kseyetie (anonymous) says...

The culprit is the Legislature here, who refuses to do their constitutional duty. They want to starve the smaller schools out of existence. If you disagree, call your house or senate representative and demand a tax increase. Your school may be next.

January 26, 2010 at 11:12 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tbluma (anonymous) says...

Don't you ever get tired of paying taxes.
I demand that we have a tax decrease.
We can no more tax ourselves into being rich than we can spend ourselves into being rich.

January 26, 2010 at 11:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Steve_Corbin (anonymous) says...

tbluma,

Wanna guess where kseytie works?

I wouldn't mind a tax decrease either, but we WILL MOST LIKELY see a sales tax increase this year because of all the whining from government employees.

January 26, 2010 at 11:52 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

nancynurse (anonymous) says...

It seems like the people of Olpe think they are superior to the residents of Hartford. Hmmm....maybe a consolidated high school would benefit both cities? What? There is even a new facility in Hartford that would accomodate all?
Get over it OLPE.

January 26, 2010 at 12:19 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

inquiringminds (anonymous) says...

I don't think it's only Olpe that's concerned about the consolidation, etc. There's a meeting in Hartford this week too.
Big changes are taking place, no matter what happens...and people are concerned about their jobs and their kids.

January 26, 2010 at 12:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

seriouslyfolks (anonymous) says...

I think the Hatfields and the McCoys ought to get together and talk it out.

January 26, 2010 at 12:34 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

redgoat2009 (anonymous) says...

To: Nancynurse

Would you if you have kids in Hartford send them to Olpe with no hesitation? I think Olpe is OVER IT!!! They are more about there kids being safe! Why do you think that Olpe seems to have a bigh head on them????????? Isnt there familys mixed in Olpe and Hartford?

January 26, 2010 at 1:33 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

gocats (anonymous) says...

Easy to read an article and make a judgement. Go to the meetings and make an informed statement that is backed up by facts, numbers and concerns. Just a little FYI!!!!

January 26, 2010 at 1:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

emporian (anonymous) says...

Its a no win situation for anybody. I can guarantee that I dont want to be in the school board's shoes right now, especially with the anomosity across the district.

January 26, 2010 at 2:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasonesu (anonymous) says...

From all that I gather it is the parents that have the real problem with the high school being combined, not the kids. Many of these kids play sports together, both in some that are combined in the district and during summer. Many of the kids on oneside of the district or the other have friends on the other side and also relatives. I say ask the students what option they honestly think the most since and see what they say. I think that the students answered would be much more honest then any of the parents.

January 26, 2010 at 3:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jasonesu (anonymous) says...

From all that I gather it is the parents that have the real problem with the high schools being combined or a school closing, not the kids. Many of these kids play sports together, both in ones that are combined in the district now and during summer. Many of the kids on one side of the district or the other have friends on the other side and also relatives. I say ask the students what option they honestly think makes the most since and see what they say. I think that the students answeres would be much more honest then any of the parents. Is there really a need for 3 elementary schools in the district, I think that if they would go to 2 k-12 attendance centers, 1 in Hartford and 1 in Olpe it would be the best and have all the elementary students in Olpe attend the public school. If all of the students that attend the Catholic school were to go to the public school, that would be an influx of about 200,000.00 in state aid a year, boy wouldn't that put a dent in the buget deficit.

January 26, 2010 at 3:18 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

justamom2 (anonymous) says...

jasonesu,

A private school is just that, private. St. Joseph School does not belong in the public district discussion. However, since you brought it up, maybe if the public school patrons were willing to donate the same amount of money that the catholic school parents give to provide their kids with a catholic education, think of what an INFLUX that would be. Boy wouldn't that put a dent in the budget deficit!

January 26, 2010 at 3:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

There is also a new facility in Olpe that would accommodate all just as well as Hartford would. I'd like to see a tax study done to see which community generates more tax dollars based on the value of its real estate. Olpe has new housing developments and a growing community, and that equals an influx of students. Hartford may have more farmland, but that doesn't mean additional students.

One thing for sure, Neoso Rapids should have been closed down years ago. Instead, the school board put tons of money into that school with new buildings for a community that is shrinking. Why did that happen? Was there a squeaky wheel that demanded it?

