I was reminded the other day of a student in my fifth-grade class named Michael. I was teaching a combined class of fifth- and sixth-grade students. Michael was a bright, witty, aware student. Another unique quality of his was an ability to be in the wrong place at the wrong time doing the wrong thing. It was like a sixth-sense for him. What he did wasn’t bad. It was just irritating. His behavior seemed to frequently require some kind of intervention on my part. Having said that, I really liked Michael. In fact, I had him in my class for two consecutive years (poor Michael). One day, while the students were working on a project, I noticed that Michael wasn’t working – at all. So I said to him, “Michael, please stop wasting your time.” His response took me totally by surprise. In typical Michael fashion he replied, “Mr. Newbold, I’m not wasting my time – I’m just using it up doing nothing!”
The winter recess is time for each of us to relax, spend time with family and friends, and if we choose, “do nothing.” That may in fact be a very wise use of time. Whatever you choose to do, may your time be filled with activities that bring a sense of renewal and much happiness.
I’ve met recently with PTA leaders, School Community Council Chairs, and school administrators from around the District. Without exception, everyone is looking for information about issues relating to the District division. Here is an update:
• Hearings before the three-member Arbitration Panel begin Monday, Dec. 8, and will last through Dec. 19. Then the decisions of dividing the District assets rest in their hands. We’ll have to wait until mid to late January to know what the panel decides.
• The 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver will hear oral argument regarding the Herriman City appeal of the constitutionality of the vote to divide the District on Jan. 14, 2009. We don’t know when to expect the court’s decision.
• The three boards of education have come to an understanding about how they will fill administrative vacancies that occur between now and June 30, 2009. Vacancies will be filled by Lead or Interim assignments, and permanent administrative positions will be named as soon as possible.
• The Remaining Jordan School District Board is studying budgets and school enrollment estimates in preparation for developing a funding strategy that will ensure our success.