I'm an Independent so I don't have a partisan dog in this fight. The reporter has been following FCPS business for years and she is familiar with the players, so I think she has done a good job of letting Bradsher show her true colors. IHO, and having read the Connection for years, I don't see a Dem (or R) slant. Just sayin'. Pat Herrity gets plenty of space in the Connection, so I'm not worried about him getting an opportunity to reply to Brasher. I hope he does.

The main point is not to get distracted: focus on what Bradsher
is quoted saying in the article. I've followed Bradsher's political "career"and she comes off as true to form in this article. She throws fellow Republican Herrity under the bus and wants to become a D? Is that the sort of team player the D's want? Surely they aren't that desperate for someone on the ballot v. Herrity. He will clean her clock and I know that it won't be just R's and I's voting for Herrity if Bradsher is on the ballot.

Gowrath Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Notice that the "Connection" article on Bradsher
> includes no response from Pat Herrity, or even any
> indication that he was contacted by the author to
> seek a response to Bradsher's blather. This comes
> as no surprise. The "Connection" is a left-wing
> publication that is little more than a Democrat
> party mouthpiece. Now that Bradsher is
> reinventing herself as a Democrat, look for this
> rag to do everything it can to rehabilitate her
> currently toxic image --starting with this
> one-sided article.

N-E-V-E-R. FCDC is quite familiar with Liz and there is no love lossed. But just in case, I will vote for Herrity if she runs as a Dem.

tartre Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I'm an Independent so I don't have a partisan dog
> in this fight. The reporter has been following
> FCPS business for years and she is familiar with
> the players, so I think she has done a good job of
> letting Bradsher show her true colors. IHO, and
> having read the Connection for years, I don't see
> a Dem (or R) slant. Just sayin'. Pat Herrity gets
> plenty of space in the Connection, so I'm not
> worried about him getting an opportunity to reply
> to Brasher. I hope he does.
>
> The main point is not to get distracted: focus on
> what Bradsher
> is quoted saying in the article. I've followed
> Bradsher's political "career"and she comes off as
> true to form in this article. She throws fellow
> Republican Herrity under the bus and wants to
> become a D? Is that the sort of team player the
> D's want? Surely they aren't that desperate for
> someone on the ballot v. Herrity. He will clean
> her clock and I know that it won't be just R's and
> I's voting for Herrity if Bradsher is on the
> ballot.

+1

Any publication that interviews Bradsher for attribution does a public service by underscoring how egotistical and ignorant she is.

There's no need to have a partisan slant or bias one way or the other. Just quoting her does the trick.

Dane Bramage Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> UFB Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> >
> > I hope to hell everyone reading and posting on
> > here plans to show up at Luther Jackson tonight
> > and express your opinions to the School Board.
>
> Huge game at the Patriot Center tonight, Mason v
> Northeastern. Love to go to the SB meeting, but
> priorities dictate otherwise.
>
> They won't listen anyway. May as well enjoy a good
> BBall game.

Just tuned in and the room is empty!

Right now it is boring watching the SB meeting. I think MANY in Fairfax are just tired. The SB will never change.

I think that is why you see the SB so happy that so few have shown up at the meeting. If we could just get them to stop laughing. Yuck.

PS I think Jack Dale is getting fat. Ha ha

The SB members really don't think the opinion of the public matters.
Reed, Evans, Hone, and Moon get it.
November can't come fast enough.

Stu's comments.

He doesn't think that PTA's should get involved in boundary studies.

Smith's amendment for all day K's in the receiving schools failed. Can't believe people believed her! She's good at that. I don't think she even voted for the amendment. She will bring it up again in the Spring I guess.

Tessie: Clifton didn't affect boundary study. Only 3 schools are getting kids from Clifton. (Forget about the dominoes--they don't count, I guess.)

How dumb does she really think we are?

Other than Reed and Hone, the SB reps aren't fit to serve me a glass of water.

The sB keeps telling us how much better this process is than the past. IT"S THE SAME! The cosmetics are just different. On paper, it may be better, but the result is terrible. The result is still what they wanted to do in the first place. That's all they care about--trying to convince the public that they had input when they really didn't.

Smith and Bradsher are the most heinous public officials in history.
Gibson makes the triumverate.

They just expelled three more students tonight. Let's hope they do not kill themselves. If so I will blame the SB.

Stu got Fox Mill PTA involved in West County redistricting. Had them conduct a phony survey - "Do you want to all move together, or do you want to split the nieghborhood in half?"

good fiscal steward? Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Smith and Bradsher are the most heinous public
> officials in history.
> Gibson makes the triumverate.


+1

In contract law somebody makes an OFFER and somebody ACCEPTS it and something is exchanged. Liz made an OFFER to become a Board Member to the public and the terms of that contract were that she promoted community schools (remember her campaign?). The public ACCEPTED her offer by voting her in. She receives money for being in that position - the amount is irrelevant (this is what she agreed too).

If this were contract law, she has violated her contract. That is ultimately the core issue is that many people feel.

Something else is that in contract law Silence DOES NOT mean acceptance. People not showing up at the Public Hearing DOES NOT mean they accept this. Also, being silent on the real reason (moving WSHS up the queue by closing Clifton) was not acceptable.

Contract Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> In contract law somebody makes an OFFER and
> somebody ACCEPTS it and something is exchanged.
> Liz made an OFFER to become a Board Member to the
> public and the terms of that contract were that
> she promoted community schools (remember her
> campaign?). The public ACCEPTED her offer by
> voting her in. She receives money for being in
> that position - the amount is irrelevant (this is
> what she agreed too).
>
> If this were contract law, she has violated her
> contract. That is ultimately the core issue is
> that many people feel.
>
> Something else is that in contract law Silence
> DOES NOT mean acceptance. People not showing up
> at the Public Hearing DOES NOT mean they accept
> this. Also, being silent on the real reason
> (moving WSHS up the queue by closing Clifton) was
> not acceptable.

That's kind of awkward. There's no contract here, apart from what could be described as a "social contract." The damages for the breach of the social contract aren't monetary, but rather (one might hope) the loss of her seat on the School Board this November.

Too Much Legal, Please Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------

> That's kind of awkward. There's no contract here,
> apart from what could be described as a "social
> contract." The damages for the breach of the
> social contract aren't monetary, but rather (one
> might hope) the loss of her seat on the School
> Board this November.


Heard she wasn't running. K. Smith has already said she's not either. No way Smith gets any votes from Virginia Run anymore, so she'd be toast anyway. If Bradsher stood a chance, she'd run. She must know the jig is up. Hopefully, the lawsuit can stop any moves until after the new board gets elected and this thing can get the true scrutiny it deserves. No need to rush this. Very mysterious why this had to be done this year. I suspect the building of a new school at the Liberty site has contractors lining someone's pocket(s).

K. Smith is running for re-election. Otherwise her campaign manager, Velkoff, wouldn't be running at large but for the Sully seat instead.

Bradsher has announced that she is not running for re-election but is trying to get into a challenge against Herrity as a Democrat. FCDC will turn down her application. Though she doesn't need to join FCDC to run and win a Democratic primary, especially if no one else files to run in the August primary.

Thomas More Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> K. Smith is running for re-election. Otherwise her
> campaign manager, Velkoff, wouldn't be running at
> large but for the Sully seat instead.
>
> Bradsher has announced that she is not running for
> re-election but is trying to get into a challenge
> against Herrity as a Democrat. FCDC will turn
> down her application. Though she doesn't need to
> join FCDC to run and win a Democratic primary,
> especially if no one else files to run in the
> August primary.

Heard from a couple of teachers that K. Smith has told her staff that she's tired of this and not running. We'll see.

