2013 Review; 2014 Priorities
The Power of Ten Update
Let's Make Education Our Priority for 2014
Advocates for Justice End of Year Donation Plea
1) 2013 Review
2013 was a very active year for the struggle for educational equity in East Ramapo schools. It began with Letters from the NY State Education Department (NYSED) demanding that East Ramapo get its financial and educational house in order. That initiative by the state was stalled by a lawsuit brought by the district against NYSED. That was another of several suits, fought with our education tax dollars, that the school board has lost. In January, Power of Ten went to Albany with students and parents and 4,994 signatures asking for NY State to intervene. We got a response from Commissioner King, who said that there was pending legislation that could be a solution to our problem. In June The Power of Ten submitted petitions to Governor Cuomo with 6,152 signatures in favor of the passage of the bill. We have never received any response from Governor Cuomo. In October, The Civil Rights lawsuit brought by Advocates for Justice survived another challenge by the school board's $600 an hour lawyers. The judge has ruled that the case will proceed, and we are confident that Justice is Coming to East Ramapo!
Read an Abbreviated History of Actions to Save Our Schools or check out the archive of Power of Ten updates for a look back at more actions,
2) Let's Make Education Our Priority for 2014
All of our actions have had the single goal that every child's right to a quality education shall be ensured and protected by the community at large. We have promoted candidates for school board, we have conducted informational rallies and protests, we have delivered our message to the school district and to our elected officials. We have filed appeals with NYSED, some of which have been successful. However, resources continue to be diverted and programs and staff continue to be cut. In 2014 we will continue to rally, and to lobby. We will also be in court!
3) Advocates for Justice End of Year Donation Plea
When your civil rights are trampled, and the politicians are unwilling to act, it has traditionally been the legal system which has acted to protect your rights. Access to that legal system often depends on ability to pay, and too often justice is denied due to lack of funding.
We have been extremely lucky to have our issue taken up by a not-for-profit, public interest civil rights law firm. Advocates for Justice has been working tirelessly to get the US Federal Court to order that the East Ramapo School District stop diverting funding from public schools and restore funding to the way it is mandated by law. The case also includes recouping damages from the school officials whose actions have caused so much damage to our educational system.
Advocates for Justice is not charging a fee to any of the over 400 people who signed on as plaintiffs in this suit. However, this is a very complicated suit and the school board has already spent millions of dollars trying to make it go away. They know that if this case goes to trial, they will be personally liable, and they are using every desperate measure to try to stop this case from ever being seen by a jury.
We must come together to sustain our side of this legal battle. That means each of us needs to pitch in for the costs, in whatever way we can.
Click Here to Donate to the Advocates for Justice East Ramapo Save Our Schools Legal Fund
Donations to Advocates for Justice are tax-deductible.
WE can make Justice come to East Ramapo! Please donate today!
Abbreviated History of Actions to Save Our Schools
May 2008 – Stakeholders candidate gets 2400 votes
Jan 2009 – Hundreds Rally to Save Hempstead Elementary
March 2009 – Stakeholders write NYSED Commissioner Mills, advising of de-facto segregation and warning of impact of non-public school interests controlling the public school board.
March 2009 – Petition with over 1000 signatures made to board opposing the closing or sale of any school
April 2009 – First Appeal to Commissioner: Peggy Hatton Appeals Closing of Colton
May 2009 – Stakeholders Candidates file Lawsuit regarding election irregularities
May 2009 – Stakeholders candidates double 2008 turnout, receive 4500 votes
July 2009 – First NY Times Article "Rancor where private school parents make public school decisions"
April 2010 – NYSED Special Education Quality Assurance Compliance Office finds inappropriate placements of students in private schools and orders ERCSD to correct its practices
April 2010 – Over 1000 rally against closing Hillcrest Elementary
April 2010 – Mendel Hoffman writes board need to put yeshivas first, threatens to bring public schools "to their knees".
May2010 – Stakeholders candidates double 2009 turnout, receive 8600 votes
August 2010 – Appeal of Sale of Hillcrest to Yeshiva Avir Yakov
August 2010 – NYSED spec education report directs ERCSD to stop making inappropriate placements
October 2010 – ERCSD public school enrollment is up dramatically, over 1000 more students than the district had predicted when it proposed closing schools
November 2010 – Complaint filed with NY Attorney General re: appraisal fraud in sale of Hillcrest
January 2011 – ERCSD attempts to 'absorb' RISE yeshiva
January 2011 – NAACP files complaint with USDOE OCR alleging civil rights violations. OCR begins investigation
February 2011 – NAACP writes to oppose RISE 'absorption'
February 2011 – NAACP requests NYCLU support oppose RISE take over. School board backs off
August 2011 – NY Comptroller finds ERCSD failed to fulfill its stewardship, oversight and leadership responsibilities
February 2012 – NYSED Special Education Quality Assurance Compliance Office finds inappropriate placements of students in private schools continues and requires ERCSD to publicly post the finding of non-compliance and resulting loss of state funding
July 2012 – NY Attorney General states ERCSD is hampering its investigation into sale of Hillcrest School
July 2012 – Advocates for Justice appeal to Commissioner to remove board members and appoint a state monitor
August 2012 – Advocates for Justice files class action civil rights lawsuit seeking monetary damages, punitive damages, removal of ERCSD board members and appointment of State monitor
October 2012 – Carmand and White appeal to Commissioner to stop ERCSD from using district funds for legal fees of defendants in class action suit and appeals for their removal
January 2013 – Petition with 4,494 signers submitted to Gov Cuomo and Commissioner King to appoint oversight monitor for East Ramapo
January 2013 – Two non-orthodox board members resign citing lack of transparency and inappropriate board practices
March 2013 – Parent files ethics complaint against E. Ramapo attorney who abused her son at a board meeting
March 2013 – District sues NYSED over special education placement criticism
March 2013 – AP article about East Ramapo crisis appears in papers around the US
April 2013 – New York Magazine feature article on the destruction of the East Ramapo School System
May 2013 – Thousands turn out for school budget vote, turnout is double other Rockland districts and 75% in favor of budget, but budget is defeated by bloc vote 100% against budget.
May 2013 – Federal Judge dismisses ERCSD request to dismiss class action lawsuit, lawsuit goes forward
May 2013 – Olivia Castor and Peggy Hatton Explain the Crisis in East Ramapo Schools on WNYC's Brian Lehrer Show
May 2013 – One thousand high school students walk out of school, march 3 miles to demand a quality education
June 2013 – Petition with 6,152 signatures sent to Gov. Cuomo asking him to pass NYSED intervention bill to "Save East Ramapo"
July 2013 – Abuse of public at ERCSD board meetings gets international attention as lawyer curses at parent in viral video
July 2013 – Hundreds rally to protest abuse of public by district lawyers, board president says law firm must go (note: as of this printing, 4 months later, firm is still there)
July 2013 – Commissioner King upheld a petition by an East Ramapo public school parent to nullify the current lease of the Hillcrest Elementary School building to a New Square yeshiva
July 2013 – Appraiser in Hillcrest Elementary sale scandal arrested for grand larceny and filing a false instrument
September 2013 – Federal Judge dismisses second ERSD request to dismiss class action lawsuit, lawsuit goes forward
October 2013 – Federal Judge dismissed East Ramapo lawsuit against NYSED, upholding NYSED findings of inappropriate special education placements
October 2013 – East Ramapo parent appeals to state over lack of music, art instruction
D'Agostino Still Here?; Peace Award Details
D'Agostino is still here?
Peace Award Details
Message from The East Ramapo Underground
1) D'Agostino is still here?
Many people might think that after the school board said that they would "transition" from the law firm of D'Agostino that meant he was no longer working for the district. They would be wrong. A letter was written to the JN (by Power of Ten editor Steven White): E. Ramapo board, in another failure, still employing tainted law firm
The County Exec elect wrote a letter to Commissioner King about the subject. Article in Pearl River Patch: Rockland Exec Elect Asks State to Step in on East Ramapo Schools' Lawyers
2) Peace Award Details
The Fellowship of Reconciliation will present the 2013 Nyack Area Peace Award to East Ramapo activists Steven and Emilia White on Sunday, Dec 22 during the Winter Solstice Celebration.
The Event will be at the FOR headquarters at 521 N. Broadway in Nyack from 1:00 – 7:00 PM and will include music and food (potluck). There is a suggested donation.
The Award Ceremony will be at 2:30 PM
All the information is available at http://forusa.org/events/2013/12/22/winter-solstice-house-concert
The information about the award and this year's recipients: http://forusa.org/events/2013/12/22/winter-solstice-house-concert
3) Message from The East Ramapo Underground
The East Ramapo school board meeting (Dec 16th) had two executive sessions that lasted a total of three hours. Here are the videos that show what happened during the other 25 minutes of the meeting. East Ramapo started Extended Learning Time for schools on December 16, 2013. Title I, II and III funds are used for this. Some of the time is before and after school. Do the parents know about this program? http://youtu.be/N-eseFGyCXQ
East Ramapo states that the amount of students that are eligible for Free and Reduced Lunch now stands at 76%. One school is at 89%. Are these numbers accurate? Who checks these numbers? http://youtu.be/ttzP1Zyy5ZA
East Ramapo which has been sited three times in the past for making improper settlements continues the practice. Listen as four more settlements are made. Special Ed costs have risen by over 45% in the last three years. http://youtu.be/bmGmkDVbF94
Watch all the East Ramapo Videos on www.youtube.com/LuckyLouProduction
East Ramapo Underground provides messages about school board meetings and other news topics often more quickly and with more detail than the Power of Ten Updates.
You can now subscribe to the East Ramapo Underground messages directly by sending a message to eastramapounderground-subscribe@npogroups.org
Invitation to FOR Celebration; Spring Valley – East Ramapo Crisis is an Emergency
East Ramapo activists to receive Peace Prize
Crisis in East Ramapo declared an emergency priority by the Village of Spring Valley
New lawsuit addresses failure to provide basic education to all students
1) East Ramapo Activists to Receive Peace Prize
YOU are INVITED to attend this celebration featuring the Living Legend, America's best-loved folksinger, Pete Seeger!!! There will be many other performers, including East Ramapo parent Tjokorda Gde Arsa Artha. Follow the link below for times, suggested donation, and more info.
The 2013 Fellowship of Reconciliation Nyack Area Peace Award Winners are Steve and Emilia White!!!
The award will be presented on December 22nd at the Fellowship of Reconciliation's Winter Solstice House Concert and Nyack-Area Peace Award Presentation
2) Crisis in East Ramapo declared an emergency priority by the Village of Spring Valley
Calling the situation in East Ramapo a "crisis," the Village of Spring Valley passed a resolution stating that it will play an active role to address the issues facing the East Ramapo Central School District.
The Journal News: New Spring Valley board focuses on East Ramapo's troubles
3) New lawsuit addresses failure to provide basic education to all students
The cuts to programs in East Ramapo have affected many students. If you are a parent who is concerned that your student may not be receiving all the educational programs that they should be, you may be interested in a new lawsuit which addresses this issue on a statewide level. Please contact Dr. Oscar Cohen for more information at oscarpcohen@optonline.net
Activist becomes Elected Official Monday; Correction: New Educational Lawsuit by prominent Attorney
East Ramapo Activist to become Spring Valley Trustee Monday
Correction: New Lawsuit filed by Executive Director, not Organization
1) East Ramapo Activist to become Spring Valley Trustee Monday
East Ramapo activist Emilia White will be sworn in as a trustee for the village of Spring Valley on Monday December 2. There will be a reorganization meeting at 2:00 PM in Spring Valley Village Hall, 200 N Main St, and a swearing in ceremony at 7:00 PM at the Ramapo Cultural Arts Center, 66 N Main St, Spring Valley. Let's all come out and wish her success as she continues to fight for justice from her new position.
2) Correction: New Lawsuit filed by Executive Director, not Organization
In the last message, I incorrectly reported that The Teachers College, Columbia University Campaign for Educational Equity (CEE) was filing a lawsuit against New York State. The correct information is that the lawsuit is being filed by Michael Rebell, who is the Executive Director of the Campaign for Educational Equity as an individual. At this point, Teachers College, Columbia University has neither signed onto the lawsuit nor authorized the Campaign for Educational Equity to file a suit.
Mr. Rebell is looking for parents of students who may have been personally deprived by cutbacks to school programs. Please contact Dr. Oscar Cohen if you would like to participate at oscarpcohen@optonline.net
East Ramapo Activists to Receive Peace Prize; East Ramapo is Major Factor in Nov 5th Election
Cuomo Must Intervene in East Ramapo
The Campaign for Educational Equity Wants You!