People are concerned about their jobs and their children's educations. Being snippy at a time like this, nancy nurse, helps nothing except promote antagonism.

January 26, 2010 at 3:55 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

redgoat2009 (anonymous) says...

I for one will not let my kid make the choice if they are happy going over to Hartford or Olpe. This is not something to bring are kids into, this is not something that they should have to worry about. The road to Olpe and Hartford is not in good shape. Who is going to pay for the gas for the high school kids! I know that very very few will be willing to ride the bus! This is not about going 2A or 3A who cares? I want the saftey of the kids! What about kids getting up early and getting home later???????

January 26, 2010 at 4:09 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

I agree, redgoat. You make a good point about gas expenses too.

That road between the two communities is not an especially good one, especially in the rain or snow or, worse yet, ice. On top of that, it is two lane. Two lane, late at night after games and other activities can quite possibly mean an eventual tragedy. Kids don't always obey the speed limit and I've been on that road many times when kids and adults alike pass while going at a high rate of speed. That will not change with the change of a school.

2A or 3A shouldn't even be a consideration.

January 26, 2010 at 4:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tzkmom (anonymous) says...

I am sorry "create" you say to stop being snippy but say Rapids should have been closed long ago. Why? We have had almost the same enrollment of Olpe. Not a large difference. Also there is no close elementary, unless you want us to go to Lebo. When our board built the new high school not long ago they never forsaw this or maybe they could have built it to be compatible for k-12. Lenny 4374, there are many fine students in HHS/NRJH, my son for one, beat the Olpe competitors every race he has ran against them. This is a district problem, not just one side or the other and one that both sides worry about their kids. Long bus rides, larger classes, larger teams, less playtime for some kids, etc. Redgoat2009, just asking what safety issue are you refering to? The bus traveling,and inexperienced drivers on a bad road, type? What ever we change there will be costs. There is no perfect fit or else the decision process would have been instant. Both sides are going to hurt with this.

January 26, 2010 at 4:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

lenny4374 (anonymous) says...

Ok, how about whichever school finishes better in the tournament this week, oh wait....

January 26, 2010 at 4:42 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

bystander (anonymous) says...

Its funny how outsiders post comments when they do not know what is going on (Nancynurse). Maybe before she speaks, she should get the facts!

January 26, 2010 at 4:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

bytheseatoftheirpants (anonymous) says...

I would suggest patrons of So Lyon Co talk to your neighbors in district 245 to see how consolidating schools was just the beginning of the demise of that school district. The high schools were consolidated and located in Leroy while the 5th-8th grades were consolidated and located in Gridley. Buses are required to run both ways to a mid way destination (for the purpose of exchanging students) twice a day in addition to their normal bus routes. This increased transportation costs (where's the savings?). This is also mirrored by bus service provided to transport students from sports practices and games. Again, increased cost (again, where's the savings?) After the first year 1 administrator was not renewed and the superintendent took on the addition of principal responsibility in the same town as the district office (may have saved ~$65K. This still left an administrator on the Gridley side of the district. A very small class in the Gridley elementary was combined with the next higher class and 1 teacher was eliminated (savings of ~$42K). This year the school board (on recommendation of the superintendent) decided to eliminate the administrator at the Middle School/Gridley elementary and the superintendent took on the additional responsibility of the second administrator. This left 1 administrator for four buildings located 16 miles apart. For doing this the board awarded the superintendent a 12.5% pay increase (~$9000 in deferred compensation to be paid at the end of his contract) plus paid 1 teacher on each side of the district $8000 each year to act as "lead teacher" in the absence of superintendent (savings of ~$23K). At the start of this semester the district implemented the 4-day school week. It appears the district is doing what they think is right but several of these changes have caused kids to transfer to other districts (12 this year alone). You take the revenue from losing those students plus the other changes implemented due to the consolidation and you're fighting a losing battle. The money saved to date has been offset by the additional expenses and loss of revenue. USD 245 is dying and along with that is the towns. Think long and hard before you decided to close a school. Not only do the kids take a hit but so does the communities involved. Real estate values take a dive when there is no school in the town. Do whatever you can to keep these schools in tact. If you have to take a small pay cut, volunteer to do various jobs, whatever - do not lose your schools.

January 26, 2010 at 5:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

grace1 (anonymous) says...

