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What about those left behind?

Lodi Unified's Catalina Island trip unfair, wasteful


Tuesday, February 12, 2008 11:48 AM PST

Comments (205 comment(s))

If your child has a 3.0 GPA or better, doesn't get in trouble (whatever that means) and you have $700 bucks to spare, your eighth-grader may be on his or her way to Catalina for a week's worth of snorkeling, hikes, kayaking and wall-climbing. And, somewhere along the way, your child might even learn something worth learning. Unfortunately, all other eighth-graders, the vast majority of "the class," need not apply.

The plain fact of the matter is, for every eighth-grader who gets go to Catalina, two must stay home. Lodi Unified School District calls Catalina a "rewards trip," and for the last 15-years or so, approximately one-third of all eight-graders look forward to "fun in the sun" at Catalina, while the others, the ones left behind, are left to wonder what they have missed. Just in case they aren't willing to ponder what they have missed, they are soon reminded by the lucky few upon their return.

Some of those left behind were transfer students who could not qualify. Some of the students left behind got in trouble in seventh-grade, so they were disqualified in eighth. Some of those "left behind" didn't achieve a high enough grade point average, even though some have missed the trip by one-tenth of a grade point. Others just couldn't afford the $700 to $800 nor wanted to ask for a "scholarship." However, all those left behind share a singularly common experience: they are all offered their first institutionalized taste of segregation.

Ironically, who is serving up all that regret, division and degradation? Our public school system! And that's just plain wrong.

Unwittingly, I hope, Lodi Unified School District has put their stamp of approval on a policy that celebrates the creation of a second-class student. The district rewards some and necessarily punishes all others. Common sense would inform just about anyone who is willing to be informed that policies that are inherently unfair and discriminatory by nature should be abolished by the leaders of our public school system.

Ken Davis, president of the Lodi Unified School District, gave an extensive interview on Dec. 17, 2007, with the Lodi News-Sentinel. In that interview, he gave a very personal and moving account of his own discrimination as an African-American student growing up in the South. Among other things, Mr. Davis said: "I know what's its like to feel like you're unwanted. I know what it's like to feel that you're not as good as the next person."

One can only assume Mr. Davis hasn't fully realized the hurt and disillusionment of those students left behind from the Catalina trip. We are confident that when Mr. Davis has an opportunity to investigate these matters, he will lead an initiative to abolish the Catalina trip before more damage can be done.

In point of fact, Lodi Unified School District, like all school districts, is charged with offering each and every child access to a "free and appropriate" education, period. This is not just good table manners, it's the rule of law.

Clearly, it is not appropriate to take some students and leave others. After all, there is a reason they call it "the class." It's not appropriate to take the experienced core faculty to Catalina with the chosen few while the rest of the class are given substitutes for an entire week. Those substitutes are paid in the absence of the experienced faculty, who also must be paid; that's both inappropriate and wasteful. Besides, there is a very good chance the practice of leaving two-thirds of the class with substitutes for an entire week may violate the No Child Left Behind Act, 2001; the act is not equivocal; all teachers, even substitutes, must be "highly qualified teachers." Some substitutes may be highly qualified; however, some may not. Providing a week's worth of unknown teaching and learning quality, by substitutes, is totally inappropriate and probably unlawful to boot.

It is also inappropriate for children who can't afford the trip to be embarrassed or made to invent reasons why they can't go. Further, it is not appropriate to pit parent against parent in what amounts to Catalina musical chairs; when the music stops, there is someone always left standing. Someone is always disappointed, many feel angry, disillusioned, depressed and isolated. There are no positive lessons to be gained by this exercise in artificial scarcity.

Lastly, it is not appropriate to divide the class into haves and have nots at the hands of their school teachers and administrators this early in life. Regretfully, there will be many opportunities for these students to find out the world isn't fair, right or equitable at some latter date. They don't need to get their first lessen in segregation from their eighth-grade Alma Mater. Whether you call it a "rewards trip" or something more obvious, it is education that is separate and unequal and should be abolished now.

A simple but elegant solution might be to consider finding a study trip location a little bit closer to home, take each and every student, and leave nobody behind. In this way, we can avoid creating a second class student who doesn't have to be reminded of the education they missed or the fun they never had.

Closson holds a doctorate in education. He is CEO of Robert Closson and Associates, a firm based in Lodi specializing in new home marketing/sales personnel. He may be contacted through the Education Advocate Web site.

Reader Feedback

Lodian wrote on Feb 21, 2008 9:50 PM:

" sam: This sure could all be solved by bringing Science Camp back for these kids. The district throws money at administration right and left and these kids get less and less. It criminal. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 21, 2008 9:46 PM:

" awobs: Every body's a critic. ;-)

Have a nice evening. "

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awobs wrote on Feb 21, 2008 8:52 PM:

" You are correct, Lodian. But, your posts are kind of like a car accident. I don't want to look, but I can't help myself. Sometimes they are so entertaining! At the end of the day, you have your opinion and I have mine and we will never agree. I also sleep well at night knowing my kid will be going to Catalina because he/she worked their tail off for it. Pretty much the same reason I get a paycheck...because I work my tail off for it! "

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sam wrote on Feb 21, 2008 7:38 PM:

" lodian, I love the idea of the 8th grade Catalina trip. Too bad they cannot bring back the 6th grade science camp for all and keep the Catalina trip as a reward for hard work. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 21, 2008 5:58 PM:

" awobs: You have every right not to read my posts if they are too long. In fact, I prefer it. I should indeed try to be better about the 100 word limit. I guess I get into it sometimes.

To answer your question, it doesn't matter if my child were invited to attend this prize/trip or not. My values and opinions do not change due to the awarding of prizes to my child. That would be shallow.

Was this post short enough? ;-)
"

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Lodian wrote on Feb 21, 2008 5:43 PM:

" sam: "Anything to help motivate these young minds."

I agree with that. I just see so much thrown at kids today. The kids that were able to achieve the GPA to attend this Catalina prize trip are the kind of kids that can be motivated to do well anyway. The reward doesn't have to be so extravagant. Also, we really do not want to leave out the good kids, achieving around that 2.0-2.9 area, as they deserve the enrichment of such an educational Science Camp experience as well.

Again, I say, bring back Science Camp for all! This is what we should all "really" be adamant about! "

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awobs wrote on Feb 21, 2008 5:37 PM:

" Lodian...yes, that was a long post, as they all are. Why is it that you feel you don't have to follow the 100 word rule? Your posts go on and on not only here, but on other articles/letters as well. I think we get your point by now. But, for the record...if your child (if you have one) would have been invited to Catalina, would you still feel the same way? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 21, 2008 5:32 PM:

"
Sorry my post got so long. :-) "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 21, 2008 5:32 PM:

" The district decided to cut out Science Camp a couple of years ago and it has been missed ever since. It is unfortunate that all students do not get to have this educational "Science Camp" experience, as was experienced by all students up until a couple of years ago. With this educational Science trip (now a prize), as it is set up now, some students (even well behaved good students) will not be allowed to attend. These kids, left out of the trip, should be allowed to enrich their education with such a trip too. It is a shame that the later will not experience a Science Camp, even when offered/presented/acquired as a "prize".

I don't think I would have as much of an issue with this if the district hadn't done away with Science Camp and this prize was more along the lines of what an 8th grader should receive. Fundamentally, I still think this is too extravagant a "prize" for an 8th grader, but of course each family can personally do as they wish for their own "student award".

For this trip to be basically a replacement for Science Camp, that not all get to experience, is educationally inappropriate in a public school. The district, not paying for Science Camp anymore, is now allowing the Science Camp experience to be awarded as a prize, only for some. To have to earn a higher GPA in order to receive an added educational experience as an 8th grader is simply inappropriate. Whatever happened to the simple things like a day at the skating rink or waterpark as a reward for hard work? Why do they have to go on a week long experience to Catalina Island (aka Science Camp) as a "reward"?