Crisis in East Ramapo is Major Factor in Nov 5th Election
Featuring the music of PETE SEEGER!!!!!!!!!!!!! (One cannot put enough exclamation marks after typing PETE SEEGER!!!!!!!!!!)
2) Cuomo Must Intervene in East Ramapo
In an incisive and insightful letter to the editor, Dr. Oscar Cohen calls on Governor Cuomo to intervene in East Ramapo
Cuomo needs to intervene on behalf of East Ramapo students
3) The Campaign for Educational Equity Wants You!
The Teachers College, Columbia University Campaign for Educational Equity (CEE) is filing a class action lawsuit against New York State and is seeking specific data about the harm imposed on students who are not receiving required education, related services and/or extra curricula activities.
They are looking for parents of students who may have been personally deprived by these cutbacks. Please contact Dr. Oscar Cohen if you would like to participate at oscarpcohen@optonline.net
4) Crisis in East Ramapo is Major Factor in Nov 5th Election
This year voters all over Rockland had East Ramapo on their minds as they went to the polls. Thanks to an increase in media coverage over the past year, the public is well aware of the reprehensible treatment that students, parents, and the public in general have received and continue to receive from the East Ramapo School Board. The same political machine which delivered school board seats in East Ramapo was promoting its agenda for many elected positions around Rockland. Most prominently they wanted to be the deciding factor in the Rockland County Executive race. They supported the Democratic candidate, David Fried, who was already considered by many as the front runner because of his many endorsements, including President Clinton, and because Democrats outnumber Republicans in Rockland County two to one. He is also an excellent campaigner, and very well liked for good reason as he is a really nice guy. The voters responded with a resounding victory for the underdog, Ed Day, who is also a nice guy and ran a good campaign, because they are fully aware of what is happening in East Ramapo and how it is only possible because of the political machine that elects the school board members, and they do not want that machine to have any more power. Ed Day early on aligned himself with East Ramapo activists Betty Carmand, Hiram Rivera, Weldon McWilliams and Emilia White, who were also running for elected office on the Preserve Rockland ballot line, and wrote a position piece on East Ramapo which mirrored the positions of the East Ramapo activists. By aligning himself with us, he made it clear that he was not interested in receiving the support of our opponents. The 8,667 votes that Ed Day got on the Preserve Rockland Line were the deciding factor in the election. Before November 5th, it was considered necessary to get the support of the machine that elected our East Ramapo school board in order to win a countywide election in Rockland. After November 5th, those who seek elected office should think twice about relying on that machine. Preserve Rockland is now more than a way to send a message with your vote, it is the most powerful third party line in Rockland County. Emilia White was another Preserve Rockland Candidate who won her election. She gathered 1,575 votes on the Democratic line, more than any other major party candidate for Spring Valley Trustee, and added 341 on the Preserve Rockland line for a total of 1,916 votes.
A Clear Choice on Nov 5th
What does political power look like? Can we achieve our goals without it?
Over the past several years, the parents of East Ramapo have achieved an impressive level of unity when voting in school board elections. While our candidates did not always win their seats, politicians at every level of government have started to pay attention to our issues.
Are you aware how powerful you are?
The efforts of East Ramapo students, parents, and supporters have attracted regional, national, EVEN international attention! Our issue has become so well known that every candidate is talking about it, and many are claiming to have plans to address the problem.
Preserve Rockland, "Row G"
This year we have an opportunity to increase our political power the same way we have done in the school board elections. In municipal elections people tend to vote along party lines, so a separate ballot line has been created which gives public school advocates a place to unite.
The opposition
Our opponents in school elections have maintained their unity and achieved political power. They have brought as much dysfunction to our village, town and county governments as they have to East Ramapo.
Here is the list of candidates that our opponents have endorsed for November 5th
A Clear Choice!
The Preserve Rockland candidates have ALL clearly stated that it is a conflict of interest for a school board to be run by people who do NOT have the best interest of the public school children in mind. They have ALL committed to going to Albany together to demand that Governor Cuomo take action.
Officials who have been elected by the bloc vote have brought: felony charges in sale of schools, the cursing lawyer scandal, the corridor of corruption scandal, an FBI raid, the illegal boarding house epidemic and an explosion of illegal and unsafe private schools.
By voting on the Preserve Rockland line, Row "G", we are sending a message that the problems of East Ramapo MUST be dealt with NOW, for the sake of the children of East Ramapo and ALL the children in Rockland County. We realize there are other important issues and other worthy candidates, but there may never be another chance like this year for OUR VOICES to be heard!
Robert Forrest
Save Our Schools-East Ramapo
Parent: East Ramapo fails to provide NY minimum education; SOS President: Send a message on Nov 5
Parent Files Appeal Re: Lack of Music and Art in East Ramapo
SOS President: Send a Message on November 5th
1) Parent Files Appeal Re: Lack of Music and Art in East Ramapo
East Ramapo Parent David Curry has served the Board of Education with a Section 310 Appeal regarding its failure to provide instruction in music and art in the elementary schools, in violation of NYSED regulations.
Lohud: East Ramapo parent appeals to state over lack of music, art instruction
The superintendent has said that activists file complaints "just for fun". Perhaps he thinks it is funny for parents to see their children crying because they don't have music?
Thank you, Mr. Curry, for standing up for your child and for all of our children.
2) Send a message on November 5th
The "Save Our Schools" (SOS) efforts to resolve the crisis in East Ramapo Schools have focused on the following topics:
1) Recognition that the crisis is the result of the disconnect between the interests of the school board and the children actually attending the public schools.
2) Petitioning the NYS Education Department to intervene on behalf of our children's right to a quality education.
3) Appealing specific decisions of the school board which were arbitrary, and which damaged the education system of the children and/or the interests of the taxpayers of Rockland County.
4) Petitioning Governor Cuomo, our legislators, and the Commissioner of Education to intervene in the governance of the district.
5) Filing a class action lawsuit on behalf of parents, students and taxpayers to force the district to provide a quality education and hold the school board members accountable for their mismanagement.
6) Requesting that a study be conducted to find and compare possible innovative solutions to the systemic problems associated with a district in which a majority of school-aged children do not attend public schools.
7) Demanding that parents must be included in the discussions and decision making regarding their children's education in public schools.
This year, candidates running for election on every party line and for every municipal office are talking about East Ramapo. Several of them have family connections, or were themselves students. Some have been very active in our campaigns to elect school board members, or have themselves been candidates. These include Emilia White (school board candidate in 2009), Hiram Rivera (school board candidate in 2012), Betty Carmand (plaintiff in the civil rights lawsuit and filed an appeal to NYSED) and Dr. Weldon McWilliams IV who is an advisor to the East Ramapo Student Coalition.
This year, a local party named "Preserve Rockland" has been formed which includes the above named candidates and promises to make the work they have been doing as citizens and activists their work as elected officials. The candidates who comprise the Preserve Rockland slate include Democrats, Republicans and Working Families party members. There are candidates in several municipalities, including the Towns of Ramapo and Clarkstown, the Villages of Spring Valley and Suffern, and Rockland County.
By voting on the Preserve Rockland line, Row "G", we are sending a message that the problems of East Ramapo MUST be dealt with NOW, for the sake of the children of East Ramapo and ALL the children in Rockland County. We realize there are other important issues and other worthy candidates, but there may never be another chance like this year for OUR VOICES to be heard.
Upcoming Events; Enrollment is Up; East Ramapo Activists Honored
Meet and Greet on Tuesday
Enrollment up 13% over projections
East Ramapo Activists receive NAACP awards
Power of Ten editor receives HANA award
1) Meet and Greet on Tuesday
East Ramapo Activist Betty Carmand will be presenting her vision for the future of the Town of Ramapo and introducing her team of Preserve Rockland candidates to the public on Tuesday, October 22, at 7:00 PM at the Galaxy Restaurant, 42 N. Main Street in Spring Valley. All are welcome to this free informational event, which includes buffet and light refreshments, music, raffles, networking and VIP guests.
2) Enrollment up by 13% over projections
When the board started to close schools they claimed that in 2013 there would be just 7,289 students. There are now 8,238 students in East Ramapo schools. That is 949 more students in two less schools that what was projected. Watch the following video as the superintendent doesn't want to say the classrooms are overcrowded, he just says they are very full. Is he fooling you? The classes are so full that this year some children are sharing desks!
Watch the video here http://youtu.be/RlowauAb0r8
Message courtesy of the East Ramapo Underground
3) East Ramapo Activists receive NAACP awards
This year the Spring Valley NAACP has chosen to honor Micheal Miller with the William "Bill" Darden Education award. Micheal is one of the strongest advocates for quality public education in East Ramapo.
The Spring Valley NAACP will also present the Unsung Hero award to public school activist Emilia White. Emilia has become well known for holding the school board to task and refusing to back down as they illegally tried to prevent taping of their public meetings.
The NAACP will present these awards at their Annual Fall Gala on Friday November 1st at 7PM at the Colonial Inn, 545 Tappan Road Norwood, New Jersey. Tickets are available at 845-362-6227 or email spvalleynaacp@aol.com
4) Power of Ten editor receives HANA award
HANA (the Haitian American Nurses Association) will be honoring Steve White at their 5th Annual Scholarships and Awards Dinner which will be held on October 26, 2013 at 8:00 PM at the Colonial Inn, 545 Tappan Road Norwood, New Jersey.
Tickets are available at 856-641-6672 or email rocklandhana@yahoo.com
Meet and Greet Today; Mr. Smith moves closer to Grammy Award
Four Hundred Turn Out to Support Pedro Santana
Former East Ramapo Band Director closer to Grammy
Meet and Greet Today
1) Beloved Educator Battling Cancer
Former Assistant Superintendent for East Ramapo Pedro Santana has been diagnosed with a very serious form of cancer and is fighting for his life. Over 400 people came to the Nyack Center on Friday to show support and Pedro treated them to his one man show. He is a real genius; he had the whole room laughing more than crying. For those who missed the evening, you can still donate through the following Web site https://www.giveforward.com/fundraiser/q073/-santanastrongbattlescancer
Checks can be sent to:
1 Tempo Road
New City NY 10956
2) Former East Ramapo Band Director closer to Grammy
Michael E. Smith, the celebrated Band Director who was let go by the same unbelievably incompetent administration that also fired Pedro Santana, is now in the last cut (the top 25) to receive the first ever Grammy award for Music Educator. Although he is listed as a teacher for Nyack High School, we know that his heart will always be with East Ramapo. He would be bringing that award and honor to East Ramapo if our administration valued excellence.
3) Meet and Greet Today
East Ramapo Activist Dr. Weldon McWilliams IV will be presenting his vision for the future of the Town of Ramapo and introducing his team of Preserve Rockland candidates to the public tonight, Monday October 14, at 7:00 PM at the Martin Luther King Center, 110 Bethune Blvd in Spring Valley. All are welcome to this free informational event.
Reminder: Event Tonight (Friday Oct 11)
Beloved Educator Battling Cancer
Former Assistant Superintendent for East Ramapo Pedro Santana has been diagnosed with a very serious form of cancer and is fighting for his life.
Pedro's friends and family invite you to "join us to celebrate a man's challenges through life's journey" at the Nyack Center, 58 Depew Avenue in Nyack, this Friday, October 11, at 8:00 PM. There is a $20.00 suggested donation.
Pakistani Education Activist Wows American Audiences
If you want to know how important education is, ask Sixteen-year-old Malala Yousafzai, an education activist from Pakistan, who was shot by the Taliban for espousing the radical idea that quality education should be available to all.
Watch her on The Daily Show
I STRONGLY recommend watching all three parts.
Here is a transcript of a statement in the interview:
I started thinking about that, and I used to think that the Talib would come, and he would just kill me. But then I said, 'If he comes, what would you do Malala?' then I would reply to myself, 'Malala, just take a shoe and hit him.' But then I said, 'If you hit a Talib with your shoe, then there would be no difference between you and the Talib. You must not treat others with cruelty and that much harshly, you must fight others but through peace and through dialogue and through education.' Then I said I will tell him how important education is and that 'I even want education for your children as well.' And I will tell him, 'That's what I want to tell you, now do what you want.'