It is an emotional issue, but let's stop with the us vs. them mentality. Sports is EXTRAcurricular, so let's focus on the education of our kids. The school board needs to try to set aside the emotion and look at the facts.

What are the enrollment trends? Which option saves enough money for the district to survive, and at the same time causes the least displacement for kids? How many students will be lost with the various options?

Option 1 - Doesn't save enough money, especially with Peggy Mast confirming that more cuts are probably coming our way.

Option 2 - Saves more money, and avoids busing kids across the district. I disagree with the board member who thinks there will be bullying issues. I think the Hartford High School students are good kids and can be role models for the younger kids. The school can be modified to make this work if we want to make it happen.

Option 3 - Saves the most money, but at what cost? Lives? The Olpe-Hartford road is not safe for teenager drivers. Fuel? The parents on one side or the other will take on a big gas bill. Transportation cost for buses haven't been figured in to the cost either. More enrollment loss? The district will be in even bigger trouble if we lose more students to surrounding districts.

January 26, 2010 at 5:32 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tzkmom (anonymous) says...

grace1, I agree with you. You broke down the options well but we really need to go into this with our heads on if we close Rapids and move them to HHS. 1st it wasn't designed to be a k-12 so there are issues there that must be addressed. 2nd there really isn't enough room, dividing the rooms in half, using the coach's rooms and band on the stage are all issues that will really don't cut it without planning and thought. I want their to be planning and deliberation on the issues before my young kids are sent over there. I agree with you on the big kids, I don't worry about my youngest being there for bullying. Yet there needs to be seperation like at Olpe because teenage life is different than elementary life. I hate to admit that 2 k-12 building is best, 1-so much has been put into Rapids, not even paid off and 2- I will lose my job with the school because more than likely FHSEC will move our kids to Emporia, it only make sense for them. Those are both selfish issues though and the kids, my kids come first.

January 26, 2010 at 5:57 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodoleboy (anonymous) says...

Perhaps the best thing to come out of this will be that people will pay more attention to our elected officials and take on a more active role in their government.

January 26, 2010 at 6:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jimbo (anonymous) says...

Another point is that on the news all day and night is about the earthquake in haiti and how we the people of the us should give aid(money,food) to support the people. Their schools are demolished and homes destroyed. Yet here, in our own county we have to worry about our own schofols closing down because of insuffiecient funding. Maybe the focus should be on the us's natural disaster of a bankrupt education system. Think that over!

January 26, 2010 at 7:53 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

Joe_dirt (anonymous) says...

If this is all about saving some money lets cut back on the athletic departments. After all isn't school about education. I don't know the $ figures but paying coaches and the refs would save money. ( I'm not sure but I think 252 has coaches who basically do NOTHING but coach) Not to mention the costs to maintain football fields, bussing the kids to ball games ect. I like having my kids in a small school because they can get more from a teacher who has a smaller class to teach. Lets look at the cost of bussing kids back and forth, not to mention the condition of the county road between the two communties.

January 26, 2010 at 7:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

been_there (anonymous) says...

As stated earlier, this is a very emotional decision but it will have to be an informed decision in the end, what is best for the longevity of the district as a whole. Making a rushed decision could more than likely end up in great losses for either side of the district that will definitely result in more job losses, a decline in enrollment which will further add to the financial woes and possibly the loss of the district all together. This is not about the East vs the West, it's about coming together and finding a solution that will guarantee the future of Southern Lyon County. I live in an area where I could send my kids South to Madison, East to Hartford, West to Olpe or take them with me North to Emporia on my way to work everyday. I hope I am not forced to make that decision but we will do whatever is necessary to allow our children to have the best opportunities. OH...and my children will have a say in where they go to school! I will not set them up to fail in education just because I want them to do what I say they have to do. I do value their opinions, that's part of growing up to be responsible adults, capable of making their own decisions.

January 26, 2010 at 8:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mellen (anonymous) says...

When a school closes and staff is reduced the staff that remains are usually the ones without school age children. The employees who are forced to relocate for employment take their school age children with them. So if you lay off 20 employees and each have 2 school age children, the district will loose approximately $200,000. If you keep employees who have children enrolled in the school and lay off employees who have no school age children, you loose more to law suits. Have fun!

January 26, 2010 at 8:36 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

been_there (anonymous) says...

