting if your into boring books. . . But as for me I will never read a book like this again. I guess some books arent as interesting as their cover. I think I'm going to read the summary next time i pick a book!

I'm Back And Very Proud!

2010-07-16T22:43:00.000-04:00

Even I have to take a break from writing about this madness! Sooo. . . What Now?

Let's talk about the board of education. I can say honestly they are slowly but surely getting their stuff together. Some board members that I had close to no hope for have pulled themselves together. Now that makes me happy! I think we now have a chance to get something done and focus on THE CHILDREN (YAY!)! So keep up the good work board members and enjoy your summer! Now I’m off to have the best summer ever! For all you peoples I hope you have a good one too!

Maybe This Will Get You Thinking

2010-07-02T01:09:00.001-04:00

     Now I need to understand why some of you grown people try to attack MY mother. Really are you kidding me so you mean your going to personally go up at MY mother when MY mother clearly does not make any of the decisions. The only thing she can do is be one of the five to vote something up or down THAT IS IT. Is that so hard to understand? My mother is only one person . . . there are nine people on the board now what can one person honestly do?

     Since some people want to complain and criticize so much , how about they run for the board put in 8-16 hours maybe two times a week plus whatever job they do and still have to have time for their child, husband or whatever. It is not easy and nothing to brag about it’s kind of sad that the district is in so much crap that they have to spend 8-16 hours in meetings.

     Put yourself in these shoes: You work 7 hours starting work at 9 am then you go into a meeting another 8 hours so around this time it’s about 12 or 1 am right? That’s 17 hours in total then you want to sleep right? But now you realize I have to go home, cook dinner and get my child in bed and let’s not forget check homework. . . Now its 2:30 and that’s when you and your child will get to sleep finally. That’s how it is for me and my mother, my father works nights so of course I stay at the meetings until 12 sometimes 1 maybe even 2. Who in there right mind would brag about that? Think people think. It’s not that hard.

Welp I’m sleepy so goodnight!

HEART BREAKING!

2010-06-28T19:05:00.000-04:00

It is terrible to see so many people going in to defend the position for their jobs! Some come out confident others come out angry and sad even to the point where they are crying. This is very hard to watch and no one should have to go through this. I pray that these people will get there jobs back, it shows something when you see people heartbroken because they might not get to see there bunch of rug rats another year =0). GOOD LUCK TEACHERS AND STAFF!

RIF'd Apart...

2010-06-27T16:22:00.001-04:00

I don't get what is up with these RIF (Reduction in Force -- I asked my Mom that one) letters. Why are we cutting so many people? Most are teachers that we happen to need. I understand we are having major budget cuts but why cut from the main line to the students?

Shouldn't we be cutting from other things that don't affect us as harshly; like those things that are nice to have but not vital to our education. Let's take sports for example. We had a basketball court donated not too long ago and we have a field named after a Milt Campbell an Olympiad -- why can't we asked these people who have private funds and foundations to help us out in these areas. Let's reach out to musicians like Winston Marsalis and Queen Latifah to help us keep our music programs going on privately funded dollars so we can use the current budget money to make sure we have the fundamental math, reading, science and writing programs we kids need to be smart and get good jobs.

And finally on this RIF and non-tenured stuff...I think it is so dumb that people are let go based on the amount of years they've been on a job. It should be based on how effective you are as a teacher and how well your students are performing. After all isn't that what the education business is all about? If you are not doing your job then you should be fired, and student who are failing at such a high rate is evidence that someone is not doing their job.

My Mom is right -- grown-ups don't always get it right!

Schools Out Finally!!

2010-06-27T16:08:00.005-04:00

Now that school is out this district is going to have to spend this time to ensure they STEP IT UP! This is a real opportunity to start fixing the problems and start figuring out next year’s activities and education goals. There is a lot of planning to be done.

For example let’s take PAAAS. We are having 9th grade next year so we need some sports activities. Can we get a basketball net? A volleyball set? Real Jump Ropes even!!!

With incoming 7th graders will the classes be mixed with different classmates from the various grade levels?

Will our studio times be impacted? How many students in each studio? How many studios for each type of activity? Our TV Studio teacher is gone thanks to the previous Superintendent – so what happens now?

This is just one school and one student’s questions. I wonder how many other questions are out there at the other neighboring schools and among my peers.

Schools out – but the learning, teaching and preparation to teach much continue.

What about us??

2010-06-07T17:22:00.000-04:00

What about the children? Why are you guys so wrapped up in all of this drama! You all are losing focus. Who cares about Kelly or Borge. . . .How about we stay out of there business because we all have issues! It’s called we need to move on. There are so many other things so much planning to do for next year why are you guys wasting time hooting and hollering over this mess! We obviously aren’t going to be able to fix that anytime soon so instead of bugging out about stuff that will take years to fix how about we just fix the easier problems. . . .That’s one of our issues as a school system we always want to go for the biggest one first and work our way down how about we try it a different way now.

Another thing Dr.Gallon did happen to screw up, but don’t we all? The only thing we can truly do is forgive and learn from this. STOP COMPLAINING! You guys are starting to sound younger then us middle school people. You say oh Dr.Gallon wasted our time and money blah blah blah well guess what you talking about it and spending hours on it is not necessarily fixing it SORRY doesn’t work like that. When you really want to fix this how about you try contributing more than gossip!

My last issue for those of you who complain but haven’t been at a board meeting. . . . . UMMMM how much sense does that make. . . are you kidding me. . . . your for the children but you never take advantage of the opportunities to help the children????? I am so sorry but I don’t get some of the things you people do at all! That’s like complaining about the president and you didn’t even vote.

Well I’m done for now! Good day people!

Have To Keep Up On The Reading!

2010-06-04T17:25:00.001-04:00

Since the summer is coming how about we talk about reading . . . as much as I hate it I actually found some very good books that are not boring! It did take me awhile though but here you go!

Top 5

1. Uglies by: Scott Westerfield (actually a series. . . all of them are great!

2. Twilight by: Stephenie Meyer (AMAZING! Also a series!)

3. Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult (WANT TO READ!)

4. Alex Rider series by Anthony Horowitz

5. Reflections” by Kaze Woods

So now it’s up to you to start reading. I promise you that you will love at least one of these books they are all really amazing! If you want to see short summaries on the books you can go to http://www.freebooknotes.com/

Check it out!

2010-06-04T00:30:00.001-04:00

Mom's Blogging Again:

Standing In The Gap For Plainfield Public Schools!

Green Eggs & Ham -- ONLY in my BOOKS PLEASE!!!

2010-06-02T18:56:00.002-04:00

Okay! I’m sorry but I have to address this. SCHOOL LUNCHES! Okay so I need to understand why there was a hair in my food? I don’t think that is good! Excuse me but for once can we get something edible! Don’t make Mac n Cheese and leave the cheese OUT!

You know maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to try knew things like from different countries. Not so much frozen thawed out food but actually home made, maybe something that shows that you guys care about us and what we want.

I tried to be nice and not complain about it but when I find a hair in my food that’s a problem.

So parents what are YOU going to do about this because after all YOU are the ones paying for these lunches! How come we have lunch ladies who don’t cook but instead just pop something (and I mean that literally) in the oven? I’m sorry but that just doesn’t sound right!

