4?.-1 Little Rock Central High School Enrollment Data Advanced Placement/Gifted and Talented Classes End of School Year 1996-97 Course Black Other Total % Black Am. Hist. 18 108 126 14 Euro Hist 44 50 12 French IV 32 37 14 French V&VT 35 36 German 22 22 Latin 14 16 13 Spanish 19 94 113 17 English IV 15 97 112 13 Biology 12 37 49 24 Chemistry 22 26 Physics 13 13 Calculus AB 41 49 16 Calculus BC 16 16 Statistics 57 62 6 5 1 0 2 4 0 8 0 5 3 0 4 0 0 8 All Advanced Placement classes at Central are open to identified gifted and talented students without regards to their intent to take the Advanced Placement test at the completion of the course. Their records do not indicate whether they entered the class as GT students or as Advanced Placement students
consequently, the numbers above contain both categories of students.Dear Dr. Williams, My name is Sarah Holt. Five years ago I was in Hall High School for kindergarten. It was different than other schools in good ways. One way was how the teenagers came in and helped us. One of those teenagers ended up being a great role model for me at that time. I really looked up to everyone who came in to help us. Since Mrs. Wright had so much help from the high school students, she could plan activities that were very Involved. We couldn't have done those activities In larger groups. Mrs. Wright was an exceptionally good teacher. She always had fun activities planned and gave me a great beginning in my education.! know if I feel this way the high school kids do too. It would be awful if you shut it down because then other kids would miss out on the fun. Sincerely, Sarah K. HoltibUe ' ') ' DKS9 I / Administrative Vacancy 3.2 an -----, 3 I (Position now open ' GIFTED PROGRAM SPECIALIST (COORDINATOR) t I I Little Rock School District J Septepiber 7, 1989 QUALIFICATIONS
1. A Master's Degree (rninimutn) in Elementary or Secondary Education. 2. Must meet Arkansas certification requirements for Gifted and Talented. 3. Must have at least three (3) years of successful teaching experience of which one (1) year must be in a Gifted and Talented environment. 4, 5. 6. NOTE: Demonstrates strong human relations/interpersonal skills. Evidence of a strong conmitment to gifted education. Evidence of a strong commitment to quality integrated education. APPLICANTS SHOULD BE PREPARED TO SHOW EVIDENCE OF THESE QUALIFICATIONS IN THE INlflAL SEEING 1NTRVIW
-----------------------------------------------------------A r REPORTS TO
Supervisor - Gifted and Talented Jr JOB GOAL: To assist the Supervisor - Gifted and Talented in the tasks of implementing K-K> gifted programming and other aspects of the Gifted Education Department. ' / BASIC PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES: 1 rS?^. .Li [' 1. 4. 3\ '-5, 6. Assists in conducting program monitoring tasks. Observes and advises gifted education personnel. Provides consultation to principals. Identifies, investigates, assesses and provides solutions to concerns related to all components of the program. Assists in administrative tasks inherent in the program. Other dtities assigned by the Supervisor. A r es 3iVd 9. ,K:SI S66IZe2/S0 ' '(3 ':3 ,'T i Ia- B.j'cvAi, )! '/ a" Page Two (2) Gifted Program Specialist salary'AND TERMS
$25,306 - $38,877 -- An Eleven (11) Month Contract plus Educational Stipend, Car Allowance, and Benefits Package. EVALUATION
Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Boards policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel. DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS
September 15, 198S SEND WRITTEN LETTERS OF INQUIRY TO
Estelle Matthis Associate Superintendent Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 NOTE
F0 3&yd I-A, INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN THE ABOVE POSITION MUST COMPLETE A VERY RIGOROUS SELECTION PROCESS. THEREFORE, BECAUSE AN INDIVIDUAL APPLIES FOR A POSITION DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN THAT AN INTERVIEW WILL BE CONDUCTED. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER V 7 a'7 V. 'I Aq.
l'V\ J 1' I aRBaiitaji ( 9 cJ i- 7.1 I -V-'H" 'Jii A, SS:ST S66T/2/S0 i4bi ) Hl I ^3 S0 SCHOOL Cloverdale Jr. Hign LITTLE ROCK SCHOOL DISTRICT SECONDARY FACILITATORS 1994-95 PHONE NUMBER 570-4085 FACILITATOR Tamara Gullett Dunbar Magnet______ Forest Heights Jr. High Henderson Magnet Jr. High Madelvaie Jr. Hign Mann Magnet Pulaski Heights Jr. southwest Jr. central High J.A. Fair Hall McClellan Parkview Magnet 324-2440 671-6390 228-3050 455-7400 324-2450 671-6250 570-4070 324-2300 228-3100 671-6200 570-4100 228-3000 Joyce underwood Marian Thomason JOy Williams snarron Cannon Bonnie Bumpers Marsha Bibb Jackie Falls Lois Thompson Ruthie Hiett Joan Cage Jan Conine Linda Kamara 3 S661/E2/S0 "I. f' 'SO 3Sd g ss:si S66TZeS/S0 i Etease Post Administrative Vacancy 3.2 an Position now open GIFTED PROGRAM SPECIALIST (COORDINATOR) Little Rock Schooi District September 7, 1989 QUALIFICATIONS: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. NOTE: . A Master's Degree (minimum) in Elementary or Secondary Education. . Must meet Arkansas certification requirements for Gifted and Talented. Must have at least three (3) years of successful teaching experience of which one (1) year must be in a Gifted and Talented environment. . Demonstrates strong human relations/interpersonal skills. Evidence of a strong commitment to gifted education. Evidence of a strong commitment to quality integrated education. APPLICANTS SHOULD BE PREPARED TO SHOW EVIDENCE OF THESE QUALIFICATIONS IN THE Initial screening interview. " -------------------------------------------- REPORTS TO: Supervisor - Gifted and Talented JOB GOAL: To assist the Supervisor - Gifted and Talented in the tasks of implementing K-12 gifted programming and other aspects of the Gifted Education Department. BASIC PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Assists in conducting program monitoring tasks. Observes and advises gifted education personnel. Provides consultation to principals. Identifies, investigates, assesses and provides solutions to concerns related to all components of the program. Assists in administrative tasks inherent in the program. Other duties assigned by the Supervisor,4. page Two (2) Gifted Program Specialist SALARY AND TERMS: S'.?? *" plus Educatl Car Allowance, and Benefits Package. onal Stipend, EVALUATION: Performance of this job will be evaluated i RnarH'e p evaluated in accordance with provisions of thp Board s policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel. Provisions ot the DEADLINE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS: September 15, 1989 SEND WRITTEN LETTERS OF INQUIRY TO: Estelle Matthis Associate Superintendent Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 NOTE: INDIVIDUALS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN THE ABOVE POSITION RIGOROUS SELECTION PROCESS. 7:
,-,
, A POSITION DOES NOT NECESSARILY MEAN THAT AN -------- must COMPLETE A VERY S^CAUSE AN INDIVIDUAL APPLIES FOR 'I .":i INTERVIEW WILL BE CONDUCTED. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER(?c: in -s. pa,-OTr'",7 -O OCT 1 1994 Office of Desegregaiicn l-Zcnitvvng October 11, 1994 Elizabeth Shy Dowell 68 Cardinal Valley Drive North Little Rock, AR 72120 Dr. Henry P. Williaims, Superintendent Little Rock School District 810 W. Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Dr. Williams
Attached is a copy of the position paper as adopted by the Dunbar Arkansans for Gifted And Talented Education (A.G.A.T.E.) membership at the September 28, 1994, meeting which you were unable to attend. A.G.A.T.E. wants the district and school board members to understand this adoption was chosen for what they believe is best for the entire school population. If based solely on the needs of their individual Gifted and Talented identified children at Dunbar, the parents decision would have been far different. Beginning last spring, as the district began addressing the budget constraints, parents were systematically excluded from the decision making process. The program, as implemented for the cunent school year, is not what was told to parents and students during recruiting. Again this fall, before any opportunity for real dialogue between the district administration and parents, a decision was reached, based on limited parental input, to re-instate the program as it had been for the previous school year. My personal experience with parents has taught me there is a very real distrust of the district on the part of its patrons. I believe it is this type of unilateral decision-making which promotes these feelings. As the logistics became known, such as the master schedule having to be reworked for the entire school population, a lack of parental concensus became obvious. A.G.A.T.E. feared a situation was developing that would pit parent against parent in trying to implement the fall mandate. We, therefore, elected to support maintaining the program as is for the current school year only. The Gifted and Talented program at Dunbar is a bare minimum program. An enhanced program is probably a more accurate title. It is suggested that all members of the Board tour Fuller Junior High School, in the Pulaski County Special School District, and make a comparison between the two G and T programs. I believe that LRSD will find it more difficult in the near future to recruit white students from the other districts as the success and quality of Fuller Junior High's program becomes more widely known throughout the county. Whether as individuals we support Gifted and Talented programs or not, in terms of desegregating Dunbar, it is the Gifted and Talented program which draws white students. If the quality and integrity of the program cannot grow, the district will find it harder to recruit and parental support for the district will diminish. Sincerely Yours in Support of Public Schools, Elizabeth Shy Dowell President, Dunbar A.G.A.T.E. ESD/esd C: Ms. Ann Brown, Office of Desegregation Monitor Little Rock School District School Board Members: Ms. Patricia Gee Ms. Oma Jacovelli Dr. Katherine Mitchell Ms. Judy Magness Mr. T. Kevin O'Malley Ms. Linda Pondexter Mr. John A. Riggs, IV Ms. Nancy Acre, Dunbar PrincipalArkansans for Gifted And Talented Education DUNBAR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL A.G.A.T.E. AFFILIATE POSITION PAPER MAGNET PROGRAMS AS ADMINISTERED AT DUNBAR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL The membership of Dunbar Junior High School A.G.A.T.E. voted at its September 28, 1994, meeting to adopt a position regarding the administration of the Gifted and Talented and International Studies programs at DJHS, as follows: 1. 2. 3. Beginning with the 1995-96 school year, the Gifted and Talented and International Studies programs at Dunbar shall return to their original 1990-91 formats, as established and implemented by the Little Rock School District Dunbar Committee
more specifically. a. b. c. d. letters will be sent by the Student Assignment Office to all attendance zone students informing them they must participate in the magnet programs and enroll in a foreign language class
students electing not to participate in the magnet programs will be allowed by the Little Rock School District to opt to attend another junior high
students shall be required to return a letter of intent, the LRSD will reinstate the ratio cap among attendance zone black students, thereby encouraging the recruitment of identified gifted black students outside the attendance zone to enroll in Dunbar
the LRSD Dunbar Committee shall be reconstituted as per the April 29, 1992, LRSD Desegregation Plan, page 143
committee make-up should be by position, not specific individuals, i.e. LRSD Gifted Supervisor, Dunbar Principal, Dunbar International Studies and Gifted and Talented specialists, one black parent, one white parent and others as needed
identified Gifted and Talented students and designated Enriched students will not be grouped together in the four core subjects
teachers of Gifted and Talented classes will be certified as Gifted and Talented teachers. To strengthen the program, Gifted and Talented classroom size shall not exceed 22 students. For the remainder of the 1994-95 school year ONLY, the identified Gifted and Talented students and the designated Enriched students at Dunbar may be assigned to combined classes in the four core subjects.4. The Little Rock School District will provide a minimum of two additional Gifted and Talented specialists at Dunbar for the remainder of the 1994-95 school year for the purpose of facilitating the Gifted and Talented teachers by providing instructional time with small groups and individuals as needed. The Dunbar A.G.A.T.E. group believes these criteria for administering the magnet programs at Dunbar are the bare minimums for maintaining the quality and integrity of these programs and for recruiting future students in compliance with orders of the Federal District Court. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS PLEASE CONTACT: ELIZABETH SHY DOWELL President, DJHS A G A T E. 68 Cardinal Valley Drive North Little Rock, AR 72120 (501)834-3720Arkansans for Gifted And Talented Education DUNBAR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL A.G.A.T.E. AFFILIATE 1100 Wright Avenue, Little Rock, Arkansas 72206 Elizabeth Shy Dowell, President January 26, 1995 Dr. Henry Williams, Superintendent Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 RECEIV' JAN 3 11995 Dear Dr. Williams
Office of Desegregation Monitoring In follow-up to the Dunbar A.G.A.T.E. Position Paper of last fall, we reiterate our concerns for the International Studies and Gifted and Talented magnet programs as outlined. While all four points remain very high priorities, at this time we want to recapitulate item 1 .b. of the position paper,(see attached.) Specifically, the ratio cap among attendance zone black students and the recruitment of identified gifted and talented black students from outside the Dunbar attendance zone. When Dunbar Junior High School opened as a magnet programs school, to meet court ordered desegregation guidelines, a 60% ratio cap for black students from the attendance zone was established. The Student Assignment OflBce initially required a student, who elected not to participate in either program, to return a form to the SAO. At that point, the student would be assigned to another school in the district. If the number of black attendance zone students electing to opt out of Dunbar dropped the ratio below 60%, the school could then recruit G & T identified black students from other attendance zones. Three years ago, without informing either the school administration or the parents of participants, the Student Assignment OflBce stopped sending out the above mentioned forms. This left prospective students and their parents with the impression they could come to Dunbar and not participate in the either of the magnet programs. As this information circulated and SAO never said anything to the contrary, students who in the past had opted out, returned to Dunbar. Not only did this unpublished SAO policy have a devastating effect on our programs, i.e. the elimination of some courses and the number of sections available in others, but each year we fall further behind in meeting the court ordered desegregation guidelines. Our numbers are approximately 69% black, 31% non-black for the current school year. We believe it is imperative, for the viability of the programs and for student recruitment, the Student Assignment Office for the 1995-96 school year should: A. in order to be in compliance with the courts, reinstate the ratio cap
B. require students to return a form committing themselves to the Dunbar program(s) or be allowed to opt out of Dunbar.As cautioned in my cover letter of October 11,1994, regarding what might happen when the quality of Fuller Junior High School's G & T program became known, we have lost two Pulaski County Special School District white students to Fuller and a third is actively looking into making the switch. Lest this leave the impression that Gifted and Talented programs are of most import to white parents, I pass along the concerns some black parents have brought to me. More pointedly, the small number of black students in the G & T program at Dunbar. One parent told of how her son felt uncomfortable with so few black males in his G & T classes and the pressure put on him by peers to not participate. Of those who came to me, all said virtually the same thing, their children need others like themselves to withstand the peer pressure. We can only accomplish this through the proper use of the ratio cap. While we understand and sympathize with your daily pressures, we implore that these matters be given an immediate and high priority by you and your staff. Sincerely, Elizabeth Shy Dowell President, Dunbar A.G.A.T.E. Enclosure: 1 cc