And another thing, all the information that my child has learned surrounding this whole situation has come from school and other Elementary kids discussing it. Until there is a final decision I don't feel it necessary to disrupt her life by discussing something that may never happen. If and when that time comes we will discuss it as a family and weigh out all the pro and cons. She may not have the final say but her opinion will be important to us. Just wanted to clear that up before I'm attacked about my poor parenting skills.

January 26, 2010 at 8:37 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

darby (anonymous) says...

I would wish we would keep this as positive as possible. USD 252 is full of wonderful kids that anyone of us would love to call our own. Emotions are extremely high right now, which is very understandable. However maybe we should do as our mothers have always told us to do, "If you don't have anything good to say, don't say anything at all". Thank you, Emily Darbyshire, a proud USD 252 parent.

January 26, 2010 at 9:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

b3bill (anonymous) says...

Joe-dirt, (and any one else)

Check out usd252.org for details about the school board. Follow the Board of Education link on the left hand side. I think they do a very good job posting details of all the school board meetings throughout the year. I read them each month.

Look at the January 13, 2010 minutes, page 4. It has the figures for the 2008-2009 athletic spending under Item 3. I would think the spending for the current year would be the same or higher, and probably would increase in coming years if all the athletics continue. Be sure to also read Item 5 on the same page, if I'm correctly understanding the wording in section a "Uniform Costs" meaning athletic uniforms and also section b for the other costs mostly related to athletics.

Then check out the January 20, 2010 minutes that detail the various options for school/staffing changes and the projected savings associated with each. I find it quite concerning to see the amount spent for athletics and how big of a percentage it is compared to the various savings amounts they're trying to find in the different options.

January 26, 2010 at 9:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

alfalfa (anonymous) says...

From all I read, next year is going to be worse for the state. For a lot of school boards, there are going to be some tough choices. I hope in all of this everyone remembers what a thankless job it is to be a school board member. Sad to say, there probably aren't going to be any choices that don't end in a great deal of animosity toward the BOE.

At least some of the problems districts are having could have been averted if the state had a policy that allowed school boards to keep any money left over at the end of each year in a "rainy day fund". Anyone who has ever served on a school board has probably at least once taken part in the year end tradition of spending out the budget, it is use it or lose it. Hopefully when our economy does recover and there is actually a little extra money floating around, taxpayers will remember what is happening today all over the state, and lobby the state legislature to quit penalizing frugal school boards, so that when there is an excess at the end of the year, they can put it aside for times like these.

January 26, 2010 at 10:30 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JaguarMom (anonymous) says...

Thank You alfalfa! although I have never served on a BOE I do realize they have to make very tough decisions. I know all of our members are doing their best to figure out the the most satisfying solution to everyone involved. Being a Harford graduate, as was my father before me and my first 2 children, I would love to see my last 2 kids be able to graduate from HHS also but, I would much rather make sure they get a good education wether that be at Hartford or Olpe. Things don't stay the same forever and if you can't bend with the change then you will surely break and the mending will be a long hard road. Thank You, Amy Wilson another proud USD 252 parent.

January 27, 2010 at 12:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

JaguarMom (anonymous) says...

To lenny4374, If all you're worried about is athletics then you're not seeing the big picture. It sounds like you don't have much faith in your athletes or coaches to be able to compete at the 3A level. It's up to the coach to know which athletes should be played and when. Although Olpe has a good athletics program Harford has not been with out some very talented athletes. Who knows, maybe if we would have consolidated years ago, USD 252 would have more State Titles to be proud of.

January 27, 2010 at 12:31 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

ej (anonymous) says...

Lenny 4374 ,you must have a kid thay will not play if the schools combine.If schools were funded by athletics then you can bring them up but they are not there are more grants for grades then athletics.Everyone needs to talk to your elected officials. SO as for handcuffing them in Athletics ,Oh wait Lenny 4374 Hartford 4th and 5th boys beat Olpe 5th and 6th boys by 20 points at Burlington last sunday.

January 27, 2010 at 8:06 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

countrygirl24 (anonymous) says...

What ever happens happens we need to think of what is best for our kids. all of us adults need to put all of our bitter feelings aside and the kids will adjust in time .

January 27, 2010 at 10:26 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

soccermon (anonymous) says...