So I am asking now for next year if we can please change up what is cooked for the schools in the district. I don’t understand why we always have to get the CHEAPEST THINGS (including books and other supplies) BUT yet we spend the most money per child. . . . . Now who can explain this!

For those of you that think this is not an issue you are so WRONG yes we have more issues than this but this issue is not of any less importance to us at least. And I would hope what’s important to us is important to you. Right?

So now this is where you PARENTS come in I need you to do something about this! As students we don’t always have the loudest voices in certain arguments and it’s your job to help us with those things so please do so!

PAAAS SPRING CONCERT!

2010-05-30T22:39:00.001-04:00

Sorry It’s taken me so long to post on the spring concerts.

As far as PAAAS we did very well! Everyone has really improved the dancers were literally amazing. They had me standing to my feet by the time the first song was over. The choir did very well although they stole our song (et-em. . . cough) but that’s okay. They have learned how to sing louder and act like they really want to be up there. Theater had me laughing they spoke with great emotion and were very confident. Now band we did good! My only suggestion for us is to do more updated songs, songs that people can really sing and dance to! Well so that’s my take on our concert and since nobody else happened to inform me about any other concerts (NOT GOOD) this will be all for today!

Stay Cool!

2010-05-28T09:46:00.000-04:00

Compliments of my cousins Sam and Courtney and her boyfriend Jay...

My Family has skillzzzzzzzzzzzzzz!

Tackling The Testing Monster!

2010-05-25T18:28:00.002-04:00

Okay! So finals are coming (BOOOOO!) I think it’s time to talk about studying! Now I know we all hate it, but in the end it will be worth it! So first things first SSSLLEEEEEPPPP!!!

You need lots and lots of sleep! If not you will fall asleep during the exams trust me I have been there (mom, I hope you aren’t reading this). I suggest you start going to sleep early a week before testing starts so you body will get use to settling down in time for the “TEST” week!

Next, make sure all handouts and notes from here on out are being carefully studied, even the simplest of things. Everything is important there is nothing worst than to be completely clueless on something your teacher has put on a test!

When it comes to your notes you MUST be organized by classes and also by dates, don’t worry so much about what happened before the midterms most teachers WILL NOT quiz you on those things but everything after that point you should STUDY STUDY AND STUDY!

Now on the day of the test you need to. . .

1. Get a good night's rest and Pray.
2. Prepare all supplies needed (pencil, test forms, calculator, etc.) before you go to sleep.
3. Eat a light, high-protein meal for breakfast.
4. Arrive early.
5. Relax, taking a few deep breaths.
6. Think positive thoughts.
7. And Pray again
8. Now be confident that you know what you need to know.
9. Do Well!

Here’s a perspective I thought would be helpful as written by McMillen and Keller:

Just remember. . . Test grades are feedback. They are not a measurement of your self-worth, creativity or of your intelligence. If the very idea of taking a test causes your stomach to get creepy and sweat to pour out of your pores, then it is time to rethink your definition of a test. Let's substitute the word "feedback" or "evaluation" for test.

Evaluation is a feedback mechanism that implies purpose and progress. The true purpose of evaluation is to determine your strengths and weaknesses, what you know and don't know, so that you can make adjustments in your study habits to benefit from or build on your strengths in order to improve your weaknesses.

You will come away with the understanding that this is where I am — this is where I want or need to be. What ACTION am I willing to take to reach that point?

So there you have it you have a couple of weeks left. Make the best of it! Start studying and stop throwing away papers! Whatever you do just don’t be nervous like the people above say “ Test are not a measurement of your self-worth, creativity or of your intelligence.” So keep this in mind and do well!

Stay tuned! Thursday's featured post will be about Plainfield schools spring concert series so send me pictures and/or information about your schools spring concert event.

A Walk Worth Taking!

2010-05-24T18:49:00.003-04:00

Saturday there was a fundraising walk-a-thon which I proudly got to attended. It was a very nice event. Many people, to my surprise, showed up and walked a whole lot. This fundraiser was dedicated to helping to find a cure for cancer, and it received a lot of support judging by all the walkers that were out and about. I believe the organizer came close to or met their goal of raising $40,000 for the cause

It did get kind of messy around 10’oclock because of the really heavy rain, but some people were so dedicated they still walked and supported the cause. On the other hand I went into the sleeper to stay dry and hopefully get some sleep. (laughing out loud).

What A Cozy Cove...

That's me trying to HIDE from the PHOTO Monster!

This event meant a lot to me since my grandmother died from Glioblastoma Multiforme, (a form of brain cancer) almost 4 years ago. This inspired me to really walk and support the event since I had lost a really close relative and I know how quick it strikes and how sad it can leave a family.

Even if you don’t have relatives with cancer just do it because it’s the right thing to do. If you were in a situation where you needed treatment wouldn’t you want someone to walk for you to help you get the things that you need to survive?

This event was more than just raising money for people with cancer. It was to help build you, to build your heart to give back all that you’ve received. That is why we all should do things like this. Don’t think they are out to get your money if you do than maybe this isn’t for you when you do this your heart has to be in the right place, and during this event I really saw that.

So on that note, I hope next time you guys will come out and support this activity. You don’t have to be an adult to make a difference. This is important and when you have participated in it you will have a feeling of accomplishment and pride. Even if you just attend for even 1 hour, it can make a difference in someone’s life. Next year you have a chance, make a difference; use that opportunity appropriately. In the long run you will feel so good about taking part in a community event that is helping to stamp out cancer!

Tomorrow:It's that TIME: Finals! Studying Strategies – how I tackle the testing monster!

Can You Spell Capitulation...Well Asaiah Edwards Can and Did!

2010-05-23T20:06:00.002-04:00

Well this is finally Milani and yes this is my first blog post “WOOT”. So I thought the nice thing to do would be to explain why it took me FOREVER to write a blog post. Well lets just say school work so THANKS to my teachers I have TONS of work.

How about we start out with the district spelling bee! It was a very nice event the artwork a.k.a. decorations were FANTASTIC, and the spellers well after about the 20th word I had no clue what they were spelling it was just like a whole bunch of letters!

The first word happened to be “coffee” and then there were about 38 more words after that which made up the first round. The first round—No one got out at all (yay)! That was very good to see.

Second round—8 people out (still very good)The first word misspelled was “exercise”. Just thought I would put that little detail in.

Third round—3 more added to the 8 (for people who cant add that’s 11)

Fourth round—4 more added to the 11 (15)

Now there happened to be more rounds but there weren’t enough people left to really bother counting at this point.

So by the 7th round there were 3 people left Sapphire Andrews, Asaiah Edwards and Jasmine Medina . (All seen in the photo below)

After Sapphire got out it was Yasmine and Asaiah and they went at it with so much back and forth it was crazy and the words were even crazier. In total they went through about 225 words it was unbelievable! (This includes ALL the spellers – of course!) But in the end Asaiah Edwards won the battle; a 6th grader at Cedarbrook Elementary (my old school! – Woo Hoo!!)

To all contestants—Thank You, you guys did great and keep up the fantastic work and I hope to see you in the next one!

Tomorrow: My Exploits @ the "A Race For A Cure" Event -- Fun Stuff...

Please Support My Friends and I...