I say, at least, tone is down. Kids today get too much too soon. And they do not need extravagant rewards for doing well in school. A reward? Yes. An extravagant reward? No. And if your family chooses to reward with extravagant gifts, I say, then do it personally within your own family. "

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sam wrote on Feb 21, 2008 4:14 PM:

" Tigermom, my kids were Tokay valedictorians. In their younger years they did not understand why working hard, getting good grades, being well-behaved, and learning the curriculum was important, so we used rewards. I BELIEVE in rewards for hard working, well-behaved kids. And $700 is a steal for such a wonderful experience. I agree with your blogs 100%. Anything to help motivate these young minds. "

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tigermom@clearwire.net wrote on Feb 21, 2008 11:29 AM:

" The trip is planned on a "first come first go" basis. You must include a deposit with your student's registration. The is usually a waiting list, so it is true not everyone who makes the grades are able to be included. I have a feeling the people who are whining the most are ones who did not step up when the information was sent out or their child did not follow ALL the guidelines to be invited. I say: CONGRATULATIONS TO THOSE WHO GO TO CATALINA!!!! YOUR HARD WORK HAS PAID OFF!!! "

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tigermom@clearwire.net wrote on Feb 21, 2008 11:23 AM:

" WOW!!! I guess if you whine enough you can do away with rewards for excellent citizenship and hard work!! What does this teach the students? Nothing good. The students, who qualify, and their parents are invited to an informational meeting. All the rules and guidelines are explained. There is a payment plan in place if necessary, the family has approx. 5-6 months to pay for the trip. There is fundraising to help cover costs. Many of the students at the meeting I attended were from families that are considered "minorities." "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 20, 2008 7:26 PM:

" It's very sad that it has come to this all because the district has done away with Science Camp for all students. Now the schools and parents are trying all these inappropriate ways to get that Science camp experience back. This educational Science Camp prize is not set up fairly as more than just a few deserve the educational experience. Yep, even if ya only got a 2.5gpa. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 20, 2008 7:20 PM:

" Momof3: Sure looks like there were more than two. LOL "

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Momof3 wrote on Feb 20, 2008 6:06 PM:

" And no, I'm not one of them. "

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Momof3 wrote on Feb 20, 2008 6:05 PM:

" Two moms is a "gaggle"? Wow... "

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SportsGuru wrote on Feb 20, 2008 3:44 PM:

" .
If your child has a 3.0 GPA or better..

.. then perhaps he/she should stay home and work on grades.

..doesn't get in trouble (whatever that means)

If a parent doesn't know what that means, then he/she isn't a parent IMHO.

..and you have $700 bucks to spare

If you don't have $700, find a sponsor, friends or relatives to defray the cost. Lots of motivated kids do things like that.

Why should kids with a 1.5 GPA get an equal opportunity when in many cases they simply don't apply themselves in school?? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 20, 2008 9:18 AM:

" It looks like a gaggle of moms got together and sent in letters to the editor today. "

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2ndlodicitizen wrote on Feb 18, 2008 5:29 PM:

" Why would district officials discontinue Science Camp and allow an exclusive and controversial field trip like Catalina to continue? Drop Catalina, bring back Science Camp for all students. "

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Mrs. S. wrote on Feb 18, 2008 4:35 PM:

" An earlier post said, "Bring back Science Camp". I wasn't aware that LUSD had done away with it. I have two in college now and one in high school. My college kids were able to go to Science Camp, and my high school student wasn't able to go.

Anyway, I know that SJOCE still runs the Science Camp/Outdoor Ed. program. Who was the genius at LUSD who did away with it? How unfair to many, many students! "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 18, 2008 1:27 PM:

" ...but then some, that "won" the lottery for this prize trip, do not really care how this trip came about. That is incredibly shallow. Where's the integrity? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 18, 2008 1:23 PM:

" LF and Sensible Sage: LF may have a case in what happened to his son. I would have thought that the LUSD would have been a little more aware and not allow such a prize trip to be held in this manner. Looks like there are many that may make this a problem for the district, as they should. This whole prize trip set-up is ridiculous. "

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Sensible Sage wrote on Feb 18, 2008 1:10 PM:

" If I were the LUSD, I'd be worried about a probable civil rights violation. Everyone knows you can't just discriminate based on sex, race, religion, etc. But 34 C.F.R. Sec. 100.3(b)(2) (implementation of U.S. Title VI) also protects against disparate treatment toward students. This occurs where even though a practice APPEARS not to discriminate, it just so happens that the EFFECTS of the practice omit members of a certain class (sex, race, religion, etc.) due to circumstance. That's illegal.

If it can be shown that many students affected are minorities... maybe there's a lawsuit. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 18, 2008 11:38 AM:

" This prize trip is wrong on so many levels. "

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LF wrote on Feb 18, 2008 10:39 AM:

" awobs: The school told my son that since the offense was so minor that he will still qualify for the trip. Therefore, he worked so hard to be able to go and last minute they told him that he cannot go because there are too many kids going and they now have to take into consideration his 7th grade offense. To me the school double crossed my son and lied to him by not standing to their word. "

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awobs wrote on Feb 18, 2008 10:24 AM:

" LF...the students who are able to go on the trip are picked in the spring of their 7th grade year. Kudos to your child for working hard in 8th grade to get those grades up, but by then it was too late to qualify. Students know the prior year whether or not they can go so that fundraising can be done. I do agree that this is unfair for those students who transfer to the school between 7th and 8th grade. How can they qualify? "

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LF wrote on Feb 18, 2008 9:05 AM:

" In addition, one of my son's friends was no selected to go because the busses "were full". Aparently, they have a limit of student count for these trips. Therefore, these trips are not always fair in all instances.

To the writer. You should check your grammar prior to publishing escepcially when you have a doctorate. The grammar in this article is not doctorate level. However, I do agree with your article to a point. "

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LF wrote on Feb 18, 2008 9:01 AM:

" My son was not able to go on the 8th grade "job well done" trip because of getting in trouble once in the 7th grade. He pushed hard in the 8th grade to have his GPA above 3.0 and when it came down to the time of picking the kids that can go on the trip, he was told that he cannot go because of one incident that happened during the prior school year.
These trips are not fair in their selection process. My son worked his rear off for this trip and the school excluded him. "

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danielh wrote on Feb 18, 2008 6:23 AM:

" When I read this letter, I see a set of criteria that a student must meet in order to go to Catalina. The only thing unfair that I read was transfer students. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 17, 2008 2:40 PM:

" That should have read...

What facts am I not presenting correctly?
"

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Lodian wrote on Feb 17, 2008 11:54 AM:

" Amanda:

I'm not sure if you'll respond to this post as you stated, yet again, that you are leaving and that you are "done", but I'll give it a try anyway and see what happens.

Let's try it this way...

What am I saying that doesn't make sense to you?

What facts am I not presenting incorrectly?

Please answer the questions, Amanda.

Thanks :-)
"

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Lodian wrote on Feb 17, 2008 11:51 AM:

"
Amanda:

I'd like to ask you a question. You just responded to these last two posts by telling me that "Once again you are making so sense, you are not a reasonable person". Where in the following two posts were you confused and 'll try to clarify as best I can. Thanks.

1.) Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:43 PM:
" AMANDA: It's not a personal attack or an anger issue if someone disagrees with you on any given topic. Do you understand? "

2.) Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:41 PM:
" AMANDA: I'm not sure why you are so angry and heated over this topic on the boards here. If you are confident in your decision and values to allow your daughter to attend such a prized trip then why such ranting posts in defense? Please breathe and relax. It's just a debate, not a court of law. "
"

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 17, 2008 8:52 AM:

" Lodian: Once again you are making so sense, you are not a reasonable person. I am not getting "heated" I just want to make sure you are presenting the facts correctly and you are not doing that. Once again.... I really am done because I don't want to "argue" with someone that is not reasonable and is making no sense and doesn't have their facts correct, once again... did you attend the meeting?? You still didn't answer that question. I am sure the answer is no otherwise you wouldn't be making some of the comments youare. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:43 PM:

" AMANDA: It's not a personal attack or an anger issue if someone disagrees with you on any given topic. Do you understand? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:41 PM:

" AMANDA: I'm not sure why you are so angry and heated over this topic on the boards here. If you are confident in your decision and values to allow your daughter to attend such a prized trip then why such ranting posts in defense? Please breathe and relax. It's just a debate, not a court of law. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:34 PM:

" momof3 (wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:50 PM): Thank you for the clarification. I stand corrected on the date of the lottery draw. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:26 PM:

" AMANDA: Nope, sorry, Amanda. You have that backwards dear. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 16, 2008 5:29 PM:

" Lodian: you are the one that started with the personal attacks so that is why I feel you have anger issues.... just saying...... "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 1:18 PM:

" Truthful: The original post I was responding to has been removed for personal content as it was inappropriate. That must be why you seem to be having trouble remembering. "

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sil1118 wrote on Feb 16, 2008 12:44 PM:

" To Truthful:
You might ask Lodi News Sentinel if they have a message board for posting personal attacks and/or insults. Do you read the 'comment rules'?? Not used to following directions, huh?! Talk about bitter sounding. Please reread your posts with an objective eye and you will understand (possibly) what I'm talking about. If you are a teacher, you might stop and think where your disobedient students get their model from. Try following directions, Truthful.
"

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Truthful wrote on Feb 16, 2008 12:35 PM:

" Lodian.. I read the exchange "over" again. You weren't making sense then nor are you now. It was you that began the personal attacks. Where's your head? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 12:12 PM:

" Amanda:

"its really annoying to have to keep correcting you"

No one is forcing you to be here or to post. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 12:09 PM:

" acampo-mom: I agree, the focus should be on getting "science camp" back for these kids so they can all have that extended experience in education. More than just the kids that win the lottery, for this prize trip, should be attending a trip that broadens their educational experience. THAT is what this "public" school should be focusing on (science camp!). If parents want to take their children to a prize trip, let them do it on their own time with whatever value system they endorse at home. That is not something the school should be doing for them or with them.