Ms. Ann Brown, Desegregation Monitor Dr. C. Russell Mayo, LRSD Student Assignment Office LRSD School Board Members: Ms. Patricia Gee Ms. Oma Jacovelli Ms. Judy Magness Dr. Katherine Mitchell Mr. Kevin O'Malley Ms. Linda Pondexter Mr. John A Riggs, IV Ms. Nancy Acre, Dunbar Principal ESD/esd Arkansans for Gifted And Talented Education DUNBAR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL A.G.A.T.E. AFFILIATE POSITION PAPER MAGNET PROGRAMS AS ADMINISTERED AT DUNBAR JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL The membership of Dunbar Junior High School A.G.A.T.E. voted at its September 28,1994, meeting to adopt a position regarding the administration of the Gifted and Talented and International Studies programs at DJHS, as follows: 1. 2, 3. Beginning with the 1995-96 school year, the Gifted and Talented and International Studies programs at Dunbar shall return to their original 1990-91 formats, as established and implemented by the Little Rock School District Dunbar Committee
more specifically: a. b. c. d. letters will be sent by the Student .Assignment Office to all attendance zone students informing them they must participate in the magnet programs and enroll in a foreign language class
students electing not to participate in the magnet programs will be allow^ed by the Little Rock School District to opt to attend another junior high
students should be required to return a letter of intent
the LRSD will reinstate the r atio cap among attendance zone black students, thereby encouraging the reciuitnient of identified gifted black students outside the attendance zone to enroll in Dunbar
the LRSD Dunbar Committee shall be reconstituted as per the April 29, 1992, LRSD Desegregation Plan, page 143
committee make-up should be by position, not specific individuals, i.e. LRSD Gifted Supervisor, Dunbar principal, Dunbar's International Studies and Gifted and Talented specialists, one black parent, one white parent and others as needed
identified Gifted and Talented students and designated Enriched students will not be grouped to gether in the four core subjects
teachers of Gifted and Talented classes will be certified tis Gifted and Talented teachers. To strengthen the program, classroom sij'.e shall not exceed 22 students. For the remainder of the 1994-95 school yearONLY, the identified Gifted and Talented students and the designated Enriched studea's at Dunbar may be assigned to combined classes in the four core subjects.4. The Little Rock School District will provide a minimum of two additional Gifted and Talented specialists at Dunbar for the remainder of the 1994-95 school year for the purpose of facilitating the Gifted and Talented teachers by providing instructional time with small groups and individuals as needed. I The Dunbar A.G.A.T.E. group believes these criteria for administering the magnet programs at Dunbar are the bare minimums for maintaining the quality of these programs and for recruiting future students in compliance with orders of the Federal District Court. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR QUESTIONS PLEASE CONTACT: ELIZABETH SHY DOWELL President, DJHS A.G.A.T.E. 68 Cardinal Valley Drive North Little Rock, AR 72120 (501) 834-3720 Icc.- Tnczi 0=* . -MAY-16-95 TUE 14:49 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 RECEfoB-n May 2, 1995 MAY 1 6 1995 Dear Parents of Children in Gifted and Talented Programs, Office of Desegregation Montoring The Little Rock School District Board of Directors voted April 27, 1995," to eliminate the District's administrative position of Gifted and Talented Coordinator. There will be only one district position (District G & T Supervisor) remaining to serve the G&T programs in our forty-nine (49) schools. The Supervisor will be responsible for all administrative duties, thereby, severely restricting the amount of time that can be given to direct services and support to the G.T. Specialists. It is urgent you be informed about how this budget cut will directly effect your child. We also need your help to reverse this sudden, unexpected action by the LRSD Board of Directors and district administration. The Gifted and Talented Coordinator works in direct support of our G & T Specialists by providing continuity of the G.T. curriculum throughout the district, thereby insuring strong programs in each school. This position is responsible for monitoring programs and records, finalizing the G.T. identification process for each child, conducting in-service training for school staffs, PTA groups, and A.G.A.T.E. (Arkansans for Gifted and Talented Education) meetings, and developing educational plans for students with special needs. Furthermore, this position is responsible for organizing Odyssey of the Mind, Quiz Bowl, and Sixth Grade Challenge competitions. These special events are open to ALL students. However, these will no longer be available to students if the elimination of this position stands. All students ultimately benefit from the Gifted and Talented program, because the G.T. Specialists share curriculum, strategies, and learning tools with the classroom teachers to provide enrichment opportunities for all children. In order to save this position, please help by doing one or all of the following
1. Contact your LRSD Board Representative and let them know you want this position maintained, see attached
2. Write or call the LRSD Administration, 324-2000
3. Attend the Special Session of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting concerning this issue, date to be announced
4, Contact the Office of the Desegregation Monitoring, Ann Brown or Margie Powell 376-6200. 5. It is very important that parents write to the Honorable Susan Webber Wright, District Judge, 600 W. Capitol, Little Rock, AR 72201. Children in the Gifted and Talented Programs deserve to have challenging programs to aid them in fulfilling their highest potential. When the school district attempts to dismantle or severely compromise successful programs, then we, immediate action. as parents, are obligated to take For further information regarding this issue please contact either Barbara Mills, 664-5681 or Elizabeth Dowell, 834-3720. Barbara Mills Elementary A.G.A.T.E. Parent Elizabeth Dowell Secondary A.G.A.T.E. Parent May 2, 1995 Dear Parents of Children in Gifted and Talented Programs, The Little Rock School District Board of Directors voted April 27, 1995, to eliminate the District's administrative position of Gifted and Talented Coordinator. There will be only one district position (District G & T Supervisor) remaining to serve the G&T programs in our forty-nine (49) schools. The Supervisor will be responsible for all administrative duties, thereby, severely restricting the amount of time that can be given to direct services and support to the G.T. Specialists. It is urgent you be informed about how this budget cut will directly effect your child. We also need your help to reverse this sudden, unexpected action by the LRSD Board of Directors and district administration. The Gifted and Talented Coordinator works in direct support of our G & T Specialists by providing continuity of the G.T. curriculum throughout the district, thereby insuring strong programs in each school. This position is responsible for monitoring programs and records, finalizing the G.T. identification process for each child, conducting in-service training for school staffs, PTA groups, and A.G.A.T.E. (Arkansans for Gifted and Talented Education) meetings, and developing educational plans for students with special needs. Furthermore, this position is responsible for organizing Odyssey of the Mind, Quiz Bowl, and Sixth Grade Challenge competitions. These special events are open to ALL students. However, these will no longer be available to students if the elimination of this position stands. All students ultimately benefit from the Gifted and Talented program, because the G.T. Specialists share curriculum, strategies, and learning tools with the classroom teachers to provide enrichment opportunities for ail children. In order to save this position, please help by doing one or all of the following: 1. Contact your LRSD Board Representative and let them know you want this position maintained, see attached
2. Write or call the LRSD Administration, 324-2000
3. Attend the Special Session of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting concerning this issue, date to be announced
4. Contact the Office of the Desegregation Monitoring, Ann Brown or Margie Powell 376-6200. 5. It is very important that parents write to the Honorable Susan Webber Wright, District Judge, 600 W. Capitol, Little Rock, AR 72201. Children in the Gifted and Talented Programs deserve to have challenging programs to aid them in fulfilling their highest potential. When the school district attempts to dismantle or severely compromise successful programs, then we, as parents, are obligated to take immediate action. For further information regarding this issue please contact either Barbara Mills, 664-5681 or Elizabeth Dowell, 834-3720. Barbara Mills Elementary A.G.A.T.E. Parent Elizabi Dowell Secondary A.G.A.T.E. Parent May 4. 1 995 may I 1 1995 Dr. Henry Williams, Superintendent Little Rock School District 810 Markham Street Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 Office of Desegregation Mu. Dear Or. Williams: It is quite disturbing to find that, once again, the Little Rock School District is attempting to eliminate the high school kindergarten programs. My child participated in the program during the 1989-1990 school year and still fondly recalls the wonderful experiences the program provided her. I was extremely involved in the program myself, serving as Mrs. Wrights room mother. I spent countless hours directly involved in the classroom assisting with activities. I feel most qualified to defend the good qualities this program has. I am an elementary teacher myself who has spent eight years teaching in the classroom and another two years substitute teaching. These ten years experience have been in Georgia. Louisiana. Arkansas, and now Michigan. The system my children are now in is in a suburb of Detroit, Novi, and is most impressive. However, I have yet to find any kindergarten program that comes anywhere near the quality of your high school kindergarten programs. First and foremost is the benefit the program offers to the young children. This is such a sensible way to "wean" children from their mother's one-on-one care. They are in smaller groups, enabling them to see that others around them also have needs, but not yet overwhelming them with high pupil-teacher ratios. The high school students can help nurture their needs and guide their activities. With the additional help of the high school kids, the teacher can plan activities that are impossible in the traditional kindergarten setting. The high school itself provides countless opportunities for the children through their art. drama, music, foreign language, and physical education departments. It is lagniappe that this program benefits the high school students also. Many teenagers today see pregnancy and children as a "way out* of their existing circumstances or simply as the 'cool' thing to do. This program shows them how very patient and well prepared you must be to be a parent. It also shows them how rewarding it can be to work with children. The affection shown to the high school students is so beneficial to their positive self-esteem ! The memory is still vivid in my mind of a six-foot young man saying good-bye* to his *students* on his last day of high school with tears rolling down his cheeks. Another asset of the program is that, hopefully, many young people would find teaching to be the profession of their choice. In conclusion, I feel it sad that every five year-old in the country cant have the opportunity to be involved in such a rewarding program. Please strongly consider leaving this program in place. Let it be a shining star in the Little Rock School District
something unique that other systems throughout the state or the country do not offer. Dont allow this program to fall victim to the mediocrity we see in so many public school systems. Sincerely, Patricia B. Holt 45409 Addington Lane Novi, Michigan 48374 cc: E. Wright S. Wright A. Brown R. Mayo K. Mitchell K. O'Malley J. Magness J. Riggs L. Poindexter P. Gee S. JohnsonMAY- 9-95 TUE 15:30 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 08 A -R I 'S B U R G CROWLEYS RIDGE EDUCATION SERVICE COOPERATIVE P.O. Box 377 Harrisburg Arkansas 72432 (501) 578-5426 Serving Public Schools in: Craighead County Bay-Brown Brookland Buffalo-Island Jonesboro Nettleton Riverside Valley View Westside Crittenden County Crawfordsvitle Earle Marion Turell Cross County Cross County Parkin Wynne Jackson County Newport Mississippi County Armorel Blytheville Gosnell Manila Osceola So, Miss. County Poinsett County East PoinsHtl County Harrisburg Marked Tree Trumann Weiner May 4, 1995 The Honorable Susan Webber Wright OfBce of Desegregation and Monitoring 201 E. Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Judge Wright, I am an associate and colleague of Diane Rynders, who is currently one of the two Gifted and Talented Coordinators for the Little Rock School District. The position held by Diane was cut in the latest round of cuts for the Little Rock School District, It seems to me that as soon as something positive gets a start in Little Rock School District, here comes something to tear it apart. Even if Diane wasnt doing a wonderful job in the position it would still need to be there. The size of Little Rock School District warrants at least two people to monitor programs and provide services. The fact that Diane does a fantastic job makes it more crucial that the position remain. She is the organizing force behind many provisions enjoyed by Little Rock students. Some of the parts of her job, besides premonitoring, staff development and dissemination of information are: Odyssey of the Mind, Quiz Bowl and Sixth Grade Challenge. I think many of the opportunities provided by the Gifted and Talented Program would fell by the wayside with the elimination of the position. This whole thing spills over into the desegregation issue, because all students will he affected within the elementary gifted program. I know you are thinking about this issue. Please know that the Little Rock School District needs its elementary gifted and talented position and it needs Diane Rynders. RSCE5VSD CHA-MSERS OF SUSAN WRIOiT MAY 0 9 1395 Sincerely, Kay Kyle Luter, Supervisor Gifted and Talented Education U. S. DISTRICT JUDGE MAY- 9-95 TUE 15:27 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P, 03 May 4,1995 The Honorable Susan Weber Wriglit Office of Desegregation and Monitoring 201 E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Judge Wright, I am writing to urge you to disallow the termination of the position of Gifted and Talented Education Coordinator for the Little Rock School District which is currently filled by Diane Rynders. I have a daughter at Gibbs International Studies Magnet School who has been in the gifted program there for the past three years.' I believe that the elimination of Ms. Rynders' position will have a detrimental effect on the quality of services provided by the district in this area. My daughter has also participated in the Odyssey of the Mind program, of which Ms. Rynders is Stale Director, and I know that tire termination of her position will also affect the involvement of the district in this program as well as in olher programs Ms. Rynders coordinates. Unfortunately, these programs are some of the extra-curricular benefits of a G/T Program that is designed to impact positively on students who are not identified for the program. Through programs like Odyssey of the Mind and Quiz Bowl, Future Problem-Solving and others, many nonidentified students gel to participate as well. I have first-hand experience in Odyssey of the Mind, as I was a coach for my daughter's team the past two years at Gibbs. Besides the student programs she coordinates, Ms. Rynders also monitors .school programs and provides staff development for teachers throughout the district. I have been in education for the past 21 years and have served as Supervisor for Gifted Education at the Arkansas River Education Service Cooperative for the past 11 years. Prior to the hiring of Ms. Mable Donaldson and Ms. Rynders, the Little Rock School Dislricfs Gifted Program was almost non-existent. They are a strong team and there is no way the program can continue to develop and improve if Ms. Rynders' position is eUminaled. My appeal to you is two-fold