Liz is done Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Heard from a couple of teachers that K. Smith has told her staff that she's tired of this and not running.<

What staff? School board members don't have staff.

But from your keyboard to God's ear.

Thomas More Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Liz is done Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > Heard from a couple of teachers that K. Smith
> has told her staff that she's tired of this and
> not running.<
>
> What staff? School board members don't have
> staff.
>
> But from your keyboard to God's ear.


Just passing along what I've been told. As I said, we'll see soon enough. And I believe that they all have assistants.

They do have assistants. I called and got the assistant.

Kathy for Virginia. Do not give up Kathy you make use proud. Ignore the Clifton folks who dont know enough is enough. You did right for the most children.

Did your school close?. Please STFU.

Ewwww!!!!

You must be on drugs!

Yes Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> They do have assistants. I called and got the
> assistant.

I believe Smith has an ass-is-tant (tant pis, peut-être).

Thanks and au revoir, Charwoman Smith. Leave out the i for indignation.

StartNow Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Kathy for Virginia. Do not give up Kathy you make
> use proud. Ignore the Clifton folks who dont know
> enough is enough. You did right for the most
> children.


You make "use" proud?

That is perfect.

User.
Abuser.
Refuser.
Excuser.
LaaaaUSER.

Kathy,"You did right?"

Truly an inspiring spokesperson, you are.

Kathy you are a lowlife gutter dwelling pig who abused your authority and prostituted your position. Please ignore your ignorant supporters, they are as useless, soulless and stupid as you are.

Yes Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> They do have assistants. I called and got the assistant.<

Assistants are secretaries which the Sb members share; two SBs to a secretary.

"Staff" are folks with substantive ability not clerical duties like secretaries. SB members have no staff.

Does anyone have updates about the subpoena of FCPS school board members?

Any updates? Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Does anyone have updates about the subpoena of
> FCPS school board members?


I have found that www.redapplemom.com seems to be a good place to get really current updates on various things related to FCPS so I signed up to receive their email notifications. This was the most recent email:


Fairfax County Judge Denies Emergency Motion to Quash Subpoenas
Red Apple Mom | February 26, 2011 at 12:18 am

Lawyers duked it out Friday in a pre-trial hearing about allegations that the Fairfax County School Board violated the Open Meetings Law and the Freedom of Information Act.

Round One (Friday) – Determining Who Will Testify:

Attorneys representing FCPS entered the courtroom Friday morning determined to quash the plaintiff’s subpoenas for the full School Board and four FCPS top-level staff to personally appear at the trial next week.

FCPS’ attorney told the judge that the subpoenas amounted to harassment of the School Board, adding that it would be a hardship for School Board members to appear at a day-long trial next week. He stated that School Board is only a part-time position and most Members have jobs.

For a moment, it appeared that FCPS’ attorney had the judge convinced on that point. But then the plaintiff’s attorney spoke saying, “It is up to FCPS to prove this is harassment. It is up to FCPS to prove it is burdensome. He hasn’t said why it is burdensome for them to come when we have juries that sit in that jury box for days.”

That got the judge’s attention. Final decision - the judge said having all 12 School Boards attend the trial was excessive. Only six will appear.

The six School Board members and four FCPS administrators who will appear in court and may be called to testify at next Wednesday’s trial include School Board Members Liz Bradsher, Tessie Wilson, Kathy Smith, Sandy Evans, Tina Hone, Patty Reed and Jim Rainey. The FCPS Staff witnesses are: Dean Tistadt-Chief Operating Officer, Paul Regnier-Communications Spokesman , Pam Goddard-Clerk to the School Board, and Sara Kolb-Communications Department.

updates Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Any updates? Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > Does anyone have updates about the subpoena of
> > FCPS school board members?
>
>
> I have found that www.redapplemom.com seems to be
> a good place to get really current updates on
> various things related to FCPS so I signed up to
> receive their email notifications. This was the
> most recent email:
>
>
> Fairfax County Judge Denies Emergency Motion to
> Quash Subpoenas
> Red Apple Mom | February 26, 2011 at 12:18 am
>
> Lawyers duked it out Friday in a pre-trial hearing
> about allegations that the Fairfax County School
> Board violated the Open Meetings Law and the
> Freedom of Information Act.
>
> Round One (Friday) – Determining Who Will
> Testify:
>
> Attorneys representing FCPS entered the courtroom
> Friday morning determined to quash the
> plaintiff’s subpoenas for the full School Board
> and four FCPS top-level staff to personally appear
> at the trial next week.
>
> FCPS’ attorney told the judge that the subpoenas
> amounted to harassment of the School Board, adding
> that it would be a hardship for School Board
> members to appear at a day-long trial next week.
> He stated that School Board is only a part-time
> position and most Members have jobs.
>
> For a moment, it appeared that FCPS’ attorney
> had the judge convinced on that point. But then
> the plaintiff’s attorney spoke saying, “It is
> up to FCPS to prove this is harassment. It is up
> to FCPS to prove it is burdensome. He hasn’t
> said why it is burdensome for them to come when we
> have juries that sit in that jury box for
> days.”
>
> That got the judge’s attention. Final decision
> - the judge said having all 12 School Boards
> attend the trial was excessive. Only six will
> appear.
>
> The six School Board members and four FCPS
> administrators who will appear in court and may be
> called to testify at next Wednesday’s trial
> include School Board Members Liz Bradsher, Tessie
> Wilson, Kathy Smith, Sandy Evans, Tina Hone, Patty
> Reed and Jim Rainey. The FCPS Staff witnesses
> are: Dean Tistadt-Chief Operating Officer, Paul
> Regnier-Communications Spokesman , Pam
> Goddard-Clerk to the School Board, and Sara
> Kolb-Communications Department.


Here is the link with all of the recent events and email signup.
http://redapplemom.wordpress.com/

Thank you to all the people who are working on this.

Finding it very hard to be sympathetic to school board members who would claim this is a hardship to show up. If they would have been kept their conduct clean and ETHICAL, and then this would not have happened. If this is what it takes, so be it.

Lovely and ethical conduct by the School Board about a perfectly polite and respectful request from a leader in the Clifton community.


-----------------------------------
From: Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member) [jtwilson@fcps.edu]
To: Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member)
CC:
BCC:
Sent: 6/1/2010 2:21:33 PM
Subject: FW: SW Regional Planning Study Committee/Clifton Elem


These people are relentless. Do you want to meet with them?

Tessie Wilson
Vice Chairman
School Board Member
Braddock District
-----Original Message-----
From: Patti Hopkins
Sent: Tuesday, June 01, 2010 1:28 PM
To: Partlow, Kathy
Cc: Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member)
Subject: RE: SW Regional Planning Study Committee/Clifton Elem

Thank you Kathy.

I would like to then go ahead and get on her calendar for some time during the third or fourth week of June when she may have more availability. I can meet her at Gatehouse, or an alternate site of her convenience.

Patti Hopkins
---- "Partlow wrote:
Hi Patti,

I spoke with Tessie and unfortunately her calendar is "jammed" for the first two weeks in June. Tessie asked me to let you know that during the June 10, 2010 meeting, the SW Regional Planning Study Committee will be announced as an action item only, there will not be a vote. The vote will take place in July, 2010, so hopefully there will be a chance for you to meet with Tessie before then..