"

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 11:56 AM:

" Truthful: You sound confused. I was responding directly to your post. Please re-read the exchange over again. Maybe that will help. No, I am not a fool. But gee, thanks for the name calling. That's mature. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 11:54 AM:

" AMANDA: Why would any reasonable person think I am an "angry person with unresolved issues" just because I disagree with you on this prize trip for 8th graders?

We have a difference in our value system in raising our children. That is quite obvious. You seem to be having trouble justifying this prize trip, but don't take it out on me or blame it on me. "

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Lucius wrote on Feb 16, 2008 11:50 AM:

" Amanda, I read all your posts and fully understand what you are saying. Thanks for sharing your opinion. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 11:30 AM:

" Truthful: It is having a lack of integrity when one posts the name of someone and proceeds to blast that person's son. AND, in the process, states that child's school and town on a public forum encouraging all to comment. Yep, I'll stick to my position on that one. Or would you like to tell us your name and where your children go to school? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 11:22 AM:

" AMANDA: You make me laugh. Poor dear... Your simple-minded responses remind me of that saying, "You can't have a battle of wits with an unarmed man/woman" LOL "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 16, 2008 11:18 AM:

" AMANDA: If your posts were not so unintelligible it would be easier for us to converse. So, in the mean time I just try to figure out what you are trying to say through all the errors. That's on you darlin'. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:17 AM:

" Actually, come to think of it why not spend your energy on trying to bring Science camp back, I would truly appreciate that! "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:15 AM:

" By the way "Lodian" did you actually attend the information meeting?? If the answer is "NO" then before you continue to post here you really need to get your facts straight because its really annoying to have to keep correcting you. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 16, 2008 9:11 AM:

" I think "Lodian" needs to invest more of their time in counseling because it sounds like you are an angry person with unresolved issues.

The school board HAD to change the system in which they did things because of parents like you that complain for no reason and are ill informed, the LSD attorneys said it had to be done that way from now on. The trip is not extravagant either, again you OBVIOUSLY did not attend the meeting regarding this trip, its far from extravagant and the kids are studying the entire time!! "

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Oh Bull ! wrote on Feb 15, 2008 9:02 PM:

" Lodian Funny thing your WRONG AGAIN ! By talking about the serna school I was hoping you'd leave this board alone and move on.Oh Yeah you must take alot of breaks and lunches to post all day!Other funny thing is that you can put 100 words in a post(wasn't sure if you knew that)
GO CATALINA KIDS!!!! By the way Morada Middle school also rewards their students with the trip.
"

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 5:14 PM:

" Have a great weekend! "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 5:13 PM:

" Amanda: Sorry you are having trouble proof reading your posts. As a busy mom, wife, volunteer and businesswoman myself I thoroughly enjoy the spell-check and grammar-check capabilities on my laptop. It helps when one gets by me. It does not, however, frame my thoughts, verbage or syntax for me so that's gotta come straight from the writer. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 5:08 PM:

" Amanda: Sorry you are having trouble proof reading your posts. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 5:06 PM:

" Like I said. It's a "values" issue for the most part. And it is not right for a public school to be promoting such an extravagant trip for only some of the students.

Our schools are hurting so much for money right now. I understand that the parents are the ones paying the bill for the trip, for the most part (except for the subs), but I think it sends the wrong message to send 8th graders on a $700 prize trip for any reason.

Are these the same kids that will be getting the BMW or new SUV in High-School? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 4:51 PM:

" tosh conn: Okay, that was a CrEePy post. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 15, 2008 4:38 PM:

" One last thought before I go to enjoy my three day weekend. Millswood is not the only LUSD school that sends students to Catalina. The changes that were made were DISTRICT changes, not Millswood changes. Millswood is the only school whose administrator was interviewed by the LNS. That interview was misleading, as it reported that "Perez changed the rules." That is not correct...it was the school board that changed the rules. "

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tosh conn wrote on Feb 15, 2008 4:09 PM:

" I went thru and read all these blogs. Some point one direction, others point another way, some make no point, some make stupid points, some are spiteful and uninformed. If you take them all together objectively, you can see why it is impossible for a principal or the school district to do anything that will please anyone. There is nothing that can be said or done that will make you happy. I told a parent once, "If I have the teacher killed and give you $10,000 will THAT make you happy ? [PS their answer:"No" "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 15, 2008 4:08 PM:

" Lodian: I misspoke. "Public" should read, "parents of invited students" who asked to be present at the lottery were welcome to come and watch the process.

I prefer not to identify my neighborhood school. I expect that administrators at each of the schools would be happy to answer any questions they legall can answer. Many statistics are a matter of public record. Others are not.

And what I meant was what I said. It appears that many people are happy when they have something to be unhappy about. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 15, 2008 4:02 PM:

" OK "Lodian" here we go again, they HAVE done the lottery already and they were sent home with the slips last Tuesday!!! The drawing was Monday, and even if your child was not chosen they still have an EXTREMELY good chance of going. The school said there HAS NOT been a year yet that everyone whom wants to go doesn't. Many of the children actually chose NOT to go, and for many they don't keep up their grades, or they may get in trouble. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:50 PM:

" Lodian: Again, check your facts. Amanda's daughter at Millswood has been selected. Millswood's lottery was held last week, and it was open to the public. Other schools have not yet announced eligibility lists. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:33 PM:

" momof3: You checked with your neighborhood middle school and they told you that spec-ed and 504/IEP kids would be attending the prize trip?

How are they able to give you this kind of information?

Are you referring to Millswood when you say "my neighborhood school"?

And I don't understand your comment about hoping "...it doesn't disappoint anyone. Please explain. "

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chucknorris wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:22 PM:

" Momof3, Don't worry about researching the facts and trying to be accurate. Dr. Clausen is a Dr and his "facts" should not be questioned. He's a doctor for crying out loud. If anyone is going to question his "facts," Chuck AKA Walker Texas Ranger is going to give em a round house to the chops. And that's all I have to say about that. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:21 PM:

" Oh Bull: FYI, the students have yet to be notified on who will be attending the prize trip.

And why do you say that I "should be more worried about the Joe Serna school situation? This board is about the Millswood prize trip, not Joe Serna School.



"

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momof3 wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:08 PM:

" One more thought. Teaching credentials are a matter of public record. ANYONE can go to www.ctc.ca.gov and look up a teaching credential. All you need to know is the person's last name.

Degrees are different. Unless you know the institution that issued the degree in question and the name of the person, there is no way to find out if a person actually HAS a degree. Even then, depending on the school, it may be confidential. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 15, 2008 3:00 PM:

" A question was posed, what is EdD? An answer was offered, but it was incorrect.

Universities are made up of schools and/or colleges. Each of these schools and colleges issues a different advanced degree. For example: A College of Arts and Sciences issues a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.). A School of Law issues a Juris Doctor (J.D.). A School of Medicine issues Medical Doctor (M.D.). The School of Education issues Doctor of Education (Ed.D.). "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 15, 2008 2:47 PM:

" No, I didn't leave, but I am a working momof3. :o)

I checked with my neighborhood middle school. Lodian, you'll be happy to know that the percentage of students with IEPs and 504 plans that were invited to next year's CIMI trip is THE SAME as the percentage of students with IEPs and 504 plans overall in the 7th grade class. I hope that doesn't disappoint anyone. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 15, 2008 2:39 PM:

" Thank you, its nice to see the positive attitude!!! "

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Oh Bull ! wrote on Feb 15, 2008 2:09 PM:

" Amanda Tell your daughter congratulations and good job ! She will enjoy the trip.