Regarding athletics:1. Emporia has lost many students to the gain of Olpe and other smaller schools due to athletics. This has brought money to the smaller districts. Due to smaller numbers athletes who may not get a second look in Emporia have a chance to be seen.
2. Athletics are leverage for parents to increase academic achievement. They teach teamwork, dedication, and many lessons that will help the student in life as they mature.
3. Athletics in HS can add up to much financial help in college. - parents will pull kids and send them to schools with athletics. There is a college (or JUCO) that will offer money to any level of athlete. Coupled with academic scholarships, the money is significant.
4. There are pay to play options for athletics and activities.If school districts do not approve money for uniforms, parent booster clubs will raise it. The same goes for band uniforms, chorus robes, etc.

It is amazingly cheap to send a child to public school. Maybe we should not rely on the state to fund anything other than the direct cost of education, and look for revenue sources for funding the extras.

January 27, 2010 at 11:05 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

fr (anonymous) says...

What soccermon forgot is the number of kids who get hurt by athletics and that to many of the high school stars never really grow up. My kids are involved in sports but realize after high school their time in sports is probably done. To expect to us athletics to pay for college if a FOOLS dream and the money a family spends on sports would be better served on a college fund.

January 27, 2010 at 12:08 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

uranidiot (anonymous) says...

I think it was ten years ago that somebody had tried to get these schools combined into to one central location. All the narrow minded towns folk decided they couldn't have there kids going to school with those kids from the other side. Even though those same kids drank beer together on back roads every Saturday night. Now all those narrow minded towns folk are upset because there isn't enough money to maintain three schools in three towns. Narrow. Minded.

January 27, 2010 at 12:12 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

soccermon (anonymous) says...

fr is sadly mistaken and seems very bitter....I am sorry you have had such negative experiences in your past with athletics. And may those you know who never grew up eventually do so.
I will take my chances on an injury in a child that goes to practice for three hours after school, then home ravenous to eat, relax and then do homework than one who is free to roam unsupervised after school. The lessons learned by working hard to get a position on a team do transfer to real work and life situations.
As for athletics paying for college, ask the parents of the average students who got full ride to JUCO to play football,volleyball, basketball, run track... and became a straight A college student about the benefit of sports. It happens all the time!

Hoping that the boards have the wisdom to put the students first and make the right best decision knowing that there is not a good choice, only the least harmful one.

January 27, 2010 at 1:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

kseyetie (anonymous) says...

"At least some of the problems districts are having could have been averted if the state had a policy that allowed school boards to keep any money left over at the end of each year in a "rainy day fund". === They already do. The smaller districts who have been able to carry over the maximum allowed are the ones who can still meet payroll, despite the checks from the state being late or the amounts cut.

January 27, 2010 at 1:49 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodoleboy (anonymous) says...

JUCO scholarships are not very good at all. They only encompass books and tuition, not room and board that is THE significant expense.

As a former D1/D2 caliber athlete I can say in all honestly that athletics in college was a distraction from my education. Finding a part time job or internship and focusing on coursework would be more beneficial than playing sports in college. The pressure to perform and the time investment is significantly ratcheted up, it is nothing like high school. In retrospect I saw many intelligent athletes select easy majors while playing sports only to have to go back and choose another after realizing a generic degree was not going to cut it in the job market.

Athletics should NEVER be the basis for an academic decision (unless your 6"9 with a 40 inch vertical leap). Hard work, dedication, and teamwork can all is learned in the classroom and in the job market the same as they can on the court and gridiron. The only thing all my athletic accomplishments gave me was some bragging rights, which do not translate to much in the job market=)

January 27, 2010 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

soccermon (anonymous) says...

Directly from a college counselor: " The companies who are asking for interns ask us for athletes first, because we know they have good work ethic."

January 27, 2010 at 2:27 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

uranidiot (anonymous) says...

Band is a hell of a lot cheaper than football, and you get the same college scholarships.

January 27, 2010 at 2:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodoleboy (anonymous) says...

Cite your source, for every one that says that I can find 10 that will say a student with a successful work history and good grades will trump an athlete(mind you I was an athlete). Work ethic is learned in MANY areas and is NOT exclusive to sports. There is nothing set in stone that student athletes are inferior to other students, but explain to me how you are going to intern at a company as an athlete when you are spending the lion's share of your time in and out of season training as most college athletes do these days.