Kathy Partlow
Executive Administrative Assistant to:
Tessie Wilson, Vice Chairman Braddock District
Brad Center, Lee District
Tina Hone, Member At Large
Phone: 571-423-1064
Fax: 571-423-1067


-----Original Message-----
From: Patti Hopkins
Sent: Thursday, May 27, 2010 1:53 PM
To: Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member); Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member)
Cc: Kinney, Joann V.; Partlow, Kathy; Shimer, Andrea
Subject: SW Regional Planning Study Committee/Clifton Elem


Ms Smith and Ms Wilson,


I am trying to coordinate a meeting with you both and 2-3 folks from the Clifton Elementary School community the first week of June. We would like to discuss the findings of the SW Regional Planning Study Committee and the potential impact those findings will have on Clifton Elementary School and the community. I have been working with Joanne and Kathy to find some time in your schedules. If the first week of June won't work for you then I will ask for the second week but definitely before the June 10 meeting.


In order to expedite our wish to meet with all School Board members I am hoping we can find a date and time that works for everyone. The members of the Clifton community can meet you at Gatehouse or an alternate location that may be more convenient for you.

Thank you,

Patti Hopkins
PTA President
Clifton Elementary School

Clearly, it is way too much trouble for school board members like Liz and Tessie to have to actually LISTEN to the people they represent. Far easier to just follow their own ill-planned agenda!

Mommy Lion Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Lovely and ethical conduct by the School Board
> about a perfectly polite and respectful request
> from a leader in the Clifton community.
>
>
> -----------------------------------
> From: Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member)
> To: Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member)
> CC:
> BCC:
> Sent: 6/1/2010 2:21:33 PM
> Subject: FW: SW Regional Planning Study
> Committee/Clifton Elem
>
>
> These people are relentless. Do you want to meet
> with them?
>
> Tessie Wilson
> Vice Chairman
> School Board Member
> Braddock District
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Patti Hopkins
> Sent: Tuesday, June 01, 2010 1:28 PM
> To: Partlow, Kathy
> Cc: Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member)
> Subject: RE: SW Regional Planning Study
> Committee/Clifton Elem
>
> Thank you Kathy.
>
> I would like to then go ahead and get on her
> calendar for some time during the third or fourth
> week of June when she may have more availability.
> I can meet her at Gatehouse, or an alternate site
> of her convenience.
>
> Patti Hopkins
> ---- "Partlow wrote:
> Hi Patti,
>
> I spoke with Tessie and unfortunately her
> calendar is "jammed" for the first two weeks in
> June. Tessie asked me to let you know that during
> the June 10, 2010 meeting, the SW Regional
> Planning Study Committee will be announced as an
> action item only, there will not be a vote. The
> vote will take place in July, 2010, so hopefully
> there will be a chance for you to meet with Tessie
> before then..
>
> Kathy Partlow
> Executive Administrative Assistant to:
> Tessie Wilson, Vice Chairman Braddock District
> Brad Center, Lee District
> Tina Hone, Member At Large
> Phone: 571-423-1064
> Fax: 571-423-1067
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Patti Hopkins
> Sent: Thursday, May 27, 2010 1:53 PM
> To: Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member); Wilson,
> Tessie (School Board Member)
> Cc: Kinney, Joann V.; Partlow, Kathy; Shimer,
> Andrea
> Subject: SW Regional Planning Study
> Committee/Clifton Elem
>
>
> Ms Smith and Ms Wilson,
>
>
> I am trying to coordinate a meeting with you both
> and 2-3 folks from the Clifton Elementary School
> community the first week of June. We would like to
> discuss the findings of the SW Regional Planning
> Study Committee and the potential impact those
> findings will have on Clifton Elementary School
> and the community. I have been working with Joanne
> and Kathy to find some time in your schedules. If
> the first week of June won't work for you then I
> will ask for the second week but definitely before
> the June 10 meeting.
>
>
> In order to expedite our wish to meet with all
> School Board members I am hoping we can find a
> date and time that works for everyone. The members
> of the Clifton community can meet you at Gatehouse
> or an alternate location that may be more
> convenient for you.
>
> Thank you,
>
> Patti Hopkins
> PTA President
> Clifton Elementary School


These e-mails make me angry. Kathy Smith, Tessie Wilson and Liz Bradsher are idiots who have no business being on the School Board and should never hold any elected office again.

Who the hell do they think they are? We should never have paid them one damn cent to allow them to indulge in their silly "Mean Girl" fantasies.

I am so glad that they will all be GONE in November.

> These e-mails make me angry. Kathy Smith, Tessie
> Wilson and Liz Bradsher are idiots who have no
> business being on the School Board and should
> never hold any elected office again.
>
> Who the hell do they think they are? We should
> never have paid them one damn cent to allow them
> to indulge in their silly "Mean Girl" fantasies.
>
> I am so glad that they will all be GONE in
> November.

Too much trouble to meet with the people they are supposed to work for. It is so disturbing to read these. November can not come soon enough.

Yes - disgusting Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Too much trouble to meet with the people they are
> supposed to work for. It is so disturbing to read
> these. November can not come soon enough.

It seemed the correspondence from Patti Hopkins was very polite and respectful - far more than Bradsher, Smith and Wilson deserved at that point.

You saw the same BS at the last SB meeting, when Kathy Smith tried to shout down the parents who applauded after Patty Reed spoke. She literally could not stand the idea of any dissension.

She has "sully'd" the position of School Board chair, that's for sure.

What about ole Liz becoming a democrat and running against Herrity?

Tessie is the ugliest person I have ever encountered. Her picture should be on a planned parenthood poster with the tag, "You could have one that looks like this!"

Trademark Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> What about ole Liz becoming a democrat and running against Herrity?<

Her application was tabled last month when one of her allies could count the house and saw it would be defeated.

The Springfield Democrats meets again on 3/1 at the Pohick Library. The meeting is open to the public, though only FCDC members can speak. It will be interesting to see if the application even comes up.

Even if Springfield approves, it still has to be approved by the entire FCDC membership on March 22 at Chantilly High.

Even if her application is withdrawn or denied, she could still seek the Democratic nomination in the August primary and, if no one else runs for the nomination, she could get the Democratic nomination for the Springfield Supervisor without belonging to FCDC.

Thomas More Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Trademark Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > What about ole Liz becoming a democrat and
> running against Herrity?<
>
> Her application was tabled last month when one of
> her allies could count the house and saw it would
> be defeated.
>
> The Springfield Democrats meets again on 3/1 at
> the Pohick Library. The meeting is open to the
> public, though only FCDC members can speak. It
> will be interesting to see if the application even
> comes up.
>
> Even if Springfield approves, it still has to be
> approved by the entire FCDC membership on March 22
> at Chantilly High.
>
> Even if her application is withdrawn or denied,
> she could still seek the Democratic nomination in
> the August primary and, if no one else runs for
> the nomination, she could get the Democratic
> nomination for the Springfield Supervisor without
> belonging to FCDC.


Seems like Bradsher was given a lot of rooom to do the right thing, even by Clifton supporters.
Why slam PTA pres?
Who is Robertroy and why send Schultz email to him?
Guess Bradsher was given just enough rope.

Great use of Bradsher's own message as a reminder but looks like it fell on deaf ears.
Attachments:

Stu's op-ed

http://reston.patch.com/articles/fec-right-initials-wrong-name

response by some "common sense" school board members:

http://reston.patch.com/articles/gibsons-criticism-without-merit

Oh Oh - now trashing Clerk of Court? Lovely team players, they are.

Sneak a peek and Lookie what you get behind Curtain #1, FCDC - you sure you want the loser prize?

___________________________________
From: Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member) [jtwilson@fcps.edu]
Sent: 6/19/2010 11:09:57 AM
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Subject: RE: Concerned Community Member: Fairfax County School Board's Southwestern Regional Planning Study

You hang in there girl – and hopefully you are NOT going to John Frey’s fundraiser this weekend.