Lodian if you don't have any children at Millswood why are you so concerned about this educational trip ? perhaps you should be more worried about the Joe Serna school situation or do your kids go there "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 15, 2008 1:22 PM:

" Lodian - I happen to agree with you.

As far as my posts hard to read, sorry I just have a lot to say and don't have time to sit and proof read I have a business to run. I don't mean that in a rude way, its hard to protray feelings through writing. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 1:06 PM:

" AMANDA: It's just a "values" issue. I happen to feel that a $700 trip, promoted through the public school and that not all achievers get to attend, is inappropriate. I feel this way for a couple of reasons.

1.) Promoting a prize trip, worth $700., for an 8th grader is overdoing it and even extravagant in my opinion. (my main issue)

2.) Good high achieving students are being left out of this prize trip.

3.) Special-ed and 504/IEP students should not be left out, especially if the criteria remains the same and without alterations for said students.

To me, this is another one of those things that overindulgent parents are eager to do. There's just too much of this in today's society. Where do you think all the narcissistic kids/adults are coming from? Not all, but many, will expect more than they should later on from mom and dad, if this attitude continues throughout the child's life. I know this overindulgent expectation is not a value I wish for my children, nor do I appreciate it being promoted through our public school system. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:18 PM:

" AMANDA: There is so much to address in your post that it is hard to know where to begin. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:17 PM:

" AMANDA: Geez, you posts are so hard to read. Please add in a "period" now and then. Your thoughts just run together and half of it makes no sense at all. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:16 PM:

" Did "momof3" leave this discussion too? I was interested to find out answers to my questions. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:09 PM:

" LOL! No, Amanda doesn't have connections. If you type out your post somewhere else, like WORD, and then copy and paste it here the post gets posted in full. Unfortunately, the system is not set up to block these novel-like posts when doing the ol' copy and paste thing. "

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Bob Loblaw wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:05 PM:

" Thanks for the tip. I feel a filibuster coming on! "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:01 PM:

" Actually as soon as it hits 100 words it puts all my words together so I write it in a word document and then copy and paste it into the box. "

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Bob Loblaw wrote on Feb 15, 2008 11:22 AM:

" Here's what I want to know -- how did Amanda get beyond the 100 word barrier? She must have connections... "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 15, 2008 10:36 AM:

" My daughter IS going on the trip, even if she wasn't that is the way the ball bounces. I told my daughter before the lottery drawing if you don't get picked well then you don't get picked. You have to teach your children that if they can't have something even if they earned it that with good grades that is a reward unto itself. If she wasn't chosen well then she wasn't chosen. I NEVER denied there wasn't a lottery, I really don't know why people keep writing that I don't know what I am talking about, there is a lottery BUT as I mentioned before even if your child was not chosen through the lottery they are placed on a waiting list and as the school said in their meeting they have never had a year that everyone on the waiting list didn’t end up getting the opportunity to go and they actually usually end up with EXTRA spots. That is what I said… I never denied there wasn’t a lottery??? For those that are writing that I said there wasn’t they need to go back and read what I wrote before. I also can’t believe that the Lodi News Sentinel even ran the article in the first place it is EXTREMELY one sided and is completely not true what so ever. We should be commending the school for giving our children the opportunity to do this trip at all. Millswood has a very large amount of children who make honor roll every quarter so they are definitely doing something right and I don’t think we should be so discouraging to our schools when they do something nice to reward the children who have worked very hard. It seems like any time kids try to have some good clean fun many adults have to shoot it down, leave them alone and let them go on their trip…..


"

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Bob Loblaw wrote on Feb 15, 2008 9:33 AM:

" Chuck, the thread is very long, but down in there somewhere I mentioned his doctorate is an ed.D, not a PhD (you can check his website on this). In the education world, an ed.D is to a PhD like an MD is to a chiropractor in medicine. His credentials seem very shaky and his letter reeks of ulterior motives. The website looks like something my teenager would throw together - not very professional at all. All of this makes his credibility look pretty weak. "

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chucknorris wrote on Feb 15, 2008 9:00 AM:

" I read this article and am asking myself, who is this Dr. Clausan. Has anyone checked his credentials? Has he ever worked in a school as a teacher, an administrator, an instructional aide, janitor, anything? Did the Lodi News Sentinel do any fact checking about Lodiusd's policies or the reg.s in "no child left behind." I am surprised the news paper even ran this article. This "Dr"'s (if he really is a Dr.) agenda is pretty clear. It is amazing how guillable some readers are. Maybe the Nat. Enquirer will pick up this article. "

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sil1118 wrote on Feb 15, 2008 12:37 AM:

" Perhaps Dr. Closson's article was lengthy - he has that right just as the rest of us do. No where in his article is there made mention of any of your children, so it might behoove you to do as my parents and probably yours said: "If you can't say anything nice about someone, don't say anything at all". Don't you all have anything better to do than to participate in the personal attacks that are going on here. Happy Valentines Day! You feel the love??? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:44 PM:

" momof3: How can any real "facts" have been presented here as there seems to be so much still up in the air and wrought with controversy? I can see some things changing before any of this comes to fruition. It sure sounds like many have good reason to question this whole thing.

"

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:39 PM:

" momof3: Are you denying that there is a lottery for the spots available on this prize trip? Then how many kids have achieved the requirements and how many will attend?

And how are the special ed and 504/IEP kids being looked at for this trip? What is the criteria for them to achieve in order to receive the prize trip? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:36 PM:

" Momof3: I did not know for sure how the special ed kids and the 504/IEP kids were being looked at for this prize trip to Catalina Island. That is why I asked the question. Please read my posts more carefully. "

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Momof3 wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:11 PM:

" Lodian: I do know for sure. Students with IEPs and 504 plans, as well as English Learners ARE included in the study trip to CIMI. Please check your facts. Much misinformation is being presented here as fact, and a great many assumptions are being made based on the little information presented that IS true. I understand AMANDA's frustration. Those who DO know present facts, and those who want to assume the worst refuse to listen. I believe AMANDA attended a meeting at Millswood to learn the facts. Perhaps you should have done likewise? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:49 PM:

" Mrs. S: I don't know for sure, but I have a feeling that the special ed kids, as well as kids on 504's/IEP's, are not included in this prize trip as they should. It wouldn't be a big shock if that was the case anyway. With all the issues already coming out about this trip I wouldn't be shocked if they left these kids out. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:44 PM:

" AMAND: I don't have children at Millswood and I seem to know more of what is going on with this trip than you do. Perhaps you should check in at the school and see what's going on. You may be in for a big surprise when your child doesn't win that lottery. Seriously, it would be wise for you to check with the school before getting your child all worked up about the trip. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:39 PM:

" Truthful: Personally, I think it lacks integrity and character to speak of someone by name and make comments about their children. If you are going to question someone elses character then maybe you should check yourself first. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:37 PM:

" AMANDA: Going so soon? LOL. Guess she didn't like any opposition to her views on this subject. Most people don't like it when there are strong points against their position. Some stay and offer their point of view in debate and others take off. Oh well.

And, yes, there is indeed a lottery and not all kids (that got the approval to go) will be attending. I found this out for sure today at lunch.

This idea is turning out to be a bad one on many levels.

"

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 14, 2008 4:11 PM:

" I am not incorrect, I do understand if there is a lottery, read the rest of what I wrote. As far as do I personally think the school should reward children who get good grades and behavior absolutely not but if they do have a trip planned, why not??? I think its a very educational trip and the children are still expected to get their work done and the kids who are not going will have teachers teaching them..... not to sound rude but I am done with this.... I don't understand why its blown up intosuchabigdeal "

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Mrs. S. wrote on Feb 14, 2008 3:11 PM:

" Lodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:46 AM:

" How are the student's on IEP's or that have special needs looked at for this trip? What is the academic criteria for them to be able to attend? "

Now *that* I agree with. I don't know what the standards are for this particular trip (my youngest is in high school now), but I hope Special Ed. students are given an equal chance to meet them. LUSD doesn't always remember to follow the Americans with Disabilities and IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). I know this from experience. "

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snick1 wrote on Feb 14, 2008 3:04 PM:

" It seems that the vast majority in favor of this trip feels that Lodi Unified School District should reward your children for behaving in school and getting good grades. If you parents are so concerned about your child being rewarded, then you reward them! School is an institution for teaching. Teachers are to give instruction, impart knowledge or skill. Parents should also do their part in educating their children. Good grades now, can mean a higher paying job in the future. Make that Lodi Unified School District's reward to your children. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 1:18 PM:

" millswood dad: Thank you for answering my question. :-) "

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millswood dad wrote on Feb 14, 2008 12:38 PM:

" Lodian regarding your question
Yes subs fill in or they combine classes. I belive it is 5 Teachers that participate "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 12:26 PM:

"
A question...