2010-05-19T14:52:00.003-04:00

Attention PHS Class of 1982

2010-05-17T21:42:00.000-04:00

In Case You Are Interested in the TRUTH...!

2010-05-08T16:47:00.004-04:00

I know this was supposed to be the debut of my daughter’s take over for this blog but given the events of yesterday and the absolutely preposterous conclusions being put forth, I felt it not only necessary but an obligation to provide some clarity on what ACTUALLY happened.

First, I want to thank those of you who were courageous enough to approach me and solicit the truth of the matter. I appreciate your willingness to have the conversation, as oppose to riding by, peering over, and then posting ‘opinions’ based on misconceptions and other maledictions that have NOTHING to do with getting at the truth.

Apparently at 2:18 PM on yesterday (I shared a copy of the emailed communications received with those who stopped to inquire and were REALLY interested in the TRUTH) the lawyers sent an email to the Board Members expressing concerns about the legality of the meeting AND advising of potential culpability if attended.

NEITHER myself, Keisha nor Rasheed have been provide with an accessible email account, a Computer or a Blackberry from the district so all the communications regarding the lawyer’s advice was not received by us until approximately 4:05 PM once Wilma had read her email and contacted the three of us to share the chain of emails that had been initiated beginning at 2:18 PM and concluding at 3 PM on yesterday.

After being advised of the emails, I contacted Lisa directly and asked if she had a letter on letterhead, with inked signatures from the Commissioner and County Superintendent mandating this emergency meeting and confirming the legality of same. Her reply was no; she had been advised via several phone conversations throughout the week. I advised her that a situation as delicate as this required documentation, and that I must be able to read for myself, and further, that I could not in good consciousness attend this meeting, especially after having been advised of the legal concerns and not having an physical documentation to support her claim. I also advised that neither Wilma, Keisha nor Rasheed would be in attendance based on the same premise.

My position is, was and will ALWAYS be – That I WILL NOT move on any business of this Board until I HAVE THE NECESSARY information to make a wise, informed and appropriate decision. I have not come here to continue the business as usual and I will certainly NOT BE MOVED by ill advised maneuvers instigated by ulterior motives.

We are a body of NINE and at the VERY LEAST the 9 of us need to have a comfortable understanding AT EVERY JUNCTURE along the decision tree the pros and cons of the situation and make a decision based on Majority CONSENSUS. Not any ONE individual has the right to decide what is best for the Board, Our Schools or Our Children– if that were the case then the Board would be a body of a single member.

Be clear, neither I nor those of us who ran together are deterred from the business at hand,BUT we will DO THIS in DECENCY and in ORDER

or I will take NO PART IN IT (PERIOD)!

And the Answer Is...

2010-04-28T02:09:00.003-04:00

I imagine some of you have been wondering exactly how this bold, outspoken blogger is going to continue writing so candidly during her Board appointment. The answer is simple, although not easily reached – I’m not. If you look at some of the local blogs over the past 2 weeks and did a search on my name you would most certainly obtain an inordinate number of hits. So just think – I haven’t even gotten into my SERVICE seat and already I’m so POPular…

I’ve been given advice (as we say in my neck of the woods -- up the ying yang), I’ve been issued threats (yep – unreal right!), I’ve been the subject of speculation, misrepresentation, mischaracterization and of course the subject of many hyperbolized situations and the target of anonymous consternation – and all before I’ve even had a chance to warm my seat at the TABLE.

I’ve also been extremely SUPPORTED and LOVED!!!

Well to avoid even the slightest hint of impropriety I think it prudent that I give up the keyboard during my term on the Board of Education. I’ll have to look for opportunities to write on behalf of the Board because when you love to write you can’t just NOT write!

In the meantime and in between time I’m turning over my blogging keys to an individual who I trust and love without reservation or limit. To someone who has a lot of oomph but not nearly as many years experience. Some folks call her MINI Me, some call her MiMi, I call her Lovey and she is none other than my daughter, Milani Anaise Hernandez.

So – I hope you will continue to log onto the blog to read and learn from the perspective of a 12-Year old Plainfield Public School Student. I won’t sensor what she writes, nor will I edit it. Instead I’m using this as a teachable moment to broaden her literary, research and writing skills as well as help to build character such as humanity, humility, compassion, community service and yes – passion.

I’m excited for the both of us as we venture into the area of personal growth, accountability and public service, and we both look forward to serving in our respective roles with honesty, integrity and a bit of humor.

See you at the table!

Making It Do What It Do!

2010-04-23T17:50:00.004-04:00

It is My Honor and My Duty!

2010-04-22T13:54:00.000-04:00

April 23, 2010

Dear Saints,

Grace and peace to all of you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ;

I would like all of you to join me in congratulating Sister Renata on a very successful campaign for a seat on the Board of Education in Plainfield. This is a win for; Plainfield, Christian Fellowship, the children of our church and city, homeowners of Plainfield, the Hernandez family and the Kingdom of God. I am so proud that she is one of ours and I am her pastor.

Be well advised that the work has just begun for Renata and our church. She will need our support now more than she did in the campaign. Please let us not fail our children now. The powers that be count on us showing up when things are hot and disappear when the day to day work is being done. Please don’t let that be said of us.

Again, CFGC congratulates Sister Renata on a job well done.

In Him,
Pastor Cedric

255 Johnston Avenue
P.O. Box 2823 • Plainfield, NJ 07062
(908) 769-6887 Office • (908) 548-8689 Fax
" Uniting People to God And People to People"

This Is THE DAY!

2010-04-21T06:10:00.002-04:00

That the LORD has made and I WILL REJOICE and BE GLAD in IT!

Thank YOU PLAINFIELD the Supporters -- and yes the haters too-- for you both have helped to keep me focused, prayerful and favored. I know, I know -- separation of Church and State...WELL I'm no CHURCH and I'm no STATE either!

Radical! (That would be ME!)

Ready! (That would be Us!)

Thank You Again Plainfield For the Opportunity to SERVE!!!

The Crowd Is On Their Feet...........!!!

2010-04-20T07:14:00.002-04:00

The Bases are Loaded…

You are @ Bat…

This is YOUR Chance To Hit

Hasta Manana!

2010-04-19T21:47:00.000-04:00

This time tomorrow we will know the direction of this district...

I look forward to the results and subsequent conversations!

Ciao!

Happy Birthday Lovey!

2010-04-18T09:13:00.003-04:00

12 Years Ago…

An April Shower Brought Us A Flower…

And We Named Her Milani Anaise.

Born 5:20 Post Meridian on April the 18th.

Happy Birthday LOVEY

I Pray You Many, Many More To Come!

My Life Has Been Forever Changed, Forever Blessed, Forever Enriched by YOU.

Loving YOU Always and Forever,
Mom

An Endorsement From OUR Community!

2010-04-18T02:19:00.001-04:00

3677. UNLESS WE ELECT GRAND SLAM...
by weaponof1, 4/18/10 0:38 ET

Then what was predicted on this blog, may continue to take place!!!!http://www.teachplainfield.blogspot.com/

WE CALLED IT BACK IN 2008. GO READ. BUT MUCH WORK MUST STILL BE DONE. TRUTH SOMETIMES HURTS, BUT WHAT IS PAINFULLY OBVIOUS IS THAT SOME BOE MEMBERS AND CANDIDATES JUST DON'T HAVE IT IN THEIR HEARTS--OR BRAINS--TO MAKE IT HAPPEN.