Fortunately, our student education activists in East Ramapo don't have to face down armed killers. But the effects of poor educational opportunities are the same everywhere: Poverty, Hopelessness, and Violence. And the need to fight for what you believe in through peace and through dialogue and education is the same everywhere. We should all be like Malala and wish for a quality education for everyone's children, an education that teaches all children about equality, and justice, and respect, and how to live together. Our challenge in East Ramapo is to ensure that this kind of education is provided to every child in every school. – Steve White, editor
Beloved Educator Battling Cancer; Federal Civil Rights Lawsuit Report
Federal Civil Rights Lawsuit Report
Former Assistant Superintendent for East Ramapo Pedro Santana has been diagnosed with a very serious form of cancer and is fighting for his life. The main thing which makes Pedro so loved by students and the whole community, in my opinion, is his infectious positive attitude and his vibrant iconoclastic spirit. His attitude towards his illness is a perfect example: he says "this is just another chapter in my book".
2) Federal Civil Rights Lawsuit Report
Judge Cathy Seibel has denied requests to dismiss our civil rights lawsuit. Two dozen East Ramapo parents and activists went to the hearing in White Plains on Sept. 30th and listened to Judge Seibel read her decision for almost 3 hours.
News 12: Judge allows lawsuit against East Ramapo School District to move forward
Because of Judge Seibel's decision, the lawsuit will move forward and we are one step closer to getting justice for our school children.
Lohud: Judge allows key claims against East Ramapo officials, but dismisses some
The district has been wasting hundreds of thousands of your education tax dollars to try to squash our lawsuit. We are represented by a non-profit, public advocacy law firm. Despite limited resources, they are unfaltering in their commitment to our children. However, it is not possible to bring a claim of this magnitude without spending money. It has been generous donations from people like you which has enabled us to get this far.
I am asking you today to make a contribution to Advocates for Justice that will help us to hold accountable those who are most responsible for the destruction of East Ramapo.
Please go to www.poweroften.us and make a donation today. All donations are tax deductible.
Steven White, editor
Reminder: Court Date Monday
Federal Civil Rights Court Date
Board Meeting Tuesday
Questions from East Ramapo Underground
East Ramapo Gambles on Budgets
1) Federal Civil Rights Court Date
Advocates for Justice, a New York based public interest law firm, has filed a class action lawsuit on behalf of East Ramapo School District parents and students. A motion has been filed by the defendants to dismiss the lawsuit, and Judge Cathy Seibel will issue her decision on Monday.
The public is encouraged to attend:
Monday September 30 at 10:30 AM
Federal Courthouse Room 621 – Judge Cathy Seibel
300 Quarropas Street White Plains, NY
2) Board Meeting Tuesday
East Ramapo School Board Meeting
Tuesday,October 1, 2013
105 South Madison Ave, Spring Valley, Administration Building
7:30p.m. Regular Meeting
3) Questions from East Ramapo Underground
Why is D'Agostino still working for the District 3 months after the Board said they would get another attorney?
Why are children sitting 2 to a desk?
Why are there segregated Special Ed Kindergarten Classes in Yiddish?
4) East Ramapo Gambles on Budgets
Letter by Stephen Price, Former Board Member of East Ramapo
published in the Journal News (Sept 22)
Re: "East Ramapo's aid issues will spread," Sept. 5th Letter:
Regarding the Gap Elimination Adjustment Law, the letter writer missed an important point setting East Ramapo apart from all other Rockland school districts. Even if the GAP elimination law is repealed, there is no amount of increased state aid that will help East Ramapo as long as schools Superintendent Joel Klein and the Board of Education are allowed to continue to overspend their revenues as they have the past two years. This practice has accelerated the financial and educational demise of East Ramapo.
In his response to the recent comptroller's audit, Dr. Klein stated, "We anticipate that within the next three years, the district will no longer require 'one time revenue' sources to bridge the gaps in the district budget." Dr. Klein implies there are financial controls in place. But the recent history of mid-year program cuts demonstrates a profound lack of adequate planning. More realistically, Dr. Klein's response is nothing more than a euphemism for a plan to continue deficit spending.
After the board recently cut more than $3 million from the voter-approved budget, it became apparent the distict's response to the comptroller's audit is an ominous foretelling of a dark financial future for East Ramapo.
This year, the district is gambling on almost $12 million in questionable revenue and budget assumptions. If these gambles do not pay off, the results will be more program cuts and more program cuts and more excuses to sell off the district's assets.
Court Date Sept 30; Emilia Wins Primary
Emilia White Wins Democratic Primary
East Ramapo Underground Radio
Two Important Letters Published in Journal News
2) Emilia White Wins Democratic Primary
Emilia White has won the Democratic Primary for Spring Valley Village Trustee!
Emilia was our candidate for East Ramapo School Board in 2009. She is married to Steven White, editor of this e-newsletter. Emilia has become well known for standing up to bullying from the school board presidents.
Emilia stood out from a crowded field of candidates earning 40% more votes than the next highest vote getter. Those who wish to congratulate her or help with the campaign for the Nov 5th General Election can contact her at happykcc@hotmail.com
3) East Ramapo Underground Radio
Listen to the show here: http://youtu.be/NLAiZLYbD3g
4) Two Important Letters Published in Journal News
Antonio Luciano: Day correct on East Ramapo's problems
Rabbi Justin Schwartz: Owners profit as illegal housing poses many dangers
School Board Meeting Today; Democratic Primary Sept 10
School Board Meeting Today
Democratic Primary Sept 10
1) School Board Meeting Today:
Monday Sept 9 at 7:30 PM
105 S. Madison Ave, Spring Valley
2) Democratic Primary Sept 10:
What happens in local elections does affect our situation in the schools. It is important for us all to go out and vote. To vote in a party primary election, you need to be a member of that party.
Two candidates in local elections in this year's Democratic Primary have actively supported our candidates for school board over the years:
Emilia White (Spring Valley Trustee) Emilia was our candidate for East Ramapo School Board in 2009. She is married to Steven White, editor of this e-newsletter. Emilia has become well known for standing up to bullying from the school board presidents.
Rita Louie (Haverstraw Town Supervisor) Rita has taken responsibility for our door-to-door campaign in her neighborhood several times.
One candidate this year has been part of the opposition to our movement. Dan Friedman worked for the local paper which notoriously published its view that "the board needs to be accountable to (private schools) first."
Videos of candidates' presentations at the NAACP-JAMCCAR forum can be found at http://www.youtube.com/LuckyLouProduction/
School Board Slumlord; Candidate Forum; Pedophile Still Teaching; Non-public Education "A Fraud"
Slumlords on the School Board?
Democratic Primary Candidate's Forum Today, September 3
Convicted pedophile still teaching at non-public school in East Ramapo
Unregistered non-public schools are failing children
1) Slumlords on the School Board?
The president of the East Ramapo school board has made the news for owning an illegal boarding house in Spring Valley. The property is reported for lacking working smoke detectors, construction without a permit, and occupancy of uninhabitable space in the basement.
The Journal News: East Ramapo board chief's complex has illegal subdivision, inspectors say
This is not the first time a school board member has made the news for unethical activity. In 2010, a school board member was cited by the health department for an illegal boarding house with occupancy of uninhabitable space and violations that were considered life threatening. Children (presumably East Ramapo students) were living in the building.
Preserve Ramapo: Slumlord Sits on East Ramapo School Board and Spring Valley Zoning Board
Both school board members were using the same property manager, who manages many properties throughout East Ramapo. The fact that many properties are unsafe and overcrowded has been common knowledge for many years. The Journal News has recently done a blistering series of articles on reckless real estate profiteering that is putting school children, among others, at risk:
The Journal News: Landlords profit from illegal, dangerous housing, fire officials say
The Journal News: Haphazard housing: Ramapo lax as landlords profit
2) Candidate's Forum TODAY, September 3:
Come and hear from Candidates running in the Sept 10 Democratic Primary Election for: County Executive and Village of Spring Valley Mayor & Trustee
When: Tuesday, September 3, 2013 6:30pm – 9:00pm
Where: Louis Kurtz Civic Center, 9 North Main Street in Spring Valley
3) Convicted pedophile still teaching at non-public school in East Ramapo:
The following special report titled "Broken Trust" is as frightening as it is infuriating:
Sex abuse victim from New Square speaks exclusively to News 12
The DA calls a plea bargain for probation "an appropriate way to keep control of this individual", but in the next clip, students reveal he remains in the classroom!
4) Unregistered non-public schools are failing children:
This article in The Jewish Daily Forward includes riveting audio by graduates of East Ramapo non-public schools whose diplomas are not recognized by colleges. One characterizes his education there as "a pretend education" and "a fraud". Your tax dollars subsidize services to those schools.
Struggle and Triumph of College for Hasidim
5) Message from the editor:
The above four articles may seem unrelated, but there is one common string connecting them: the bloc vote. It is hard to imagine a school board member in any other district being re-elected after being exposed as a slumlord. It happens in East Ramapo because of the bloc vote. It is amazing that a convicted pedophile should receive a deal that has resulted in him being able to continue to work with children. Those protecting the pedophiles by intimidating victims control large blocs of votes. The control of these voters is made possible by the East Ramapo school district, which decades ago made a deal to look the other way as thousands of children in unregistered schools are denied their right to an education, in return for some temporary relief from the bloc vote. If you come to the forum today, and you get to ask a question, perhaps it should be if the candidate has made any deals for votes?
Dream Event Wednesday; Letter: Rescue the Kids of East Ramapo; Cuomo Disappoints Again
50th Anniversary REALIZE THE DREAM! Event
NAACP and JAMCCAR Host Candidate's Forum
Rockland, State Must Rescue the Kids of East Ramapo
Videos from East Ramapo Underground
Governor Cuomo Disappoints East Ramapo AGAIN!
1) 50th Anniversary REALIZE THE DREAM! Event:
Join us in this FREE Community Event to Celebrate the Advances while Empowering Ourselves to Help Rockland County. There will be: live music, and messages from community and religious leaders commemorating the 1963 March on Washington where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. made his historic "I Have a Dream" speech.
When: Wednesday, August 28, 2013 7:30PM
Where: Grace Point Gospel Fellowship 384 New Hempstead Road. New City, NY
Sponsored by: Grace Point Gospel Fellowship, The Monel Show & Wake Up Rockland
2) NAACP and JAMCCAR Host Candidate's Forum
3) Rockland, state must rescue the kids of East Ramapo
Community View in The Journal News by Ed Day
The writer, a New City resident and Rockland County legislator, is the Preserve Rockland candidate for Rockland County Executive.
4) Videos from East Ramapo Underground:
East Ramapo complains about the Lottery Spin-up money that they requested.
East Ramapo can't get it straight as they try to elect a President for the Board.
East Ramapo School Board tries to nominate a Vice President for the Board
Treasurer Bier: budget policy not enforced
D'Agostino good enough for the school district but not Aron Wieder?
The next school board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, September 3rd.
– East Ramapo Underground
5) Governor Cuomo Disappoints East Ramapo AGAIN!
The following letter is written from Peggy Hatton to Commissioner King because Governor Cuomo has not signed the bill to advance payment of lottery money to East Ramapo. The East Ramapo school board doesn't want the Lottery Spin-up money because the bill also has oversight of how the money will be spent!
The result is that the board cut another $3.5 million from the programs for the kids. If you would like to tell Governor Cuomo how you feel about what is essentially a veto of help for the kids and oversight of our notorious school board, call him at: (518) 474-8390.
The letter also mentions that Peggy is moving to Florida. We wish her well in her new home. She has done a lot for our kids, and will be missed. Messages of thanks and good luck can be sent to eastramapounderground@hotmail.com
Dear Commissioner King,
I am writing this email to inform you that earlier this week, the BOE in East Ramapo cut 3.5 million dollars from the budget at the same time that they set the tax rate.
The reason they cut the 3.5 million dollars is because the Governor has not requested the Lottery Spin Up bill for his signature. School starts in less than three weeks. The Board is not happy about the oversight and accountability provisions of this bill. At the BOE meeting, they said that the bill had been 'high jacked' by the Assembly. In an normal school district, the BOE and Administration would embrace community input….but not East Ramapo.
These funds were supposed to be used this school year to bring back Art and Music Teachers, Nurses, extracurriculars, sports, etc. When I asked Dr. Klein what his plan was to teach regular Ed teachers how to teach Art and Music, he said there will be inservice sessions. None of the teachers I know were aware of any such training. Also, there is no plan that we are aware of to deal with the prep periods that the staff used during the Music and Art classes.
We are asking ourselves if your office was aware of these cuts since you were involved with the budgeting process, providing oversight from the deficits the BOE caused over the past few years? How could your office let this happen?
I believe that our students are going to suffer as a result of the politics that are being played out between East Ramapo and Albany. I am begging you to get involved and call the Governor to ask him to sign the bill today and free up the money that was promised to us so that our kids will have at least some kind of a normal school year and that our teachers and staff can be recalled for the first day on school. Our kids are already so disadvantaged, they cannot be ignored.