Tessie Wilson
Vice Chairman
School Board Member
Braddock District
________________________________________
From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Saturday, June 19, 2010 9:51 AM
To: School Board Members; Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member)
Cc: Herrity, Pat
Subject: RE: Concerned Community Member: Fairfax County School Board's Southwestern Regional Planning Study

I will reply to this as the affected School Board member.

E. Bradsher
Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070

________________________________________
From: Elizabeth Rouleau
Sent: Saturday, June 19, 2010 9:24 AM
To: School Board Members; Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member); Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member)
Cc: Herrity, Pat
Subject: Concerned Community Member: Fairfax County School Board's Southwestern Regional Planning Study

Fairfax County School Board Members,

I am writing as a voter, a parent, and a concerned community member regarding the proposed Planning Study changes the FCPS board in considering. This entire action must be stopped! Rational, logical, and minimally evasive solutions are available and need to be implemented to address what is really a small, contained issue that the board has artificially expanded for ulterior motives. I am adamantly opposed to this redistricting plan and I'm writing to express my deep displeasure and opposition to your conclusion, methods, and intent.

This plan to redistrict Clifton, Union Mill, Liberty and the Little Rocky Run (LRR) community is frankly unbelievable. You are taking away something we bought; a neighborhood. The exact reasons why we purchased a home here. And for what? A problem that doesn't exist in this neighborhood. I spent hours researching what neighborhood, schools, and features I wanted when we moved here to LRR four years ago from Michigan. If problems exist in other schools and neighborhoods, those people have the same information and resources available to them to make a determination of where they want to live. And what did the school board do when they saw the housing units being built in the affected areas? Nothing. Now you are making the entire SW area of Fairfax pay for your inaction. You are proposing to diminish the value of my home, my neighborhood, and my community for what basically comes down to an artificial overcrowding problem of your published figure of 1520 students. Instead, you have decided to impact over 20,000 students and their families. I find this selfish, morally inexcusable, incompetent, and completely against the community that elected you. Deal with the problem straight on, in the immediate area of the problem; don't spread it around, call it something else, or make the entire SW area pay for your lack of planning and action.

During the last nine months, I attended at least four meetings of the planning group. They worked hard, developed many alternatives, and recommendations. Yet, NOT ONE of their recommendations were accepted by the board. Is this all window dressing? I thought of that when I attended the first meeting. Dress it up, say we got the community involved, and ignore them. Not one recommendation???? Obviously, your minds were made up. I haven't spoken to any parent, anywhere in this area, that agrees with your recommendation. NOT ONE. Where is your accountability to the community that elected you? What is your real motive? I don't appreciate being a pawn in this and it is demeaning to all those concerned parents, voters, and community members who spent time, in good faith, to find a viable, rationale, mininal evasive solution that retains neighborhoods. It is a basic tenant of why people buy/rent homes where they do. The community is telling you they don't agree with your recommendation. So where is your accountability to me, a taxpayer, parent, voter, and community member to stand up and support the neighborhood I chose to live in and answer to us. Simpler, more effective solutions exist. PLEASE RECONSIDER YOUR RECOMMENDATION and CHOOSE ANOTHER THAT HELPS ADDRESS THE ISSUES ONLY IN THE AREAS WHERE THEY EXIST. DON'T DESTROY OUR UM/LRR/LIBERTY/CVHS NEIGHBORHOOD. Furthermore, why do you continue to taut this recommendation when there isn't even support in the areas where the worst overcrowding exists???? There is NO COMMUNITY CONSENSUS to do this. ANYWHERE!

This is the neighborhood we chose to live in. The way it is, with the school and community feel that was reflected in the value of our home. Our family and neighbors are opposed to this action. Please reconsider the alternative solutions presented to you. Better yet, put it up for community vote, just like we get a choice when we elect our community officials or vote to approve a bond drive. Please listen to us and let us have a say in our communities.

Thank you,
Elizabeth Rouleau

The former letter has the big question WHAT IS THE MOTIVE? I think there are a few puzzle pieces missing in this whole process. There must be money moving around somewhere. This whole thing makes no sense.

E-Mailed comparisons received from a friend.

Someone took a lot of time and if these are true, spell bad news for facilities projections FCPS sold to public.
Attachments:

Elizabeth Rouleau's email is pure BS.

This is FC PUBLIC SCHOOLS

not FC PRIVATE SCHOOLS

and if you have a problem with how ur school is zoned..move to private. Boundary changes have been going for ever ( yeah, dont give me that this is the largest change ever, crap - every boundary change is the largest, if u are involved in it - and I have been)

Hundreds of families have been impacted by boundary changes, over the past few years..this is a fact for a fast growing community like FCPS, Loundoun.

bs Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Elizabeth Rouleau's email is pure BS.
>
> This is FC PUBLIC SCHOOLS
>
> not FC PRIVATE SCHOOLS
>
> and if you have a problem with how ur school is
> zoned..move to private. Boundary changes have been
> going for ever ( yeah, dont give me that this is
> the largest change ever, crap - every boundary
> change is the largest, if u are involved in it -
> and I have been)
>
> Hundreds of families have been impacted by
> boundary changes, over the past few years..this is
> a fact for a fast growing community like FCPS,
> Loundoun.


It's too bad that the number of people that are expecting to use the public schools aren't actually paying into them. The ones that are paying into them are now getting SCREWED. That is the real issue.

Issue Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> bs Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > Elizabeth Rouleau's email is pure BS.
> >
> > This is FC PUBLIC SCHOOLS
> >
> > not FC PRIVATE SCHOOLS
> >
> > and if you have a problem with how ur school is
> > zoned..move to private. Boundary changes have
> been
> > going for ever ( yeah, dont give me that this
> is
> > the largest change ever, crap - every boundary
> > change is the largest, if u are involved in it
> -
> > and I have been)
> >
> > Hundreds of families have been impacted by
> > boundary changes, over the past few years..this
> is
> > a fact for a fast growing community like FCPS,
> > Loundoun.
>
>
> It's too bad that the number of people that are
> expecting to use the public schools aren't
> actually paying into them. The ones that are
> paying into them are now getting SCREWED. That
> is the real issue.

I meant to say increasing number. Why do you think the number in this particular area suddenly GREW in the last couple of years? Coincidence - I think not, but nobody is going to discuss that. We are all going to bend over backwards paying our taxes while other people who aren't paying their taxes siphon off our resources (like the schools). Then when there aren't enough resources to go around like now, people are going to make us try and sound like we are looking for privileged treatment. Sorry. For those of us that actually pay taxes, we should be able to have an opinion about where our kids attend school.

Issue Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Issue Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > bs Wrote:
> >
> --------------------------------------------------
>
> > -----
> > > Elizabeth Rouleau's email is pure BS.
> > >
> > > This is FC PUBLIC SCHOOLS
> > >
> > > not FC PRIVATE SCHOOLS
> > >
> > > and if you have a problem with how ur school
> is
> > > zoned..move to private. Boundary changes have
> > been
> > > going for ever ( yeah, dont give me that this
> > is
> > > the largest change ever, crap - every
> boundary
> > > change is the largest, if u are involved in
> it
> > -
> > > and I have been)
> > >
> > > Hundreds of families have been impacted by
> > > boundary changes, over the past few
> years..this
> > is
> > > a fact for a fast growing community like
> FCPS,
> > > Loundoun.
> >
> >
> > It's too bad that the number of people that are
> > expecting to use the public schools aren't
> > actually paying into them. The ones that are
> > paying into them are now getting SCREWED.
> That
> > is the real issue.
>
> I meant to say increasing number. Why do you
> think the number in this particular area suddenly
> GREW in the last couple of years? Coincidence -
> I think not, but nobody is going to discuss that.
> We are all going to bend over backwards paying our
> taxes while other people who aren't paying their
> taxes siphon off our resources (like the schools).
> Then when there aren't enough resources to go
> around like now, people are going to make us try
> and sound like we are looking for privileged
> treatment. Sorry. For those of us that actually
> pay taxes, we should be able to have an opinion
> about where our kids attend school.


