Mayor Baker asks district to keep schools open
ST. PETERSBURG -- Mayor Rick Baker has asked Pinellas superintendent Julie Janssen to keep the doors open at three local schools slated for extinction.
"I am concerned that the proposed closing of Clearview Avenue Elementary, Rio Vista Elementary and Southside Fundamental Middle schools involve the closing of three of St. Petersburg's "A" schools, and I request you not take this action," he wrote in a letter to Janssen last week. "I believe the success of these three schools can be attributed to outstanding leadership and teachers, an established culture of success, and an intimate setting where teachers are able to nurture strong relationship with students and their families. The achievements and positive strides that are exhibited daily in these schools exemplify what we are trying to accomplish in our lower performing schools."
He didn't offer any suggestions on how else to cut costs.
Cristina Silva, Times Staff Writer
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WHY?
Posted by: | January 12, 2009 at 04:27 PM
Who is Rick Baker?
Posted by: | January 12, 2009 at 08:12 PM
Thank you Mayor Baker. At least some politician is willing to stand up for the schools in their community.
Other city councils and mayors stay silent on the topic of schools in their communities. Sadly, they act as if the schools don't even exist.
Posted by: | January 12, 2009 at 08:46 PM
My question is: What say you about this, Rick?
BREAKING NEWS!
“BayWalk foreclosed”
--- A Pinellas-Pasco Circuit Circuit judge ordered the foreclosure shortly after 11 a.m. this morning. Judge J. Thomas McGrady set a public auction for Feb. 13. Until then, the property technically will remain in the posession of STP Redevelopment, a company owned by Fred Bullard.
Mel and Co. will walk free and clear, leaving the taxpayers on the hook!
Tell us, Rick… “Exactly” what do you intend to do about this?
Posted by: | January 13, 2009 at 12:08 PM