Due to a change in my husband's employment, I will be moving to Florida in just a few days. I will keep involved in the East Ramapo issues as best I can. But I will be relying on others to be my eyes on the ground. It is even more important than ever that you take an active role in the East Ramapo. Our kids need your voice more than ever.
Peggy Hatton
Protest Rally at Ramapo Town Hall TODAY
Journal News Urges Passage of Bill to Save East Ramapo
State AG: Hillcrest Sale used falsified appraisal
Slumlords endanger schoolchildren
Where in the World is Governor Cuomo?
1) Protest Rally at Ramapo Town Hall TODAY:
This message from The Neighbors of Hillcrest and Wake Up Rockland:
The PROTEST/RALLY will gather in the rear parking lot of Ramapo Town Hall at 7:00PM. We need you to come out and support this broader effort with others in the community.
The problems with the Town of Ramapo government have gone well beyond anything that the average reasonable resident could expect. Yet we standby and "cherry pick" the issues to object to as they affect our own community within this town. Its past time for us to unite and raise our voices against ALL of the injustice that we, the majority tax payers have suffered. Silence on the East Ramapo School District situation, Patrick Farms, Chicken slaughter house in residential areas, over development, favoritism laws, secretive and arrogant governance, misuse of taxpayer money, condoning / perpetrating housing discrimination, protecting slumlords, and neighborhood busting are just some of the misdeed of this administration. It's time for all of us to focus the attention on the core problem which is the elected officials in the Town of Ramapo.
When: Tuesday, August 6, at 7:00 PM
Where: Ramapo Town Hall, 237 Route 59, Airmont NY
2) Journal News Urges Passage of Bill to Save East Ramapo
The Journal News: Editorial: East Ramapo waits for help
The Power of Ten submitted a petition with 6,152 names to Governor Cuomo urging changes in education law to enable the NY State Board of Regents to intervene. The bill died in committee. After discussing the issue with Commissioner King, The Journal News is saying "It clearly needs to be resurrected".
3) State AG: Hillcrest Sale used falsified appraisal
The Journal News: Appraiser charged in East Ramapo school sale
Back in 2010, the East Ramapo school board refused to release copies of the appraisal on which they based their decision to sell public property, bought and built with YOUR tax dollars, until forced by an appeal to the Commissioner of Education. That appeal, filed by Power of Ten editor Steven White was eventually successful. The appraisal was examined by Save Our Schools President Robert Forrest, who has worked as a professional appraiser, and it was the details of his investigation which became the basis for the complaint to the NY Attorney General.
4) Slumlords endanger schoolchildren
The Journal News has followed their award winning East Ramapo Coverage with a blistering series of articles on reckless real estate profiteering that is putting school children, among others, at risk:
The Journal News: Ramapo laws let illegal schools operate for years
The Journal News: Editorial: Ramapo needs political resolve
5) Where in the World is Governor Cuomo?
Article by Michael Bongiorno, Former Rockland County District Attorney, in Our Town Newspaper:
6) Message from the editor
While The Power of Ten has been enjoying a lazy summer, The Journal News has been hard at work covering issues in East Ramapo. Their coverage of East Ramapo has won an AP award for Watchdog Journalism! Congratulations to all the Journal News staff from The Power of Ten – Steve White, editor
D'Agostino to go; Yeshiva loses Hillcrest lease
D'Agostino to go, but not soon enough!!!!
Commissioner King Annuls Lease to Yeshiva Avir Yakov
1) D'Agostino to go, but not soon enough!!!
At the July 8 East Ramapo School Board meeting, called specially to deal with lawyer Chris Kirby's notorious outbursts, the school board adjourned with a statement read by the board president, but took no action!!!
A rally was held prior to the meeting and during the executive session.
YouTube Videos of the Rally
The school board could have immediately terminated the contract with the law firm, as was done for previous counsel, but they did not.
They could have apologized to those who have been the victims of obscenities and bullying, but they did not.
Instead, they announced that D'Agostino had told them that he "may not have sufficient resources to service all of the legal needs of our district".
The board president said that the "process" to "transition to other legal representation" would "begin immediately".
The school board president never acknowledged that the actions of lawyers Kirby and D'Agostino were in violation of district policy. NO ACTION was taken to enforce these policies. It remains unclear what the board means when they say "immediately".
ABC News: School board to hire new lawyer after hostile exchange
NBC News: School Board Fires Lawyer After Expletive-Laced Tirade Caught on Video
The Journal News: East Ramapo to split with firm after lawyer's profane outburst
The Journal News: East Ramapo to keep paying law firm until new one hired
The Journal News: Editorial: East Ramapo's split with law firm won't end woes
The Rockland County Times: D'Agostino Law Firm will be replaced
2) Commissioner King Annuls Lease to Yeshiva Avir Yakov:
New York State Education Commissioner King has upheld a petition filed by Robert Forrest in September of 2011 against the East Ramapo school district. Commissioner King annulled the lease of Hillcrest Elementary School to Congregation Yeshiva Avir Yakov of New Square.
It has been estimated that the lease was losing a half million dollars per year compared to what a competitive lease could have brought for East Ramapo students and taxpayers.
The Journal News: State education chief blocks East Ramapo school lease to yeshiva
The Rockland County Times: No Hillcrest Yeshiva
RESPECT Rally Monday July 8
Reminder: Respect Rally Monday July 8
The Save Our Schools Coalition announces 'Rally for Respect', a Peaceful Protest in East Ramapo to demand immediate termination of the law firm D'Agostino and Minerva, and to request state intervention.
Rally for RESPECT
Monday, July 8 at 6:45 PM
105 S. Madison Ave, Spring Valley, NY
The law firm of D'Agostino and Minerva was retained by the East Ramapo school board in 2008. Since then there have been numerous outbursts and unprofessional conduct on behalf of the lawyers, specifically Christopher Kirby and Albert D'Agostino. This latest incident took place July 2nd and was caught on film, the video can be seen here: http://youtu.be/qsOcR2mYKq0
The public is outraged by the actions of Chris Kirby and demand the law firm be terminated for their repeated disrespect toward the public school community. Local media and elected officials agree:
"These actions were reprehensible and uncalled for in their entirety and demonstrate a lack of professional conduct that should never be tolerated." – Senator David Carlucci
"The ERCSD Board should terminate the contract with Minerva and D'Agostino now. They set a poor example for all of the students, public and private, in the East Ramapo School District." – Assemblywoman Ellen Jaffee
The Journal News: East Ramapo must fire outside counsel – now
We will also be expressing our desire for state intervention in our school district. Our school board can no longer provide what is fair for the public school students and it is up to governor Cuomo to intervene.
"State intervention is the only answer that I can see at this point. Only time will tell what the solution will be, but it looks pretty dire if it continues this way for East Ramapo and the community." – Antonio Luciano, parent and videographer
Let's make this a truly massive and meaningful rally! The theme is 'RESPECT'. Those with a creative impulse are invited to make signs that convey that message. The word 'RESPECT' should be featured. Please make every effort to attend, and bring as many people as you can!!!!
You can also join the event on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/events/330386417093071/
Send an email to Governor Cuomo, Assemblyman Zebrowski, and The NY State Bar Association, asking them to join the Journal News, Senator Carlucci, and Assemblywoman Jaffee in condemning the behavior of East Ramapo Lawyers: http://poweroften.us/about/fire-dagostino/
Justice is Coming to East Ramapo, and WE can make it happen!
Lawyer for East Ramapo Explodes with Obscenity and Hostility; Rally for Respect Monday
Lawyer for East Ramapo Explodes with Obscenity and Hostility!!!
Rally for Respect Monday
1) Lawyer for East Ramapo Explodes with Obscenity and Hostility!!!
At the July 2 East Ramapo School Board meeting lawyer Chris Kirby interrupted a parent during the public speaking portion at the end of the meeting: http://youtu.be/x1P-BWF5X4s.
He then threatened to fight another parent (caution: this portion contains unedited profanity): http://youtu.be/qsOcR2mYKq0
This is now the sixth time that a lawyer from the firm of Minerva and D'Agostino has cursed at or threatened a parent or student.
ABC News: Obscenities fly after school board meeting
NY Daily News: East Ramapo district school board lawyer Christopher Kirby launches into profanity-laced tirade at parents
UK Daily Mail: Shocking video shows school's attorney screaming obscenities in parking lot at mother who thought he had laughed at her special needs son at board meeting
2) Rally for Respect:
The whole of Rockland and beyond is reacting with shock at the continued abusive behavior of the East Ramapo School Board and their attorney. The Save Our Schools Coalition is calling for a non-violent protest immediately preceding the next school board meeting on Monday, July 8. Let's make this a truly massive and meaningful rally! The theme is 'RESPECT'. Those with a creative impulse are invited to make signs that convey that message. The word 'RESPECT' should be featured. You can also join the event on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/events/330386417093071/
Please make every effort to attend, and bring as many people as you can!!!!
School Budget Vote Today
Vote Today:
The Budget Revote will be held today, Tuesday, June 18.
For info on registration, polling places, etc., go to www.poweroften.us/voting-info.
The administration is saying that if this budget is voted down, there will be no sports at all next year, among other extremely serious cuts. They are also saying that the 'yes' budget contains uncertainty and that they will reduce the spending amount if they don't get certain revenue sources.
Uncertainty about the actual result of the 'yes' vote, along with a feeling of being abused and manipulated, and a looming collision with state regulators has many of those who have always supported school budgets thinking they may stay home or even vote 'no'.
However, the threat of losing essential programs such as AP classes and sports may bring out many new 'yes' voters. A documentary film has been produced regarding the impact of cuts to sports programs
Meanwhile, vote "NO" signs have been going up in the ultra-orthodox neighborhoods where the majority of the 'NO' vote usually comes from.
There has been a spirited debate among public school supporters, I have chosen two well written pieces to represent each point of view:
Vote "NO" on the ERCSD Budget – by Carole Anderson
Discrimination is alive and well in the ERCSD. The superintendent and school board have totally disregarded the Supreme Court Decision of Brown vs the Bd. of Education of Topeka, Ks. which put an end to segregation in the public schools. They have cut public school programs to the bones and haven't made any cuts to the non-public schools. In order to save public education in ER we must take a stand and force Cuomo and King to put their big pants on and take over ER. ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! I am sick and tired of being sick and tired! Our children deserve better!
Please Vote "YES" on Tuesday – by Stephen Price
To everyone that wants to vote "No", you should know that there is likely no one that understands your frustrations better than I do. You are correct to feel as you do. But, unfortunately we cannot afford to vent frustrations. I am still hoping and encouraging everyone to vote "Yes".
A defeated budget will not force the State to act. But, it will give Dr. Joel St Klein and the BOE more opportunities to delude themselves that everyone else caused this disaster. The District debt is still growing and no amount of State Aid, lottery spin up or building sales will turn that around any time soon. If the budget passes, then the usual spin will not work. Instead, the blame will fall squarely on Dr. St Klein when he later has to make more cuts because he gambled and lost on the lottery spin-up and the sale of Colton.
Let's pass the budget and then hold Dr. St Klein and then BOE accountable before the Governor and the Commissioner. Please vote "Yes" on Tuesday!
You can tell from the thoughtful and passionate essays above that our diverse community does have many people who care about ALL of the children. That spirit that made our schools among the best in the nation is still here. East Ramapo votes at a higher rate than any other district. Our students are conducting massive non-violent protests. We have garnered steady media attention from local, regional, and national sources. We have petitioned Albany with hundreds of calls and emails. We have filed a civil rights lawsuit in federal court. Justice is coming to East Ramapo, and WE can make it happen!
Steve White, editor
Commissioner King talks East Ramapo on Public Radio
Message From a Reader
Three Days Left to Sign to Save East Ramapo
Budget Revote Tuesday
Commissioner King discusses East Ramapo on WNYC
New Video Featured on Power of Ten
1) Hillcrest Resident Encourages Contacting Governor Cuomo
I urge everyone who received Steve's message about contacting the governor's office about the situation in the East Ramapo Schools to call or e-mail Governor Cuomo immediately. I called today, and the phone was answered without any waiting, the representative listened to everything I said without interrupting, and I could hear typing sounds. I was told that the message would be passed on. It was very easy, and it only took about five minutes out of my day. If all 4,000+ who signed the petition make a personal contact, there will be no doubt in Albany that we care about our children who have been left behind, and we expect the state to take decisive, fair action. Thank you.