NOW we are getting somewhere. It's the facilities use, moving OUR money, and the plain fact that the SB would love for us to go to private schools. Funding remains from local sources as accountability dissolves. The charter school issue? Well notice the SB has written policies that head off this option.
Who are we funding? Is this demographic funded from additional sources? Hmmmm.....

Here are some reasons why my children shouldn't have to go to private school.

1. We actually pay the taxes for them that allows for the public schools. In fact, for many, many, many years, our family has been paying the taxes. GENERATIONS of FULL TAXES.

2. My children are American citizens. When they get older and if there is a war, they will be forced into the military via selective service and could lose their lives because they are LEGAL American citizens. They won't get to stay in the US and not have to fight or jump back over a border when it gets uncomfortable living here because they were too LAZY to become legal. And yes, I call it LAZY. There is a path for becoming legal which many people do all the time. Some people simply choose not too. If my children may someday have to pay a sacrifice for this country than they should be prioritized in receiving the benefits that we have paid for which includes the PUBLIC schools.

3. Part of the problem with the funding for the schools is the School Board's inability to cut Admin costs. Why should my children have to go to private school because of a lack of proper management and fiscal oversight? This crap about now trying to push kids into private schools is just another way for the School Board and FCPS Admin to not have to be fiscally responsible. It's sickening.

Enough already. If you moved every illegal immigrant out of Fairfax County tomorrow, our schools wouldn't be overcrowded, the hospitals wouldn't have such waits and traffic wouldn't be as bad. If FCPS trimmed the fact and the School Board actually exhibited leadership instead of just doing whatever the staff asks of them, than we wouldn't even be having any of these discussions.

Has anyone ever done an analysis of how much these studies cost?
Think about it:

staff hours/is there overtime? probably
public meetings--staff time, facilitators, custodians, etc.
paper print outs for the meetings
consultants? or is it all done in house?

I'm sure there is more. Please feel free to add to the list.

Maybe this is why boundary studies or so popular in FCPS.

Please see Ms. Bradsher's explanation in red. How can they save the $1+ million dollard in salaries if they aren't planning on letting Clifton teachers and staff go?
Attachments:

Wow, is Liz stupid. Did she really think all the staff from Clifton would disappear? No wonder our schools are failing our children.

That letter hits the crux of the problem on the head. Clifton is a community filled with self entitled whiners complaining because of a perceived drop in the value of their houses.

Can't wait until the run down shack gets plowed under and the asbestos goes flying up in your backyards.

Totally understand Herrity's support too, since he lives in LRR. Self interest. He needs to be booted.

sha na na na, hey hey, good-bye


Frying Frey too? Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
________________________________________
> From: Elizabeth Rouleau
> Sent: Saturday, June 19, 2010 9:24 AM
> To: School Board Members; Bradsher, Elizabeth
> (School Board Member); Smith, Kathy L (School
> Board Member)
> Cc: Herrity, Pat
> Subject: Concerned Community Member: Fairfax
> County School Board's Southwestern Regional
> Planning Study
>
> Fairfax County School Board Members,
>
> I am writing as a voter, a parent, and a concerned
> community member regarding the proposed Planning
> Study changes the FCPS board in considering. This
> entire action must be stopped! Rational, logical,
> and minimally evasive solutions are available and
> need to be implemented to address what is really a
> small, contained issue that the board has
> artificially expanded for ulterior motives. I am
> adamantly opposed to this redistricting plan and
> I'm writing to express my deep displeasure and
> opposition to your conclusion, methods, and
> intent.
>
> This plan to redistrict Clifton, Union Mill,
> Liberty and the Little Rocky Run (LRR) community
> is frankly unbelievable. You are taking away
> something we bought; a neighborhood. The exact
> reasons why we purchased a home here. And for
> what? A problem that doesn't exist in this
> neighborhood. I spent hours researching what
> neighborhood, schools, and features I wanted when
> we moved here to LRR four years ago from Michigan.
> If problems exist in other schools and
> neighborhoods, those people have the same
> information and resources available to them to
> make a determination of where they want to live.
> And what did the school board do when they saw the
> housing units being built in the affected areas?
> Nothing. Now you are making the entire SW area of
> Fairfax pay for your inaction. You are proposing
> to diminish the value of my home, my neighborhood,
> and my community for what basically comes down to
> an artificial overcrowding problem of your
> published figure of 1520 students. Instead, you
> have decided to impact over 20,000 students and
> their families. I find this selfish, morally
> inexcusable, incompetent, and completely against
> the community that elected you. Deal with the
> problem straight on, in the immediate area of the
> problem; don't spread it around, call it something
> else, or make the entire SW area pay for your lack
> of planning and action.
>
> During the last nine months, I attended at least
> four meetings of the planning group. They worked
> hard, developed many alternatives, and
> recommendations. Yet, NOT ONE of their
> recommendations were accepted by the board. Is
> this all window dressing? I thought of that when I
> attended the first meeting. Dress it up, say we
> got the community involved, and ignore them. Not
> one recommendation???? Obviously, your minds were
> made up. I haven't spoken to any parent, anywhere
> in this area, that agrees with your
> recommendation. NOT ONE. Where is your
> accountability to the community that elected you?
> What is your real motive? I don't appreciate
> being a pawn in this and it is demeaning to all
> those concerned parents, voters, and community
> members who spent time, in good faith, to find a
> viable, rationale, mininal evasive solution that
> retains neighborhoods. It is a basic tenant of
> why people buy/rent homes where they do. The
> community is telling you they don't agree with
> your recommendation. So where is your
> accountability to me, a taxpayer, parent, voter,
> and community member to stand up and support the
> neighborhood I chose to live in and answer to us.
> Simpler, more effective solutions exist. PLEASE
> RECONSIDER YOUR RECOMMENDATION and CHOOSE ANOTHER
> THAT HELPS ADDRESS THE ISSUES ONLY IN THE AREAS
> WHERE THEY EXIST. DON'T DESTROY OUR
> UM/LRR/LIBERTY/CVHS NEIGHBORHOOD. Furthermore,
> why do you continue to taut this recommendation
> when there isn't even support in the areas where
> the worst overcrowding exists???? There is NO
> COMMUNITY CONSENSUS to do this. ANYWHERE!
>
> This is the neighborhood we chose to live in. The
> way it is, with the school and community feel that
> was reflected in the value of our home. Our
> family and neighbors are opposed to this action.
> Please reconsider the alternative solutions
> presented to you. Better yet, put it up for
> community vote, just like we get a choice when we
> elect our community officials or vote to approve a
> bond drive. Please listen to us and let us have a
> say in our communities.
>
> Thank you,
> Elizabeth Rouleau

me me me! Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> That letter hits the crux of the problem on the
> head. Clifton is a community filled with self
> entitled whiners complaining because of a
> perceived drop in the value of their houses.
>
> Can't wait until the run down shack gets plowed
> under and the asbestos goes flying up in your
> backyards.
>
> Totally understand Herrity's support too, since he
> lives in LRR. Self interest. He needs to be
> booted.
>
> sha na na na, hey hey, good-bye
>
Numb-Nuts, everyone knows that Little Rocky Run is in Centreville and their kids do not attend CES. So why are you ragging on Clifton for something a Centreville person wrote? Mrs. Bradsher is that you?

you you you Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> me me me! Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > That letter hits the crux of the problem on the
> > head. Clifton is a community filled with self
> > entitled whiners complaining because of a
> > perceived drop in the value of their houses.
> >
> > Can't wait until the run down shack gets plowed
> > under and the asbestos goes flying up in your
> > backyards.
> >
> > Totally understand Herrity's support too, since
> he
> > lives in LRR. Self interest. He needs to be
> > booted.
> >
> > sha na na na, hey hey, good-bye
> >
> Numb-Nuts, everyone knows that Little Rocky Run
> is in Centreville and their kids do not attend
> CES. So why are you ragging on Clifton for
> something a Centreville person wrote? Mrs.
> Bradsher is that you?