both as a parent of a student in the Little Rock School District and as an educator who knows how important key people are to programs and their growth and development. Diane Rynders is an asset to the Little Rodk School District in her role as Coordinator of Gifted Programs. It is not an expendable position if we hope to continue to have programs that not only provide opportunities for our precocious learners, but also impact positively on the education of all of our students. I urge you to overrule a short-sighted and poorly researched decision and secure the position of G/T Coordinator and Diane Rynders in it. Sincerely, CHAMBERS OF Davis Hendricks 1016 East H Avenue North Lillie Rock, AR 72116 SUSAN '//RJGHT MAY 0 9 1995 U. S, DISTRICT JUDGEMAY- 9-95 TUE 15:27 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 02 1 R, D, SAUNDERS DIRECTOR 1 i DAWSON EDUCATION CO-OP ft 711 CLINTON, SUITE 201 ARKADELPHIA, AR 71923 501 / 246-3077 May 5, 1995 Honorable Susan Webber Wright Office of Desegregation and Monitoring 201 E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Wright: I am concerned about the Little Rock School District cutting the position of Gifted and TaJented Coordinator. I feel that this program would suffer without the services that Ms. Diane Ryndera provides. She is involved with differentiated curricuhun development for gifted students, monitoring the programs in the elementary schools for the district to Insure compliance, and the identification of gifted students in the district She has L>ecii instrumental in giving disadvantaged and minority students an equal opportunity in the screening and identification processes provided by the mandate set forth by the state. For many years, Ms. Rynders has been involved as a state leader in the Odyssey of the Ntind comiietition. She held the position of State Director for a great number of those years. Under her guidance and leadersiiip, Aikausas has been well represented at the annual OM World Pinals. Without her expertise, I feel this program will sufier- ajid iiliimateiy the studenis of liic Littie Ruck Seiioul Disiiict wiit nut iiuve the opp^inunsiies afforded to them through her knowledge of the competition rules and regulations. Please consider the reinstatement of this position for the students of the Little Rock School District They deserve the very best we can give them, and I think Ms. Ryaders skills are an asset for the district. Thank you for your consideration. Sincerely, I 7' Judy Lively [udy Super-isnr of Gifted Educatiaii May 0 9 OP " 'VSf/GHT J995 ''/ S. ^'^^TRlcr -JiJDGE: s^Ewing i^e. e^cAooZ1 eSsWin^ tAi C^ifdiEHI I I MAY- 9-95 TUE 15:28 is c 1 I* V JAIIPI) MlIXLRY. Dirfctftr Baxter Mountain home Norfork FULTON Mammoth Spring SALEM Viola INDEPENDKNCK Batesville Cord-Charlotte CUSll.MAN Midland Newark Southside SULPHUR ROCK IZARO Calico rock Izard county Consolidated Melbourne Mt. pleasant SHARP EVENING SHAPE Highland STONE MOUNTAIN VIEW Rural Special TIMBO SUSAN W WRIGHT NAESC Telephone May 5, 1995 FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 04 Northcentral Arkansas Education Service Center P. 0. Dox 739 Melbourne, Arkansns 725.56 Honorable Susan Webber Wright Office of Desegregation & Monitoring 201 E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Honorable Susan Webber Wright
V/RIGKt 0 9 1395 U. S. DISTRICT judge I am writing you in response to a news report that the Little Rock School District is proposing to eliminate the position of Gifted & Talented Coordinator. While I can understand the need for the District to make budget reductions, I am truly surprised that this position would be one targeted for elimination. As a State G/T Supervisor, I work with twenty schools with varying numbers of students, I know the plight of the G/T coordinators in these schools and not one of them has anywhere near the size of program that Mrs. Rynders has with which to work. With a program the size of Little Rock School District's, approximately 4,000 students, confidently say that their G/T program is already understaffed.^ A curricular program designed to enhance the learning of high ability learners, regardless of race, creed, or color, should be the last program one would choose to negatively effect by reducing staff. I can sex, Iirs. Rynders has done an excellent job of designing student identification procedures that eliminate biases and allow gifted minority students to be considered equally for the G/T program. Without proper administrative oveirview, shortcuts will be taken, procedures will be dropped, and many gifted students will never be found. I want to emphasize that the administrative overview, in order to be effective, must come from someone with the training and knowledge concerning testing and identification procedures of all G/T students. overview I must admit that I can't comprehend why why, at a time when Little Rock is spending millions of dollars to encourage An Etiual Opportunity EmployerKATHRYN C. FITZHUGH 4715 Darragh Drive Little Rock, AR 72204 501-565-1994 Home 501-324-9444 Office *10 ,595 00^3 Q May 6, 1995 Dr. Henry P. Williams Superintendent Little Rock School District 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 RE: Gifted and Talented Coordinator, Little Rock Public Schools Dear Sir: I write as parent of Erica J. Fitzhugh, a child in the Little Rock Public School System. I write also as an interested friend of many Little Rock school children and young adults whom I see and talk to every week. I am a member of the Carver Magnet Elementary PTA, a VIPS volunteer, an Andersons Taekwondo parent volunteer and a member of Arkansans for Gifted and Talented Education. I am a Girl Scout volunteer and a former girl scout leader. I am concerned about the April 27, 1995, vote to eliminate the Little Rock School Districts Gifted and Talent Coordinators position. I understand that there is to be one similar position remaining, the District Gift and Talented Supervisors position. My concern is that activities such as Odyssey of the Mind, Quizbowl, and Sixth Grade Challenge competitions will be eliminated along with the elimination of the Gifted and Talented Coordinators position. In addition, I am concerned that the other duties of this position such as monitoring programs and conducting training for school staffs, will be severely curtailed or totally eliminated because there will be one person doing the job of two. I urge you to restore this position or advocate that the Board restores it. Keep the quality of our gifted programs high - we need all the programs, involvement and encouragement that wePage 2 can get for our children. It means a lot to the children as well as to the parents. Thank you for taking the time to read this letter. Very truly yours, Kathryn C. Fitzhugh cc: Magnet Review Committee Lz/Dr. Margie Powell Ms. Margaret Gremillion Ms. Sadie Mitchell Dr. Linda Pondexter !i i 1995 ice Ct J' . .'J May 6, 1995 Mrs. Margie Powell Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 E. Markham, Ste 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Mrs. Powell, As a gifted specialist in the Little Rock School District, I am very concerned about the decision made by the Little Rock School District Board of Directors on April 27, 1995, to eliminate the District's administrative position of the Gifted and Talented Coordinator. With only one District G&T Supervisor remaining to serve the GT programs in our 49 schools, I forsee the quality of our programs deteriorating. One person can't be responsible for the administrative duties and the direct services provided to the students and gifted specialists. If there is any action that can be taken by you to help get Mrs. Diane Rynders' position reinstated, please do so. Sincerely, Beverly Kinneman Gifted Specialist Otter Creek Elementary HAY- 9-95 TUE 15:29 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO, 5013246576 P. 06 May 7, 1995 Dear Judge Wright, I am sure that you really don't want to receive another letter regarding the budget cuts proposed by Dr. Williams for the Little Rock School District, but I felt compelled to write to let you know how I feel about the elimination of the Gifted and Talented coordinator position. In the ten years I have been teaching at Central I have seen many changes occur. Many good and certainly many bad. One of the most positive things that has occured is the appointment of Diane Rynders to the GT Coordinator position. Before her arrival, the GT office was at best in turmoil. I had many dealings with the people in that office at that time and it was my impression that there wa.s absolutely no leadership and continunity occuring Since Diane arrived things have been well organized and directed. I always know who to contact and what is expected of teachers in the district who work with gifted students. One of the things that I most look forward to during the school is the few hours a week I get to work with my Odyssey of the Mind team. These students are truly gifted. You would be amazed at what these young people can do. There is nothing that they can't accomplish if they put their minds to it. It is refreshing to see students at this advanced level at such a young age. The few hours a day that I work with these students is time where I know 1 am not going to have to deal with the extraneous non-teaching chores that occur all day long in my regular classes. During my regular teaching day most of my time is spent with discipline and reprimands which unfortunately turn what should be a positive teaching atmosphere into an aggravation. I look forward to the time I spend with my OM team. It is always fun and positive, the highlight of many of my working days I can't think of what will happen if the GT office loses its coordinator, much less losing Mrs. Rynders. There has to be other ways to reduced the deficit at the district. The administration is top heavy in other directions if cuts need to be made. Sacrifices have to be made by all, but 1 honestly feel that this is a terrible mistake and very little thought went in to making this descision. One thing for sure. Many students will not attend Little Rock Schools if the Gifted Programs are not fully functioning One of the main attractions is the many GT classes and programs available to students who need them and parents who want their children in them. The elimination of this position needs serious reconsideration on everyone's part. I really appreciate your time. I hope things will work out where the GT Cooridinator's position can remain intact Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional input. Central High School RSCfi-Jyarp, '^'fUGKr 0 9 1995 S. ^ISTFilCTOffice of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 376.6200 Fax (SOI) 3710100 May 8, 1995 Ms. Jill Clogston, Supervisor, Gifted Education Northeast Arkansas Educational Cooperative P.O. Box 100 Strawberry, AR 72469-0100 Dear Ms. Clogston: Judge Susan Webber Wright has asked me to respond to your letter in which you express concern about the elimination of the gifted and talented coordinators position in the Little Rock School District. Although she is sensitive to the concerns that community members have about the desegregation process and related issues, as a matter of policy, Judge Wright does not correspond directly with citizens. Instead, she relies upon us in her Office of Desegregation Monitoring to discuss school matters with individuals and organizations. As an Associate Monitor on the staff, one of my responsibilities is to monitor gifted and talented education in the three Pulaski County School districts. I have been contacted by several citizens from across the state expressing concern, alarm, and dismay at the proposal by the superintendent of the Little Rock School District to eliminate the position of Coordinator of Gifted and Talented education. Our involvement with the LRSD is limited to monitoring compliance with provisions in their desegregation plan, and gifted education is a component of the districts plan. The LRSD is required to obtain court approval for any action that might have an adverse impact on implementing their plan. The court has not given the district approval to make the proposed change, and I will recommend against approval. Although 1 cannot speak for Judge Wright, I believe she will give strong consideration to my recommendation. I suggest that you forward a copy of your letter to the Board of Education. It is my understanding that a parent group has petitioned for a special board meeting to address the elimination of the coordinators position. If you are interested in attending the meeting, you may call the districts central office at (501) 324-2(X)O or me at (501) 376-62(X), for the date and time of the school board meeting. 'gie L. Powell Associate Monitor MAY- 8-95 MON 11:28 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P.Ol Randolph & Harding Streets P 0. Box 217. Hoxie. AR 72433-0217 886-7717 Fax: (501) 886-7719 Central Office Teacher Center G-T / Reading! Special Ed Early Childhood NORTHEAST ARKANSAS EDUCATIONAL COOPERATIVE d 206 South Main P.O. Box 100, .Strawberry, AR 72469-0100 S28-3395 Fax: (501) 528-3396 Computer Services, Media Resources Regional Services (SED) 5crving Since 19S4 LEAS In: Clay County Clay County Central Coming Piggott Greene County Delaplaine Gieene County Tech Mtimvaduke Northeast Arkansas Jackson County Jackson County Swifton Lawrence County Black Bock Hoxie Lynn River Valley Sloan-Hendrix Walnut Ridge Randolph County Biggers-Reyno Maynard Oak Ridge Central Focal,ontas Sharp County Cave City Willjford MAY i iYn May 4, 19 95 0fries of Os. -.y 1 .V.oiiiccung Honorable Susan Webber Wright Office of Desegregation & Monitoring 201 E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Honorable Susan Webber Wright
S-2 I This letter is in response to the Little Rock School District cutting the position of Gifted & Talented Coordinator. 3m a colleague of Mrs. Diane Rynders, who has that position. Through her efforts she has established an exemplary Gifted Education program. Mrs. Rynders is involved with curriculum development, program monitoring for all elementary schools in the district, and identification of gifted students. During the past five years, students have been given the opportunity to participate in programs such as Odyssey of the Mind and Quiz Bowl, it is my fear that if this position is eliminated, the students will not be afforded these and other opportunities. One administrator cannot possibly handle the amount of work involved in coordinating a quality Gifted Education program for 4,000 students. Please consider reinstating this position for the students of Little Rock School District. consideration, Thank you for your Sincere, ill Clogston upervisor of Gifted Education May 0 3 1935J1h^-95 mon 11:28 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P.Ol Raxulolph & Harding Streets P 0. Box 217. Hoxie. AR 72433-0217 886-7717 Fax
(501) 886-7719 Central Office Teacher Center G-T ! Reading t Special Ed Early Childhood NORTHEAST ARKANSAS EDUCATIONAL COOPERATIVE 206 South Maia P.O. Box 100. Straw'beny. AR 72469-0100 528-3395 Fax
(501) 525-3396 Computer Services, Media Resources Regional Services (SED) Sening Since 19S4LEAS In: May 4, 1995 Clay County Clay County Central Coming Piggott Greene County Delaplaine Greene County Tech Mannaduke Noitheast Arkansas Jackson County Jackson County Swifton Lawrence County Black Rock Hpxic Lynn River Valley Sloan-Hendrix Walnut Ridge Randolph County Bi^gcrs-Reyno Maynard Oak Ridge Central PocaliontAs Sharp County Cave City WiHiford Honorable Susan Webber Wright Office of Desegregation & Monitoring 201 E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Honorable Susan Webber Wright: S-3 I This letter is in response to the Little Rock School District cutting the position of Gifted & Talented Coordinator. . I a colleague of Mrs. Diane Rynders, who has that position. Thrrough herr efffforrtts sshe hass established an exemplary Gifted Education program. Mrs. Rynders is involved with curriculum development, program monitoring for all elementary schools in the district, and identification of gifted students. During the past five years, students have been given the opportunity to participate "- ----------- of the Mind and Quiz Bowl. in programs such as Odyssey . . , _ It is my fear that if this position is eliminated, the students will not be afforded these and other opportunities. One administrator cannot possibly handle the amount of work involved in coordinating a quality Gifted Education program for 4,000 students. Please consider reinstating this position for the students of Little Rock School District. consideration. Thank you for your Sincere, ill Clogston upervisor of Gifted Education OS 133^ Us. ^'STRfCT judge: cc