Nancy Mirsky
Member: Neighbors of Hillcrest
The Governor's number is (518) 474-8390
You can also Tweet him: @NYGovCuomo #SaveEastRamapo
His email is gov.cuomo@chamber.state.ny.us
East Ramapo Central School District was once considered among the best in NY State. Today, the graduation rate is just 74%, and for Hispanic Students just 54%! Tell him he cannot let the destruction of East Ramapo continue!
The East Ramapo School Board has gutted public education! They have dramatically increased class sizes, decreased or eliminated arts, music, advanced placement and sports programs.
East Ramapo is not just another district with budget problems. Our board has illegally diverted funds to segregated private religious schools, depriving public school students of their right to a quality education. NY State MUST intervene!
2) Our Petition Is Now Over 5,700!!!
Have you signed yet? The petition is open to all people, regardless of your age, residency status, or where you live, so please invite all your friends far and near!
http://poweroften.us/sign-the-petition/
Join the Petition Event on Facebook:
3) Budget Revote
The revote will be held Tuesday, June 18. For info on registration, polling places, etc., go to www.poweroften.us/voting-info. The administration is saying that if this budget is voted down, there will be no sports at all next year, among other extremely serious cuts. They are also saying that the 'yes' budget contains uncertainty and that they will reduce the spending amount if they don't get certain revenue sources. Uncertainty about the actual result of the 'yes' vote, along with a feeling of being abused and manipulated, and a looming collision with state regulators has many of those who have always supported school budgets thinking they may stay home or even vote 'no'. However, the threat of losing essential programs such as AP classes and sports may bring out many new 'yes' voters.
4) East Ramapo on WNYC Again!
On The Brian Lehrer Show, John King, New York State education commissioner and president of the University of the State of New York, talks about the state's response to the East Ramapo school funding dispute.
5) New Video
A new documentary video by local videographer Lisa Karrer is featured on the homepage: www.poweroften.us
Call Governor Cuomo, tell him: "Save East Ramapo"
In his State of the State address, Governor Cuomo appointed himself the students' lobbyist. He said "…consider me the lobbyist for the students," and "I will wage a campaign to put students first…"
Well, the students of East Ramapo public schools are in need of some results from their Governor/Lobbyist.
CALL GOVERNOR CUOMO TODAY!!!
Tell him the East Ramapo Central School District was once considered among the best in NY State. Today, the graduation rate is just 74%, and for Hispanic Students just 54%! Tell him he cannot let the destruction of East Ramapo continue!
Also, don't forget, the online petition at http://poweroften.us/sign-the-petition/ will close on June 15th, so tell all your friends to sign right away!
Last Chance to Sign the Save East Ramapo Petition
Last Chance to Sign the Save East Ramapo Petition:
PETITION CLOSING DATE IS JUNE 15TH
The East Ramapo Central School District was once considered among the best in NY State. Today, the graduation rate is just 74%, and for Hispanic Students just 54%! School board members have diverted funds to promote religious schools and gutted the funding of the public schools. They have discriminated against and segregated students on the basis of race and religion. At the same time they have created a massive budget deficit which threatens BOCES payments and thereby neighboring school districts.
Sign the petition at http://poweroften.us/sign-the-petition/
A bill, S4183-2013: "Relates to intervention in chronically underperforming school districts" would give the NY State Education Department the power to intervene. This bill has the support of NYSED, the chairs of both the Senate and Assembly education committees, and all of the state level elected officials representing East Ramapo.
Then, join the Facebook event and invite your friends to sign too!
Tell Governor Cuomo and the leaders of the NY State Senate and Assembly that they must pass this bill to INTERVENE for the children of East Ramapo!!!
This petition is open to all people, regardless of your age, residency status, or where you live. Please add your name to those calling for state intervention for East Ramapo by signing TODAY!
Massive Student Walkout in East Ramapo
Student Walkout
Save East Ramapo Petition Now More Important Than Ever
Budget Revote
1) Student Walkout:
Hundreds of Spring Valley and Ramapo High School Students walked out of school on Wednesday to demand their right to a quality education. The best estimate of the number of participants came from News 12, which had to dispatch a helicopter to capture the full extent of the 1,000 strong who attended the walkout!
Journal News: Hundreds of students walk out to protest cuts
Newsday: East Ramapo high school students walk out to protest cuts, poor conditions
The Board of Education of the East Ramapo Central School District will hold a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 4, 2013, beginning at 7:00 PM at the central administration building at 105 South Madison Ave, Spring Valley. A public hearing on the proposed 2013-2014 budget will be held at 7:45 P.M. The revote will be held Tuesday, June 18.
Once again, East Ramapo activists brought out more voters than any other district in the area. Why is it that our students and families cannot get a break? When the racial and ethnic makeup of the student body matched that of the larger community, there was never a problem. Everyone wanted to pitch in for the kids. Today, thousands of our neighbors are told not to participate in public education, and they are being told they don't need to care about other people's children. It is my firm belief that if people knew how much suffering is being caused they would not go along with this. However, they are told not to use the internet, or even watch TV. It seems incredible that these things are happening in a sleepy NY suburb in the year 2013. As has been reported in several national news sources, the racial/ethnic/religious nature of the divide has people very worried that hate could grow and fester. At this point in time, it seems as if only state intervention can protect education and defuse the hurt feelings. The time has come for us to hold our elected representatives accountable. The first step is to get as many signatures as possible on our petition. Please sign and share today. Justice is coming to East Ramapo, and WE can make it happen!
Election Reports; Teacher up for a Grammy
Message From Our candidates
Save East Ramapo Bill Now More Important Than Ever
East Ramapo Featured on NPR Again
Former E Ramapo Music Teacher Up for a Grammy
1) Election Reports:
East Ramapo school budget defeated, Orthodox-backed candidates win
East Ramapo school officials approve more cuts in wake of failed budget
UPDATE: Ramapo Revisited, School Board Election and the Future of a Community
Hatton Not Happy With E. Ramapo Vote
2) Message from Our Candidates:
The candidates Margaret Tuck, Eustache Clerveaux and Robert Forrest would like to thank each and every Grand Mother, Grand Father, Mother, Father, Brother, Sister, Aunt and Uncle who came out to support us given the challenges before us. Although we lost, we must keep moving forward. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said: "If WE can't fly, we must run. If WE can't run, we must walk. If WE can't walk, we must crawl but whatever we do WE MUST KEEP MOVING FORWARD!
Mobilize for passage of S4183-State Intervention
Support the Class Action Lawsuit
Hold Accountable Corado, Germain and Charles for Implementing Full day Kindergarten, etc.
Hold accountable the district and BOE for its special education placements
Begin preparing for 2014 BOE Election and Budget
3) Save East Ramapo Bill Now More Important Than Ever
This bill gives the NYS Commissioner of Education more power to intervene in East Ramapo
The petition is open to all people, regardless of your age, residency status, or where you live, so please invite all your friends far and near
4) East Ramapo featured on NPR Again!
Journal News Reporter Mareesa Nicosia was the featured guest on the Brian Lehrer show today. http://www.wnyc.org/shows/bl/2013/may/23/ramapo-school-board-vote/
5) Former E Ramapo Music Teacher Up for a Grammy
Former music teacher and director of the World Famous East Ramapo Marching Band Michael E. Smith has made the quarterfinals for the first ever Grammy award for a music educator! He was chosen as one of 217 finalists out of over 30,000 nominations. After being let go by East Ramapo, Mr. Smith took the Nyack Marching Band to their first ever state competition … and WON! Wherever Mr. Smith is teaching, he will forever belong to East Ramapo, his alma mater. We are all sending POSITIVE POWER OF TEN ENERGY for his continued success!!!
Vote Today; Polling Place Update; Shameful Behavior by Candidates
1. Vote Today
2. Polling Place Update
3. A Question of Integrity
1) Vote Today
Today, Tuesday May 21 is Election Day. It is very important that every eligible person get out to vote, and that everyone, whether you can vote or not, spread the word and get others to vote.
There are three school board seats which will be decided; our candidates are:
Margaret Tuck – Eustache Clerveaux – Robert Forrest
Information on the candidates
Information on where to vote
A vote for our three candidates is a vote for integrity, for transparency, for putting children's education back as the priority for East Ramapo.
2) Polling Place Update
The RCC Annex is closed.
Voters who voted there last year will vote at the Louis Kurtz Civic Center, 9 N Main St. in Spring Valley this year.
Other polling places remain the same.
There has been some confusion caused by the Rockland County Board of Elections which sent out cards regarding a change in the polling place for the general election. It is unfortunate that these cards were sent right before the school board election. Please be aware that except for the RCC Annex moving to the Kurtz center, all other polls are the same as last year. Polling place info is available at www.poweroften.us/voting-info
3) A Question of Integrity
In the past, candidates who support public education have worked together to promote unity in the community. This year we are seeing a very strange group of candidates using dishonest tactics to appeal to voters who want better education, for instance by sending a mailer which lists full day kindergarten as a goal. This mailer, which was in English, French and Spanish, included a message to vote YES for the budget in French and Spanish, but not English. However, the same candidates also had a newspaper ad in a Yiddish language newspaper saying to stop out of control spending and to vote NO on the budget in English.
It would seem that these three candidates are being dishonest in some way with their advertising. It would seem that perhaps they hope to trick people. This seems to be a new low in East Ramapo Elections, and that is saying a lot.
How to Help with East Ramapo Election Tuesday
Phone Bank Monday
Help Needed on Election Day
1) Phone Bank Monday
We had a very productive phone bank on Saturday. It is a fun and easy way to help get out the vote. We will provide you with a script and list of phone numbers. Most people are already aware of the issues and are happy to be reminded about the details.
When: Monday May 20th, 2013
Where: 873 Route 45 (corner of New Hempstead Rd) on the 2nd floor. Entrance is on New Hempstead Rd (aka rte. 80)
2) Help Needed on Election Day
Can you help out on Election Day? Please send a message to steve@poweroften.us if you are able to volunteer some time.
Tuesday May 21 is Election Day. It is very important that every eligible person get out to vote, and that everyone, whether you can vote or not, spread the word and get others to vote.
Vote Tuesday; Tuck – Clerveaux – Forrest
Vote on Tuesday
Phone Bank Saturday and Monday
More Campaigning this Weekend
1) Vote on Tuesday
2) Phone Bank Saturday and Monday
When: Saturday May 18th and Monday May 20th, 2013
Time: 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM both days
3) More Campaigning
We will meet in the parking lot in front of the Bravo Supermarket in Hillcrest and immediately begin canvassing neighborhoods. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
Where: Parking lot at Bravo Supermarket, 289 North Main Street in Hillcrest
When: Saturday, May 18 at 12:00 Noon
Special Ed Parents: Important Meeting Monday May 13; NAACP Forum Reports
Special Ed Parents Meeting Monday
Candidate Forum Reports
1) Special Ed Parents Meeting
Does your child struggle in school?
If so, is he/she getting the necessary services to make him/her successful?
Is your child getting ALL the special education services that he/she is entitled to by law?
Do you worry your child will be left behind?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, you MUST come to this meeting!
Guest speakers: Attorneys from Advocates for Justice – Laura Barbieri & Arthur Schwartz and NAACP President – Willie J. Trotman
Date: Monday, May 13, 2013
Location: Champion Day camp 175 W. Clarkstown Rd. New City
Time: 7 – 9 PM
2) Candidate Forum Reports
Thursday Evening some 125 people turned out to the annual candidate's forum hosted by NAACP and JAMCARR. Issues discussed included the lack of respect shown to the parents and students in the audience at board meetings and the continuing wildly inaccurate numbers being thrown around and presented as a 'budget'. There were also many questions from the audience regarding the quality of education being provided in the schools.
Media coverage of the forum:
Three E. Ramapo candidates reject NAACP invite
East Ramapo schools contender ditches forum for Hasidic rally
It is truly sad that one of our school board members would choose to attend a rally against the internet instead of attending the NAACP forum. The internet has revolutionized, science, socialization, news delivery and freedom of information. It epitomizes the freedom of thought which is at heart of democracy. Tyrants and dictators censor the internet, because of the 'danger' of an informed public. It is the very uncontrollableness of the internet that makes it a mainstay of scientific and democratic thought and the bane of tyrants and dictators.
Did our school board candidate carefully research the issue before deciding where to go on Thursday? Did he perhaps have a chance to read this amazing article on the subject before he threw his lot in with the anti-internet crowd? Or perhaps he is blinded by a romanticized notion of the ultra-Orthodox way of life – the heartbreaking irony; multiculturalism and religious tolerance touted by a community that has zero tolerance for any way of life other than its own.
I had a chance to speak with former East Ramapo administrator Pedro Santana after the forum. Pedro was in the process of re-designing the environment of our schools when the Hasidic dominated board fired him. As Sir Ken Robinson has pointed out, "The real role of leadership in education … is not and should not be command and control. The real role of leadership is climate control, creating a climate of possibility."