It's the same troll who comes in here and tries to act like there is a groundswell of support for this. The board members from the western districts know they are in trouble. How many will drop out and not even take a chance in running? This fool used to talk about how Bradsher was a shoo-in for reelection. Now that Bradsher is looking to move on, we get crickets. Probably some kathy Smith suck up. As long as they don't start demolishing CES before January, the new board will stop all this nonsense and do a true alignment. We just have to hold on till then. The current board is doomed.

you you you Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> >
> Numb-Nuts, everyone knows that Little Rocky Run
> is in Centreville and their kids do not attend
> CES. So why are you ragging on Clifton for
> something a Centreville person wrote? Mrs.
> Bradsher is that you?

Your a dumb ass.

Little Rocky Run Home Owners Association
6201 Sandstone Way,

Clifton

VA 20124-2468

me me me Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> you you you Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > >
> > Numb-Nuts, everyone knows that Little Rocky
> Run
> > is in Centreville and their kids do not attend
> > CES. So why are you ragging on Clifton for
> > something a Centreville person wrote? Mrs.
> > Bradsher is that you?
>
> Your a dumb ass.
>
> Little Rocky Run Home Owners Association
> 6201 Sandstone Way, Clifton VA 20124-2468


I agree with you, you, you that you are a numb-nuts. Everyone knows LRR is "really" in centreville but the developer managed to get a clifton mailing address to make it more desireable.

Isn't Clifton really just East Manassas Park?

any word from the springfield democratic meeting tonight, concerning Bradsher's application for turning democratic?

"She's turning democratic, yeah, she's turning democratic, yeah, I think so"

me me me Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> you you you Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > >
> > Numb-Nuts, everyone knows that Little Rocky
> Run
> > is in Centreville and their kids do not attend
> > CES. So why are you ragging on Clifton for
> > something a Centreville person wrote? Mrs.
> > Bradsher is that you?
>
> Your a dumb ass.
>
> Little Rocky Run Home Owners Association
> 6201 Sandstone Way, Clifton VA 20124-2468


You're is the correct contraction for you are. Me, me, me, your post consist of a sentence that contains four simple words and you can't even do that right.

Who is the dumb ass?

That was a pretty pathetic representation of the LRR Home Owners Association. Another reminder why we need to keep our community schools open!

Liz Bradsher spent an hour on witness stand today.


She "doesn't remember e-mailing people"

She "can't define what a conversation is or is not."

Wait for it - - ->

She doesn't know how many people are on the School Board.

->Really. Not kidding. REALLY. Testified under oath that she "doesn't know how many School Board Members there are" - you couldn't make this up if you tried.

Terribly funny, and scary too. Liz Bradsher has NO SHAME. It's disgusting that she imagines herself to value education and be a school board representative.

How many people even still support her? Is Dean Tisdadt still an ardent admirer? What's Dean's interest in all this?

Drunks cannot remember shit.

BREAKING NEWS FROM COURT Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Liz Bradsher spent an hour on witness stand
> today.
>
>
> She "doesn't remember e-mailing people"
>
> She "can't define what a conversation is or is
> not."
>
> Wait for it - - ->
>
> She doesn't know how many people are on the School
> Board.
>
> ->Really. Not kidding. REALLY. Testified under
> oath that she "doesn't know how many School Board
> Members there are" - you couldn't make this up if
> you tried.


Always wondered if she has multiple personalities. Maybe they were questioning the wrong one? Maybe the other one will show up later.

BREAKING NEWS FROM COURT Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Liz Bradsher spent an hour on witness stand
> today.
>
>
> She "doesn't remember e-mailing people"
>
> She "can't define what a conversation is or is
> not."
>
> Wait for it - - ->
>
> She doesn't know how many people are on the School
> Board.
>
> ->Really. Not kidding. REALLY. Testified under
> oath that she "doesn't know how many School Board
> Members there are" - you couldn't make this up if
> you tried.


Bet she can recite the VA ABC store's price list from memory.

Bet she can recite the VA ABC store's price list from memory.


Wrong-she buys her booze in DC- remember?

Are there any more detailed summaries of the hearing testimony available? Transcripts?

Not that I feel sorry for her, since she brought this situation upon herself, but if Liz Bradsher really denied under oath recalling that she sent e-mails or how many School Board members there are, I hope she's lawyered-up.

People have been indicted for giving testimony under oath that prosecutors simply did not believe was credible.

Should be interesting to watch this play out.

As I reread these emails from Bradsher lending motive to her actions to close Clifton, I wonder what the 2011 bond referendum will look like....

When is it released?


From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Wednesday, June 30, 2010 8:37 AM
To: Raney, Jim (School Board Member)
Cc: Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member); Dale, Jack; Tistadt, Dean
Subject: Re: Additional Question Re: Closing Clifton ES

There are about 11 or 12 schools moved up on the queue for the 2011 bond and others will feel the bump. One of them being West Springfield HS which could be placed on the 2011 bond instead of 2013. This would help this school tremendously since projections indicate they are looking at being 350 over capacity in 3-4 (some of this BRAC induced) years and are over today by 130+ students with classes in the hallway!

One of my core issues is: How can we spend the $ for such a renovation for so few students when we have needier situations? It is not prudent and I don't see any state senators, delegates and supervisors helping these schools that await funding and have such needs. I don't see them helping out the other communities that will have the pain and burden of changing boundaries.

Basically Jim, Clifton protests too much, as Shakespeare would say. I live adjacent to Clifton, I see what is taking place, I see the twisting of the issue.

What you didn't hear this week is most parents drive their children to school at Clifton because they don't like the busride and they have problems with the parking lot, what was not said was a good portion of the population lives closer to Willow Springs, Fairview, Oak View, Sangster and even Silverbrook. What you don't know is they had an opportunity to attend Centreville HS when it first opened but vehemently fought that to stay in Robinson which is much farther for many residents. Lake Braddock and South County are closer. The demographics of these schools differ and it was not what the community wanted. What many don't know is these students at Clifton join leagues in Centreville, Chantilly, and a large portion go to Burke and Braddock Road Youth, I know this because, yes, I am a soccer mom or was! What is not known is the Fairview, Sangster and Lake Braddock buses pass many of the bus stops for these Clifton students, closer to 123. What some members don't get is many communities like mine are assigned to different elementary schools and despite this WE LIVE and our kids actually do OK!

We have spent months on this issue and I know what this county was and have seen it change through my XX years! All our communities have felt these changes. Clifton lobbied for less density for years, they did not want sewer. Well, their efforts worked and now building in that area is minimal. Five acre lots, no sidewalks, no real business or commerce. This decison has resulted in no growth, a decline if you will. This has impacted the school. The school is no more historic than Virginia Hills, Graham Rd and others that have been closed. I would argue the Burke School and Mountain View might be considered historic and are now alternative schools.

Now there are schools surrounding the Clifton area and Clifton ES similar to Burke and Mountain View. These schools can serve the Clifton residents. Should we continue to operate a school when we know there are other worthwhile alternatives? Should we allocate such expense for so few students?