Are the students, that are still at school while the others are on the trip, being taught by subs during this period? In other words... How many teachers are attending this trip that will need subs for their classes? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 12:23 PM:

" AMANDA: I believe you are incorrect. There is now a lottery to determine whom will be able to attend this trip. Some students, that achieved the requirements, will not be allowed to attend. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 12:21 PM:

" JD:

Perfect paragraph...

"The Catalina trip fails as an incentive to student achievement because students who work hard to bring up their grades in order to qualify still may not be able to go."

"

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Dothehomework wrote on Feb 14, 2008 11:45 AM:

" Taxpayer and Citizen: How is that confusing. While they are on the trip, they are very busy with other educational activities. However, their everyday schoolwork that they would have had to complete during the week they were gone is still required of them. One is not exclusive of the other. Momof3 is not confused. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 14, 2008 11:32 AM:

" In my opinion the school used to do it the most fair way by GPA but since a parent complained they had to change the entire way they did the process. In a nutshell everyone who earns a 3.0 or above gets the opportunity to go so why is everyone complaining???? I really don't get it.... "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 14, 2008 11:27 AM:

" Its not that they are not ABLE to go its that some kids don't want to go. Its an educational trip and some decide they want to go to Disneyland or sports camp instead of Catalina. Just because you are invited to go doesn't mean you WANT to go. Many of the children do not WANT to go. "

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Observer wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:51 AM:

" Taxpayer, thank you so much for proving my point. I was afraid you wouldn't say anything. I should have known better. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:28 AM:

" The children do have to make up all the work but they are given their work before they leave to work on if they want to, they are also given time during the trip every day to complete their homework. As far as the lottery, I was upset when I first found out it was lottery because my daughter earns very high GPA and its upsetting knowing that a 3.0 student could go over a higher GPA I really think they need to go down the list according to highest GPA BUT since a parent was upset last year that their 3.0 student wasn’t able to go everything had to change to lottery (that parent obviously had an entitlement attitude). If my child earned a 3.0 and a 3.8 student went instead I would tell my child to try harder next time and look what happens when you get a 3.8 WOW you are rewarded. I did attend the parent meeting at Millswood and they advised that they have never had a year that someone who wanted to go wasn’t able to go, things come up such as some children don’t want to go, they want to go to sports camp, or on a different vacation other than Catalina so many decide not to go and that it was highly unlikely if your child wanted to attend that they wouldn’t be invited once they went down the list, SO RELAX!!!! I could have been very angry and called the school right away which I wanted to but instead I decided to go to the meeting and hear them out and I was very pleased with what I heard, sometimes it just doesn’t pay off to be a hot head.

Amanda
"

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Taxpayer & Citizen wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:07 AM:

" Observor, OK here goes. You're an idiot! Ah, thank you, that made my day. ROFLMAO have a good day councilman "

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Taxpayer & Citizen wrote on Feb 14, 2008 10:01 AM:

" momof3, first you say they workvery hard while they are there and have very little time to explore and in the next paragraph you say that when they get home they have to make up all the work they missed back at school. Which is it?LOL I think you're very confused. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:59 AM:

" Lodian: I respectfully disagree with you. I do appreciate your comments, because you caused me to realize that my college example was not the best one possible. I should have used UCLA or Cal. They are public schools with highly competitive admission standards. Harvard is a private institution, and therefore permitted to be as exclusive as it wishes. Mea culpa. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:21 AM:

" momof3: Please do not equate an 8th grade trip with getting into Harvard. That's ridiculous. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:20 AM:

" JD: (8:21pm post)

The answer is "not true" "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:18 AM:

" momof3:

"Not everyone can be included. It's part of life. Get used to it."

I don't think this is an appropriate thing to say to an 8th grader that has a 4.0 or higher and got cut from the list, as they decided to make it a lottery. This was something decided later on. So it looks like many kids, that earned their prize, will now be cut from the trip.

This should not be done in 8th grade or in a public school. "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:15 AM:

" millswood dad:

"sounds like it bothers you more then my kid for not going"

Maybe you're right. :-) "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 9:14 AM:

" momof3: I would hardly equate the 8th grade Catalina Island prize/trip to "college admissions". Apples and oranges. "

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Observer wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:39 AM:

" Oh great, now we've got Amanda jumping into the fray making all kinds of sense and has a child who is actually experiencing the situation. Amanda, didn't you read my comments to Momof3? It's really unfair to the rest of us to have these intelligent bloggers. ;) "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:17 AM:

" My daughter attends Millswood Middle School and has EARNED the trip to Catalina. This is something that is earned by the children who have worked very hard. My daughter Monday through Friday comes home from school and studies literally from the moment she comes home to the moment her head hits the pillow. She watches zero TV. She also studies a lot during the weekends. She has always earned good grades due to her hard work, dedication, and the value she places on her education. Throughout the week she sees her friends out playing, going to the mall, going to movies, ect., and she makes the choice to stay home and attend to her studies. Her seventh grade year has made it even more of an incentive to earn good grades to earn the Catalina trip and it is unfair for anyone to say that kids that are not earning the grades or behaving appropriately should also be going to a trip that is above and beyond their standard education they receive in school. If anything the children going on the trip will get “less” because they are not in school but they have proven themselves to get the work done anyway. That is life, and the kids that don’t earn the grades will need to learn that is the way it is in the real world that when you don’t do the work you don’t reap the rewards. Mr. Closson, do you think it’s appropriate to teach our children that whether they earn something or not they are ENTITLED to it. That is what is wrong with this generation today is that everyone thinks they are ENTITLED to everything just because they exist and not because they reap what the sew. What kind of children would we be raising and how are they ever going to hold down a job???? Children need to realize YES even in junior high that what you put into life is what you will get back and that means hard work equals getting more opportunities throughout your lifetime. By the way the students and teachers that are going raise funds through fundraising to pay for the substitutes at school during that week. "

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AMANDA wrote on Feb 14, 2008 8:16 AM:

" My daughter attends Millswood Middle School and has EARNED the trip to Catalina. This is something that is earned by the children who have worked very hard. My daughter Monday through Friday comes home from school and studies literally from the moment she comes home to the moment her head hits the pillow. She watches zero TV. She also studies a lot during the weekends. She has always earned good grades due to her hard work, dedication, and the value she places on her education. Throughout the week she sees her friends out playing,
Amanda "

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nylodian wrote on Feb 14, 2008 7:43 AM:

" momof3: great posts. The only squawk I have of this year's trip is, as I understand it, they changed to the lottery system AFTER kids got the applications. They should have changed it at the beginning of the year put it on the application. "

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Observer wrote on Feb 14, 2008 4:52 AM:

" Momof3....your comments make way too much sense and are much too intelligent to be a blogger. The fact that you have first hand knowledge makes it much worse. To be a good blogger here you must make assumptions that cannot be supported and then start calling everyone names who disagrees with you. Continue to make your absurd comments until someone starts to believe you. It's really quite simple. Happy Valentine's Day! "

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brokenl wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:33 PM:

" Gosh, in my perfect world, me and everybody else would be picked first.I could work hard, wifey could stay home and have supper on the table for me. Everybody would have a dreamy house,even those that choose to sit back while I bust my butt, 'cause hey,equal is equal. Every kid would sit in class AND listen to teacher.Everyone will pay the same taxes causes we'll make the same money,even thou I work 60 hours and you work 10.My kid gets an A but yours an F, no problem, they all go to college.Please don't reward him cus thats notfair. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:32 PM:

" Thanks, Sam & Millswood dad. :o)

Clarification for a few:

Any student can earn an INVITATION. However, not all invited students can go. (This is why the lottery system is important.) The number of spots available depends on the arrangement between the school and CIMI. "

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roni95242 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:27 PM:

" I agree heck we get rid of everything why dont we just stop doing anything and no one will have anything to complain about? If you have the money and want to go to Catalina then GO! If you don't then heck, just go to the ocean for the day.Our system is such a mess. I personally didnt want my kids to go to Catalina because that is too far away for them to be from ME! I dont care how many people go they will not care for my child as I will.
Again Parents need to take responsibility "

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sam wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:05 PM:

" Momof3, great blogs. "

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2ndlodicitizen wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:04 PM:

" In response to JD, not all students get to go even if they have a 3.0 GPA, can cough up $700, get permission from a parent and have perfect behavior. There are a limited number of spaces available. So you see, even if all of the above were true, it is no guarantee they will be invited, how equitable is that? "

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bushidobrown wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:24 PM:

" Untrue "

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JD wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:21 PM:

" OK, I'm starting to get a bit confused:

My understanding of this program was that EVERY student who
a) has a 3.0 GPA,
b) can cough up (or, perhaps, get a "scholarship" for) $700, and
c) gets permission from a parent

gets to go.