Interestingly, after they ousted Mr. Santana despite the pleas of public school parents, students, and staff to keep him, a teacher was hired to work in a yeshiva despite having provided inaccurate information about her credentials. When the hiring was questioned, the school board president said if that's who the (yeshiva) parents want for their kids, who are we to question them?
Another prominent figure in the life of the students of East Ramapo, Michael Smith, was also let go in a crushing blow to student and staff morale. Can it be coincidence that the two most creative and charismatic male figures in our community were so publicly and ruthlessly severed from the students who loved them?
I believe the Hasidic dominated school board has systematically and purposefully decimated the public school system as a means of lowering the property values and inducing an emigration of public school users. At the same time they have deliberately stoked the fires of divisiveness as a cover for their calculating plans to enrich an elite few real estate speculators.
A report by the Journal News last year revealed for the first time the professions of the board members who hold the majority position on the board, but have never released information about themselves to the parents whose sole concern is their children's future or the wider community which has invested billions of dollars to build a world class school system. Their investment is now in the hands of people whose interests are antithetical to public education and freedom of thought.
I apologize for the overly long editorial. I hope you have had time to follow the links, and feel motivated to get involved. In addition to Voting for Clerveaux Tuck and Forrest on May 21, you can sign the petition and check out other ways to help at http://poweroften.us/about/what-can-i-do/
Steven White, editor of The Power of Ten
East Ramapo Candidates Forum Today
Candidates Forum Today
Online Petition over 3,500!
Is Divisiveness Dangerous?
East Ramapo Student featured on NPR
1) Candidates Forum Today:
Thursday May 9, at 6:30 pm
Louis Kurtz Center, 9 N. Main St in Spring Valley
NAACP and other community organizations have teamed up to provide the community an opportunity to get to know the candidates and the issues. All are invited.
Facebook event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/149441745236212/
Before the Forum, tune in to the East Ramapo Underground Radio Show on WRCR-1300AM right after the ten o'clock news.
2) Save East Ramapo Petition has 3,500 signatures!!!
Thank you to all who have signed the petition for the "Save East Ramapo" bill. This bill gives the NYS Commissioner of Education more power to intervene in East Ramapo
This petition is open to all people, regardless of your age, residency status, or where you live, so please invite all your friends far and near
3) Is Divisiveness Dangerous?
An important new article from The Juvenile Justice Information Exchange examines the impact of divisiveness in East Ramapo.
The author, a professor of journalism at CUNY, has masterfully captured the clearest picture of our divided community by interviewing not just the politicians and activists, but the 'regular' people:
"Their kids, the private kids, and our kids, they're the same amount of American, you know," said Elsa Palma, in Spanish from behind a glass counter filled with cosmetics. "We're in America. Everyone deserves a chance."
I hope everyone will take time to read this article:
4) East Ramapo Student featured on NPR THIS AM at 11:00
Olivia Castor, Spring Valley High School senior and Vice President of the Spring Valley NAACP Youth Council will appear on the WNYC Brian Lehrer Show this morning in the 11:10 segment.
Ms. Castor will be attending Harvard University in September 2013. You may remember her presentation at the Save Our Schools Forum in April. She was recently featured in Benjamin Wallace-Wells NY Magazine story "Them and Them."
Budget Hearing Today; Court Appearance Report; Powerful New Article
Court Appearance Report
Online Petition WOW!!!
New Media Coverage
1) Court Appearance Report
Newsday: East Ramapo lawsuit: Parents can demand documents on special ed. cases
Journal News: Judge allows class-action suit against East Ramapo to proceed
Learn more about the civil rights lawsuit
3) Upcoming Events:
School Board Budget Hearing
Tuesday, May 7 at 7:30 PM (Today!)
105 S Madison Ave Spring Valley
NAACP Candidates Forum
Louis Kurtz Center, Main/Madison Avenue in Spring Valley.
4) New Media Coverage:
An important new article from The Juvenile Justice Information Exchange:
Public Kid vs. Private Kid Divide in One New York Community Turns Dangerous
Listen and call in on Friday:
East Ramapo Underground Radio Show
Friday, May 10th on WRCR-1300AM right after the ten o'clock news.
Reminder: Court Date Today
Reminder: Court Appearance Today
1) Reminder: Court Appearance Today
YOU are invited to attend
Federal Courthouse Room 421 – Judge George Yanthis
Thank you to all who have signed the petition for the "Save East Ramapo" bill. This bill gives the NYS Commissioner of Education more power to intervene in East Ramapo.
This petition is open to all people, regardless of your age, residency status, or where you live, so please invite all your friends far and near.
We will meet in the parking lot in front of the Bravo Supermarket in Hillcrest and immediately begin canvassing neighborhoods. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Our candidates this year are Margaret Tuck, Eustache Clerveaux, and Robert Forrest.
When: Saturday, May 4 at 12:00 Noon
Court Appearance Thursday; Petition to Save East Ramapo is on Fire
Petition on Fire, now share, share, share!
Court Appearance Thursday
East Ramapo subject of national education blog
NAACP Events: Candidate Forum and Student Debate
This petition is open to all people, regardless of your age, residency status, or where you live, so please share with all your friends far and near.
Join the Petition Event on Facebook
2) Come to the Federal Civil Rights Court Date Thursday:
Date: Thursday May 2 at 3:00 PM
3) Diane Ravitch Blogs about East Ramapo
Diane Ravitch's Blog post: When a Religious Sect Took over Public Schools is one of the top posts on this popular nationally acclaimed education blog.
4) NAACP Events
The Student Debate Will be held Wednesday May 1, 2013 at 6:00 pm at The Nyack Center 58 Depew Ave in Nyack.
NAACP Nyack Youth Council and Spring Valley Youth Council Present the Great Debate: Nyack Youth Council – Vs. – Spring Valley Youth Council. Please come join us as our youth come together to educate the community on two very important issues: The second Amendment right to bear and keep arms & The NYC Stop and Frisk Policy
The Candidates Forum will be held on May 9, 2012 at 6:30 pm at the Louis Kurtz Center, Main/Madison Avenue in Spring Valley.
The Spring Valley NAACP and several Community Organizations have collaborated in hosting a Candidates Forum. The Forum will introduce to the community at large, all candidates seeking the Trustee position for East Ramapo Central School District. All six candidates have been invited and will attend this Forum.
Reminder: Campaign today at 12; Petition Wow!!!
Reminder: Campaign Begins Today
Court Appearance New Date
Article in NY Magazine and on NPR!
1) Reminder: Campaign Begins Today
When: Saturday, April 27 at 12:00 Noon
2) Federal Civil Rights Court Date DELAYED:
OUR DAY IN COURT HAS BEEN DELAYED AGAIN:
New Date: May 2 at 3:00 PM
That's 500 more in two days! Thank you to all who have signed the petition for the "Save East Ramapo" bill. This bill gives the NYS Commissioner of Education more power to intervene in East Ramapo.
4) Article in NY Magazine and on NPR!
New York Magazine Article: Them and Them
NPR Radio interview: Rockland County Conflict
Our Petition is on Fire; Another Court Date Change
Online Petition Takes Off Fast!
Campaign for May 21 Trustee Election Begins Saturday
Board President Quits
Homework help now available at School Board Meetings
2) Save East Ramapo Petition has 1,155 signatures
3) Campaign for May 21 Trustee Election Begins Saturday
This year's election campaign will kick off on Saturday. We will meet in the parking lot in front of the Bravo Supermarket in Hillcrest and immediately begin canvassing neighborhoods. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Our candidates this year are Margaret Tuck, Eustache Clerveaux, and Robert Forrest.
4) Board President Quits
Newsday Article: Daniel Schwartz, East Ramapo school board president, quits
Lohud Article: East Ramapo board chief Schwartz resigns
5) Child Care now available at School Board Meetings
The PTA is now providing child care and homework help at school board meetings to make it easier for parents to attend.
The next school board meeting is May 7 at 7:30 PM
Thanks to many who came out to the last school board meeting. For those who could not make it, highlights are available as always at www.youtube.com/luckylouproduction
Are you aware that the infamous attorney for East Ramapo, Albert D'Agostino, verbally abused a student, in front of multiple witnesses, at a school board meeting? NO EMPLOYEE of ERCSD should be allowed to VERBALLY ABUSE a student and get away with it! We have ZERO tolerance for students who are BULLIES and we will have ZERO TOLERANCE for ADULTS WHO BULLY STUDENTS! It is unacceptable and unprofessional and students are demanding that the ERCSD Lawyer be FIRED.
The East Ramapo School Board has now had 5 presidents in 4 years. Two have resigned while in office. Meanwhile two board members are not running for re-election this year. I believe these developments are the result of the public spotlight which has been put on their actions by the major media, by Advocates for Justice, and by YOU, the reader. Keep up the good work!
Justice is coming to East Ramapo … and WE can make it happen!
Court Date Delayed; Petition for Intervention; Budget News
Civil Rights Court Appearance DELAYED
New Petition Online: The "Save East Ramapo" Bill
School Board Meeting Next Tuesday
New Date: April 29 at 3:00 PM
2) New Petition Online: The "Save East Ramapo" Bill
Please sign the petition for the "Save East Ramapo" bill. This bill gives the NYS Commissioner of Education more power to intervene in East Ramapo.
This bill has the support of NYSED, the chairs of both the Senate and Assembly education committees, and all of the state level elected officials representing East Ramapo.
3) School Board Meeting Tuesday
April 23 at 7:30 PM
The budget will be presented. Details of the budget were first released tonight as reported in Newsday:
http://newyork.newsday.com/rockland/east-ramapo-budget-crisis-sports-teachers-on-chopping-block-as-district-contends-with-shortfall-1.5086446
On the chopping block:
• Seven elementary art teachers
• Seven elementary music teachers
• Seven elementary librarians
• 15 special education teachers
• 16 middle school and high school teachers
• All middle school sports and some high school sports, including varsity golf, cheerleading, junior varsity tennis and junior varsity volleyball
• Seventh-grade foreign language
Forum Recap; Court Date Thursday
Community Forum Recap
Your Presence Requested at Civil Rights Court Appearance Thursday
School Board Meetings Tomorrow and Next Tuesday
1) Community Forum Recap
Thank you to all who came out on Saturday for the Save Our Schools Community Forum. Many thanks and respect go to Bob Slade, James Mtume and Bob Pickett of the OPEN LINE Radio Show. Bob's philosophy on life is……"Your success in life is measure not by what you do for yourself, but what you do for others…a good deed done always comes back to you." This could never be truer than when doing good deeds for children.
Our goals for this event were to
provide information about the situation in East Ramapo, what is being done and what solutions are being discussed
involve the larger community in sharing information and proposing solutions
Presentations were made by Arthur Schwartz of Advocates for Justice regarding the status of the lawsuit, and by Olivia Castor about issues in the High Schools. Everyone attending received the handout "What Can I Do?"
Members of the community expressed concern with issues including school security and suggested tactics such as a boycott of school. Because of the extremely high turnout (more than 500 people), many questions from the audience were not addressed. However, question cards were saved and we will be sharing these with Power of Ten readers in future updates. One panelist also felt there was not enough time to share what she had come to say; her comments can be found here.
One of the most intriguing and hopeful new developments was that our NY State Representatives are sponsoring a bill which would give the Education Department more authority to intervene in East Ramapo. A petition supporting this bill is now available at: www.poweroften.us/petition
The complete forum is available online here: http://new.livestream.com/ggf/events/2027694
2) Federal Civil Rights Court Date:
PLEASE COME AND ATTEND OUR FIRST DAY IN COURT:
April 18 at 10:00 AM
3) School Board Meetings Tomorrow and Tuesday
April 16 and 23 at 7:30 PM
Reminder: Save Our Schools Community Forum TODAY
Reminder: Save Our Schools Community Forum TODAY:
Come to the "East Ramapo Save Our Schools Community Forum"
Gracepoint Gospel Fellowship, 384 New Hempstead Rd, New City, NY
The forum will feature Bob Slade, James Mtume and Bob Pickett of the OPEN LINE Radio Show which can be heard on Sunday mornings from 10 – 12 on 107.5 WBLS FM.
This is your opportunity to come and hear and be heard, to learn about the issues and to be part of the solution! When it comes to education, there cannot be a division of "our" children and "their" children; unless ALL children get an EXCELLENT education, the future will not be good for anyone!!!
Advocates for Justice lawyers will be there to update you about the class action civil rights lawsuit.