Cc. MAY-16-95 TUE 14:51 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 09 RECEIVED May 9, 1995 MAY 1 6 1995 Honorable Susan Webber Wright U.S. District Judge 600 West Capitol Ave. Little Rock, Ark. 72201 Office of Desegregation Monitoring Dear Judge Wright: I am writing to you as a concerned parent of a student in the Little Roch School District. 1995, District's Coordinator. the Little administrative We have learned, Rock School Board voted that on April 27, to eliminate the position of Gifted and Talented As you may or may not know this position is responsible for monitoring the district and thereby insuring a strong program for each school in the District. If this position is eliminated it will harm each of the students who are enrolled in the District's Gifted and Talented program and in my opinion just further students". increase the Districts ability to "Dumb down it's We need this program to insure that our brightest and best students are challenged by their teachers and their District and are able to continue their advanced learning by allowing this person to continue conducting in-service training of school staffs, P.T.A. needs. groups and developing educational plans for students with special In closing I would hope that you will not allow the District to do this and for one time will let them know that the welfare of our students should come first. I so apprecriate you and what you have and are continuing to do for us and for our students. Sincerely, I Tom Brock 8207 Crystal Valley Cove Little Rock, Arkansas 72210 Rece
5VS
o II I I MAY 111995 u. s. district judge MAY- 9-95 TUE 15:29 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 05 students to remain in their district, one would want to adversely effect the quality of a program seen as a positive and attracting element of the district. I would also like to add that Mrs. Rynders has been very active, due to her position, in statewide associations. While operating within these circles she has been able to act as a strong advocate on behalf of the students from her district. This year a minority student from the LRSD is attending my AEGIS program. It was beneficial for the student that he was coming from Diane's program. She is strong advocate for her students, but this type of activity will never show up on any report to the Superintendent or the Court. a In closing, I urge you to please consider the damage that will be done to the G/T program, but more importantly to all G/T students, should this position be eliminated. read in a report that 90% of every federal dollar, for I education, is spent on remedial programs and only .1% is spent for high ability learners. I hope you take a stand against this trend. Respectfully yours. John W. Calaway Supervisor of Gifted Education ie: Jackie S. Clark 7721 ClaybrookRoad. Mabelvale. AR 72103 May 10, 1995 M4y ? Dr. Henry Williams Little Rock School Superintendent 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 -3 Dear Dr. Williams: I am deeply concerned about the elimination of the Gifted and Talented Coordinator. I have two children that will be directly affected by loss of service in this area. In fact, when we made the decision 5 years ago to take our children out of private school and place them in public school, the Gifted and Talented program was a major motivation. My children are will be in the 10th and 11 grades in the 95-96 schcxjl year at J.A. Fair High School. Both have all "GT" courses, and should this particular program be adversely affect^, it would have a tremendous impact on my decision regarding remaining in Pulaski County. Although I hope to sell my home within the next few months and move outside the county, my children want to request transfers back into the school district because they not only enjoy their schools, but I feel like they are getting a good education in the process. I would appreciate your strong consideration. I know that not only "GT" students, but all students are affected by the programs that are a part of the Gifted and Talented Coordinators position. We need to take out the "fat", but we need to leave the "meat and potatoes" in the administrative structure. Respeci mLu- Jackie S.vCl^k cc: Magnet Review Committee Margie Powell/Office of Desegregation Monitoring tMAY-16-95 TUE 14:48 SUSAN H WRIGHT FAX NO, 5013246576 P. 04 May 12, 1995 RECESVSa MAY I 6 1995 CHAft 3(_}crA.M KAff: E Office of Desegregation Monitoring MAY 15 1995 Dr. Henry Williams LRSD Superintendent[ 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR. 72201 'J. S. DtSTFJfCT Dear Dr. Williams: distr^bVe5\
TaSVo^- "gij't^ has Little Rock School District talented sending you a copy to parents of been students in the sicnooi Dxstrict. We rcaciniz(a rhat- t-y, i-ne tnne for you in identifying specific artas difficult sincerely believe however t-bat- budget cuts. We Talented Coordinator positioA ,iu ad?lSSv''iff.r? and r?= ill the discontinuation or and successful programs. iscontinuation of direct services the We appreciate the _se?sion on Vy 17?^ iVsT. on May 17, 1995. children in the Gifted/Tal\ As advocates for you and the hoard ot directors ilf^eoonside^lh'e 7e eliminate the position of Gifted and Sincerely, c Mills \ Elementary A.G.A.T.E. Parent Elizabeth Bowell Secondary A.G.A.T.E. CC: Parent Honorable Susan Webber Wright Anne Brown - ODM LRSD Board of Directors LRSD Administrators Dr. Patty Kohler, Division of Magnet Review Committee Exceptional Children of Education Director James Smith - Superintendent of NLRSD ' Gene Wilhoit Bobby Lester John Walker Superintendent of PCSSDcc \ HAY-16-95 TUE 14:49 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 RE May 2, 1995 6 1995 Dear Parents of Children in Gifted and Talented Programs, Office of Desegregation Monitoring The Little Rock School District Board of Directors voted April 27, 1995, to eliminate the - - District's administrative position of Gifted and Talented Coordinator. There will be only one district position (District G & T Supervisor) remaining to serve the G&T programs in our forty-nine (49) schools. The Supervisor will be responsible for all administrative duties, thereby, severely restricting the amount of time that can be given to direct services and support to the G.T. Specialists. It is urgent you be informed about how this budget cut will directly effect your child. We also need your help to reverse this sudden, unexpected action by the LRSD Board of Directors and district administration. The Gifted and Talented Coordinator works in direct support of our G & T Specialists by providing continuity of the G.T. curriculum throughout the district, thereby insuring strong programs in each school. This position is responsible for monitoring programs and records, finalizing the G.T. identification process for each child, conducting in-service training for school staffs, PTA groups, and A.G.A.T.E. (Arkansans for Gifted and Talented Education) meetings, and developing educational plans for students with special needs. Furthermore, this position is responsible for organizing Odyssey of the Mind, Quiz Bowl, and Sixth Grade Challenge competitions. These special events are open to ALL students, However, these will no longer be available to students if the elimination of this position stands. All students ultimately benefit from the Gifted and Talented program, because the G.T. Specialists share curriculum, strategies, and learning tools with the classroom teachers to provide enrichment opportunities for all children. In order to save this position, please help by doing one or all of the following
1. Contact your LRSD Board Representative and let them know you want this position maintained, see attached
2. Write or call the LRSD Administration, 324-2000
3.- Attend the Special Session of the LRSD Board of Directors meeting concerning this issue, date to be announced
4. Contact the Office of the Desegregation Monitoring, Ann 376-6200. Brown or Margie Powell 5. It is very important that parents write to the Honorable Susan Webber Wright District Judge, 600 W. Capitol, Little Rock, AR 72201. Children in the Gifted and Talented Programs deserve to have challenging programs to aid them in fulfilling their highest potential. When the school district attempts to dismantle or severely compromise successful programs, then we, immediate action. as parents, are obligated to take For further information regarding this issue please contact either Barbara Mills, 664-5681 or Elizabeth Dowell, 834-3720. Barbara Mills Elementary A.G.A.T.E. Parent Elizabeth Dowell Secondary A.G.A.T.E. Parent cc : HAY-16-95 TUE 14:50 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P, 06 ><44/ 1 6 . DHice of VICTOR A. FLEMING 5405 Sherwood Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72207 ftECEsVSD CHA.MEIEHS OF SiJSAN WRIGHT MAY 15 1995 ^(^segregation Monitoniiy Home (501) 661-1758 Work 376-3800 ! FAX 372-3359 U. S. DISTRICT JUDGE May 11, 1995 Dear Friends, Please pardon the mass-mail letter format. Immediate help is needed and hereby requested. I'll be brief. When the School Board adopted Dr. Hank Williams' latest budget cut recommendation (see enclosed article), it axed a position that should not have been axed. Tliat position is the Gifted & Talented Coordinator, currently held by Diane Rynders. Possibly this position was placed in the cut package by mistake, possibly not. I am researching that even as this letter is being written. A special meeting of the Little Rock School Board will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17 to allow opponents of this particular positions being cut to present their case. I hope I can count on you to write a letter to Judge Susan Wright, with a copy to the Office of Desegregation Monitoring, expressing your desire that this position not be cut. This position is one of only two G/T positions at the LRSD's administration level. That is, half die staff for this aspect of public education will be eliminated. The coordinator has taken die lead in LRSD's outstanding participation in Quiz Bowl, Odyssey of tho Mind, Junior Groat Boolcc, Sixth Grad* Challenge, and Monitoring Programr. 1 have coached a Gibbs Magnet Schotil Odyssey of the Mind team for the past two years, and I can tell you that Ms. Rynders put in yeoman's hours and effort on that program. She was diere when odicrs were not for any potential problem. But diis effort to retain the position she holds is not about h^ndividually. To cut half tile administrative staff of the G/T program sends the wrong message to tlie folks we want to try to keep in tlie Little Rock public school system. I have stuck with the system (kids at Forest Park, Pulaski Heiglits Jr. High, Central, and Gibbs) through thick and thin primarily because of programs such as G/T, which administers exceptionally positive strokes to students on a totally color-blind basis. Please write Judge Wright a letter or post card, stating "1 oppose tlie elimination of the Gifted/Talented Coordinators position at LRSD" or words to dial effect, and send a copy to Ann Brown, the desegregation monitor. Their addresses are on tlie back of this letter. T" /jtJO coMi. -b Ke Ttijh' I if. i V V \ f,' 1&
ll I*.. j MAY-22-95 MON 10i57 X h<jcAVZ- 7'. # rr Ba SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 G. RICHARD SMITH, M.D. j <v^4 P.'QS i. Tc: . h s/hill'S "11 r, 1)1) ( 'f' > ife 4 j'. J. t. -. f .' .'Y J bfM^ "U' V V. .< (^1: J. T- '? ' ' .J '1
1 r- y: .' i< p: ' h 'T^'' I y' I"*? I -X .1 z J< Vr^'.<-.- 1 *1 MtW ^hHS] 1^- V r S:- K rv. ZA > W-.v *1 '1 T'i 1 3 it f: ' 41s aa MAY-22-95 MON 10:57 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 #2 Melinda Drive Little Rock, AR 72209 May 18, 1995 I t-: P. 04 Henry Williajvis LRSD Superintendent 810 W. tSarkham Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Mr. Williams, I am writing this letter in regards to the Gifted and Talented Coordinator position being eliminated. schools. I feel this is a very important program in our It must not be restricted to just one supervisor to serve the 49 schools or 4000 students involved. It is an excellent program that my child has enjoyed. He has had the opportunity to be involved in many things he would not have in a regular classroom iithese children need this extra encouragement. They need more than one supervisor to organise these project^. The LRSD needs to look in another direction to cut the budget. These teachers along with their supervisors are doing a great job! My husband and I would have been at the meeting last night, but we could not be there by 5:30pm. However, we do want our opinion on the subjected noted. Ihank you for this consideration. We would like for our children to excel at school. Please DO NOT make thi's budget cut. / Sincerely, I Mrs. Dan M. Walker cc: Honorable Susan Webber Wright District Judge 600 W. Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 Magnet Review Conniittee 1920 N. Main North Little Rock, AR 72114 Margie Powell Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 E. Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 tergaret Gremillion Assistant Superintendent - Elementary 810 W. Markliam Little Rock, AR 72201 Sadie Mitchell Assi-stant Superintendent " Elementary 810 W. Markliam Little Rock, AR 72201 Dick Hurley LRSD Human Resource.s 810 W. Markliam Little Rock, AR 72201 P- ' nntI3 i MAY-22-95 MON 10:58 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 VICTOR A, FLEMING 3801 TCBT Tower LUtle Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 376^3800 t FMl 372-3359 Honorable Katherine P, Mitchell Member Little Rock School Board 1605 Welch Street Little Rock, AR 72206 Dear Ms. Mitchell: May 18, 1995 P. 05 I First, Im sorry you weie uanble to attend the special meeting of the Little Rock School Board on Wednesdayj May 17. 1995. On behalf of all the persons who are opposed to cutting the GT Coordinators position, the Boards allowing us to present our case is very much appreciated. Second, let me encourage you in the strongest of terms to be bold and courageous and remove the GT Coordinators position from the administrative slots that have been set forth in the cut that you approverl last month. As was demonstrated by all of the persons who spoke against cutting this slot, it is perceived to be integral to the operation of an extremely important program. As I indicated in my remarks to the Board, the payment of this persons salary, at the present time nt least, is very much like the payment of au insurance policy tliat protects one's home, business, or automobile from calamities Uiat are hoped will never occur. The GT program is something the Little Rock School District should be extremely proud of and the issue of cutting half of the aduiinisirative positions designed lo maintain this fine program is one that should not be entered into unadvisedly or in haste of any sort. Should you Siiicqi'i Vidiof k VAF/c^ IcdlidtOlM cc: Lve que.stions or comments, please feel free to call. M.S. Caryn Taulbee Ms. Barbara Mills t r S3 (J MAY-22-95 MON 10:58 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO, 5013246576 1 P, 06 VICTOR A. FLEMING 3801 TCBY Tower Little Rock, Arktutsas 72201 (501) 376-3800 ! FAX 372-3359 May 18, 1995 Honorable T. Kevin OMalley Member Little Rock School Board 24 Glenmere Drive Little Rock, AR 72204 Dear Mr. OMaUey