Again, this is my area and home if you will. I am ready to make the difficult decision and realize in doing so my days as an elected representative will be over. However, I will be able to sleep at night. I believe there is a bigger picture here and for me this decision is about the bigger picture.
Liz

-----Original Message-----
From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Monday, June 21, 2010 11:55 PM
To: Tistadt, Dean
Cc: Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member); Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member)
Subject: FW: Three Things

Check this out... note the spin and this idea about WSHS taking Clifton's place on the CIP, this is Herrity's spin. He took my comments about the CIP and the queue last night and spun it. I was waiting to see how he would spin it and this is it.
Liz
Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070


#1. Liz sends an email to Tessie and Kathy which is an open violation of open meetings laws.

#2 Didn't Liz say in the earlier email that West Springfield would be advanced? So why is she saying herrity is spinning it?

From: karicmeyer@juno.com [karicmeyer@juno.com]
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
CC:
BCC:
Sent: 4/20/2010 11:13:24 PM
Subject: Re: FW: RE: Admissions- TJ

Attachments:
FW_ RE_ Admissions- TJ.msg


Dear Liz,

Thank you for your note, It was great to talk to you last night and understand more of your perspective on the Clifton/crowding issue. I agree with many of your points and I get where you are coming from--given the cost, it is hard to justify a renovation. I am a member of the Clifton community; however, I have not had kids at Clifton for 3 years because they attend the GT program at Willow Springs. As a parent at Willow Springs, I would not want the issues of Clifton’s renovation to interfere with a good decision around alleviating over crowding where it exists. If we don’t renovate Clifton and we build on a site (Liberty or elsewhere) close to Clifton in order to accommodate those kids, we then create extensive boundary changes to fill the new school. Hence, it may be better to swallow the expense of Clifton and build in an appropriate location. Sometimes the right decision for the longer term costs more but creates less community upset as a whole. Just a thought. It’s a tough and complex issue, I know.

Whatever the case, you have done a great job in allowing the community to be involved. I was at a volunteer lunch at school today and had a lively discussion with several parents over these issues. I am thrilled that my parents are engaged!! They are starting to know what’s going on and some have attended the meetings. Thank you for creating a way for people to be informed.

On TJ, wow! You are exposing a huge issue and the numbers show it. I applaud your willingness to step in and address it!! The data is shocking. The most concerning part is that that Black and Hispanic attendance numbers have decreased. In a day when we would like to think that some of these issues are getting sorted out, our nation’s number 1 public high school has decreasing Black and Hispanic minority attendance There is something seriously wrong. I think your comments are right on, based on what I have heard. (Although I had not heard about Longfellow.)

Other concerns I have heard (all anecdotal):
Numerous students at young ages (like 9 or 10) start taking the SAT, study math at private academic centers take summer math enrichment and get tutors, etc. all to prepare for TJ. Some would argue that this is to be expected when there is such a low acceptance rate and who can judge a parent for wanting to prepare their child for advanced placement? Maybe the following questions should be asked: what is it about the selection process that influences the belief that such early and extensive preparation is necessary? Are children who do not have a multi-year preparation plan at a disadvantage?

There is a rumor is that many foreign nationals are taking some of the highly sought after TJ spots. I have no idea if this is true. Some parents believe that, given admission to TJ is a privilege, US citizens should be given top priority. I know this is a hugely controversial issue on many levels.

It is interesting to me that fewer and fewer of my children’s GT friends want to go to TJ or even take the test. I think this is a combination of the reputation of extremely difficult work, the clear message that they are looking for only math and science experts and the perceived cultural imbalance.

I hope this feedback is helpful. Thank you again for sharing your email and I appreciate your willingness to dialog about these critical issues.
Sincerely,
Kari Meyer

Please note: message attached

From: "Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)"
To: "'karicmeyer@juno.com'"
Subject: FW: RE: Admissions- TJ
Date: Tue, 20 Apr 2010 08:23:15 -0400

From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member) [ETBradsher@fcps.edu]
To: Tistadt, Dean
CC:
BCC:
Sent: 6/23/2010 3:28:56 PM
Subject: RE: Design-Build

Attachments:


I will call you I am furious. Telling SOAR people that they can take Clifton’s place on CIP. Continuing with design-build, said he passed something yesterday that the BOS agreed to look at CIP queue and work to increase pace of renovations. Said this was going to go to a vote? He is working on doing your job.



Liz



Elizabeth T. Bradsher

Fairfax County School Board

Springfield District

Phone: (571) 296-1875

Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant

Phone: (571) 423-1070



________________________________

From: Tistadt, Dean
Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:06 PM
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Subject: RE: Design-Build



There is definitely a lesson to be learned in that experience…..



From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:04 PM
To: Tistadt, Dean
Subject: RE: Design-Build



Can’t believe he is on this call. I told him I had a conference call and he asked with “who” and I was too honest. CRAP!



Elizabeth T. Bradsher

Fairfax County School Board

Springfield District

Phone: (571) 296-1875

Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant

Phone: (571) 423-1070



________________________________

From: Tistadt, Dean
Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:03 PM
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Subject: RE: Design-Build



Can’t wait to hear the outcome. Hang tough.



From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:02 PM
To: Tistadt, Dean
Subject: RE: Design-Build



Have a conference call now with SOAR and guess who is on this call too???



Elizabeth T. Bradsher

Fairfax County School Board

Springfield District

Phone: (571) 296-1875

Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant

Phone: (571) 423-1070



________________________________

From: Tistadt, Dean
Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:01 PM
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Subject: RE: Design-Build



I hope he reads it before 4.

Do you want to talk before that meeting?



From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:00 PM
To: Tistadt, Dean
Subject: RE: Design-Build



Lovely…



Elizabeth T. Bradsher

Fairfax County School Board

Springfield District

Phone: (571) 296-1875

Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant

Phone: (571) 423-1070



________________________________

From: Tistadt, Dean
Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 2:54 PM
To: 'pat.herrity@fairfaxcounty.gov'; Herrity, Pat
Cc: 'Bulova, Sharon S.'; School Board Members; School Board Office; Dale, Jack; 'Griffin, Anthony H.'
Subject: Design-Build



Dear Supervisor Herrity,



Several months ago you made mention to me in passing about the school system considering a change in its historical method of managing capital construction projects. Per Liz Bradsher’s request, I would like to provide additional information about our school construction expertise and offer further information regarding your comments that FCPS should consider “design-build” in lieu of our current practice of “design-bid-build”.



The following definition of design-build has been extracted from Wikipedia:

Design-build (or design/build, and abbreviated D-B or D/B accordingly) is a construction http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Construction project delivery system where, in contrast to "design-bid-build http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Design-bid-build " (or "design-tender"), the design and construction aspects are contracted for with a single entity known as the design-builder or design-build contractor. The design-builder is usually the general contractor http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_contractor , but in many cases it is also the design professional (architect http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Architect or engineer http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engineer ). This system is used to minimize the project risk for an owner and to reduce the delivery schedule by overlapping the design phase and construction phase of a project. Where the design-builder is the contractor, the design professionals are typically retained directly by the contractor. The most efficient design-builder has design and construction professionals working directly for the same at-risk entity. This is one of the oldest forms of construction since developing from the "master builder" approach.



A primary advantage of design-build appears to be to shorten the delivery time frame of capital projects by overlapping the design and construction phases. Another significant benefit is that owners only have to contract with and deal with a single entity for the entire process versus having separate contracts for design and construction.

It appears to me that design-build can be a very favorable strategy for organizations that have funds for a specific project or projects, have total control over the design of the those projects, and wants to move them to market as quickly as possible. Design-build also works well for organizations that lack internal expertise and thus lack the resources/talents to manage projects from start to finish.