We need dignified leadership, principled leadership and those who will admit to mistakes and rise to the occassion and to the call for true public service!!!

Rasheed, Wilma, Keisha and Renata stand as THE team that collectively speak ultimately for the children, and yes, often by advocating for parent and teacher rights. If anyone thinks there is something wrong with that, I submit that they are a huge part of the problem. Born and raised here, I have seen deterioration and a downward, moral spiraling of our school system. This paralelled the proliferation of gang involvement in the late 70's and early 80's, but we can see the most pervasive case of GANGSTER mentality right there on the BOE, with self-serving, unholy alliances that must be eradicated. I don't doubt that some of them, in their own twisted logic, mean well, but some are cursed with skewed vision, blind ambition, apathy, and the need to feel important, in the eyes of the community--or POCKETS OF IT!

Voting records are important! I've BEEN to many meetings, have spoken and (like others) have been met with venomous retorts by board members and even former personnel director (LET TRUTH BE TOLD!!!) AND return to travel in my circles to help do the good work that MUST be done! No thin skin here, but truth, again, must be told. We must be careful how we choose our "heroes!!!" I choose truth and progress.

I've choosen NOT to be intimidated, bullied, harassed, and scapegoated without defending myself. And as a matter of spiritual and intellectual choice, I choose the GRAND SLAM TEAM. NOT BASED ON LIES OR DECEIT, BUT faith, hope and the respect for those who serve the needs of the community--educational and otherwise.

IT WAS PREDICTED...http://www.teachplainfield.blogspot.com/NOW LET THE PROPHECY UNFOLD. APRIL 20, 2010. VOTE FOR REVOLUTIONARY CHANGE. C'MON, EVEN CHRISTIE HATES CORRUPTION IN PLAINFIELD ENOUGH TO MAKE A MOVE!!! ;-)

http://www.teachplainfield.blogspot.com/

Keep Smiling!

2010-04-17T21:28:00.000-04:00

Even When It's the Last Thing You Feel Like Doing!

Another ENDORSEMENT!!!

2010-04-17T14:09:00.000-04:00

Alpha Phi Alpha Frat, Inc.

Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter
P.O. Box 1029
Plainfield, NJ 07061

PRESS RELEASE:

Plainfield Alumni Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. endorses the Grand S.L.A.M. Team for Board of Education seats.

The state of affairs of the Plainfield Public Schools is what can only be called an all-time low. The appointment of Dr. Steven Gallon III to Superintendent of Schools by the Board of Education came with enthusiasm and excitement. He was viewed by many as the young savior, to bring the perception of this district back to respectability. Since that time, a number of irregularities have been associated with his administration. The Board of Education, as well as the Superintendent, has lost the confidence of the teachers, staff, students, and the community at large.

The appointment of two former Miami, FL based teachers to high paying administrative positions that did not have the proper credentials, has become a red hot campaign issue. After being told to rescind the contracts of the two unqualified administrators by the Union County Superintendent, the Board of Education, on the recommendation of the Superintendent, immediately voted to appoint these same individuals to similar positions, not recognized by the state that did not require certification, with six figure salaries.

The fallout from this situation, along with other questionable fiscal expenditures, has brought negative attention and embarrassment from around the state to this district by way of newspaper, radio, and television. The actions of the Superintendent now have the immediate attention of the Governor Christie, as well as the State Department of Education. During this ordeal, there has been a disturbingly consistent majority from the current Board of Education that has been complicit with the decisions of the Superintendent.

The district cannot possibly move forward with the current board in place. Therefore, the Plainfield Alumni Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., places its support behind the Grand S.L.A.M. Team of Wilma Campbell, Keisha Edwards, Rasheed Abdul-Haqq, and Renata Hernandez. Not only have these individuals been consistently present at board meetings, they have been actively taking part in questioning the Board of Education and Superintendent of Schools on their decisions. Ms. Campbell is one of only two current board members that dares to question the actions of the Superintendent; Ms Edwards is a former Plainfield educator that now teaches in another district; Mr. Abdul-Haqq is a past board member and community activist; and Ms Hernandez is a PTO leader and maintains a blog on the district’s current state of affairs. All these candidates bring a set of experiences and a passion that we feel will move this district toward getting back on the right track. Upon their election, we must hold them accountable.

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. was founded at Cornell University, in 1906, and is the oldest Black Greek-letter fraternity for college men, with undergraduate and alumni chapters across the country and throughout the world. The Zeta Nu Lambda Chapter was established in Plainfield in 1956. The fraternity strives to help the needy, and promote education for our young people.

ForEVER This Will Stand!

2010-04-17T09:59:00.003-04:00

The TRUTH is the LIGHT so TEAMMATES Let Your LIGHT SHINE THROUGH and here's some encouragement:

“Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.” (Oscar Wilde)

“All truths are easy to understand once they are discovered; the point is to discover them.” (Galileo Galilei)

“Unless your heart, your soul, and your whole being are behind every decision you make, the words from your mouth will be empty, and each action will be meaningless. Truth and confidence are the roots of happiness.” (Unknown)

“If you tell the truth you don't have to remember anything.” (Mark Twain)

“Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life. Don't be trapped by dogma - which is living with the results of other people's thinking. Don't let the noise of other's opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” (Steve Jobs)

“The truth is incontrovertible, malice may attack it, ignorance may deride it, but in the end; there it is.” (Winston Churchill)

“Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth.” (Albert Einstein)

And Finally and MOST POIGNANTLY

“Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be trusted with important matters.” (Albert Einstein)

CONGRATULATIONS: Wilma, Rasheed, Keisha and I!!!

2010-04-16T16:18:00.002-04:00

Today We Received...

To My Running Mates!

2010-04-16T13:06:00.002-04:00

Beginning Now -- up Until OUR Declared Victory on Tuesday April 20th this Blog will be dedicated to my running mates.

Only comments that support US and OUR Cause will be entertained.

Wilma, Rasheed and Keisha;

"What shall we then say to these things?
If God be for us, who can be against us?"
Romans 8:31

Don't SLEEP PLAINFIELD

2010-04-16T08:36:00.003-04:00

Embedded in the Agenda from last Tuesday was the revamping/creation of Policy number 4119.26/4219.26.

If we followed normal procedures this would not even be entertained until the NEW Board gets seated. However, if a special meeting is called prior to the swearing in this could certainly be approved by this rubberstamping rag-tag bunch.

Board Members -- Industry-wide Best Practices: Personal Emails are deleted after 1 Year and HR Records are maintained for at least 15 years.

Make HIM show you the precedence for such a policy! This is NOT the WORLD according to GALLON!

Why the push to delete ANYTHING at this point in time given current CIRCUMSTANCES and the Dr.'s most recent indiscretions. This would only COMPOUND the mistrust the public already has for the school leadership.

WAKE UP Folks!

AND Another THING!!!

How in the World is KEMP assigned for the 2010-2011 School Year to Manage the Budget for Special Ed???!!!

Do NOT LET THIS HAPPEN Board MEMBERS!!!