First, let me once again thank you for your courteous participation and attention at the si>ecial meeting of the Little Rock School Board on Wednesday, May 17, 1995. I know that was tinie you might rather have been spending with friends or family elsewhere but, on behalf of all the persons who are opposed to cutting the GT Coordinators position, your aUowing us to present our case is very much appreciated. Second let me encourage you in the strongest of terms to be bold and courageous and remove the GT Coordinalors position front the administrative slots that have been set forth in the cut that you approved last month. As demonstrated by all of tlie persons who spoke against cutting this slot, it is perceived to be integral to the operation of an extremely important program, As I indicated in my remarks to tlie Board, the payment of this persons salary, at the present time at least, is very much like tlie payment of an insurance policy that protects ones home, business, or automobile from calamities that are hoped will never occur,. The GT program is .something the Little Rock School District should be extremely proud of and the issue of cutting half of the administrative positions designed to maintain this fine program is one that should not be entered into unadvisedly or in baste of any sort. Should you have questions or comments, please feel free to call. Sincerely, Victor A, Fleming VAF/cf cc: Ms. Caryn Taulbee Ms. Barbara MillsBB Ba s k' MAY-22-95 MON 10:59 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 07 yiCIOH A. FLEMING 33(11 TCBY Toy^>er Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 376-3300 ! FAX 372-3359 May 18, 1995 Honorable Judy Magness Secretary Little Rock School Board 708 Hall Drive Little Rock, AR 121^5 Dear Ms. Magness
First, let me once again thank you for your courteous participation and attention at the special meeting of the Little Rock School Board on Wednesday, May 17, 1995. I know that was time you might rather have been spending with friends or family elsewiiere but, on behalf of all the persons who are opposed to cutting tlie GT Coordinators position, your allowing us to present our case is very much appreciated. Second, let me encourage you in the strongest of terms to be bold and courageous and remove the QT Coordinators position from the administrative slots that have been set forth in the cut that you approved last month. As demonstrated by all of the persons who spoke against cutting tliis slot, it is perceived to be integral to the operation of an extremely important program. As I indicated in my remarks to the Board, tire payment of this persons salary, at the present time at least, is very much like the payment of an insurance policy that protects ones home, business, or automobile from calamities that arc hoped will never occur. Tlie GT program is something the Little Rock School District should be extremely proud of and the issue of cutting half of the administrative positions designed to maintain tliis fine program is one that should not be entered into unadvisedly or in haste of any sort. Should you have questions or comments, please feel free to call. Sincerely, Victor A, Fleming VAF/cf IrvllttLOW cc
Ms. Caryn Taulbee Ms. Barbara MillsnAY-22-95 MON 11:OO SUSAN W WRIGHT I FAX NO, 5013246576 P. 08 VICTOR A. ITEMING 3801 TCBY Tower JMe Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 376-3800 ! FAX 372-3359 May 18,1995 Honorable John A. Riggs Member Little Rock School Board 3600 Foxcroft Little Rock, AR 72207 Dear Mr. Rigg.s: First, let me once again thank you for your courteous participation and attention at the special meeting of the Little Rock Scliool Board on Wednesday, May 17, 1995. I know that was time you might rather have been spending with friends or family elsewhere but, on behalf of all the persons who are opposed to cutting the GT Coordinators position, your allowing us to present our case is very much appreciated. L 1^' Second, let me encourage you in the strongest of terms to be bold and courageous and remove the GT Coordinaiors position from the administrative slots that have been set forth in the cut that you approved last month. As demonstrated by all of the persons who sjxike against cutting this slot, it is perceived to be integral to the operation of an extremely important program. As I indicated in my remarks to the Board, lite payment of tlris persons salary, at the present time at least, is very much like the payment of an insurance policy that protects ones home, business, or automobile from calamities that are hoped will never occur. 'Fhe GT program is something the Little Rock School District should he extremely proud of and the issue of cutting half of the administrative positions designed to maintain this fine program is one that should not be entered into unadvis^ly or in haste of any sort. Should you have questions or comments, please feel free to call. Sincerely, Victor A. Fleming VAF/cf IndleCuOM cc: Ms, Caryn Taulbee Ms. Barbara Mills A -/r' - . 'a* " '^7MAY-22-95 MON 11:00 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P, 09 I " I j VICWR A. FLEMING 3801 TCBi' Tower Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (SOI) 376-3800 ! FAX 372-3359 May 18, 1995 t I Honorable Patricia Gee Vice President Little Rock School Board 8409 Dowaii Drive Little Rock, AR 72209 Dear Ms. Gee
First, let me once again thank you for your courteous participation and attention at the special meeting of the Little Rock School Board on Wednesday, May 17, 1995. I know that was time you might rather have been spending with friends or family elsewhere but, on behalf of all the persons who are opposed to cutting the GT Coordinators position, your allowing us to present our case is very much appreciated. Second, let me encourage you tn the strongest of terms to be bold and courageous and remove the GT Coordinators position from the administrative slots that have been set forth in Uie cut that you approved last month. As demonstrated by all of the persons who spoke against cutting tliis slot, it is perceived to be integral to tlie operation of an extremely unportant program. As I uidicated in my remarks to the Board, die payment of this persons salary, at the present time at least, is very much like the payment of an insurance policy tliat protects ones home, business, or automobile from calamities that are hoped will never occur. The GT program is something tlie Little Rock School District should be extremely proud of and the issue of cutting half of the administrative positions designed to maintain litis fine program is one that should not be entered into unadvisedly or in haste of any sort. Should you have questions or comments, please feel free to call. Sincerely, \)lv Victor A, Fleming VAFZcf U>(l(ea,W4 cc: Ms. Caryn Taulbee Ms. Barbara Mills I . .V ei 9 ! a s s i 4 JMAY-22-85 MON 11:01 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 I P. 10 V/CTOR A. FLEMING 3801 TCBY Tower Little Bock, Arkunsas 72201 (501) 376-3800 f FAX 372-3359 May 18, 1995 Honorable Linda Pondexter Pre.sident Little Rock School Board 502 Green Mountain Drive, #56 Little Rock, AR 72211 Dear Ms. Pondexter
First, let me once again thank you for your courteous participation and attention at tlie special meelbig of the Little Rock School Board on Wednesday, May 17, 1995. I know that was time you might rather have been spending with friends or family elsewhere but, on behalf of all the persons who are op{X)sed to cutting the GT Coordinators position, your allowing us to present our case is very much appreciated. I Second, let me encourage you in the strongest of terms to be bold and courageous and remove the GT Coordinators position from tlie administrative slots that have been set forth in the cut that you approved last inonlli. As demonstrated by all of the persons who spoke against cutting this slot, it is perceived to be integral to tlie operation of an extremely important program. As I indicated in my remarks to the Board, the payment of this persons salary, at die present time at least, is very much like the payment of an insurance policy that protects ones home, business, or automobile from calamities that are lioped will never occur. Ilie GT program is something the Llitlc Rock School District should be extremely proud of and the issue of culling half of tlie administrative positions designed to maintain this fine program is one that .should not be entered into unadvisedly or in haste of any sort. Should you have questions or conunents, please feel free to call. Sincferely, t Victor A. Fleming VAF'/cf U4dlf4L004 cc: Ms, Caryn Taulbee Ms. Barbara Mills S' anBtsanRBHmHRiMAY-22-95 MON 11:01 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P.ll 2908 Lee Avenue Little Rock, AR 72205 May 13, 1995 Hon. Susan Wright, U.S. District Judge U.S. Courthouse 600 West Capitol Little Rock. AR 72201 Dear Judge Wright: We believe that the Gifted and Talented Program is essential to the success of the Little Rock public school system, and oppose the elimination of the Gifted/Talented Coordinator's position from the Little Rock School System. .17
.,1 Through our own experience with two children and almost nine years of public school attendance, we are convniced of the importance of such programs as Odyssey of the Mina and Quiz Bowl We strongly feel that the District should be encouraging academic excellence through the expansion of programs such as these. To eliminate the position of Gifted and Talented Coordinator would reduce the stalling for this important arc
, at the administrative level by half This seems to strike at the heart of the mission of pub-schools We believe that Gifted and Talented programs are essentials, not frills, ana ask that you help to encourage such programs by retaining the coordinator's position I sorely, -7 CgTaJcVv'-- 3 :'3 'avid and Terry Cowan copy Arm Brown Oftice of Desegregation Monitoring ... 16 ?995 J It l^lSTFUcy JUDgit I %1R J ai MAY-15-1996 09:05 GEv'ER SPRINGS RBC 501 5b2 4189 I P.01 Sgggr springs first gaptist Church .1>6}5 Gpydr Springs TJ^oad Littlp Pock, flp 7220*3 pbonsz .50J 365-347-f FtIX 50t 5624189 To
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*)ats2: Comments: i- I 4^ Sb -J s , < - -4. / I rz '^ 'A A-i O ' r -izU 0 - LOt I 4 f /<> 'T' O ! S I a t I MAY-15-1996 09:06 GEYER SPRINGS FBC 501 562 4189 P.82 May 15, ) Two roads diverged in a yeliow wood, and I- I took the one less travelled by. And that has made all the difference From now on each time I read this poem by Roben Frost, I will think of you - our special Senior Ciass of 1996. I will remember that, by choosing to continue with the Honors/AP program, you have metaphorically chosen a different path and, in this case, a more difficult one I will remember your perseverance in the face of so many assigned works to read, so many papers to write, so much red ink. ( 1 hope you know that sadism is not part of iny nature, but rather that 1 knew you were capable of excellence and that life demands attention to detail ) 1 will remember your courage as 1 played Devil s Advocate in discussions and tried to hold you accountable for generalized statements ( I hope you realize that I w ished not to change vour point of view, but t o strengthen it and that you will be held accountable in medicine and law, teaching, engineerinu, the ministry, business, and family life,) I will remember your endurance as you played volleyball, sottball, and baseball, golf, soccer, and tennis, as you ran track and put together the schooi newspaper, panicipated in drama productions and oratory contests and Superintendent's Cabinet and Mercantile Bank Board meetings You sang in the choir, played in the band, marched and cheered at every home game and many of those aw ay Some of you worked at afterschool iobs and several endured personal trauma and family trials. through -A? to the end and met all the deadlines You accomplished all this and still stayed You have surpassed my greatest expectations And. ccnsequentlv I want to thank you for that and for the new and unique perspectives you have given me on so many different subtects. Some people believe that studying the Humanities, literature in pamcular is a waste of time because these subjects do not help you make a better living. 1 would like to hope they will mak living better You have read of the nature of good and evil from Shakespeare and Golding, of e racism and Colonialism from Achebe . Existentialism from Hemingway, selfhood from Kafka, the impact of an unjust society on the individual from Wright, courage of conviction from Huck, the human tragedy that can result from those who blindly follow' tradition from Jackson, and the rewards of grit and determination from a little girl who named herself Ellen Foster and whose "new mama" showed us all what a loving parent should be We learn mainly from experience, of course, but we define and conceptualize through these things that come from books - the products of long hours and days of tbougnt and editing, visions and revisions, (to paraphrase Ellen Gilchrist ) the best parts of the best minds that have ever lived on earth, your real legacy from the educational svstem that no one can ever take from you in anyt MAY-15-1996 09=07 GEYER SPRINGS ^bc 501 562 4189 P.03 way As long as there are schoois a.nd libraries and free societie.s this wiil be waiting for you whenever vou wish to take it And lite will be better for vou when you do Some time ago at a party an acquaintance of ours, a businessman in the community, discussed the wonders of the corporate world with my husband for a few minutes and then turned to me - with incrediility, I thought- and asked why on earth I chose teaching as a career, especially in Arkansasyou can guess the rest I w'as stunned and could only answer at the moment that, well. 1 liked it It was a duesticn I could not let go of and, as w e so often do 1 replayed the moment in my mind I suppose 1 chose teaching initially because, except for Donna Reed . June Cleaver, and my own sweet mother, rny only role models were the strong, traditional women who taught me at Pulaski Heights and Central High Schoo! Later J stayed because, luckily, my salary was not the pnmary one tn our family But it is more than this - these are the superficial reasons If he reeled around at me once more, if I could replay that instant with all my wits about me. I would say, Why did I choose teaching Weli. it is because of Bryan and Jeremy, Clif. Ryan and Cheryl, Erica and Ashley, Liz, Sarah, .Alicia, Brigette, and Meredith. Tara, Leslie and Erin, John Paul. Corey, and Patrice, Tamika and Tamka, Dereka and Daphne. Laura, Brandi, Charnelle Amber and Stacy. And certainly it is also because of Cristy and Felicia. Jeremy H and Jason, Lizz. Hunter Jill ano Kara. Torrie and Angie. Tamara, Aronna. Kevin, Kelly, and Jeff, Allison and Ron. Kerne, Tametra, .Meivelyn, and Rusty.Kisa, Reesa, and Mackenzie " May the sun snine warmly on your face, May the rain fall gently on your shoulders. May the roaa nse up to meet you, .'Vid may God always hold you in the palm of Kis Hand ..With iTiuch love, ,-7 "AL P.03MAY-16-95 TUE 14:51 SUSAN M WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 cz. i P, 09 RECEIVED May 9, 1995 MAY I 6 1995 Honorable Susan Webber Wright U.S. District Judge 600 West Capitol Ave. Little Rock, Ark. 72201 Office of Desegregation Monitoring Dear Judge Wright: I am writing to you as a concerned parent of a student in the Little Rock School District. 1995, District's Coordinator, Che Little administrative We have learned, Rock School Board voted that on April 27, to eliminate the position of Gifted and Talented As you may or may not know this position is responsible for monitoring the district and thereby insuring a strong program for each school in the District. If this position is eliminated it will harm each of the students who are enrolled in the District's Gifted and Talented program and in my opinion just further students". increase the Districts ability to "Dumb down it' s We need this program to insure that our brightest and best students are challenged by their teachers and their District and are able to continue their advanced learning by allowing this person to continue conducting in-service training of school staffs, P.T.A. groups and developing educational plans for students with special needs. In closing I would hope that you will not allow the District to do this and for one time will let them know that the welfare of our students should come first. I so apprecriate you and what you have and are continuing to do for us and for our students. Sincerely, i Tom Brock 8207 Crystal Valley Cove Little Rock, Arkansas 72210 I Recen/go may 111995 I U. S. DISTRICT JUDGEiC-.' MAY-16-95 TUE 14:51 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 08 DON 31 ^31 QAI63YIULE PIKE JACKSONVILLE AR 12W ^icAoCa i':>tc ii) eLJ)ef I/-)/jiff REGEfVSO J/rci r /o! Cl -iAivirig-^s: < SIjS.AN vv^i 3ia VV?