True or not true? "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 8:21 PM:

" How would I feel if my children aren't chosen for Catalina? Disappointed...but that is part of life. How many thousand 4.5 GPA students apply for Harvard and don't get in because Daddy didn't donate a building, or a senator didn't write a letter of recommendation? At least Lodi Unified conducts a random lottery. Each qualified student who applies has an equal chance to be selected, regardless of their socioeconomic status or social connections. "

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bushidobrown wrote on Feb 13, 2008 7:53 PM:

" many of you say the trip provides incentive for students to do well in school and maybe thats true, but the fact of the matter is that if a whole school got 4.0's and didn't get one talking to, one detention, what would they do then? Teacher recommendations, essentially a prettied up form of "picking favorites" now tell me how you would feel if you, or you're child was one left behind? would you tell them to learn from their mistakes as many of you said you would or would you stand up for whats right like Dr. Closson did? "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 7:30 PM:

" Lodian: It remains to be seen whether or not my children will go to Catalina. If they are invited, want to go, and are selected, yes, I expect that they will. And they will work to earn their way.

This is not so different from college admissions. Thousands of qualified students apply for a few hundred openings. Not everyone can be included. It's part of life. Get used to it. "

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millswood dad wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:58 PM:

" lodijoe

"FUNDRAISERS" "

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millswood dad wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:55 PM:

" Very well said momof3 "

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oh bull ! wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:54 PM:

" Lodijoe before you say tax dollars are paying for the bus trip , gas and driver maybe you should get all the details on the trip. It is not a school district bus transporting the kids. It is a chartered bus. As far as the cost we are a house of 5 people and 1 working parent and found a away for our child to go. The students know before summer break if they are able to go the following year(plan ahead).I love my kids and believe in rewarding for good and discipline for wrong/bad. :O) "

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millswood dad wrote on Feb 13, 2008 6:54 PM:

" Lodian, sounds like it bothers you more then my kid for not going, But thanks to the wonderful rewarding programs offered through Lodi Unified my child was able to earn a full scholarship later in High school to study in Europe for an entire school year so rewards come to those who Work for it! "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:59 PM:

" momof3: Will your child attend this prize trip to Catalina Island? Are you paying for it? I guess we have different values. I don't think an 8th grader (a 13 year old) needs this kind of reward, especially as it's set up through the school.

Besides the money and values issue with this trip...

You said that "A lottery system was created so that all students who qualified have an equal chance to attend". Yet there will be kids that are just as "responsible, self-motivated and hard working" that will be cut from this trip. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:21 PM:

" I wonder how many more students would receive Catalina invitations if their parents put as much energy into supporting their children's education and working with their teachers as they put into blaming the school system for their children's failure? "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:21 PM:

" It would be wonderful if every eighth grade student in Lodi Unified could participate in the CIMI program. Wouldn’t it be marvelous if each student was responsible, self-motivated, hard working? Reality is that not all students want to go, not all parents are comfortable sending their eighth graders so far from home, and sadly, not all eighth graders can be trusted to behave themselves. I don’t understand the argument that everyone should go or no one should go. It makes no sense. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:20 PM:

" No student who has earned an invitation and wants to participate is turned away because of finances.
No student who chooses to strive for Catalina is left without an invitation. The requirements are not unreasonable. Special needs students and English learners are invited along with everyone else. A lottery system was created so that all students who qualified have an equal chance to attend. The “first response-first enrolled” system DID discriminate against families with limited resources, and has been abolished for that reason. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:20 PM:

" Often there are not enough volunteers, and trip coordinators must recruit colleagues to help out in order to make the trip happen for those students who have earned the privilege.
Why is it wrong to expect parents to contribute toward a field trip? I have paid for EVERY field trip my kids attend from the Pumpkin Patch to ROPES Camp. They all attend public school. Scholarships are available to students who have earned the privilege to go, just like the Catalina trip. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:19 PM:

" In addition to completing the hands-on biology activities (classroom, laboratory and fieldwork) at CIMI, students are required to make up ALL work they miss during their absence from school. While they do have some free time at Catalina, students have LESS free time on the trip than they would if they stayed home. Teachers who agree (very few volunteer) to chaperone the trip are on call 24/7. It is a tough assignment. "

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momof3 wrote on Feb 13, 2008 5:18 PM:

" The trip to CIMI Toyon Bay in Catalina is not a vacation. It is a study trip. Students work HARD to earn the right to participate and work even HARDER when they are on the island. Those who question the value of the trip and have not been able to talk with a student who participated should visit the website. http://www.guideddiscoveries.org/index.cfm?SID=17&MID=2
"

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Lodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 4:17 PM:

" OTH: Wow! $5,000 per student? That's crazy! "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 4:16 PM:

" Millswood Dad: It's a shame that your second child did not have the opportunity and exposure so as to plant the "idea of possibly wanting to learn more about marine biology and wanting to go back as a counsler when older". "

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Brokenl wrote on Feb 13, 2008 2:42 PM:

" My wife, who puts in way more time as a teacher than she is paid for,would not go on a trip like this.She cherishs her home time,mostly when she is the only one at home, just for the total "quietness" of an empty room.Thank you to all the teachers who who give that up to look after these kids. You both deserve a reward. "

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Brokenl wrote on Feb 13, 2008 2:35 PM:

" Boy do I wish I had equal treatment for everything I work for.My son went on this trip and was made to raise the money himself.He busts his butt at Tokay so that he can play 3 sports and go on to college.Should he be rewarded? Not yes but hell yes.Spellitrite could not have said it better. It is not a vacation,go sleep on a cot and keep track of all those kids and then tell me it's a vacation.They have a great time because a group of teachers work their butt off to ensure it. "

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OTH wrote on Feb 13, 2008 1:46 PM:

" Lodian my nephew who lives in another state, his class wanted to raise $5,000 per student to go to Italy. This has gotten out of hand and it's not only here. "

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millswood dad wrote on Feb 13, 2008 1:29 PM:

" Also I have 2 kids 1 who got to go and 1 who did not the one who didn't has survived with no emotional scars from being "left behind" and the one who did came back with the idea of possibly wanting to learn more about marine biology and wanting to go back as a counsler when older. Also comparing this to racial segregation is absurd! "

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millswood dad wrote on Feb 13, 2008 1:04 PM:

" First of all I am not 100 percent sure of the district costs on this trip but I am checking into it, But I am fairly certain that the parents fee covers or helps with the sub costs! The fee we pay as parents covers travel,lodging & meals while on the trip. we are also talking 4 days from school as it was last planned on labor day weekend!! They offer fundraising to help offset costs they have scholarships available through the parent club (raised funds not district funds) "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 12:27 PM:

" I have an issue with the money/fee for the trip. And the trip is too grand. I don't have a kid at this school so I'm not up on all the details, that may not be shared here, but this seems like too much of a "prize" to me. This seems more like a high school grad "prize". These kids get too much of the big stuff too soon. Just look at the high school parking lots with the Hummers, BMW and Mercedes. Did they do well in 10th grade? A $700 trip is just too much. "

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wtf wrote on Feb 13, 2008 12:17 PM:

" I agree. Great posts, spellitrite. It really does seem that there's some agenda to "dumb down" Americans. LOL! Seriously, if those who want a trip to Catalina to be "equal" - then why does it have to be an equality based on slow learners and incompetence? Why not make the "equality" criteria "equal" to the top 10%? Why are so many Americans complacent with a lack of learning? Where is people's pride in a job well done? It seems the status quo is at the bottom. Why is this acceptable? "

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nylodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 11:32 AM:

" Spellrite: couldn't agree with you more. When I was teaching we had a hard time finding teachers willing to go on field trips for the very reason you listed. It's work, in a better setting, not play. "