Student leaders will be there to tell you what is really happening in our schools.
NAACP will be there to report on the federal civil rights complaints.
Our elected officials will be there to report on what is happening at the state level.
There will be information about charter school applications, changes in class size and special education services.
Sign up on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/events/493278877386547/
THEN PLEASE INVITE ALL YOUR FACEBOOK FRIENDS TO THE EVENT!!!
Save Our Schools Community Forum Saturday
Save Our Schools Community Forum Saturday:
4-6-13 Rally Tuesday, Forum Saturday – RESPECT
RESPECT Rally on Tuesday
1) RESPECT Rally on Tuesday
NO EMPLOYEE of ERCSD should be allowed to VERBALLY ABUSE a student and get away with it! We have ZERO tolerance for students who are BULLIES and we will have ZERO TOLERANCE for ADULTS WHO BULLY STUDENTS! It is unacceptable and unprofessional and we are demanding that the ERCSD Lawyer be FIRED. This has gone too far! Come to the rally and support your classmates! #RespectUs
Tuesday, April 9 at 7:00 PM
(at East Ramapo district office, board meeting will follow at 7:30)
2) Come to the "East Ramapo Save Our Schools Community Forum"
Advocates for Justice lawyers will be there to update you about the class action civil rights lawsuit. Student leaders will be there to tell you what is really happening in our schools. NAACP will be there to report on the federal civil rights complaints. Our elected officials will be there to report on what is happening at the estate level. There will be information about charter school applications, changes in class size and special education services.
DATE: Saturday, April 13
LOCATION: Gracepoint Gospel Fellowship, 384 New Hempstead Rd, New City, NY
3-24-13 East Ramapo Makes National Headlines
Our Issue Gets National Attention
WBLS FM to Broadcast East Ramapo Forum
Civil Rights Court Date Rescheduled
Fundraiser Rescheduled
1) Our Issue Gets National Attention:
The national media has taken notice of our unique situation in East Ramapo. Jim Fitzgerald, a reporter for the Associated Press, came to the March 19th board meeting.
His article is entitled "Barbs of racism, anti-Semitism in NY school clash."
To see just how many places this article appears, Google the title. You will be amazed!
The report focuses on the divisiveness caused by lack of representation in governance of the schools. While New York's system of local control works well most of the time, when there is a division in the population it can be dysfunctional. State Law needs to be amended to restrict local control when it is functioning poorly, and provide assistance where needed.
Read the article in The Wall Street Journal here: http://online.wsj.com/article/APa60314778f984cf7ba0ccce04d58e642.html
2) Community Forum in April to be broadcast on WBLS – FM
This is YOUR opportunity to get together with others who cares about CHILDREN GETTING AN EDUCATION!!!
Whether you live in East Ramapo or not, THIS AFFECTS YOU!!!
So come and join us in a community forum; with a presentation of the latest information and an opportunity for everyone to participate!
Saturday, April 13 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, at Gracepoint Gospel Fellowship, 384 New Hempstead Rd, New City, NY
This Forum will be broadcast on WBLS FM Radio
3) Federal Civil Rights Court Date Rescheduled:
OUR DAY IN COURT HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED TO:
4) Fundraiser for Advocates for Justice is Rescheduled:
The "Save Our Schools Coalition" fundraising event has been rescheduled to Sunday, April 21 from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
For more info and to RSVP: http://new.evite.com/l/BEY76Q5OQP
Commissioner King replies to our petition
Newsday Editorial on profanity-spewing lawyer
You can file a complaint too!
Civil Rights Case in Court Tuesday
Fundraiser March 30th
1) Commissioner King writes an answer to our petition:
Hon. Dr. John B. King, Jr., NY State Commissioner of Education, has replied to our petition asking that the state intervene in the East Ramapo School District! The Commissioner writes "I share your concerns regarding the district's financial conditions and its effects on educational programming" and that he is "prepared to take escalating action, as authorized by law."
The Commissioner also stated he believes "part of the solution is to enact the Board of Regents' legislative proposal (attached) to authorize the Department to intervene in chronically underperforming school districts."
This legislation would give the commissioner much more authority to intervene in East Ramapo.
It was sponsored by all state legislators representing East Ramapo when first introduced last year, as well as the chairs of both Education Committees. Read the summary here.
To ALL those who signed and wrote heartfelt comments in the petition, THANK YOU!
The list of signers and comments is available here: http://poweroften.us/fact-sheet/highlights/petition-for-monitor/petition-signers/
Pictures of parents and students delivering the petition are available: http://poweroften.us/fact-sheet/highlights/petition-for-monitor/
News coverage of the commissioner's answers available here: http://www.lohud.com/article/20130314/NEWS03/303140043/East-Ramapo-activist-Ed-commish-heard-us-
2) Newsday Editorial on profanity-spewing lawyer:
The attorney for the East Ramapo School District verbally attacked a student of the district using language which would be bleeped out on cable TV. The incident happened on school grounds on March 5, just after the school board walked out of the meeting to avoid a 15 minute "students corner" segment. This was not just the attorney using rough language, this was verbal abuse in the form of "You are a piece of (expletive deleted)!"
Several people witnessed the attack, including a reporter for New York Newsday.
Newsday: Profanity-spewing East Ramapo lawyer needs to learn a lesson
3) You can file a complaint too!
The mother of the student has filed a complaint against the lawyer
As a taxpayer in East Ramapo, You are Mr. D'Agostino's client. You have the right to complain about his behavior.
Power of Ten has created a form letter that you can print, sign and send to submit your complaint.
Complaints about the attorney's behavior can also be sent by email to: East Ramapo School Board BoardofEducation@ercsd.k12.ny.us and Superintendent Klein at JOKlein@ercsd.k12.ny.us
4) Federal Civil Rights Case First Court Date
PLEASE COME TO OUR FIRST DAY IN COURT
Tuesday, March 19 at 9:30 AM
5) March 30th Fundraiser for Advocates for Justice:
Join the "Save Our Schools Coalition" for a fundraising event celebrating our fantastic students, and helping Advocates for Justice fight for civil rights and equality for East Ramapo. It will be a fun afternoon of auctioneering, guest speakers, food/beverages and musical entertainment. March 30 from 2 – 5 PM. Suggested Donation is $50.00. Donations to Advocates for Justice are tax deductible.
Please RSVP: http://new.evite.com/l/BEY76Q5OQP
School Attorney Curses at Student
Calling all Candidates
Report of the Rally on March 5
1) School Attorney Curses at Student:
Her report can be found here: East Ramapo schools attorney curses at student after board meeting
Video of the school board walking out rather than allowing 15 minutes of student comments: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBC_m-SSLnc
Complaints about the attorney's behavior can be sent to: East Ramapo School Board c/o Cathy Russell CRUSSELL@ercsd.k12.ny.us and Superintendent Klein at JOKlein@ercsd.k12.ny.us
3) Calling All Candidates:
The Board of Education election is fast approaching. There is a lot at stake for the public school students. As many of you know, there is a huge budget deficit that threatens the very foundation of education for every East Ramapo student. We need 3 candidates who are thoroughly familiar with all issues facing the district. The East Ramapo Stakeholders for Public Education has experience in assisting candidates in forming a unified campaign and platform based on community concerns; as well as providing voter information, coordinating volunteers, and fundraising for school board candidates.
If you or someone you know is considering running for school board, please have a look at the candidate questionnaire at: http://poweroften.us/about/candidate-questionnaire/
Please send your answers to: steve@poweroften.us by Friday, March 15. There will be a meeting of all those interested ASAP after Friday.
4) Report of Rally
Over 120 Students and Parents rallied outside the district offices on Tuesday, March 5, in response to announcements at school that graduation would be changed.
Here are photos:
https://picasaweb.google.com/109077540544836974769/EastRamapoNYStudentsOccupySchoolBoardMeeting3052013
And video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLvK1oMqtfc
Rally on Tuesday
State Continues Probe of East Ramapo Finances
Report from the Feb 28 board meeting
1) Rally on Tuesday
There will be a rally before the school board meeting on Tuesday to protest the change in the graduation date and location. HS Seniors are calling the rally: "Come show your support and help us fix our graduation! If we don't fight back we'll never win! Wear your SENIOR shirts or BLACK and be ready to protest. UNDERCLASSMEN & PARENTS ARE INVITED TO JOIN IN."
Tuesday, March 5 at 6:00 PM at ERCSD District offices, 105 S. Madison Ave, Spring Valley (The board meeting is scheduled for 6:30)
Join the "Save Our Schools Coalition" for a fundraising event celebrating our fantastic students, and helping Advocates for Justice fight for civil rights and equality for East Ramapo. It will be a fun afternoon of auctioneering, guest speakers, food/beverages and musical entertainment. Suggested Donation is $50.00. Donations to Advocates for Justice are tax deductible.
Please RSVP: http://poweroften.us/events/4/save-our-schools-coalition-fundraiser/
3) State Continues Probe of East Ramapo Finances:
On February 14, NY State responded to Supt. Klein's accounting of finances saying they were "technically incomplete in several areas including the budget status report, policies and procedures to oversee the budget, budget transfers,and accumulated deficits for prior years."
News Coverage of the exchange:
Newsday: State school officials to East Ramapo: Show us your books
Journal News: East Ramapo: State seeks rare meeting over finances
4) Report from the Feb 28 board meeting:
By Carole Anderson-
Last night's meeting was quite interesting. The board interviewed five of the candidates seeking Price's and Young-Mercer's seats on the board. There were three Orthodox males, one Hasidic male, and one non Jewish male. Each board member was given an opportunity to ask the candidates a question. Only Schwartz and Rothman asked questions. This was the first time that candidates were interviewed in public.
Steven Price received a letter from the Attorney General Schneiderman requesting his appearance before a committee. Price requested to be represented by an attorney paid for by the board. Schwartz tried to find ways to not pay for Price's attorney, but the board's attorney told Schwartz that Price did everything correctly. The next board meeting will be on March 5th where they will interview the remaining candidates.
Journal News: East Ramapo Reveals Candidates State asks East Ramapo's Price for testimony
Save the Date: Fundraiser March 30th
Local Yeshivas subject of Jewish week investigative report
Letter to the Journal News: East Ramapo fails public school students
1) March 30th East Ramapo Fundraiser for Advocates for Justice:
Dear Community Supporter,
Are you ready to stand up against the injustices that harm our children and taxpayers each day?
Join us for a fundraising event celebrating our fantastic students, and helping Advocates for Justice fight for civil rights and equality for East Ramapo.
It will be a fun afternoon of auctioneering, guest speakers, food/beverages and musical entertainment, at the home of Rabia Nagin in Pomona.
We are looking to build momentum as the Save Our Schools Coalition to rally the parents, supporters and children that make up this wonderful community!
Sincerely, The Save Our Schools – East Ramapo Coalition
Save our Schools Fundraiser
23 Dogwood Lane Pomona NY 10970
RSVP: http://poweroften.us/events/4/save-our-schools-coalition-fundraiser/
2) Local Yeshivas subject of Jewish Week investigative report:
The Jewish Week, an independent community newspaper, is recognized widely as the largest and most respected Jewish newspaper in America.
Reporters Julie Wiener and Hella Winston document millions of dollars of federal assistance for technology and internet services to schools, including local yeshivas, which expressly forbid students from using the internet.
Here is the three part newspaper investigative series:
Part I: Haredi Schools Reap Millions In Federal Tech Funds
Part II: How Do Haredi Schools Get All That E-rate Money?
Part III: E-rate Program Dogged By Concerns About Oversight
Reporter Julie Wiener was interviewed on WRCR about her investigative reporting. Listen to the interview.
3) In Reply: East Ramapo fails public school students
Jody Fox asks "What has the board done to enhance or at least maintain the educational process for the public school student?" in his excellent letter to the editor of the Journal News
We are getting ready to go into another budget season.
Once again there are a series of very severe cuts being considered.
But this year is different from previous years in several ways:
Instead of drawing from reserves, the district will be paying off two years of deficit spending.
Plans are being discussed which would knowingly violate state regulations to achieve budget goals.
For the first time, the administration admits that spending on students who attend non-public schools is driving cuts to students who attend public schools.
The Board is already on notice from the Commissioner of Education regarding their actions, including the illegal, unreported deficits over the past two years, the debt to BOCES, and illegal special education placements.
Even if the board enacts all the cuts they have considered, it is doubtful they will be able to get out of the hole they have dug over the last 5 years. The impact on students could be catastrophic, decreasing already low graduation rate and handicapping college opportunities.
Will Governor Cuomo, Commissioner King, and the NY State Assembly and Senate leadership be able to sit idly by while thousands of students are deprived of their right to an education?