1GHT J 6 J995 may 12 1995 Office of Desegregation ftfloiiiionng Tc^c? (' U. S. DfSTRfCT JUDGE 73 f /'>t I' iij pi f/hii h/ C^ffry/'fa fcr fh/ 1^'^/'*''y pr^'/''O/\. affech a h p ' VA o ri'/ t, c> I I. !y th. //^< pyjy/c. 7i^- G li\ -^chd!.5dhc-f<5 I r Cl f/> f t< r-f/^c^ / /Q U 7i\^ d. y-b]5racti. /rvcker^ //> errc7^^./yiy c'/'UfrA- ThfC ^ypr^ial hr { ^/if'lrhar//. i/ds. fri'^ /hr I'f/ /h r^yc i/dS. I. 0 C6orii'^^^r I r/ii/e. 'h Jz-yf dcr^ a. d-e- Cr-.UJ yi \-ull~ // T^ If . 7/a! .1 /o Gllq S^id//ddz'ily. rc, a (l/'i/:' /r'/n-i^/i'///! 5f/-c:ci r.a/ii/-i' '1 u. J" '/id f/^^z '/. 7'
='^ r2i55 11 yj cf:' ait. rd c. rid.'/u/ii ^wy fd '/G'^C. I'/Cdi//<'/ J .-hl /h/'-y/^ 1^! !/^ -}h //yi^ i'l if /h. (f/- -h / ,.7, 'h ClD'I. !.(.{, prrrr' (/rL, ! C. (.( /I d", r, </. '>. /f/lA e<^/\r-^/GL^ 7cc: HAY-16-95 TUE 14:50 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 07 0 OtIiCQ of W4r 1995 ^^^^aregation Arkansas Association Gifted Education Adininistratoi Route 1, Box 2 Plumen-ille, Arkansas 72127 May 10, 1995 Honorable Judge Wright: Connoting irs This is in regard to Little Rock School District's number of Gifted & Talented position in reducing the Administrators . I fad that one administrator quality of Gifted & cannot maintain the District has Talented Education which the Wane iM'lershl
P of Mrs. Rynders has pre-monitoring for all worked with curriculum development, of students,i
additlt^L""n^^'^ "tification Sixth Gradechaditgi etc I ask that Little Rock Schon.1 this position. ennsider reinstating R incerely, President Arkansas Association Gifted Education Administrators K-ti'CSrui. n Xi 15 DISTRICT JUcr
^MAY-16-95 TUE 14:50 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 Office cc: jtJi, P. 07 J 6/995-- Arkansas Association Gifted Education Administrators Route 1, Box 2 Plumerville, Arkansas 72127 May 10, 1995 Honorable Judge Wright: Des, ^nitor,ng This is in regard to Little position in reducing the Administrators . Rock School District * s number of Gifted & Talented I feel that one administrator quality of Gifted & Talented District has cannot maintain the Education which the Mrs. Rynders has worked pre-monitoring for all ,
with curriculum development, of Students,in addition^Jrorfv^'^ schools, identification Sixth Grade Challenge, etc. Mind, Quiz Bowls, I ask that Little Rock Schon.1 this position. >. ennsider reinstating Sincerely, Pally Bakker President Arkansas Association Gifted Education Administrator 5 op' I':P,wr.?iGHT -15 1.995 ^-OflSrRlCTJLJuc
^-f- ./AA)'AWKAWM k f 1 I JohnMf* LO0 Ciz WESTERN ARKANSAS EDUCATION SERVICE COOPERATIVE Guy Fenter, Director RR 1 Box 104 Branch Arkansas 72928 1 i, if iWi a fl 965-2191 635-5201 RECEIVED CHAMBERS pF SUSAN WEBBER WRIGHT may 1X 1995 o.u'm! 9fiE Serving public schools In... Crawford County... Alma Cedarville Mountainburg Mulberry Van Buren MAY 1 1 1995 Office of Desegregaiion Monitoring May 9, 1995 Franklin County... Altus-Denning Charleston County Line Ozark Pleasant View Tke Honorable Susan Webber Wrigkt Office of Desegregation and Monitoring 201 , Mar ft. Earn Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Judge Wrlgfit
Johnson County... Clarksville Lamar Oark Westside I am writing on bekalf of Diane Rynders position of Assistant Coordinator of Gifted and Talented Programs for tke Little Rock ScAoof District, Superintendent kas "cut" It is my understanding tfiat tke Littie Rock tkis position from funding for tke fiscal year beginning in July 1993 as one of several "cuts" deemed as unnecessary expenditures. I find tkis Cine of reasoning to be guite Logan County... Booneville Magazine Paris Scranton inappropriate and inaccurate based on my own understanding of hfs. Rynders and wkat ske kas done for tke gifted and talented programs in tke Little Rock District. Diane Rynders kas worked kard to develop a fine staff of teojckers in tke gifted and talented program wko are knowledgeable of tke area Scott County... Waldron and informed about tke various types of assessment wkick can and is 6cing done to assess students in your district in order to fairly treat all populations represented. Ske kas gone out of ker way to Sebastian County... Fort Smith Greenwood Hackett Hartford Lavaca Mansfield try to find ways to appropriately identify and serve minority students wko kad not been previously identified prior to ker tenure, Ske kas worked to develop community interest and support in tke GT programs, tke student projects, and worked to interrelate kigker fevcf tkinking skills wit kin tke regular curriculum. Ske kas worked witk tke GT teackers to develop a district-wide 6tk grade competition open to large numbers of students keld yearly in tke spring. It kas Migrant Service In... Conway County Crawford County Johnson County Logan County Pope County Scott County Sebastian County Yell County expanded tke understanding of kow giftedness can be skown in many ways to students, faculty, and parents alike. I am appaffed tkat tke Little Rock Superintendent could consider efforts suck as tkis to be "unnecessary expenditures". Tkis position is vital to tke efforts being undertaken to meet tke federal mandates establisked by tke courts to equalize services to all populations. Tke position, and especially tke individual in tke position, does muck to provide positive examples of wkat students are capable of doing to tke community and tke public at large. Students of all races are seen working together cooperatively to sofve problems in student competitions such as Odyssey of the Mind, Little Rock GT programs have been quite visible in Odyssey of the Mind, which focuses on creative endeavors of individuals working within a group to solve problems and not simply academics within a ciass room setting. It provides exposure to new experiences utitizing drama, music, and otAer visuai and fine arts as a part of tfie overaU problem solving. CfiiCdren of various ages, cCassrooms, races, and ability levels all work, together to develop solutions. Ms. Rynders has been instrumental in bringing individuals from other states who are considered experts at the national level to help in the identification of minorities, the training of teachers in observation techniques, and the coordination of ideas within the district to form an overall district plan. At the state level Ms. Rynders, as Assistant Coordinator of Gifted Programs, attends monthly meetings of all State GT Supervisors, is very active in the AGATE Conference each year and encourages her teachers to do so, is active in both regional and state level of Odyssey of the Mind Competitions, helps with district, regional, and state level quiz bowls at varying levels, encourages competitions of all sorts within the district, brings in new and innovative programs for the teachers to view and or adopt as a part of their curriculum. The area of gifted and talented services offers much which the average person on the street can see and react favorably towards. It /ocuscs Ort tAc child who is succeeding within the education system, not as is so often the case, the one who is failing or in some kind of trouble. It sheds a positive light on the Little Rock School District and is something that should be emphasized and expanded not in any way cut. I would hope that you would see fit to reinstate EAttrte Rynders in the position of Assistant Coordinator of Gifted and Talented Services for the Little Rock School District for the 1995-1996 school year. incM/ely, Carolyn P. 5Ary GT Supervisor cc
VICTOR A. FLEMING 5405 Sherwood Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72207 MAY 1 5 1995 Home (501) 661-1758 Work 376-3800 / FAX 372-3359 Office of Desegregation Monitoring May 11, 1995 Dear Friends, Please pardon the mass-mail letter format. Immediate help is needed and hereby requested. 1'11 be brief. When the School Board adopted Dr. Hank Williams' latest budget cut recommendation (see enclosed article), it axed a position that should not have been axed. That position is the Gifted & Talented Coordinator, currently held by Diane Rynders. Possibly this position was placed in the cut package by mistake, possibly not. I am researching that even as this letter is being written. A special meeting of the Little Rock School Board will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17 to allow opponents of this particular position's being cut to present their case. I hope I can count on you to write a letter to Judge Susan Wright, with a cqjy to the Office of Desegregation Monitoring, expressing your desire that this position not be cut. This position is one of only two G/T positions at the LRSD's administration level. That is, half the staff for this abject of public education will be eliminated. The coordinator has taken the lead in LRSD's outstanding participation in Quiz Bowl, Odyssey of the Mind, Junior Great Books, Sixth Grade Challenge, and Monitoring Programs. 1 have coached a Gibbs Magnet School Odyssey of the Mind team for the past two years, and I can tell you that Ms. Rynders put in yeoman's hours and effort on that program. She was there when others were not for any potential problem. But this effort to retain the position she holds is not about he^dividually. To cut half the administrative staff of the G/T program sends the wrong message to the folks we want to try to keep in the Little Rock public schooi system. I have stuck with the system (kids at Forest Park, Pulaski Heights Jr. High, Central, and Gibbs) through thick and thin primarily because of programs such as G/T, which administers exceptionally positive strokes to students on a totally color-blind basis. Please write Judge Wright a letter or post card, stating "I oppose the elimination of the Gifted/Talented Coordinator's position at LRSD" or words to that effect, and send a copy to Ann Brown, the desegregation monitor. Their addresses are on the back of this letter. T ALSO-PMo? .xrM>pJ4K) rX Ui I it's-J at u/iSTec : MAY-16-95 TUE 14:51 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 08 JACKSONVILLE AR 72076 bic Aus/en p'l^bicP i^y. Aa^yPo! , CHAM-T^g^S (>
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? yjRlGHT ^ll\X 12 1995 U. S. DfSTRfCT JUDGE -- RSOEIVBD may I 6 1995 Office of Desegregation MonitohnQ J^c'rZ r V/e (2 "y rf/j b T^ht U- - torj''/ia/cr liA ffech >' '^-J-^- - I. u />iS yk Q,P}J
y, tP yy-b!^ \Kto/ c I '/' r< I i/ ' d, I,,4^ ht'/au.-xe. 7-^J ^ , ! }/ I ' .J Aj/}-^ T>s/<i (J>7l\ A-'x yhsr-x^ bt^tckty y ^A<2cni,^e,,- cbAJfM. rbtfc a(e^ 4ic ytclal %r fif h> jS^Z/rZ/'Z y'^'-:' PhC ixye. >(_ J 7c/. d>/^7j / I. 0 k, A Cta uJ.'/f ! sya'j^:\ \ f -jy r' Al f/Ac <-!' k' /rJJ"- y /''^iP 22!^ y ii-itfC ^A/'2 A'L.^ bdt^/!^i ^ b Ayb S'b ,'i'f>/f b <^. e./ri '/(/ / e- ypccb' D cllq J' h / /Aas Q-/ J-l At 2 brj /y >> 7^ /i i/t recfn.bi^Ay y ~^i'C.>t:iiyj( t)' 7abipJ- iPi'<^''jriii'A l^> .f. Ik lt.i- Il I- .'J' I ?, |<r^.^:e^,^l'<J 'M pfO'c/t:- ^b' idi^''-. ^- rJH.ny '- ,y b j 1 /, I -/l^,,l tficKHc. Tt k. U cbJleyt^ /-'.p /M /I/' PIrs/'/'^f^ 'f'b / p/fie. (jC.t: MAY-16-95 TUE 14:50 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 06 'My J 6 ' Ellice of ^esegregai'on VICTOR A. FLEMING 5405 Sherwood Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72207 RECltP/SD CHAVL'EHS OF SUSAN WRIGHT MAY 15 1995 Monitoring Horae (501) 661-1758 Work 376-3800 ! FAX 312-3-553 J. S. DISTRICT JUDGE May 11, 1995 Dear Friends, Please pardon the mass-mail letter format. Immediate help is needed and hereby requested. I'll be brief. When the School Board adopted Dr. Hank Williams' latest budget cut recommendation (see enclosed article), it axed a position that should not have been axed. That position is the Girted & Talented Coordinator, currently held by Diane Rynders. Possibly this position was placed in the cut package by mistake, possibly not. 1 am researching that even as diis letter is being written. A special meeting of the Little Rock School Board will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 17 to allow opponents of this particular positions being cut to present their case. I hope 1 can count on you to write a letter to Judge Susan Wright, with a copy to the Office of Desegregation Monitoring, expressing your desire that this position not be cut. This position is one of only two G/T positions at the LRSD's administration level. That is, half tlie staff for this aspect of public education, will be eliminated. " t The coordinator has taken the lead in LRSDs outstanding participation in Quiz Bowl, Odyssey of tho Mind, Junior Groot Boolcc, Sixth Grode Challenge, and Monitoring Programs. 1 have coached a Gibbs Magnet School Odyssey of the Mind team for the past two years, and I can tell you that Ms. Rynders put in yeomans hours and effort on that program. She was diere when odicrs were not for any potential problem. But diis effort to retain the position she holds is not about hej|^ndividually. To cut half die administrative staff of the G/T program sends the wrong message to die folks we want to try to keep in die Little Rock public school system. I have stuck with the system (kids at Forest Park, Pulaski Heights Jr. High, Central, and Gibbs) through thick and thin primarily because of programs such as G/T, which administers exceptionally positive strokes to students on a totally color-blind basis. , Please write Judge Wright a letter or post card, stating "I oppose die elimination of the Gifted/Talented Coordinator's position at LRSD" or words to diat effect, and send a copy to Ann Brown, the desegregation monitor. Their addresses are on the back of this letter. T /)L5O-P>48 ni: ccnf^ -feKeARIUmiM <:'****.. e rfWtk* I uo0 r'-O Srt C 7 cc ' -/c.- ^(p/y 6tpy f. U, WESTERN ARKANSAS EDUCATION SERVICE COOPERATIVE Guy Fenter, Director RR 1 Box 104 Branch Arkansas 72928 965-2191 635-5201 Cinnf^ n RECEIVED CHAMBERS OF _ SUSAN WEBBER WRIGHT MAY 1X 1995 laE Serving public schools In... Crawford County... Alma Cedarville Mountainburg Mulberry Van Buren MAY i i 1995 Office of De' May 9, 1995 .vl.-' Franklin County... Altus-Donning Charleston County Line Ozark Pleasant View The Honorable Susan Webber Wright Office of Desegregation and Monitoring 201 E, Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Judge WrigAt