January 27, 2010 at 3:13 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

uranidiot (anonymous) says...

Doesn't matter if they have sports or not a school is getting shut down and teachers are getting fired. The teachers that are getting fired are the newest ones, the ones that have children or will be soon. This cuts enrollment even more. Less kids, less money. Simple math.

Ever tried looking for a job in Neosho Rapids, Hartford, or Olpe? These cities need to bring people in to get the towns to flourish. You only bring people in with employment. This will bring enrollment back up and keep those school doors open.

January 27, 2010 at 3:23 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

12345678 (anonymous) says...

I think that everyone from both sides needs to get off their high horses. Sorry, but it has to be said. Yes, it is good that you all are involved in school sports and supportive of your ahteletes and town pride but until the score of a football or basketball game is the deciding factor in this.... leave that out I don't see anyone bragging about grades or which school is meeting their AYP.... Where's the stats that actually matter??? Everyone is name bashing and saying their kids are going to get bullied if the schools combine, well, look where the negativity all starts?!? Maybe there might be some animocity among students at the start but that will all fade away once they are forced work together and realize they aren't really that different from one another. Has anyone concidered what the STUDENTS think about this? I mean afterall they are the ones who are affected by it the most. People need to understand that if this didn't NEED to be happening it wouldn't even be up for discussion and you would all be wasting breath complaining about something else. Let's take a second and see that maybe we shouldn't be worrying about who moves where but that we have to be doing this in the first place. Turn your concern to the teachers and their families that are going to suffer because of being laid off. What about the substitute teachers, custodians, secretaries, paras, aides, bus drivers, lunch personnel and many other people that help make your children's learning enviornment function that are going to no longer have jobs if schools close down? Think about them and their families. Some people will be losing sole means of family income in this struggling economy and you're worried about basketball scores and your pride being hurt if your child has to commute to OLPE or HARTFORD.... ooooh oh no.... I think we all need to stick to the big picture and keep personal grudges out of it. Sympathize with the district that they have to make this tough decision and just try to focus on the large task at hand.

January 27, 2010 at 3:28 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

soccermon (anonymous) says...

funny.....goodolboy...there is a lot of difference between a D1 and a D2 caliber athlete....and there are a lot of college athletes that are honor students in high level classes, work, volunteer and play sports......don't bash all athletes because some are in it for the sports only, and not for an education.

January 27, 2010 at 3:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

teach4kids (anonymous) says...

I'm a parent of a Neosho Rapids student, my mom is from Neosho Rapids, my dad is from Hartford, I'm a fifth generation graduate of Hartford, a teacher at Hartford, a resident of Olpe, and my husband is an Olpe graduate. Because of this, I know for a fact that Hartford, Neosho Rapids and Olpe are all very supportive communities, full of caring people. I'm shocked that we are being so negative toward each other. If we spent as much effort into trying to support the communities and the school district as we do attacking each other, the situation would be a lot easier to handle. We might even be able to reach a common ground or even save the schools in all 3 communities. We need to work together!
-Dana Cole, proud to be a part of USD 252

January 27, 2010 at 3:47 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

goodoleboy (anonymous) says...

Clearly you did not read my post, I never claimed that athletes were inferior and incapable of success, merely that the odds of success are better if one focuses on their career in college, not on sports.

Both D1/D2 schools recruited me; many athletes face the same predicament. Comparing the average Division 1 and 2 teams there is not a "massive" difference. There are a great many D2 athletes that could have been D1 players and D1 players that decide to go D2 for whatever reasons, at the extreme spectrum is where the difference lies. For example was it not too long ago that our Hornet women beat K State and KU in hoops?

The main point others and I would like to make is leave sports completely out of this equation, for all but a select few it is irrelevant anyways.

January 27, 2010 at 3:52 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

getsakick (anonymous) says...

I just have to say.... I would hate to be a board member at this point. I am sure their phones have been ringing off the hook. But I am pretty sure they are trying to do whats best for the KIDS which is the most imporntant part. I know for a fact that, one board member is having some sleeeep-less nights. And I agree with the post above. If you dont have anything nice to say, dont say it all!!!!!!

January 27, 2010 at 4:38 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

fr (anonymous) says...