Their action, or inaction, regarding East Ramapo will certainly be a prominent part of their record as time goes by.
Your action is also important in this struggle. Please join us on March 30th to support Advocates for Justice, which has filed a class action civil rights lawsuit on behalf of the public school students and taxpayers.
If you are unable to make it, please consider making a donation. Go to www.poweroften.us and click "I want to support the class action lawsuit". – Steven White, editor
Governor Cuomo comments on East Ramapo
Rockland County Legislature to Honor East Ramapo Board Members
Dept of Education warns district again on violations
1) Gov. Cuomo: NYSED will do the right thing:
Governor Cuomo was in a part of the East Ramapo School District on Tuesday, giving a speech recapping his State of the State address.
A number of East Ramapo parents, denied attendance at the event, stood outside with a banner reading "Save Our Schools".
Reporters managed to get in a few questions, including one about East Ramapo.
His response – "They are under the state Education Department, which has great management and they're looking at it and I'm sure they will do the right and proper thing," puts the burden of correcting the situation squarely on the shoulders of State Education Commissioner King.
The Journal News: Cuomo overlooks East Ramapo activists
Newsday: Cuomo won't step in to help East Ramapo
2) Rockland County Legislature to Honor East Ramapo Board Members:
Rockland County Legislator Joseph Meyers will honor two former members of the East Ramapo Central School District Board of Education, Stephen Price and Susan Young-Mercer, for their many years of service to the school district and the community in a ceremony that will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 19th in the Legislature's chambers at 11 New Hempstead Rd., New City, NY. There will also be a musical performance by East Ramapo student musicians. Both the ceremony and the meeting are open to the public.
When: Tuesday, February 19 at 6:30 PM
Where: 11 New Hempstead Rd, New City
3) NY State gives East Ramapo yet another warning to clean up their act:
The NY State Dept of Education has found the district in violation of Federal and State law regarding special education placements multiple times over the past 3 years.
The district has not corrected the violations.
The Journal News: State firm on E. Ramapo special education violations
Newsday: State officials again blast East Ramapo special ed practices
According to an interview in the Journal News, a school official says the "private school community" has not "felt comfortable" with placing the students in public school. It should be noted that many district parents who use private schools are not included in the group that school officials routinely call the "private school community" and do feel perfectly comfortable with having their children attend integrated schools. A public school official, whose salary is paid completely by public school dollars, is certainly not the appropriate person to be a a spokesperson for the "private school community". Every public servant should be aware that when some people say "uncomfortable" what they mean is they want to receive a privilege based on their race, religion or ethnicity. It is the public servant's duty to be a spokesperson for the civil rights of all.
If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired of the destruction of our schools – do something! Contribute to Advocates for Justice, the public interest, non-profit law firm which has filed a class action, civil rights lawsuit on behalf of the parents, students, and taxpayers. Go to www.poweroften.us and click "I want to support the class action lawsuit". – Steven White
Follow up the petition with a phone call
School Board members resign
School Board meeting Tuesday
Please support the class action civil rights lawsuit
1) Please Call Albany:
Thank you to all 4,994 of you who signed the petition asking for a State Oversight Monitor for the East Ramapo Central School District.
A brief summary of the petition campaign is available at http://poweroften.us/petition-for-monitor/
We are asking that you follow up with two phone calls:
The numbers:
(1) The Governor's office: (518) 474-8390 (you will get an answering machine, leave a message)
(2) The Commissioner of Education: 518-474-5844 (this phone is only open during business hours)
What to say:
"I am_____. I live in _______. Please support the appointment of an oversight monitor for the East Ramapo public schools. The public school children need your action before it is too late."
After you call:
Please write a note on the Facebook event page saying you called and what response you got, if any.
2) Suzanne Young-Mercer and Steve Price Resign:
The last two public school supporters on the East Ramapo School Board have resigned from the board.
The reasons that they cite for their resignation are truly eye-opening: http://poweroften.us/news/resignation-letters/
Media coverage of the resignations:
Journal News Editorial
Journal News Story
Newsday Story
3) School Board Meeting TUESDAY NIGHT
4) Please support the class action lawsuit:
Advocates for Justice, a New York based, non-profit, public interest law firm, has filed a class action, civil rights lawsuit on behalf of East Ramapo School District parents, students, and taxpayers.
Advocates for Justice is not charging us a fee for this action, but they are in need of funds to continue this fight. They are asking us to contribute what we can. Monthly amounts are especially helpful (and easier on tight family budgets!)
Be part of the solution, contribute online, or mail a check to:
Advocates for Justice
Now that Stephen Price and Suzanne Young-Mercer have resigned, the remaining seven school board trustees are all members of the yeshiva community. Their lack of transparency and civility to the public is notorious. Now we know that it extended even to fellow board members. The board says they plan to appoint two people to fill the seats. Given the "harassment and intimidation" that were directed at the previous occupants, one would have to question either the independence or the judgment of anyone who would accept the appointment.
The movement for justice in East Ramapo is gaining momentum and moving forward. The school board has been chastised by the NY State Comptroller; it has been rebuked by the Commissioner of Education; it has been found in multiple, repeated violation by NYSED. The NY State Attorney General is looking at their real estate transactions and the US Dept. of Education Civil Rights division is looking at their actions toward minorities, at the request of the NAACP.
Now hundreds of parents, alumni, and taxpayers have come together in an unprecedented class action civil rights lawsuit that will hold accountable those who have violated the public trust. Our case is being heard by the NY State Education Commissioner and by the Federal District Court. The whole community worked hard to build up a great school district, and we will not let it be destroyed by a few greedy men. – Steve White, editor
Justice is coming to East Ramapo … and WE can make it happen!!!
Petition delivered to Albany with 4,994 signers!
Jermaine Paul to sing for King Day at Spring Valley HS
1) Petition delivered to Albany:
On Tuesday, January 15, a group of 18 East Ramapo students, parents and activists headed to Albany to deliver the petition with 4,994 signers to the Commissioner and the Governor asking for a State Oversight Monitor to to take charge of the financial and educational administration of the East Ramapo Central School District.
A brief summary with photos is available at http://poweroften.us/petition-for-monitor/
Thank you to all who signed, commented, forwarded, shared, 'tweeted', and 'liked'.
Over 400 Community members, mostly parents, rallied at the last school board meeting in December to demand that essential programs including Kindergarten, Music and Art be preserved.
Kindergarten is still here, but Music, Art and more have taken big cuts!
Sometimes these meeting can be very long. It is not necessary to stay for the whole meeting. Whether you come early or late, whether you stay for an hour or until the wee hours, you will find other parents, students, and community members there ready to make good use of the time.
We are fighting to save public education, will you join us? We will NOT BE SILENT!!!
4) Jermaine Paul at Spring Valley High:
The Martin Luther King Multipurpose Center is hosting a Celebration of the Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on January 21st from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm.
There are over 50 sponsors and 150 entertainers including Jermaine Paul, the winner of NBC's "the Voice" in 2012.
Jermaine was actually a student at the center when he was young.
The cost is free and snacks will be provided.
Where: Spring Valley HS
When: Monday, January 21st from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm
The Power of Ten is dedicated to providing the info you need about East Ramapo. There are always a lot of rumors and myths being spun about the district and the community it serves. The Power of Ten provides information and analysis that you can use to stay focused and positive about our kids and our schools.
Some examples of info only available on our website:
Did you know that the district, according to its own study, spends $11 million MORE on services to the non-public schools than it receives in taxes from the non-public parents?
Did you know that almost HALF (43%) of our total school budget is paid by the state and federal government, not local taxes?
Did you know that the combined income of East Ramapo residents is greater than any other district in Rockland? And the percent we spend on public education is the least?
Now the Superintendent of schools, has acknowledged in his letter to the commissioner, that it is spending on non-public schools which is driving the deficit and the cuts to public education.
What does all this tell you? The problem is not a lack of funds, it is a lack of JUSTICE. The civil rights of the students are being violated.
That's why we have a class action civil rights lawsuit, that's why the Attorney General is investigating, that's why the Federal Dept of Education Civil Rights division is investigating, that's why the State Comptroller and the State Dept of Education have cited the district many times.
Do not be discouraged. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said "The Arc of the Moral Universe Is Long, but It Bends Toward Justice."
Justice is coming to East Ramapo … and WE can make it happen!!! – Steve White, editor
"Once social change begins, it cannot be reversed. You cannot un-educate the person who has learned to read. You cannot humiliate the person who feels pride. You cannot oppress the people who are not afraid anymore. ― César Chávez
Urgent Update:
Three days left to sign the petition!
We will be delivering the petition in person in Albany on Tuesday January 15.
There are almost 3,400 signers to the petition at www.poweroften.us/petition which was created only 22 days ago. 700 have signed just since the last update! We need just 600 more to make our goal of 4,000.
Please share the petition with all your email contacts, Facebook friends and Twitter followers. If each person reading this message gets just one other person to sign, we will surpass our goal!
There are share buttons for Facebook and Twitter right on the petition. The link to email your friends is www.poweroften.us/petition
This petition is open to anyone who agrees with the message. You do not need to be a resident of East Ramapo to sign.
There is a Facebook event page at: http://www.facebook.com/events/342604792513847/ Clicking "Going" to the event is another great way to show your support and also an easy way to spread the word.
Please confirm your signature: If you have not confirmed already, expect to get a confirmation email for your petition signature. Please add steve@poweroften.us to your "safe sender" list, (aka contact list, friend list or address book) to ensure that the confirmation goes to your inbox.
"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter." – Martin Luther King, Jr.
Over 2,700 people have signed the petition!
Stage set for State takeover
1) Petition for state oversight of East Ramapo now has over 2,700 signers:
There are now over 2,700 signers to the petition at www.poweroften.us/petition which was created only 10 days ago.
Please share the petition with all your email contacts, Facebook friends and Twitter followers. There are share buttons for Facebook and Twitter right on the petition. The link to email your friends is www.poweroften.us/petition
7:00 PM? or 8:00 PM?
The result was that no action was taken, and the kids were back in Kindergarten this week!
Please come to the next meeting this Tuesday.
As of this moment there has been no agenda posted; we don't know what kind of action they plan to take.
Once again, the time for the meeting is not clearly set. They "plan" to go into a private session at 7:00 PM, and "expect" to open the public session at 8:00 PM.
Whether you arrive at 7:00, or 8:00, or somewhere in between, you will find other parents, students, and community members there ready to make good use of the time.
Advocates for Justice is not charging us a fee for this action, but they are in need funds to continue this fight. They are asking us to contribute what we can. Monthly amounts are especially helpful (and easier on tight family budgets!)
4) Stage will be set for State takeover of East Ramapo:
An article in the new Newsday Hudson Valley Edition (sorry it is only available to Newsday or Cablevision customers) is titled "East Ramapo Schools Edge Closer to State Takeover".
Some choice excerpts from the Newsday article:
State education officials on Thursday sent a letter demanding action by the superintendent of the East Ramapo Central School District after the district blew a Jan. 2 deadline for a plan to address its budget deficit. The letter appeared to be an aggressive step toward a state takeover of the district.
"Failure to take the above actions on or before January 16 will result in a commissioner's order to you and the board to comply," State Education Department Deputy Commissioner Ken Slentz wrote. Such an order would set the stage for an immediate state takeover of the district if the order is not obeyed.
Adding to the district's woes, King sent a letter Wednesday — a second letter — citing "concern" over the board's conduct when it voted to sell Colton Elementary School.
Excerpts from The Journal News reporting on the sale of Colton:
Commissioner John King says Anderson didn't "meet her burden of proof" in arguing that the Board of Education sold the building for less than it was worth.
"We have to consider (whether) we will or will not," sell the school, (School District Attorney) D'Agostino said. "… A lot of issues are being addressed there now."
Among the "issues," which D'Agostino declined to discuss, is that Bais Malka has been in arrears on rent payments for months.
The Power of Ten is organized to advocate for the rights of the children who attend the public schools in East Ramapo. These rights include an educational experience that prepares them for college and for the job market; an experience that is rewarding and fulfilling, an experience where they are respected and where they are expected to excel. These rights include the right to live and learn in an environment free of racism, segregation or unequal treatment. The rights of the students are inseparable from the rights of the parents to be heard and listened to.
The goal of these messages is to inform and to inspire. Please do not just read and watch. Get involved. Get all your friends, relatives and co-workers to sign the petition, donate to the non-profit law firm, or come to a meeting. Be the person who is always telling others the truth about what is happening here and what we are doing about it. Justice is coming to East Ramapo … and WE can make it happen!!! – Steve White, editor