Johnson County.. Clarksville Lamar Oark Westside I am writing on behalf of Diane Rynders position of Assistant Coordinator of Gifted and Talented Programs for the Little Rock ScAoot District, Superintendent Aos "cut" It is my understanding tAat tAe Little RocA tAis position from funding for tAe fiscal year beginning in July 1995 as one of severat "cuts unnecessary expenditures, H deemed as I find tAis Une of reasoning to be quite Logan County... Booneville Magazine Paris Scranton inappropriate and inaccurate based on my own understanding of Ms, Rynders and what she has done for the gifted and talented programs in the Little Rock District, Diane Rynders Aas u/orAed Aard to develop a fine staff of teacAers in tAe gifted and talented program wAo are knondedgeable of tAe area Scott County... Waldron and informed about the various types of assessment which can and is being done to assess students in your district in order to fairly treat aU populations represented. SAe Aas gone out of Aer way to Sebastian County... Fort Smith Greenwood Hackett Hartford Lavaca Mansfield try to find ways to appropriately identify and serve minority students who had not been previously identified prior to her tenure. She has worked to develop community interest and support in the GT programs, the student projects, and worked to interrelate higher level tAinking skills wit Ain th.c regular curriculum. SAe has worked with the GT teachers to develop a district-wide 6th grade competition open to large numbers of students held yearly in the spring. It Aas expanded the understanding of how giftedness can be shown in many ways to students, faculty, and parents alike. Migrant Service in... Conway County Crawford County Johnson County Logan County Pope County Scott County Sebastian County Yell County I am appalled tAat the Little Rock Superintendent could consider efforts such as this to be "unnecessary expenditures". This position is vital to the efforts being undertaken to meet the federal mandates established by the courts to equalize services to all populations, Tke position, and especially the individual in the position, does much to provide positive examples of what students are capable of doing to the community and the public at large.#w( =69W/E?' Students of aff races are seen working together cooperativeiy to solve problems in student competitions such as Odyssey of the Mind. Little Rock GT programs have been quite visible in Odyssey of the Mind, which focuses on creative endeavors of individuals working within a group to solve problems and not simply academics within a cCassroom setting. It provides exposure to new experiences utilizing drama, music, and other visual and fine arts as a part of the overalC problem solving. Children of various ages, classrooms, races, and ability levels all work together to develop solutions. Ms. Rynders has been instrumental in bringing individuals from other states who are considered experts at the national level to help in the identification of minorities, the training of teachers in observation techniques, and the coordination of ideas within the district to form an overall district plan. At the state level Ms. Rynders, as Assistant Coordinator of Gifted Programs, attends monthly meetings of all State GT Supervisors, is very active in the AGATE Conference each year and encourages her teachers to do so, is active in both regional and state level of Odyssey of the Mind Competitions, helps with district, regional, and state level quiz bowls at varying levels, encourages competitions of all sorts within the district, brings in new and innovative programs for the teachers to view and or adopt as a part of their curriculum. The area of gifted and talented services offers much which the average person on the street can see and react favorably towards. It focuses on the child who is succeeding within the education system, not as is so often the case, the one who is failing or in some kind of trouble. It sheds a positive light on the Little Rock School District and is something that should be emphasized and expanded not in any way cut. I would hope that you would see fit to reinstate Diane Rynders in the position of Assistant Coordinator of Gifted and Talented Services for the Little Rock School District for the 1995-1996 school year. inc^/ely. Carolyn P. 3/iry GT Supervisor Western Arkansas Education Service Cooperative Guy F. Fenter, Director RR 1 Box 104 - Branch, AR 72928 M The Honorable Susan Web^^f Wright office of Desegregation and monitoring 201 E. Markham Little ^ock, AR 72201 Suite 510 iitiiilltiilll iiiiiilliiiililliiiililliitllltc : (Li^ MAY-16-95 TUE 14:48 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 04 May 12, 1995 RECEIVED MAY 1 6 1995 RECS:5'.fSD CHAMs.se '.V'liC-l-fT Office of Desegregation fsionitoring MAY 15 1995 Dr. Henry Williams LRSD Superintendent 810 West Markham Little Rock, AR. 72201 J. 3. DISTRICT JUDGE Dear Dr. Williams.- We are , - sending you distributed to --------- a copy of a letter that has been uiscrioutea parents of cr-ifi-oH 1 ----neen Little Rock SchoTl District wa Moomi in the time for you in identifyi specific difficult Sincerely believe, however J or budget cuts. We Talented Coordinator position will ad-ita the Gifted and because the result will be the ai,cxSS&M' and successful programs. services children in the Gifted/Taiant-o/i 1955. As advocates for you and the board of directors LRSD, we hope that eliminate the position of Gifted end rSSSd JJcrdTnaTS""' Sincerely, Barbara Mills Elementary A.G.A.T. . Parent Elizabeth Dowell CC: Secondary A.G.A.T.E. Parent Honorable Susan Webber Anne Brown - ODM Wright LRSD Board of Directors LRSD Administrators Dr, Patty Kohler, Division of Magnet Review Committee Exceptional Children Arkansas Department of Education Director Superintendent of NLRSD ~ Superintendent of PCSSD John Walker Gene WilhoitOfffce of Desegregation Monitoring Unjtsd States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 {501)376-6200 Fax (501) 371-0100 May 12, 1995 Ms. Judy Lively, Supervisor, Gifted Education Dawson Education Co-Op 711 Clinton, Suite 201 Arkadelphia, AR 71923 Dear Ms. Lively: Judge Susan Webber Wright has asked me to respond to your letter in which you express concern about the elimination of the gifted and talented coordinators position in the Little Rock School District. Although she is sensitive to the concerns that community members have about the desegregation process and related issues, as a matter of policy. Judge Wright does not correspond directly with citizens. Instead, she relies upon us in her Office of Desegregation Monitoring to discuss school matters with individuals and organizations. As an Associate Monitor on the staff, one of my responsibilities is to monitor gifted and talented education in the three Pulaski County School districts. I have been contacted by several citizens from across the state expressing concern, alarm, and dismay at the proposal by the superintendent of the Little Rock School District to eliminate the position of Coordinator of Gifted and Talented education. Our involvement with the LRSD is limited to monitoring compliance with provisions in their desegregation plan, and gifted education is a component of the districts plan. The LRSD is required to obtain court approval for any action that might have an adverse impact on implementing their plan. The court has not given the district approval to make the proposed change, and I will recommend against approval. Although I cannot speak for Judge Wright, I believe she will give strong consideration to my recommendation. I suggest that you forward a copy of your letter to the Board of Education. It is my understanding that a parent group has petitioned for a special board meeting to address the elimination of the coordinators position. If you are interested in attending the meeting, you may call the districts central office at (501) 324-2000 or me at (501) 376-6200, for the date and time of the school board meeting. lincerely, T irgie L. Powell Associate Monitor -MAY- -95 TUE 15:27 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 02 i7 R. 0. SAUNDERS DIRECTOR i DAWSON a EDUCATION ' I', 711 CLINTON, SUITE 201 ARKADELPHIA, AR 71923 501/246-3077 I May 5, 1995 Honorable Susan Webber Wri^t Office of Desegregation and Monitoring 201 E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Wright I am r-onecreed about the Little Rock School District cutting the position of Gifted and Talented Coordinator. I feel that this program would suffer without the scrrices that Ms. Diane Ryndei's provides. Site is involved with OifTerentiated curriculum development for gifted students, monitoring the pregrams in the elementary schools for the district to liLsure compliance, and the identification of gifted students in the district She has l?ecn instrumental in giving disadvantaged and minority students an equal opportunity in the screening and identification processes provided by the mandate set forth by the state. For many years, Ms. Rynders has been involved as a state leader in the Odyssey of the Mind coiniietition. She held the position of State Director for a great number of those years. Under her guidance and leadership, Arkansas has been well represented at the annual OM Wiirld Hnals. Without her expertise, I feel this program will sufter-and iiiiimately tile studeuis of uic Liiiie Rock Schoo! Disirici wiii nut iiuve the oppiirtunsiies afforded to them through her knowledge of the competition rules and regulations. Plca.sc consider tlte reinstatement of tliis position for the students of the Little Rock School Distiict They deserve the very best we can give them, and I think Ms. Rynders skills are an asset for tbe district Thank you for your consideration. I Sincerely, Judy Lively Supendsor of Gifted Education I: 1995 s. 0 9 <Sc^oo[i. eSeWui^ tHi ^^itclxui Office of Desegregation Monitoring Unhed States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown. Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock. Arkansas 72201 (SOI) 376-6200 Fax (501) 371 -0100 May 12, 1995 Ms. Kay Kyle Luter, Supervisor of Gifted Education Crowleys Ridge Education Service Cooperative P. O. Box 377 Harrisburg, AR 72432 Dear Ms. Luter: Judge Susan Webber Wright has asked me to respond to your letter in which you express concern about the elimination of the gifted and talented coordinators position in the Little Rock School District. Although she is sensitive to the concerns that community members have about the desegregation process and related issues, as a matter of policy. Judge Wright does not correspond directly with citizens. Instead, she relies upon us in her Office of Desegregation Monitoring to discuss school matters with individuals and organizations. As an Associate Monitor on the staff, one of my responsibilities is to monitor gifted and talented education in the three Pulaski County School districts. I have been contacted by several citizens from across the state expressing concern, alarm, and dismay at the proposal by the superintendent of the Little Rock School District to eliminate the position of Coordinator of Gifted and Talented education. Our involvement with the LRSD is limited to monitoring compliance wdth provisions in their desegregation plan, and gifted education is a component of the districts plan. The LRSD is required to obtain court approval for any action that might have an adverse impact on implementing their plan. The court has not given the district approval to make the proposed change, and I will recommend against approval. Although I cannot speak for Judge Wright, I believe she will give strong consideration to my recommendation. I suggest that you forward a copy of your letter to the Board of Education. It is ray understanding that a parent group has petitioned for a special board meeting to address the elimination of the coordinators position. If you are interested in attending the meeting, you may call the districts central office at (501) 324-2000 or me at (501) 376-6200, for the date and time of the school board meeting. Sincerely, Margie L. Powell argie Associate Monitor-MAY--9-95 TUE 15:30 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P,08 *1 A P R I S BV R G CROWLEYS RIDGE EDUCATION SERVICE COOPERATIVE P.O. Box 377 Harrisburg, Arkansas 72432 (501) 578-5426 Serving Public Schools In
Craighead County Bay-Brown Brookland Buffalo-Island JonesOoro Nettleton Riverside Valley View Westside Crittenden County Crawfordsville Earle Marion Turrell Cross County Cross County Parkin Wynne Jackson County Newport Mississippi County Armorel aiytheviile Gosnell Manila Osceola So. Miss, County Poinsett County East Poinsetl County Harrisburg Marked Tree Trumann Weiner May 4, 1995 R J! > MAT 10 i?95 The Honorable Susan Webber Wright Office of Desegregation and Monitoring 201 E. Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Judge Wright, Office of O'S-
f:n^ I am an associate and colleague of Diane Rynders, who is currently one of the two Gifted and Talented Coordinators for the Little Rock School District. The position held by Diane was cut in the latest round of cuts for the Little Rock School District. It seems to me that as soon as something positive gets a start in Little Rock School District, here comes something to tear it apart. Even if Diane wasn't doing a wonderful job in the position it would still need to be there. The size of Little Rock School District warrants at least two people to monitor programs and provide services. The fact that Diane does a fantastic job makes it more crucial that the position remain. She is the organizing force behind many provisions enjoyed by Little Rock students. Some of the parts of her job, besides premonitoring, staff d^elopment and dissemination of information are: Odyssey of the Mind, Quiz Bowl and Sixth Grade Challenge. I think many of the opportunities provided by the Gifted and Talented Program would fail by the wayside with the elimination of the position. This whole thing spills over into the desegregation issue, because all students will he affected within the elementary gifted program. I know you are thinking about this issue. Please know that the Little Rock School District needs its elementary gifted and talented position and it needs Diane Rynders. RSCEP/SD CHA
