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Making the Case for Hiring a Superintendent

Jdarg avatar
SoWal Expert
28,762 views1
The opposition to the superintendent referendum has come out with some pretty interesting arguments against hiring a superintendent instead of the old fashioned and ineffective practice of electing one. In fact, they are doing a fabulous job of making our case for us! The parents, citizens, and teachers supporting the referendum are a nonpartisan group of people who saw a way to start the process of helping our school system evolve and improve, and an important step in that process is changing the way the system runs. If you were involved at all this year, you know that the current system was a total disaster when it came to the teacher salary negotiation, a situation that should be an embarrassment to every Walton County citizen. Also, those of us with children in school know that FCAT test scores, which determine school ratings, mean absolutely nothing when, as parents, we measure what our kids' educational experience could be with the right leadership. Our teachers are amazing now, despite zero support from their administration.

I also had to giggle at the RINO comments. The many Republicans working to support this referendum are a bit surprised to find out they are RINOS.:roll: And do we really want a "conservative" superintendent? What does that even mean? With this kind of thinking, our kids are certainly doomed!

So anyway, here is a letter that was published in the Northwest Florida Daily News. it speaks for itself, I think, and totally makes our point of putting Kids Before Politics. Clearly the author of this letter is missing the point!:blink:

LETTER: A cunning ruse

Published: Friday, July 25, 2014 at 18:03 PM.


We’re all aware of political manipulation of Republicans by liberals at the national level. Sadly, some conservatives and misguided RINOS are being outfoxed locally.
Here’s how. The Walton County school district currently enjoys an A ranking in student achievement. Yet there is a significant move underway to change the system.
Why change anything? Particularly, why change the method of selecting our superintendent?
Are liberals and RINOS behind this scheme? Are they attempting an end run around our voting process?
Again, why would they? From a liberal perspective, the reason is clear. In our conservative district, an election will invariably produce a conservative superintendent with a conservative educational philosophy. Thank heaven!
On the other hand, appointment by School Board will open the door to a progressive superintendent and a progressive education philosophy. School Board members are not required to declare party affiliation when running.
The superintendent election process clearly requires an open declaration of political, hence educational, philosophy. This eliminates liberal candidates — as it should, the will of the people.
In the election process a candidate must declare party, hence political philosophy. In this district, a progressive’s chances are quite slim.
This cannot be overemphasized: Changing to selection by School Board significantly increases the chances of a liberal being named superintendent.
Conservatives, open your eyes to this cunning ruse! Look around at the liberal bastions of education, where more money equals lower student achievement. We don’t need that type of change here.
Wake up! It’s your child. Exercise your choice in his or her education. Vote NO to an appointed superintendent.
— RICK McQUISTON
Santa Rosa Beach
funny letter to editor.pdf

Replies

201
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#77
I realize everyone one has an opinion here and I am fine with that, but some things have been said on this board that concerns me. One individual has said people should not be able to vote and then in a next sentence apologizes for it. If you are not sure how to edit a post I would suggest you learn cause that post was kind of stupid. Another individual said there was folks who are opposing this referendum that can't vote because they are convicted felons or aren't citizens. Might I suggest you back it up because. I went out today and put a few signs out and noticed only a few signs that had been pulled, Commissioner Pridgen, Board Member Roberts and Candidate Sandy Jack Brown. I would have put them up but there are some issues associated with that but also someone had taken the frames. Then there is the yellow and red Referendum signs, I did not find any look a like signs so I will assume that was a joke. Now the real reason I wanted to post on this subject, I am a little disappointed that it seems that the pro referendum folks have gone negative and I have not heard anything from the vote no crowd. I even saw Andy post "If a voter cannot discern the difference in how a school district functions with an ELECTED superintendent vs. a HIRED superintendent, responsible to the school board and public, then maybe they shouldn't be voting." In fairness only with the arguements presented here and the premise that a vast majority of Districts appoint, how does that help. Personally I support the change but that was not always the case. I would suggest you get some of your advocates to quit calling the voters stupid, criminals and resident aliens because it appears your group is concerned and have gone negative.
30A Skunkape avatar
Skunky
#78
I realize everyone one has an opinion here and I am fine with that, but some things have been said on this board that concerns me. One individual has said people should not be able to vote and then in a next sentence apologizes for it. If you are not sure how to edit a post I would suggest you learn cause that post was kind of stupid. Another individual said there was folks who are opposing this referendum that can't vote because they are convicted felons or aren't citizens. Might I suggest you back it up because. I went out today and put a few signs out and noticed only a few signs that had been pulled, Commissioner Pridgen, Board Member Roberts and Candidate Sandy Jack Brown. I would have put them up but there are some issues associated with that but also someone had taken the frames. Then there is the yellow and red Referendum signs, I did not find any look a like signs so I will assume that was a joke. Now the real reason I wanted to post on this subject, I am a little disappointed that it seems that the pro referendum folks have gone negative and I have not heard anything from the vote no crowd. I even saw Andy post "If a voter cannot discern the difference in how a school district functions with an ELECTED superintendent vs. a HIRED superintendent, responsible to the school board and public, then maybe they shouldn't be voting." In fairness only with the arguements presented here and the premise that a vast majority of Districts appoint, how does that help. Personally I support the change but that was not always the case. I would suggest you get some of your advocates to quit calling the voters stupid, criminals and resident aliens because it appears your group is concerned and have gone negative.