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LodiJoe wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:48 AM:

" OH BULL, even at $400 cost what do you tell the student who makes the gradesand other criteria to qualify but their family can't afford the expense? So sorry your family is not as affluent as mine? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:46 AM:

" How are the student's on IEP's or that have special needs looked at for this trip? What is the academic criteria for them to be able to attend? "

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Lodian wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:44 AM:

" Bring back SCIENCE CAMP! "

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sam wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:29 AM:

" Spellitrite, great comments. "

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LodiJoe wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:29 AM:

" Oh Bull, regardless of what you say, tax dollars are paying for the bus, fuel, driver and substitute teachers in the absence of the regular teachers for what amounts to a VACATION.I can assure you there is NO lack of teachers willing to make the trip, supervising kids or not. Apparently YOU must be one of them to defend this activity so much. "

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Taxpayer & Citizen wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:28 AM:

" The wealthy and well connected families children should go first, that's the Lodi way. LOL Let those four or five teachers pay their own way and expenses and use their salary to help out those who are financially unable. A trip to Catalina has nothing to do with education, so what should grades and performance have to do with it? Give everyone the same opportunity. This is the United States, not China. EQUAL "

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oh bull ! wrote on Feb 13, 2008 10:15 AM:

" spellitrite THANKS for good comment hope that those needed to read it do!

Lodi Joe the school district isn't paying the students expenses for the trip and the teachers are going on a trip which they are supervising students 24hrs for 5 days would you be willing to do that(yes no blogging for a whole 5 days)
THANKS to Those who care about rewarding our future productive youth! "

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LodiJoe wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:36 AM:

" The LUSD wastes way too much money on agenda that has NO benefit for the students. A trip to Catalina? Come on, what does that have to do with education. That is for family vacations not school activities. Spend the money on much needed books, supplies and school necessities. "

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spellitrite wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:22 AM:

" Finally, rewards for some does not mean others are being left out. All of life revolves around cause and effect, reaping and sowing, accountability, consequences for choices and efforts. Yes, the selection process could be tweaked to be more fair, but if students learn that they lose an opportunity when they don't earn it, that is an excellent life lesson. "

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spellitrite wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:16 AM:

" BTW, Closson, not Clossen, sorry.
As for the expense for subs and the free trip for teachers? Do some research on how often the district takes teachers out of the classroom for training in 'another' program, pays for subs, then drops the program. There is a lot of work in setting up lesson plans for a sub, and as said before, the field trip is not a vacation, but a 24 hour a day job for the teachers. That is in addition to planning and setting up the trip. "

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spellitrite wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:10 AM:

" Equality.?....how much is being spent on interventions compared to high achievement celebration? A huge amount of the education budget, as well as time in the form of committees, extra meetings, phone calls, specialized lesson plans, specialized behavior plans, are spent on students who are not meeting standards.
From personal experience, I can say that much of the underachievement is the result of irresponsible students and parents, and the lack of consequences or accountability on their part. TBCont. "

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spellitrite wrote on Feb 13, 2008 9:03 AM:

" Your philosophy angers me, Dr. Clossen. As an educator I watch hard working, law abiding, students take second place in so many instances, because the irresponsible students get all the special programs, all teacher and administrator attention. We send the achievers and wellbehaved off to do their work independently, while we attend to those who disrupt, or don't finish work, or are chronically absent, those who take time and attention away from the "good" students on a daily basis. TBCont. "

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Mrs. S. wrote on Feb 13, 2008 7:08 AM:

" Bob Loblaw,

Thanks for the correction. Even for an Ed.D., though, there are standards and requirements to meet (again, assuming the degree isn't from a diploma mill). People earn things in our society. It's how our economy is based.

To do away with standards for this trip, or any other academic/performance-based award is to do a disservice to our youth who will participate in the society of the future.

I wasn't an honor student in high school. But that didn't scar me. If anything, it motivated me to work harder in college. "

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deiter wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:56 PM:

" Can you not see the hypocrisy? Lodi Unified School District wastes tens of thousands of dollars on "Equity Training" for their employees and then sponsers an educational trip that excludes certain children?
Wake up! "

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oh bull ! wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:25 PM:

" Those of you putting this trip down need to get all the facts. As i've said before those of you blogging here need to get of the computer and get involved with your kids a little bit of tough love never hurt anyone. LEAVE the Guidelines of how students are selected to go alone! All of you should be worring more about the Joe Serna School decision! Our county was founded by Godly men/women and we need more of god in our schools! "

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Oh Bull ! wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:18 PM:

" First my 8th grader attended the trip this year and the cost was not $700 the teacher in charge of the trip made fundraisers availble to students. after selling 3 boxes of candy we had to only pay $400 dollars. Students do deserve to be rewarded if they have earned it!good grades,behavior,attendance should stay a factor in deciding who go's. Only 5 teachers went on the trip,I don't understand those of you complaining about subs teaching the classes.You must not realize how often teachers attend trainings which makes then miss school also. contd "

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sil1118 wrote on Feb 12, 2008 9:37 PM:

" To in the classroom: I agree with the previous posting - then "don't go"! "

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OTH wrote on Feb 12, 2008 9:29 PM:

" snick 1 you say it very well. That's the most rational thing i've seen on here. "

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2ndlodicitizen wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:54 PM:

" to in the classroom, then don't go! "

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in the classroom wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:34 PM:

" taxpayer & citizen: Oh yeah, we all would like those perks. First of all, you get the opportunity to meet at night, on your own time, to acquaint everyone with the schedule and necessary information. Then you get to make all of those terrific travel arrangements. Finally, you get to spent an entire week with 8th graders. Keep in mind, one of the perks is having the sole responsibilty for these kids 24 hours a day. On top of this, you had the wonderful job of leaving your classes with lesson plans. "

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snick1 wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:33 PM:

" There is an old saying, "if you don't have the facts, argue the law, if you don't have the law, argue the facts, if you don't have either, get personal". This is not about a science teacher, this is about a policy that disenfranchises children. A child could try their hardest, and still not be "invited" due to the lack of spaces available for this field trip. Public education is not "by invitation only". "

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Taxpayer & Citizen wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:20 PM:

" awobs, if I were that teacher, I'd work my butt off too for that free trip to Catalina and all the other free perks that come with it. LOL "

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2ndlodicitizen wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:41 PM:

" The "lucky few", says it all! "

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hannahbanana wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:30 PM:

" To compare the deeply emotional issue of slavery to something as silly as a 8th grade field trip is unjust! Most of those left behind had made the choice not to strive for Catalina. I am a student at Millswood and was chosen to go and when the lucky few who went came back to school, nobody was found to be emotionally scarred! Most of what you are saying is not true. Check your facts before you write such a long editorial about something you know nothing about. "

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2ndlodicitizen wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:27 PM:

" I agree with you snick1, all children deserve equal access to educational opportunities. "

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snick1 wrote on Feb 12, 2008 6:09 PM:

" Study trips should be accessible to all children. Let's bring back Science Camp. Is the Catalina trip even legal? "

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1118 wrote on Feb 12, 2008 5:38 PM:

" Not being 'chosen' to go on this trip would be the same as standing on the baseball field waiting for the captain to call my name for his team. It was one of the worst times of my life. I wouldn't wish that on any youngster!

Thank you Dr. Closson for standing up for our kids - ALL of them! "

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wtf wrote on Feb 12, 2008 5:22 PM:

" Sounds to me like a case of Closson and the Peter Principle.