Soccermom, you have it wrong. I like high school sports as much as anyone but DO NOT want it to be the high light of my childrens life. College sports require a lot of time and do not always pay the complete way. I would rather the children get an education and not chase an unattainable dream or become like so many and end up with a dead end job because all their time was devoted to sports.

January 27, 2010 at 5:22 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

WILLIAM_A (anonymous) says...

getakick.... Yes is would be great if the board members would do what is best for the kids.. The problem is you have a few that wont even listen to the options that may affect the schools in their side of the district.. I think these board members need to stop thinking about their personal feelings and do whats best for the kids and what will keep this district functioning..

January 27, 2010 at 7:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

amn (anonymous) says...

I am embarrassed just reading the comments people have posted on here!
I think the entire reason these two towns don't get along is because of stubborn and ignorant people!
This is a sad/scary time for many of us, and we need to focus on whats best not WHO is best!!

January 27, 2010 at 7:54 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

Dana, well stated. I think everyone is so concerned about option 3 (combining schools), that they don't look at options 1 or 2. Yes, there are hard decisions to be made, that much is for sure. I think this process would be made much easier if everyone understood that something has to be done, now let's figure out the best option, instead of all the bickering.

I graduated from Olpe over 10 years ago, and I remember them talking about combining schools then. This isn't something new.

I agree with create about the Olpe-Hartford road. That would be the death of a lot of kids, I'm afraid.

Matt

January 27, 2010 at 9:43 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

WILLIAM_A (anonymous) says...

Dana... How to you suggest that they fund 3 schools?? They cant do it now and wont be able to do it next yr. And dont forget that the state will be issuing more funding cuts in the next month or so and we dont even know how much that will be.. I guess on Arbor Day we can plant money trees at all the schools..Hows that sound

January 27, 2010 at 10:11 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jan123 (anonymous) says...

I fail to understand why the numbers are not being clearly reviewed in this argument. Enrollment in Olpe K-12 is higher than enrollment in NR/Hartford K-12. The numbers are the only facts. 145 kids in Olpe K-6 to 103 kids in NR. If those numbers continue to HS and you combine attendance centers to Hartford for HS, that is a larger number of children displaced (the larger side of the equation). The numbers for that decision do not make sense.

With Neosho Rapids and Hartford combined, the number of students is still significantly less than the number of students in Olpe combined K-12 (for the current year enrollment is estimated at 223 to 292). It doesn't make sense to have two smaller communities with two attendance centers at the expense of an attendance center for HS in the larger community. Another number that seems to get little review is the highest savings amount $685K - that will come from closing Hartford High School.

It is time for the school board to look at the numbers, to remove emotion and their community alliances and let the facts speak for themselves. The money does the talking here. More students = more money.

January 27, 2010 at 10:29 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jan123 (anonymous) says...

nancynurse - the people of Olpe don't think they are superior to Hartford. They are looking at the facts - the numbers. They have a much higher enrollment. More students = more money.

The other thing the people of Olpe have (as do all in Hartford) is a choice. I think it is realistic to believe the choice for many people in Olpe will be Madison (not Hartford) should the school board elect to think the people of Olpe should "get over it". Then it will be a crippled USD 252 that will be contemplating how to get over an consolidated enrollment that basically sits near a number close to the current Hartford enrollment - this certainly won't solve the budget crisis.

If you want some facts - of the options, the option to close Hartford saves $685K. The enrollment difference is ~30% advantage to Olpe.

January 27, 2010 at 10:46 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

been_there (anonymous) says...

I think it was clear to everyone at the board meeting last night that keeping the communities together is what everyone wants. I believe most parents are worried about the safety of their children when is comes to traveling the Olpe-Hartford road no matter which direction you are headed. I applaud the parents who were vocal and honest when giving their opinions last night and it clearly proved that Option 3 will result in a HUGE drop in enrollment at either attendance center and would prove to be detimental to the district. I feel all parents were on the same page in only wanting what is best for ALL the students in USD 252. It is time to work together and keep the district alive, even if that means paying a little more money out of pockets to achieve a common goal. As was mentioned, we can all donate to the Southern Lyon County Fund and designate where we want our money to go. I don't think that money, at this point, should be earmarked for anything other than keeping our schools open and vital. If the town of Hamilton can do it, the communities involved here can do it!