Plainfield DO NOT LET the Board Do This! Call, Email, and or Write To The Judge Who Issued the Directive for Ms. Kemp To Forfeit Her Job Immediately:

Joan Robinson Gross, JMC
908-753-3065 (Office)
908-753-3030 (Fax)
908-659-3690 (M-W-F)
908-659-3877 (Fax: M-W-F)

It's A GRAND S.L.A.M. Campaigning Blitz!

2010-04-15T23:47:00.003-04:00

On behalf of my running mates and I, I want to thank ALL of our supporters who have come forth and freely offered their time and their talents to ensure we HIT A GRAND S.L.A.M. for Plainfield Public Schools!

This Saturday (4/17) at 12 Noon at John Campbell Century 21 Office located on Park Avenue across from the Plainfield High School We NEED YOU to come out and support our various campaign efforts.

We need:

Telephone Canvassers
Neighborhood Canvassers
Meet and Greet Sponsors
Campaign Material Distributors

This is where it all comes together -- and -- WE NEED YOU to help make it happen!

See You Saturday!

Email me should you have any questions: rannette439@verizon.net

Brilliant Deduction!

2010-04-15T23:11:00.004-04:00

2 Weeks Ago Bridget shared with the community that she was one of the BOE Members Dr. Bailey informed about the lack of certification for Borge and Kelly.

Last Week Both Lisa and Wilma, when asked by a community member said THEY were NOT told about this matter.

Again yesterday, Wilma advised the audience at the LWV's Forum that she was NOT one of the BOE members advised of this matter.

Today, Christian-- finally speaks out and post..."I am NOT one of the four board members that 'G.Bailey' claims she told" (Notice the use of his word "claims" when Ms. Rivers already CONFIRMED that what Dr. Bailey said was true.)

So now we have 3 NO's and 1 YES

We all know that neither Peterson nor Gilbert were members of the Board just yet, so by deduction they are eliminated.

So now we have: 5 NO's and 1 YES

OK folks stick with me here... Now how many people do we need to make up the 4 informees? You Give?

3 -- That's how many... And who are these 3?

Who's left... Barksdale, Cathcart and Cox that's who!

Need we say more! Actually Yes I should -- thanks Christian for helping us figure this out!

KE on the BOE

2010-04-14T15:34:00.000-04:00

~~Will~~ Was April 13, 2010 be a day of unity for the Plainfield B.O.E and its community?

As I sat through Tuesday’s 2+ hour Work and Study meeting, which discussed the OFAC findings, I could only wonder if this hiring and certification nightmare would ever end. The frustration, disgust and/or embarrassment of the people attending the meeting was palpable. People were demanding answers, yet were limited to 2 questions by the President of the Board. People wanted some straight talk and solutions, but were met with the CSA’s double speak and criticisms of the investigation findings. Current and past board members even spoke of everyone needing to work together and become unified, although 4 of them were informed of this situation by Dr. Bailey and did nothing and 7 voted “no” to RICE the CSA in order to get to the bottom of this mess as a unified board, without the state intervening. Where has their unity been with this community?

Under the current CSA, job titles and descriptions were changed and lowered, forcing out valuable employees, who were knowledgeable of the issues facing our city. Qualified members of our community and employees (50 applicants) were overlooked for positions that would later be filled by 2 Miami women, who did not possess the proper certifications or qualifications from DAY 1. New positions were created without approval from the County Supt. and given to the 2 Miami women investigated without ever posting the positions for current staff or members of the community to apply. Reimbursements and travel were approved at a cost that could have gone toward hiring a new teacher or much needed textbooks. The Assistant Superintendent was convicted for assaulting an administrator and ordered to forfeit her position (no proof that she has). Qualified and dedicated members of our community resigned from both administrative and teaching positions from physically becoming ill from all the deception and corruption occurring in PPS.

I know this physical pain all to well. I resigned on 6/30/2009 from my tenured position as the speech therapist at PHS, Maxson, Barlow and Evergreen after a 33 pound weight loss and illness brought on by the stress of hostile working conditions. The decision was not easy. The economy was bad and working less than a mile from home, was a perk for this mother of 3 PPS students. But more importantly, this decision meant leaving the students, who referred to themselves as my kids from another mother, and co-workers, who worked tirelessly to educate our students despite the madness. This was my second time working where I lived. There’s nothing like seeing the fruits of your labor grow in your own community.

Many people have been negatively impacted, financially, physically and emotionally from these decisions. Our community’s name has been run through the mud on television, newspaper and radio because of the actions of the CSA, the ladies he recommended from Miami and the complacent board members, who stuck their head in the mud, rather than handle this situation as a unified board. If the members of the B.O.E. truly want to see this community work together and be unified then they can start the unification process by asking for the resignation of the Superintendent at the April 13th B.O.E Business meeting. Next, the 2 ladies investigated and found not to have possessed the proper credentials and qualifications from DAY1 should be fired IMMEDIATELY. As for the 3 current board members, who were informed of this situation by Dr. Bailey and did nothing, they should resign. Councilwoman Bridget Rivers, who was the past President of the board, acknowledged being one of the 4 members warned by Dr. Bailey. Our district is about to terminate 100+ workers, we’ve wasted over ½ million dollars on this fiasco and the councilwoman believes the investigation report was a good thing! Unbelievable! I suppose the other 3 feel the same way.

I feel these 3 steps are the only actions that will bring closure to this matter and help to unify our community. These actions will demonstrate that the B.O.E. is serious about their hiring practices, serious about having certified staff, serious about being fiscally responsible, serious about addressing the concerns of the community and most importantly SERIOUS ABOUT LEARNING. No alibis, no excuses, no exceptions. The B.O.E. must have forgotten those mottos when the CSA came along with his “Yes, we will.”

The Plainfield community can take action as well on April 20th by casting their votes for Wilma Campbell, Renata Hernandez, Rasheed Abdul-Haqq and me, Keisha Edwards of A Grand S.L.A.M for Plainfield. Four individuals, who’ve been fighting for months against this corruption. Four individuals that will rid Plainfield of this wasteful spending. Four individuals, who will tell Dr. Gallon, NO, “WE WON’T!”

Keisha Edwards
Candidate running for 1 year unexpired term on the B.O.E.
Member of A Grand S.L.A.M. (School Leadership Advocacy Movement)

Plainfield YOU did the DARN THING!

2010-04-14T06:17:00.002-04:00

STAND UP PLAINFIELD and Take a Bow!

I am SO PROUD of the Show up the Speak Out and the Unity LAST NIGHT!

We came together on one accord and the Prayers of RIGHTEOUS AVAILETH MUCH!

Have a Wonderful Day MY PLAINFIELD!

Hope to see YOU at the LWV's Forum Tonight | 6:30 PM | EMERSON SCHOOL!

Big UP!

Angry Nah…Passionate ABSOLUTELY!

2010-04-12T15:55:00.002-04:00

I’ve been reading all the stuffesses about how angry I am. How disrespectfully etc… I have even been accused of using my daughter to propagate the negativity.

How many of you have gone to the schools I’ve worked at and have spoken to the children? How many of you concerned citizens have spoken to the teachers, district employees and administrators of the schools I have partnered with and volunteered at over the past 6 years?

Talk to the teachers and administrators who have taught my daughter. Talk to her classmates. Find out how well grounded she is and respectful and RESPECTED!

Go there!