.ERS OF SUSAN WRIGHT MAY 0 9 1395 Sincerely, Kay Kyle Luter, Supervisor Gifted and Talented Education U. S. DISTRICT JUDGE Office of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)376-6200 Fax (501) 371-0100 May 12, 1995 Mr. Kirby Shofner 204 N. Ash Little Rock, AR 72205 Dear Mr. Shofner: Judge Susan Webber Wright has asked me to respond to your letter in which you express concern about the elimination of the gifted and talented coordinators position in the Little Rock School District. Although she is sensitive to the concerns that community members have about the desegregation process and related issues, as a matter of policy. Judge Wright does not correspond directly with citizens. Instead, she relies upon us in her Office of Desegregation Monitoring to discuss school matters with individuals and organizations. As an Associate Monitor on the staff, one of my responsibilities is to monitor gifted and talented education in the three Pulaski County School districts. I have been contacted by several citizens from across the state expressing concern, alarm, and dismay at the proposal by the superintendent of the Little Rock School District to eliminate the position of Coordinator of Gifted and Talented education. Our involvement with the LRSD is limited to monitoring compliance with provisions in their desegregation plan, and gifted education is a component of the districts plan. The LRSD is required to obtain court approval for any action that might have an adverse impact on implementing their plan. The court has not given the district approval to make the proposed change, and I will recommend against approval. Although I cannot speak for Judge Wright, 1 believe she will give strong consideration to my recommendation. I suggest that you forward a copy of your letter to the Board of Education. It is my understanding that a parent group has petitioned for a special board meeting to address the elimination of the coordinators position. If you are interested in attending the meeting, you may call the districts central office at (501) 324-2000 or me at (501) 376-6200, for the date and time of the school board meeting. Sincerely, 1 W- Powell Associate Monitor W- 9-95 TUE 15:29 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 06 May 7, 1995 Dear Judge Wright, I am sure that you really don't want to receive another letter regarding the budget cuts proposed by Dr. Williams for the Little Rock School District, but I felt compelled to write to let you know how I feel about the elimination of the Gifted and Talented coordinator position. In the ten years I have been teaching at Central 1 have seen many changes occur. Many good and certainly many bad. One of the most positive things that has occured is the appointment of Diane Rynders to the GT Coordinator position. Before her arrival, the GT office was at best in turmoil. I had many dealings with the people in that office at that time and it was my impression that there was absolutely no leadership and continunity occuring. Since Diane arrived things have been well organized and directed. I always know who to contact and what is expected of teachers in the district who work with gifted students. One of the things that I most look forward to during the school is the few hours a week I get to work with my Odyssey of the Mind team. These students are truly gifted. You would be amazed at what these young people can do. There is nothing that they can't accomplish if they put their minds to it. It is refreshing to see students at this advanced level at such a young age. The few hours a day that I work with these students is time where I know I am not going to have to deal with the extraneous non-teaching chores that occur all day long in my regular classes. During my regular teaching day most of my time is spent with discipline and reprimands which unfortunately turn what should be a positive teaching atmosphere into an aggravation. I look forward to the time 1 spend with my OM team. It is always fun and positive, the highlight of many of my working days I can't think of what will happen if the GT office loses its coordinator, much less losing Mrs. Rynders. There has to be other ways to reduced the deficit at the district. The administration is top heavy in other directions if cuts need to be made. Sacrifices have to be made by all, but 1 honestly feel that this is a terrible mistake and very little thought went in to making this descision. One thing for sure. Many students will not attend Little Rock Schools if the Gifted Programs are not fully functioning. One of the main attractions is rhe many GT classes and programs available to students who need them and parents who want their children in them. The elimination of this position needs serious reconsideration on everyone's part. I really appreciate your time. I hope things will work out where the GT Cooridinator's position can remain intact. Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional input. Sincerely ____ Kirby Shoraer Central High School W/IV 0 91995 Us. ^l^TFiiCTOffice of Desegregation Monitoring /United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock. Arkansas 72201 (501)376-6200 Fax (501) 371-01OO May 12, 1995 Mr. John W. Calaway, Supervisor of Gifted Education Northcentral Arkansas Education Service Center P.O. Box 739 Melbourne, AR 72556 f Dear Mr. Calaway: to respond to your letter in which you express and talented coordinators position in the Little the concerns that community members Judge Susan Webber Wright has asked me to concern about the elimination of the gifted < Rock School District. Although she is sensitive to have about the desegregation process and related issues, as a matter of policy, Judge Wright have about tne aesegrcgauvu ...--------------- h^r Dffirp of does not correspond directly with citizens. >"s<eh<), she 1. up ns m he Office Desegregation Monitoring to discuss school matters with individuals and organizations. As an Associate Monitor on talented education in the three the staff, one of my responsibilities is to monitor gifted and Pulaski County School districts. I have been contacted by S CU^ fro the state expressing concern, marnt, and dismay at the propos^ by the superintendent of the Little Rock Coordinator of Gifted and Talented education. ------- .. School District to eliminate the position ot Our involvement with the LRSD is limited to monitoring compliance with provisions in them desegregation plan, and gifted education is a is required to obtain court approval for any implementing their plan. The court has not given component of the districts plan. The LRSD action that might have an adverse impact on the district approval to make the proposed change, and I will recommend against approval. Although I cannot speak for Judge Wright, I believe she will give strong consideration to my recommendation. the Board of Education. It is my I suggest that you forward a copy of your letter to understanding that a parent group has petitioned for a special board meeting toaddress the eh^Saation o? the coJrdlnaroVs posinou. If you are in.ercs.ed in attending, .he ntcctlng.^you may can the districts central office at (501) 324-2000 or me at (501) 376-6200, for the date and time of the school board meeting. Sincerely, I ar! L. Powell ssociate MonitorI I I MAY- 9-95 TUE 15:28 1 A I 5 i S c I.. V c .lAltEU MdXLEY, Dt/crMf Baxtkr Mountain home Norfork FULTON Mammoth Spring SALEM Viola Independence Batesville CORD-CIIARLOTTB CUSHMAN Midland Newark Southside SULPHUR Hock IZARD Calico rock Izard County Consolidated Melbourne MT. ILEASANT SHARP EVENING SHADE Highland STONE MOUNTAIN VIEW Rural special TIMBO SUSAN W WRIGHT NAESC Telephone .=iOl-3efi.79i).5 May 5, 1995 FAX NO. 5013246576 fP?04 MAY 1 0 1995 Northcentral Actons as ess Education Service Center P. 0. Box 739 Melbourne, Arknnsns 725.56 Honorable Susan Webber Wright Office of Desegregation & Monitoring 201 E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Honorable Susan Webber Wright: J RGCRIVu-q SUSAN V/r-m.-,.-
, MAY 0 9 1395 U. s. DISTRICT judge Iam writing you in response to a news report that the Little Rock School District is proposing to eliminate the position of Gifted & Talented Coordinator. While I can understand the need for the District to make budget reductions, I am truly surprised that this position would be one targeted for elimination. As a State G/T Supervisor, I work with twenty schools with varying numbers of students. I know the plight of the G/T coordinators in these schools and not one of them has anywhere near the size of program that Mrs. Rynders has with which to work. With a program the size of Little Rock School District's, approximately 4,000 students, confidently say that their G/T program is already understaffed. A curricular program designed to enhance the learning of high ability learners, regardless of race, creed, or color, should be the last program one would choose to negatively effect by reducing staff. I can sex, Iirs. Rynders has done an excellent job of designing student identification procedures that eliminate biases and allow gifted minority students to be considered equally for the G/T program. Without proper administrative overview, shortcuts will be taken, procedures will be dropped, and many gifted students will never be found. I want to emphasize that the administrative overview, in order to be effective, must come from someone with the training and knowledge concerning testing and identification procedures of all G/T students. I must admit that I cant comprehend why X can't why, at a time when Little Rock is spending millions of dollars to encourageMAY- 9-95 TUE 15:29 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 05 students to remain in their district, one would want to adversely effect the quality of a program seen as a positive and attracting element of the district. I would also like to add that Mrs. Rynders has been very active, due to her position, in statewide associations. While operating within these circles she has been able to act as a strong advocate on behalf of the students from her district. This year a minority student from the LRSD is attending my AEGIS program. It was beneficial for the student that he was coming from Diane's program. She is a strong advocate for her students, but this type of activity will never show up on any report to the Superintendent or the Court. In closing, I urge you to please consider the damage that will be done to the G/T progreun, but more importantly to all G/T students, should this position be eliminated. I read in a report that 90% of every federal dollar, for education, is spent on remedial programs and only .1% is spent for high ability learners. I hope you take a stand against this trend. Respectfully yours, John W. Calaway Supervisor of Gifted Education Office of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501) 376.6200 Fax (501) 371 -0100 May 12, 1995 Mr. Davis Hendricks 1016 East H Avenue North Little Rock, AR 72116 Dear Mr. Hendricks: Judge Susan Webber Wright has asked me to respond to your letter in which you express concern about the elimination of the gifted and talented coordinators position in the Little Rock School District. Although she is sensitive to the concerns that community members have about the desegregation process and related issues, as a matter of policy. Judge Wright does not correspond directly with citizens. Instead, she relies upon us in her Office of Desegregation Monitoring to discuss school matters with individuals and organizations. As an Associate Monitor on the staff, one of my responsibilities is to monitor gifted and talented education in the three Pulaski County School districts. I have been contacted by several citizens from across the state expressing concern, alarm, and dismay at the proposal by the superintendent of the Little Rock School District to eliminate the position of Coordinator of Gifted and Talented education. Our involvement with the LRSD is limited to monitoring compliance with provisions in their desegregation plan, and gifted education is a component of the districts plan. The LRSD is required to obtain court approval for any action that might have an adverse impact on implementing their plan. The court has not given the district approval to make the proposed change, and I will recommend against approval. Although I cannot speak for Judge Wright, I believe she will give strong consideration to my recommendation. I suggest that you forward a copy of your letter to the Board of Education. It is my understanding that a parent group has petitioned for a special board meeting to address the elimination of the coordinators position. If you are interested in attending the meeting, you may call the districts central office at (501) 324-2000 or me at (501) 376-6200, for the date and time of the school board meeting. Sincerely, Ma/gie L. Powell Associate Monitor MAY- .9-95 TUE 15:27 SUSAN W WRIGHT FAX NO. 5013246576 P. 03 t May 4,1995 MAY 1 0 Ti95 The Honorable Susaii Weber Wright Office of Desegregation and Monitoring 201E. Markham Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, AR 72201 Office of Dessgreg&iic
... ?g Dear Judge Wright, I am writing to urge you to disallow the t
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