January 28, 2010 at 6:57 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

been_there (anonymous) says...

Should have been detrimental.....Sorry

January 28, 2010 at 6:59 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

youngncrazy (anonymous) says...

I thought Hamilton combined with Madison? I cant remember for sure though, I know there was talk about it 2 years ago, but I cant remember if it went through or not... Does anyone know for sure?

January 28, 2010 at 7:11 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

"As was mentioned, we can all donate to the Southern Lyon County Fund and designate where we want our money to go."

This sounds like a good idea, however inequitable, because not everyone will pay his fair share. But that will always be a problem, even in bake sales. It sounds like a good time to get this fundraiser going.

Where do I send a check? I'm serious. If such a fund exists, you who are in charge of fundraising need to post the name of this fund and an address. Is it tax deductible? Did someone consult an accountant?

January 28, 2010 at 10:08 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

tzkmom (anonymous) says...

Yes, the fund does exist and has been fully functional for a long time. Yes it is tax deductible. You would need to get with the school board for all the details. The fund is handled well with funds going either where you say or you just leaving it up to the Board. Youngncrazy, I know Hamilton is still their own school but I believe they participate in sports with Madison.

January 28, 2010 at 11:09 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

teach4kids (anonymous) says...

Send donations to the Southern Lyon County Education Foundation, P.O. Box 278, Hartford, KS 66854.

Yes, it is tax deductible.

Visit the district web page (www.usd252.org) for more info on the Foundation. From the main page, click on District Office and then select SLC Education Foundation on the left hand side of the screen.

January 28, 2010 at 11:17 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

create (anonymous) says...

Thank you for the info, both of you. I will now send a check, but if it has been functional for a long time as you say, then it sounds like there needs to be some cheerleading involved. Unless this fund starts collecting more dough-ray-me, then this fund is not the solution it appears to be. Check is being written and mailed today. I have a very special connection to my old district and the wonderful people of Olpe.

January 28, 2010 at 11:54 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

mslater (Matt Slater) says...

Has anyone looked into seeing if there are any grants available for something like this?

January 28, 2010 at 2:17 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

getsakick (anonymous) says...

Ya know just about every road can be a problem..... Also at the board meeting it was talked about hitting deer? I didnt realize deer just traveled on the olpe-hartford road!!!!
People just dont see the big picture. If they dont combine the school the state will come in and do it for them and could even close 252 down and then all the kids would be in emporia dis. As for William A you can not speak for all the board members! I know one of them IS doing whats best for the kids and does not let personal feelings get involved. It is whats best for the kids.

January 29, 2010 at 7:56 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

getsakick (anonymous) says...

I also feel like using a road as an excuse is a way to try and put a guilt trip on the board members... They just had a human body deal at Neosho Rapids and I didnt see parents not letting 2 bus full of olpe ele kids going, the olpe/hartford road was good enough for that!

January 29, 2010 at 8:06 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

jan123 (anonymous) says...

getsakick - Do you still think the board members are doing what is right now that the option on the table is closing Neosho Rapids? Looking at the estimates for money that can be saved and the enrollment numbers, it doesn't make sense to close a school in Olpe. With the numbers (not including St. Joseph School children), the volume of kids at Olpe is MUCH higher than Hartford/Neosho Rapids. I doubt that is likely to change based on current development patterns, etc.

You are missing the point - if they close Olpe high school, the problem will not be solved. The superintendent pointed it out clearly - enrollment numbers will shrink and the issue will get worse (a drop in just 20 kids is enough to sink the ship and easily there will be a drop of at least double that volume).

85% of Olpe parents indicated they would send their kids to Madison or Emporia - this means that USD 252 will die completely. The fact is this, if a parent has a choice to send their child to a school that is the same distance away on a better road, they are going to pick the better road. Olpe parents have that choice and they will take it.

If Hartford residents want zero high schools in USD 252, then they should consider combining high schools in Hartford a choice. If that is not what is wanted, then that option must remain off the table.

January 30, 2010 at 10:18 a.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )

uranidiot (anonymous) says...

Maybe we should just agree that the best thing for our kids is to send them to another school district. How was Emporia's test scores last year?

February 2, 2010 at 12:50 p.m. ( permalink | suggest removal )