Talk to them and then tell me about me and mine! But you won’t!

You’ve all ready checked with former associates and acquaintances and you can’t for the life of you dispel what I have said I’ve done. Ooh how you have tried. Really! The truth is amazing like that – it doesn’t get any better!

You don’t have to guess where I stand, who I support, what my motives are as is the case with other candidates who haven’t been around long enough for you to vet them or JUDGE them –YET! The first time you heard of me wasn't when I announced my candidacy! Everyone puts their best foot forward – and then as my Grandmother would say – then you take them in and they come up with all these other feet you never knew they had.

I am not afraid of who I am, of making mistakes or of making folks accountable!

Paint me how you wish just as long as you PAINT me PRESENT because that’s where I’ve been and that’s where you will find me!

Again I say;

They whispered, conspired, they told their lies (God favors me)
My character, my integrity, my faith in God (He favors me)
Will not fall, will not bend, won’t compromise(God favors me)
I speak life and prosperity and I speak health (God favors me)

And on this I stand!

Angry Nah… I come before you with RIGHTEOUS INDIGNATION that only those seeking righteousness will understand and I KNOW and AFFIRM that there are MORE OF US than there are of you!

It's Our Turn Plainfield!

2010-04-12T11:41:00.003-04:00

I’m praying that the Board Members prepare the room to receive the outpouring of public who will be in attendance tomorrow. I know they didn’t advertise it, but they don’t have to – people are tapped/wired/radioed in!

Bring your own chair just in case…

Tomorrow is the beginning or the ending --depending on how you wish to view it! I look forward to moving this district forward.

By any means necessary – Be there the life of OUR Children DEPEND on IT!

Why???!!! -- Please Allow Me to Show You...

2010-04-10T20:28:00.002-04:00

No Need to Make Up, Fake It or Shake Down...

When You ARE

ACTUALLY DOING THE DARN THING!

Preparation 101

2010-04-10T08:45:00.003-04:00

Listening...

               Watching!

                             Reading and Studying.

                                        Praying!

Skullduggery & the PLAINFIELD Board of Education -- PERFECT Together!

2010-04-07T07:26:00.002-04:00

Yesterday’s WORD of the day certainly captures what occurred (or didn’t occur) last night. We the public were subjected, yet again, to Dr. Gallon’s spin on the situation. I’d like to call your attention Board Members -- it is EXACTLY his spin on this city that has gotten us in this pickle!

Questions were asked of the Board Members but the President deflected most of them and informed the public that the Superintendent would be responding to questions about the OFAC report because he was the one to whom it was addressed. The report was addressed to YOU Mr. President. Did the Board VOTE to allow the CSA to respond on behalf of the board?

There was a visitor there last night from 101.5 (David M.) who was denied the right to tape the proceedings, but he stuck it out, and more amazingly he was able to peg the double-speak, deflecting buffoonery of Dr. Gallon within 15 minutes of hearing him speak. If a total stranger can come in and get it then someone please tell me what is wrong with the seven board members who continue to buy into this non-sense?

Plainfield -- WE NEED TO DEMAND a response from our BOARD MEMBERS. Dr. Gallon no longer has the credibility to respond to the concerns of this community and according to its OWN POLICY it is the Board's RESPONSIBILITY to respond to issues that cannot be resolved between and among the public and the CSA.

I know this may be hard for you all (BOE) but YOU will actually have to work this out! You can not allow Gallon to sanction his own behavior. He obviously doesn’t get it!

Plainfield Community -- Speak OUT, Show UP and HOLD these “ELECTED” official accountable!

LOLOLOLOLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-04-06T13:26:00.000-04:00

The Word for Today: SKULLDUGGERY -hanky panky, hocus-pocus, jiggery-pokery, slickness...

Laughing to keep from crying!

Ok FOLKs -- Now is YOUR Chance!

2010-04-06T10:00:00.004-04:00

The report is in...

The facts are indisputable...

There are no questions, but there is an answer -- in a word "TERMINATION" and other words "With Cause"!

There are very few opportunities in life to correct an error, 2nd chances are rare --here's yours BOE Members -- Do the RIGHT thing for the RIGHT reasons!

Terminate for Cause:

Dr. Steve Gallon, III
Angela Kemp
Lesley Borge
Lalelei Kelly

It really is JUST THIS SIMPLE!

Get e'r DONE folks!!

A Good Cause...Please Help!

2010-04-05T22:49:00.000-04:00

See YOU TUESDAY!!

2010-04-05T12:00:00.006-04:00

OFAC Report Readout

TOMORROW's

Work & Study Meeting

~~6:30 PM~~! Make that ~~7 PM~~!

Correction -- Looking more like 8 PM!

Hope to See YOU there!

Make SURE to be A PART of OUR FUTURE!

2010-04-03T07:19:00.001-04:00

NEW VISION FOR PLAINFIELD

If you missed the Saturday, March 27, 2010 Visioning Session, please send an email to events@plainfield.com with the SUBJECT - VISIONING LIST. We will place you on the email list for updates and meeting notices about our NEW VISION FOR PLAINFIELD. If you would like to comment on the Visioning Session please send an email to events@plainfield.com with the SUBJECT - VISIONING COMMENT. Thank you.

•Introduction and Heritage: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxVQ4T0l0gI

•Transportation & Transit Oriented Developement: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNcmR1cKB3g

•Study Area Introductions: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKT2hvND7iM

•Netherwood: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Xs07LTqlTY

•Downtown: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghk2x4M8lKg

•Plainfield West: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnlaoYwG

DON'T sit back and wait on ANYONE ELSE to decide what your CITY SHOULD LOOK LIKE.

Sign-up To Be A Part of the

VISION!

Ooooh Weeee!

2010-04-02T15:58:00.000-04:00

You all should see the stuff I'm getting behind the scenes -- All kinds of nasty grams!

The writing is so laden with grammatical errors, ignorance and non-sense -- and as "she" projected one part right -- IT will never get printed...At least not on my blog!

Anywho Teamies, Plainfield -- HOLD YOUR HEAD UP!

The election is drawing near so it's about to get real raw. Get PRAYED UP!

See you soon!

A Call To Action!!

2010-04-02T11:28:00.000-04:00

As Suggested by Laura Shoemaker -- please follow through:

I think everyone needs to e-mail them and demand results...feel free to copy and paste it:

As a resident of Plainfield, I would like to know when the Board of Education will be calling a special meeting to RICE Dr. Steve Gallon for the following reasons:

Failure to follow the directives of his superior,
Failure to inform the Board of his superior's request thereby putting the Board in a precarious legal position
Theft by deception
Failure to follow the laws of the State of New Jersey in the hiring practices at Plainfield Public Schools
Failure to abide by a court order to remove Angela Kemp from her position.

I not only look forward to an answer to this question, but I expect an answer as I plan to take this to the media and state government officials. The NJDOE Office of Fiscal Accountability will not be the only office THIS administrator or THIS board will have to answer to.

Here are the e-mail addresses:

lcathcart@plainfield.k12.nj.us;

mcox@plainfield.k12.nj.us;

cestevez@plainfield.k12.nj.us;

pbarksdale@plainfield.k12.nj.us;

lloganl@plainfield.k12.nj.us;

wcampbell@plainfield.k12.nj.us;

blgilbert@plainfield.k12.nj.us;

kpeterson@plainfield.k12.nj.us

Keep YOUR Eye on the Bouncing Ball!