I hope to see you at the forum this evening Mr. Wells. Lots of information and no mud slinging. At least from the 'yes' side:wave:
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#79
I hope to see you at the forum this evening Mr. Wells. Lots of information and no mud slinging. At least from the 'yes' side:wave:

Do you mean this one as posted on the County Web Site. Question who showed up last night?
[h=3]PUBLIC NOTICE: North Walton Republican Club Candidate Forum[/h]Please be advised that the North Walton Republican Club will hold a Candidate Forum on Wednesday, August 5, 2014 at 5:00 PM at the DeFuniak Springs Community Center located at 361 North 10th Street in DeFuniak Springs, FL.
Two or more Walton County Commissioners may attend.




Andy A avatar
Beach Fanatic
#80
Bob Wells, I wrote something I realized was in error and then immediately corrected it in the next sentence. I am sorry that does not meet your editing technique but I further clarified the statement by saying all those legally allowed to vote should do so. I am sorry my methodology does not come up to your standards but such is life. Vote YES on August 26th!
JoeWormwood avatar
Beach Lover
#81
I realize everyone one has an opinion here and I am fine with that, but some things have been said on this board that concerns me. One individual has said people should not be able to vote and then in a next sentence apologizes for it. If you are not sure how to edit a post I would suggest you learn cause that post was kind of stupid. Another individual said there was folks who are opposing this referendum that can't vote because they are convicted felons or aren't citizens. Might I suggest you back it up because. I went out today and put a few signs out and noticed only a few signs that had been pulled, Commissioner Pridgen, Board Member Roberts and Candidate Sandy Jack Brown. I would have put them up but there are some issues associated with that but also someone had taken the frames. Then there is the yellow and red Referendum signs, I did not find any look a like signs so I will assume that was a joke. Now the real reason I wanted to post on this subject, I am a little disappointed that it seems that the pro referendum folks have gone negative and I have not heard anything from the vote no crowd. I even saw Andy post "If a voter cannot discern the difference in how a school district functions with an ELECTED superintendent vs. a HIRED superintendent, responsible to the school board and public, then maybe they shouldn't be voting." In fairness only with the arguements presented here and the premise that a vast majority of Districts appoint, how does that help. Personally I support the change but that was not always the case. I would suggest you get some of your advocates to quit calling the voters stupid, criminals and resident aliens because it appears your group is concerned and have gone negative.



Yes Bob. Andy made me realize how stupid I am. That is why I wil not vote. My non-citizen convicted felon status has nothing to do with it. Huriculeez could not get me to vote, even if he was hugh.
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#82
Yes Bob. Andy made me realize how stupid I am. That is why I wil not vote. My non-citizen convicted felon status has nothing to do with it. Huriculeez could not get me to vote, even if he was hugh.
You were not my focus when I wrote that although I did read your comments.
Bob Hudson avatar
Beach Fanatic
#83
Bob - were you in the Northern part of the County ? I understand that new sign is not in the South at this time.

I also find it interesting that you couldn't find any missing "Yes" signs. How did you know where they were.

If you're implying that some signs haven't gone MIA I can assure you that they have.

With all the "new posters" in the last few days I'm wondering who they are representing.

Please show me an example of something negative by the "WINGS" group or its associated members.

I find this one on Facebook rather interesting:

I just spoke with a friend who went to the Lincoln Dinner Monday night. At his table were THREE LAWYERS from Birmingham down here to promote vote YES! We do not need lawyers from Birmingham telling us how to vote on a local issue. There is some big money promoting this.And you have to ask WHY???I just spoke with a friend who went to the Lincoln Dinner Monday night. At his table were THREE LAWYERS from Birmingham down here to promote vote YES! We do not need lawyers from Birmingham telling us how to vote on a local issue. There is some big money promoting this.And you have to ask WHY???

Who were they ? Where is the big money ? I hate posters that hide behind their screen name. They are allowed to do that but I normally ignore.

And this response to the Site post.

Dewyne DouglassThey want, NO ONE on the YES side say WHY are give any REASON because they DO NOT HAVE A REASON that makes common cents

Edited

Bob Hudson avatar
Beach Fanatic
#84
NW Florida Daily News Letter to the Editor

A NEW PROCESS

I strongly support the School Board referendum to change the process of selecting Walton County’s superintendent of schools, and I will be voting yes on Aug. 26. In 99 percent of school districts across America, the superintendent of schools is a professional position. Elected school boards hire superintendents after community hearings, held in the sunshine, and after exhaustive evaluations of the applicants’ qualifications and track records of success.