The Peter Principle states that in a hierarchically structured administration, people tend to be promoted up to their "level of incompetence".

http://money.howstuffworks.com/peter-principle.htm
"

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awobs wrote on Feb 12, 2008 5:13 PM:

" Another point...most of those who do not receive an invitation don't really care about going anyway. All students at this school know the requirements from the first week of 7th grade. Some make it a goal; some could care less. Just like in real life. Some care about following the speed limit, some could care less. Should everyone get a ticket just to be fair? "

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awobs wrote on Feb 12, 2008 5:11 PM:

" I told myself I would stay out of this, but here it goes anyway...Dr. Closson is not entirely correct in this piece. First of all, the 8th grade teacher who works her tail off organizing this trip does everything in her power to make sure students of all abilities are represented. That means English language learners, socioeconomically disadvanted, special education students, are all included. GPA is not the end all. If a student has a 2.5, but has worked hard and has given school everything they have, they may get an invitation. "

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ud wrote on Feb 12, 2008 4:20 PM:

" So now 149 students have to suffer with part-time instructors for a week while the full-time faculty teach the cream of the crop? The 149 children left behind are not receiving equal access to education. "

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nylodian wrote on Feb 12, 2008 4:11 PM:

" Sam: thank you. I too came from very modest means but got to college on scholarships after hard work and time on my part and a lot of sacrifice and involvement by my parents. "

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nylodian wrote on Feb 12, 2008 4:08 PM:

" ud: Using your logic, every child needs to make the football team regardless of skill, every child needs to make the honor band/choir regardless of talent, and every child deserves to be the lead in the school play whether they learn their lines or not. "

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JD wrote on Feb 12, 2008 3:14 PM:

" I especially love the part of the article where Closson hints that the emotional "hurt and disillusionment" inflicted by rewarding merit is even worse than that inflicted by institutional racism in the southern school district where Ken Davis was educated. Priceless. "

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JD wrote on Feb 12, 2008 3:10 PM:

" Keferd - The only potentially legitimate issue you raise is the AP students, and that could be easily fixed by basing the trip on the weighted GPA. The others have to do with the fact that some kids have more affluent and/or relaxed parents than other kids, and those issues will inevitably come up in a multitude of circumstances. Unless, of course, you pass a law saying that no parent can give his child anything or take his child anywhere unless the parent provides a similar privilege to every kid in his child's social circle. "

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ud wrote on Feb 12, 2008 3:02 PM:

" Only 33 out of 149 got to go? This is a public school and this is not equal education for every student. Kids are very class conscious and there were quite a few who made sure my child knew they were at the bottom of the barrel. "

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Observer wrote on Feb 12, 2008 2:27 PM:

" Sam....thank you for a very personal and insightful response. "

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Mrs. S. wrote on Feb 12, 2008 2:01 PM:

" I can't believe this article's writer holds a doctorate! In order to get his degree (assuming it's not from a diploma mill), he had to pass many tests, put in years of hard study and maintain a high GPA.

Using his logic, we should get rid of those standards and award everyone a PHD! Think how good everyone will feel! Whoopee! "

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LodiGirl wrote on Feb 12, 2008 1:56 PM:

" siser: actually those that are economically disadvantaged can do just as well and go on the trip, it's called responsiblity: my brother mowed lawns, delivered the Sentinel AND even babysat! All to go on a trip he worked hard for, and BTW he had a FREE math tutor supplied to him by the school to help him keep up his GPA. Give an argument that holds water next time. "

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Keferd wrote on Feb 12, 2008 1:50 PM:

" JD & OTHERS, what you may not realize is that participation in Catalina trip is limited. For example, only 33 out of approximately 140 students from Houston School went on the Catalina trip. Many others who "qualified" did not make the numerical cut. Others could not afford the $700. Still others had parents who didn't feel comfortable sending their young daughters so far away for so long. Others were in Advanced Placement and didn't place as high in GPA as others in regular classes. Where's the equal access? "

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sam wrote on Feb 12, 2008 1:42 PM:

" Siser, I was an economically disadvantaged student growing up. It was hard work and an education that made me wealthy. Being "economically disadvantaged" has its advantage. I received a FREE college education because of the Cal Grants and Scholarships available. Being poor is not a reason for failure. It is a great motivator to work harder. "

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sam wrote on Feb 12, 2008 1:34 PM:

" Well said, nylodian. We told our kids to study hard, work hard, and play hard. It does pay off. If you mess up and miss out, cry for a moment if you need to, learn from your mistakes, and then move on. Little rewards, like this trip, are great motivators for young student. Sometimes they cannot see how hard work and an education will impact their future. Until they can see the big picture, a trip to the beach will work. "

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nylodian wrote on Feb 12, 2008 1:14 PM:

" Dr. Clossen: BULL. Kids who EARN good grades and keep out of trouble, deserve a reward. Let them learn the LIFE LESSON of working hard towards a goal. "

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siser wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:46 AM:

" The economically disadvantaged student can work their butt off and never be recognized for a job well done. "

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jlawrenceendicott wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:42 AM:

" PS: Robert Closson, thank you for your "Karl Marx for Dummies" daily lesson. I think I will continue to stand for success, hard work and achievement. "

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Acampo_Mom wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:41 AM:

" JD I agree with you 100%. When my oldest daughter was invited to go to Catalina, I could think of no better way to congratulate her in a job well done. She has maintained honor roll every single quarter since 4th grade. She is now in high school working harder than ever to keep up her GPA. But she isn't one of those students that it comes very easy to. She works her butt off for it. I've always believed that a job well done deserves some recognition. "

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jlawrenceendicott wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:37 AM:

" Should all houses and cars be priced the same? Would you pay all your employees exactly the same?? Should all sports be banned because there are winners ? I think you did your education in Sweden. There will always be winners and losers or in your case whiners. "

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JD wrote on Feb 12, 2008 10:09 AM:

" If the Catalina trip were only for students with a 3.5 and above, or something like that, Closson might have a point. But 3.0? I have a difficult time seeing how someone who goes to class, makes a sincere effort to pay attention in class, and actually completes their homework assignments (even if they don't necessarily do them WELL) could fail to get a 3.0 even in the absence of paid tutors. "

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Keferd wrote on Feb 12, 2008 9:54 AM:

" Dr. Closson does more than complain about inequities in education. He recently organized and financed a field trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium for ALL the students in Houston School's 8th grade class who were left behind; several of which had never seen the ocean. Details: www.seelodi.com "

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Taxpayer & Citizen wrote on Feb 12, 2008 8:59 AM:

" I agree thoroughly with Mr. Closson and siser. You other bloggers need to be a little bit more understanding. What about a child with a 3.5 grade average that always stays the same each year and the 2.5 or lower student who picks their gpa up 1/2-1 point and keeps increasing and isn't given a chance to go on this trip because they haven't reached 3.0? Is it fair to punish the child who's improving while the 3.5 stays the same and makes no effort to increase? All go or all stay, simple solution. What makes your child better? "

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siser wrote on Feb 12, 2008 8:16 AM:

" Thanks for sticking up for the kids whose parents have to work 2 or 3 jobs. They can't afford special tutoring for their kids or spend the extra time on homework or automatically whip out hundreds of dollars to ensure their child has a place on the trip. The economically disadvantaged child struggles and they wonder why they are not given the same opportunities. No one will understand what it is to be "second class" unless you've been in their shoes. "

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Acampo_Mom wrote on Feb 12, 2008 8:07 AM:

" Mr. Closson says "A simple but elegant solution might be to consider finding a study trip location a little bit closer to home..." We had that...it was called science camp! My oldest daughter didn't get to go to science camp because they discontinued it the year before she went into the 6th grade. Luckily she was able to go to Catalina (after we scrimped and saved for MONTHS) Now my youngest daughter might not get to go to Catalina because some educational expert calls it "unfair"??? Sorry...THAT'S unfair! "

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wtf wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:55 AM:

" Closson holds a doctorate in education? This seems like a MAJOR oxy-moron to me. The criteria set forth to go on this trip is an incentive for the kids to **want** to do better; it gives them a **goal** to achieve and it's a well known fact that if something is "just given" to someone, 9 times out of 10, it's not appreciated. People like having goals to work toward. I don't know why the LNS even wasted space on this ridiculous letter. George Carlin said it best.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMqJvhmD5Yg
"

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Lodi Mom wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:37 AM:

" What's wrong with providing incentive for kid's to work hard and strive for good grades? At my child's school, only 30-40 students are rewarded with the Catalina trip. She has been motivated to do well in order to be eligible. In life, those who are willing to work hard are rewarded. At high school, kids earn the priviledge to go off campus at lunch if they have good grades and good behavior. I've heard from teachers & parents what a valuable trip this is. Getting rid of it is ridiculous. "

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LodiGirl wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:33 AM:

" At one point or another everyone is going to experiance disappointment, and there are other times they will experiance rewards for a job well done. This trip give students a learning experiance on either side. To those that don't get to go: Work harder, stay out of trouble and if it's that important find a way to make the money.
To the Author: what's next no cuts on high school sports teams b/c it's discriminatory to those who are non-athletic? there has to be a line, quit pandering to the softening of society "

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chris30 wrote on Feb 12, 2008 7:28 AM:

" Life isn't always fair! Crying about it isn't going to help either. If all the students really wanted to go on the trip, they would have stayed out of trouble, earned a 3.0, and participated in fundraisers to pay for the trip. "

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