2010-04-02T10:15:00.002-04:00

"I was not the Plainfield Superintendent of Schools in June 2008, and therefore could provide no direction to district staff," Gallon wrote via e-mail.

Don't YOU All DRINK
this Kool-aid!

I've spoken with Dr. Bailey, and I will have the actual emails for your personal perusal as soon as get back to work next week.

Then -- will you come up with another need for more factual information that proves this man does NOT have the truth in him?

So who will you believe HIM or Your Lying Eyes? Hmmm.

I really don't know which is worse him, or the turning of our backs on what is right in front of us?

The TRUTH is the LIGHT!

2010-04-02T09:18:00.005-04:00

Dr. Bailey was forced to leave her home (HER HOME) her family (HER FAMILY) and her community (HER COMMUNITY) because 4 Board Members (And you don’t need their names just look at who was in position, what was the protocol (as Dr. Bailey always followed protocol), who was the in-charge ‘chair’ for the area(s) in scope and you will KNOW EXACTLY who these people were/ARE!) – They FAILED to act and a DISINGENUOUS Dr. Steve Gallon came marching in and created his own Miami Oz right here in Plainfield and stole the BRAINS, HEART and COURAGE of “OUR” elected BOE.

{Funny how DISINGENUOUS is Steve's favorite word -- scripture tell us -- Out of the Mouth speaks the ABUNDANCE of the Heart! PROFOUND! PROPHETIC! POIGNANT!}

Look at the voting records PEOPLE!

It's not about WHO sat on the Board. That’s just ridiculous to put that type of falsehood forward. It is ABOUT who and HOW people voted. REMEMBER an individual is ONLY as powerful as the VOTING BLOCK of FIVE (5)! That is why, unlike what many have been putting out there, it IS VITAL that a TEAM (and TEAM being the operative word here – not just four folks on a ticket – BUT a TEAM!) gets voted in on April 20th.

One person – CANNOT make the NECESSARY CHANGE. TWO people CANNOT make the Necessary CHANGE! THREE PEOPLE – Get us a little closer BUT it does NOT equal the 5 Votes needed to MAKE THE NECESSARY CHANGE.

Folks – It will take A GRAND S.L.A.M.!
and That’s not just a slogan – that's WHAT IT WILL TAKE!

Are You READY for THIS??!!

2010-04-02T09:12:00.001-04:00

PLAINFIELD – I am grateful for Dr. Gallon!

He has AWAKEN a SLEEPING GIANT – A QUEEN CITY -- THE QUEEN City!

EVERYBODY has a reason!

As my husband’s Grand Mother use to say: No Hay Mal…Que Por Bien No Venga!

Couple Gallon's actions, the budget crisis, the ineptitude of the current board and PLAINFIELD is in a prime position for the COURAGEOUS, the SINCERE and the PREPARED to TAKE BACK OUR SCHOOLS!

The question is: ARE you REALLY READY for the WORK AHEAD?

We’ve seen what INACTION gets us. Now Let’s see what PROACTION Delivers!

I'm Here Yall...Trust Me and...

2010-04-01T23:48:00.000-04:00

Stay Tuned!

Very Fitting...

2010-04-01T04:41:00.000-04:00

WHAT DO TEACHERS MAKE?

The dinner guests were sitting around the table discussing life.

One man, a CEO, decided to explain the problem with education. He argued, "What's a kid going to learn from someone who decided his best option in life was to become a teacher?"

To stress his point he said to another guest; "You're a teacher, Barbara . Be honest. What do you make?"

Barbara, who had a reputation for honesty and frankness replied, "You want to know what I make? (She paused for a second, then began...)

"Well, I make kids work harder than they ever thought they could.

I make a C+ feel like the Congressional Medal of Honor winner.

I make kids sit through 40 minutes of class time when their parents can't make them sit for 5 without an I Pod, Game Cube or movie rental.

You want to know what I make? (She paused again and looked at each and every person at the table)

I make kids wonder.

I make them question.

I make them apologize and mean it.

I make them have respect and take responsibility for their actions.

I teach them to write and then I make them write. Keyboarding isn't everything.

I make them read, read, read.

I make them show all their work in math. They use their God given brain, not the man-made calculator.

I make my students from other countries learn everything they need to know about English while preserving their unique cultural identity.

I make my classroom a place where all my students feel safe.

I make my students stand, placing their hand over their heart to say the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag, One Nation Under God, because we live in the United States of America.

Finally, I make them understand that if they use the gifts they were given, work hard, and follow their hearts, they can succeed in life ( Barbara paused one last time and then continued.)

Then, when people try to judge me by what I make, with me knowing money isn't everything, I can hold my head up high and pay no attention because they are ignorant.

You want to know what I make?

I MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

What do you make Mr. CEO?

His jaw dropped, he went silent.

THIS IS WORTH SENDING TO EVERY TEACHER, EVERY CEO, EVERY PERSON YOU KNOW.
Even all your personal teachers like mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, coaches and your spiritual leaders/teachers.

A profound answer!!!

Compliments of Mr. El-Amin

Why The City Councilors & Community Should STAY "in" School!

2010-03-29T17:34:00.000-04:00

"New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE) which shows more than 725 school administrators making more than $141,000 annually, including nearly 60 school superintendents drawing annual salaries of $200,000 or more, Rible said, “Such exorbitant salaries are, in part, to blame for the high cost of property taxes associated with education in New Jersey and the state’s chronic budget deficits."
[http://hobokencurriculumproject.blogspot.com/2010/03/nj-bill-seeks-to-cap-salary-of.html]

Here's Your Opportunity...

2010-03-29T11:02:00.002-04:00

For those who REALLY want to understand the reasons and glean the qualifications of the candidates running for the Plainfield Board of Education - Come Out to:

PEA Candidates Forum

Wednesday, 3/31

5:30 PM

P.H.S. Cafeteria

Come Join Us Today : 5 PM

2010-03-27T15:55:00.000-04:00

For The Record!

2010-03-27T00:24:00.000-04:00

I had a very engaging conversation with Annie McWilliams and I appreciated the opportunity to understand her position as well as express my own. That's "authentic" intentions in action.

Not the cowardly Anon-mer(s) whose commentary speaks only to their self-centered concerns and how they are sick of talking about the schools (wonder how many kids they have in the district). Not a single candidate spoke last night -- yet out of the 6 speakers that came up to the mic when I was there -- 5 talked about their concerns for the schools. Hmmm...

And if Anon has it their way looks like we will be checking our ward cards at the door -- lessen you be speaking about anything they might not be interested in...

Silly Rabbit.

It's not about you think my way or hit the highway, but rather how can we come to some common ground -- and we have a lot of common ground to cover.

Anywho -- thanks Annie for reaching out/in and over! I look forward to the 3rd Ward's meeting and many opportunities to converse, partner and IMPROVE Plainfield -- the community and the schools! Be well.

Absolutely Disgusted!

2010-03-25T22:59:00.009-04:00

You know I’m getting pretty sick and tired of POLICITIANS throwing around the word POLITICS as in “Playing Politics” as if it is a dirty word. If it’s a dirty word then that makes YOU dirty because it’s what you practice and are involved in day in and day out.