This process is not perfect, but it actually gives the community more of an opportunity to ask meaningful questions of applicants — and get answers — without the caution and maneuvering of a political campaign clouding and oversimplifying an important discussion about the future of our schools and students. As our current superintendent completes her term, I believe that this process is the best way for Walton County to continue the success in our schools. Other teachers agree, which is why the Walton County Education Association, which represents our teachers, has officially endorsed this referendum.

With a school district responsible for educating more than 8,000 of our children, we need to apply the same standards and the same reasoning to the selection of superintendent of schools as teachers do in their classrooms and as employers do in their workplaces.

I encourage you to vote yes on the School Board referendum on Aug. 26. — TRACY NICK Freeport

Edited

Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#85
Fair enough. I was not in the north end I was in the south end. I was particularly looking for signs that were tossed along highway 98 as if someone pulled them. I surely hope you were not implying that I was appropriating signs. As for what I perceived to be negative I look up and down this board and see comments. Unlike some my mind has not wavered how I will vote but thought I should share what I see from this board. Honestly the letter from Mr Mcquinston after rereading I can see how it be interpreted as negative. But hey I just speak my opinion based on how I interpret what is said. Either way the voters get to decide. As for me I will vote yes. I gave up screen names along time ago.

Edited

Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#86
Dr Ferry did a good job as a proponent of appointing a Superintendent.
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#87
Mr Donnie Richardson made a compelling argument. Not enough to change my mind.
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#88
Donnie Richardson did a hatchet job on Mark Davis
John G avatar
Beach Fanatic
#89
Good he deserves it. County Attorney and School Board sounds like a conflict. Always has....
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#90
I can't see why, 2 different entities.
John G avatar
Beach Fanatic
#91
Donnie Richardson did a hatchet job on Mark Davis

I can't see why, 2 different entities.

So Sheriff Mike Adkinson should run for BCC? That's. OK?

Two separate entities...
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#92
That would be a conflict because unlike the schools the Sheriff does receive his money from the BCC. Hope that helps.
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#93
Tonight as I attended the political forum in Defuniak Springs, the comment of the night was a gentleman who attempted to equate appointing a Superintendent with a lifetime appointment of a Federal Judge.... Quite a leap IMO.
Jdarg avatar
SoWal ExpertAuthor
#94
Donnie Richardson did a hatchet job on Mark Davis

Ha ha that was funny. Called Mark a "self proclaimed extreme liberal". Yeah, the only guy who can handle school board and county attorney duties without bringing politics into it. Can't say that about most other elected officials.
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#95
I not sure if Mr Richardson wasn't opposed to electing a county manager also.
John G avatar
Beach Fanatic
#96
Donnie Richardson did a hatchet job on Mark Davis

That would be a conflict because unlike the schools the Sheriff does receive his money from the BCC. Hope that helps.

There is still an emotional conflict. Davis has family (like most) in the employ of the district , county, etc. = conflict.

This county and its staunch supporters have a problem any time someones questions the status quo (good 70's group...).

Jones is a poor choice and your Unions decision to support her calls your union into question at least with someone that has supported it for years.

You never mentioned why a first responder was not your choice. Odd. Danny Glidewel was a first responder yet first responders don't support him...

Jones(s) were both "educator's" and teachers don't support her (them)...

Was Jones at the event tonight?
Jdarg avatar
SoWal ExpertAuthor
#97
She had a family medical emergency, and Barnhill was apparently in the hospital.

As announced by Bill Fletcher, president of North Walton Republican Club.
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#98
John G
Why are you voting for who you are voting for?
Beach Comber
#99
DeFUNIAK SPRINGS — A new chief financial officer will take over next month for the Walton County School District.

Four of the five voting board members approved the hiring of Debra Noyes for the position without discussion.

Board member Mark Davis didn’t vote because he said Noyes is his first cousin.
Bob Wells avatar
Beach Fanatic
#100
DeFUNIAK SPRINGS — A new chief financial officer will take over next month for the Walton County School District.

Four of the five voting board members approved the hiring of Debra Noyes for the position without discussion.

Board member Mark Davis didn’t vote because he said Noyes is his first cousin.

If he had voted against her would that have made a difference?
Andy A avatar
Beach Fanatic
#101
One of the big arguments offered by the "NO" group at the forum last night was that only three members of the school board could determine if a superintendent should be retained or fired. This is true. Let me say this about that. If a superintendent is so inept or becomes so dictatorial that the parents, students and public complain, it won't be three board members who vote to fire. It will be all five. Afteall, they are elected.

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