It’s not politics that is dirty -- it’s the sneaky, conniving, lying duplicitous nature of the politician that makes it so!

I was completely out done when I walked into the 2nd Ward City Council meeting and was assailed with two absolutely OBSURD proclamations! The first was from Annie McWilliams who said that because the BOE elections were approaching, the council would not entertain any questions regarding education, after all “it was beyond” their responsibility. Yet last week they not only entertained education they introduced and allowed commentary from BOE members and the CSA.

Hmm -- So what’s that about? Sounds like politicking to me…

The real question is -- why would you hold City Council Forums during the BOE election period and then NOT expect people to discuss what is happening?

Why would Annie think it was SLIGHTLY OK to SENSOR/CENSURE what is on the hearts of the people in her community?

Shortly following Mr. Mapp says it is the job of the State and Federal Government to provide education for communities, and just to make sure we all understood him -- he repeated it. WHAT???

Hey Mapp -- It takes a Village to raise a child and like it or not YOUR House is in this Village and YOU along with everyone else will have to PAY to EDUCATE this city’s children.

Think of it this way -- you will either pay to educate them, pay to jail them or pay to bury them. AS for ME and MY HOUSE -- we ARE A PART of THIS COMMUNITY and We gladly give of our time, talent and talons to EDUCATE our future.

I personally, don’t go to City Council Meetings because they are too rigid for my taste. BUT whenever I hear about an OPEN forum format I attend. But guess what I'm coming to talk about? You BETCHA -- EDUCATION…that is to say the DIRE STRAITS of PLAINFIELD PUBLIC SCHOOLS! And--- it doesn’t matter if it’s during an election season or not!

How could the council even remotely believe they could have a VIABLE and/or VALUABLE conversation about ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT without first understanding how education will play a role in the success of same?

ANNIE -- YOU Can NOT create and/or establish an economic infrastructure WITHOUT ensuring you have the ability to sustain same.

Who is going to work in the stores? Buy from the Stores? Hello -- Own and Operate the Stores? Certainly not the children of Plainfield because their EDUCATION does not afford them the ability to SUSTAIN the economic base.

I got up to talk but time was running out and I had to go to another forum -- So I had to write this up because it was just too darn unbelievable that she and Mapp would take such an asinine stance on such a highly publicized, critical issue in our city. And -- there were a LOT of folks there that felt the same way given the bouts of applause that erupted every time someone mentioned their concerns about education and the current state in our city‘s schools.

Looks like the council made the WRONG call on that one!

It was a sad commentary to witness these two in full blown ignorance of how important the educational issue is to the community, but I must say the community people who spoke up were on point, and despite the edicts of Ms. McWilliams, continued to voice their concerns about the educational system in Plainfield.

Power to the PEOPLE of PLAINFIELD!

Huh?

2010-03-25T13:23:00.000-04:00

"I rather be the one suffering the stress of not knowing specifics rather than having stress due to the possible different scenarios." Christian Estevez, BOE Member and Incumbent

Hello Plainfield! It is exactly this type of mentality that has allowed non-certified, convicted, under qualified, the mismanaged of money and abuse of power to run rampant in our district. If you DO KNOW then you can't do anything to fix it or HOW ABOUT PREPLAN for it instead of the reactionary rash that is part of this BOE operating strategy!

I said it on Tuesday and I'll say it again -- Spare the voters of Plainfield the STRESS of your candidacy. You came, You tried, you FAILED now move on! Ugh!!!

Join The Fun!

2010-03-24T17:02:00.000-04:00

Can WE have a REAL Debate?

2010-03-22T14:26:00.004-04:00

From Blogger to BOE Candidate -- just passing it on as I see/saw it!

I have personally participated in 3 separate candidate’s forums over the past week (literally in a single weekend) and given the lack of “coverage”/“blogger buzz" -- please allow me to share with you what transpired.

Here’s how things panned out:

Our 1st Forum was at Harvest Radio 1070 AM where 6 out of the 14 candidates showed up to participate. Just to keep this simple --- 4 of them were my running mates and I.

Our 2nd Forum was at Cresent Avenue Church sponsored by SEIU Local 32bj - (7 showed Up -- 4 were my teammates and I). According to the single-only gentlemen who spoke with us this was their first foray into BOE elections. There was no panel, no note taking, no “real” dialog -- just my team answering some questions that we had already replied to in writing and faxed in to their office prior to the forum. The two independents and ¼ of a slate were present but the interesting thing was that an entire team (for which one member is also a member of the Union who hosted this event) had been notified and interviewed a week prior to any other candidates being invited. Interesting stuff -- Huh?

And our 3rd forum was sponsored by the Plainfield Chapter of the NAACP for which 9 of 14 were present -- 1 full slate (mine); ¾ of a slate (with a valid reason and a note of introduction and apology), ¼ of a slate (with no note of introduction/apology) 1 independent and another independent absent (with a letter of introduction and apology).

If I had one thing to ask of all future planned forum hosts/hostesses -- it would be to PLEASE allow us to have a genuine debate on the issues and the various positions of incumbents and candidates with regard to the current state of the educational system in this city.

There has not been an opportunity for candidates to actually speak to or about one another, or to inquire about each others reasoning for certain decisions. What are we afraid of in terms of allowing this level of conversation to take place? How else will the general public really know and be able to vet out the best candidates for the position?

Can We Talk???!!!

Meet & Greet Part II

2010-03-20T00:08:00.001-04:00

If you've missed us today -- please come join us tomorrow (3/20)...

@ 34 Randolph Road

Look for The Banner!

Stop in -- we would LOVE to have you!

Campaign Kick-off: Tomorrow!!!

2010-03-18T22:27:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow!

6PM - 8PM

United Church of Christ Congregational

Corner of West 7th and Madison Avenue

[Parking on Madison Ave./ Additional Parking Diagonally Across the Street At United Family & Children’s Society]

School Leadership Advocacy Movement!

2010-03-17T23:56:00.001-04:00

PAAAS Open House - This Thursday!

2010-03-16T12:23:00.000-04:00

Come Get to Know More About the People Behind the Grand S.L.A.M. Plan!

2010-03-14T22:28:00.002-04:00

This Friday, March 19th

6 PM - 8 PM

United Church of Christ Congregational

220 W. 7th Street & Madison Avenue

Elect

Campbell (2) * Hernandez (9) * Abdul-Haqq (10) * Edwards (13)

Plainfield Board of Education

April 20, 2010

Change is @ Your FINGERTIP! - Get OUT and VOTE!!

2010-03-13T13:03:00.003-05:00

Elect

Campbell(2) * Hernandez (9)

Abdul-Haqq (10) * Edwards (13)

Plainfield Board of Education

April 20, 2010

We Are READY -- Taking Back Our Schools -- Brick by Brick!!!

2010-03-11T23:01:00.004-05:00

CAMPBELL (2)

HERNANDEZ (9)

ABDUL - HAQQ (10)

EDWARDS (13)

Get Your TICKETS!!!

2010-03-10T06:48:00.000-05:00

United Church of Christ Congregational

220 W.7th Street

Plainfield, NJ

For tickets: See Wilma, Rasheed, Keisha or Renata or send an email to rannette439@verizon.net