For Fairfax County Public Schools, none of those conditions exist that make design-build advantageous. For example:

· Our main limiter for capital projects is not time to market but rather a lack of sufficient capital funding from the Board of Supervisors. Certainly, we could accelerate projects through a variety of mechanisms but we cannot do so if it would result in our exceeding the annual spending limit of $155 million. While I recognize that this amount from the Board of Supervisors is generous considering the budget situation and the County’s capital needs, this annual limit remains quite low when considering our capital improvement requirements even with the current excellent construction prices that we are obtaining.

· We design our capital projects in collaboration with the school communities. It would be very difficult, if not impossible, to conduct simultaneous design with communities while already starting construction. The School Board continues to place a strong emphasis on community collaboration and transparency.

· We have a great deal of internal expertise and have had no problems managing both design contractors (architects) and construction contractors. Our internal review, oversight, and control processes ensure minimal conflicts between architects and general contractors. In fact, many other school systems ask for our advice and expertise due to our excellent reputation for managing our construction program.

· Finally, we perform phased occupied renovations of schools. This is a relatively unique renovation strategy about which very few design-build firms have expertise or experience. Phased occupied renovations require great attention to issues such as student/staff safety, indoor air quality, and project phasing. It would not be advisable for the school system to contract with a design-build firm that does not have the requisite experience.

For these reasons, we don’t see design-build as being part of a strategy to address the school system’s capital program needs. This is not to say that we have not tried to be creative. We have sold surplus property as a means to raise revenue for capital projects. We executed an energy performance contract that resulted in over $20 million in improvements to nearly 100 schools entirely funded by the energy savings that resulted from the improvements. We acted as the general contractor for the Woodson High School renovation and saved approximately $8 million as a result. We have spent absolutely no capital bond funding to renovate any administrative centers to ensure that the bond funds we do have available are used strictly for schools. We closed and moved one elementary school scheduled for renovation due to significant site constraints that would have increased construction costs. Effective July 1, 2010, we are closing an alternative high school that will not only save operating funds but also will save over $6 million in capital improvements that had been scheduled for that school. Finally, staff has recommended closure of another elementary school with site constraints that will cause higher than typical renovation costs.

I hope this adequately addresses any questions you might have on this subject. I would be happy to respond if you have further questions or need clarification.

Thank you.

Dean Tistadt

From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Monday, April 19, 2010 9:56 AM
To: Moniuszko, Richard A..; Dale, Jack
Cc: Noonan, Peter J
Subject: RE: Admissions- TJ

Dear Rich and Jack,

During the past several years I have been reviewing certain matters pertinent to Thomas Jefferson. If I recall correctly admissions standards were changed several years ago prior to my serving on the Board. These changes were done to assist with the admissions process to broaden the diversity at Thomas Jefferson. The intent of this change has not taken place, instead when reviewing the data I see a curious trend which has caused me to do some research and to ask some questions.

I have pulled admission data from the years 2004 to the present. First I would like to apologize for my lack of formatting and table skills, however the data is presented and I would appreciate your review of the highlighted trend that concerns me greatly with this school’s admissions:
TJHSST Admissions Statistics for Class of 2009
White 52.93%
African American 2.42%
Hispanic 3.84%
Native American 0.61%
Asian 32.32%
Multiracial 6.26%
Other 1.62%
Total


TJHSST Admissions Statistics for Class of 2010
Ethnic
White 50.10%
African American 1.97%
Hispanic 3.55%
Native American 0 0.00%
Asian 37.87%
Other 1.38%
Multiracial 5.13%

TJHSST Admissions Statistics for Class of 2011
Ethnic
White 51.94%
African American 1.43%
Hispanic 2.66%
Native American 0.00%
Asian 38.45%
Other* 0.61%
Multiracial 4.91%

TJHSST Admissions Statistics for Class 2012
Ethnic
White 42.27%
African American 1.86%
Hispanic 2.06%
Native American 0.62%
Asian 45.15%
Other* 7.22%
Multiracial 0.82%

TJHSST Admissions Statistics for Class 2013

Ethnic
White 36.4%
African American 1.7%
Hispanic 1.3%
Asian 54.2%
Multiracial/Other 6.4%


In your review you will note that despite changes to our admissions process several years ago, Hispanic and African Americans have had no appreciable increase in student admissions, in fact their enrollment has declined. Also, you will note a significant decline in White students for these years. However, what has been brought to my attention is the rather dramatic increase of Asian students being admitted to Thomas Jefferson. Our schools represent the communities they serve with respect to student diversity; likewise I would expect a fairly similar county representation at Thomas Jefferson. Although this school is considered a “Governor’s School” it should, for all intensive purposes, represent the county it serves with the exception of about 50 -60 students which come from neighboring jurisdictions.

Upon further review and discussions with others I have learned there appears to be some unfair practices taking place among certain parents and guardians which assist students with the admission test. I noted there appears to be a disproportionate number of students coming from one of our middle school GT centers, specifically Longfellow, such a situation begs the question; why, what is taking place in this community that is not taking place in others with respect to educational services provided by FCPS and not provided by FCPS? I have also been informed there is a school outside of this country that works to educate students solely for the purpose of being admitted to Thomas Jefferson and apparently is in contact with an organization here in Fairfax County. I do realize as a school system we require only proof of residency for our schools and by no means want to insinuate unfairness to any potential FCPS student. However if certain circumstances are real with regard to admission to Thomas Jefferson then we are allowing a situation of unfairness to exist for those students who live in this county and matriculate through our elementary school system. I have heard many other stories, concerns, and facts as a parent and as a School Board member regarding admissions at Thomas Jefferson, I think it is time we take a hard look at what is taking place and ask some serious questions whether we like the answers or not.

Please let me know how we will proceed with my inquiry. Thank you for your review of the data as well as my concerns. This is an issue I would like to pursue further.
Sincerely,
Liz Bradsher

Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070

Liz is an awful SB rep, but I do agree with her about TJ admissions. There are kids who move here from Asia in 6th grade, live with relatives, attend TJ, then move back to their native country. It's not fair to FFX County students whose parents pay taxes.

There must be more international students at TJ than we think if this is on their website:



http://www.tjhsst.edu/supportingtj/careercenter/ScholInternat.htm

I do not believe TJ is so great that people send their kids over from another country to go to TJ. Now if they stay in the US and go to college here that may be true.

Another poster said that fewer parents that have kids in GT are applying to TJ. How many kids apply from Fairfax and get in?

TJ is over hyped Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I do not believe TJ is so great that people send
> their kids over from another country to go to TJ.
> Now if they stay in the US and go to college here
> that may be true.
>

Believe it.
Reread Bradsher's letter above, esp. where she says:

I have also been informed there is a school outside of this country that works to educate students solely for the purpose of being admitted to Thomas Jefferson and apparently is in contact with an organization here in Fairfax County.

That said, this discussion needs to go to a new thread.

I wish that Liz Bradsher spent as much time on trying to help low performing students achieve better results as she does trying to attack high performing schools. Stu Gibson recently complained that a volunteer group (FEC) wasn't trying to do enough to help with student achievement. Well, when are the Board Members like Stu and Liz helping students? All that I see them trying to do is attack high performing schools to LOWER the standards to meet low performing students. Why don't they ever focus on the LOW performing schools?

achievement Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> I wish that Liz Bradsher spent as much time on
> trying to help low performing students achieve
> better results as she does trying to attack high
> performing schools. Stu Gibson recently
> complained that a volunteer group (FEC) wasn't
> trying to do enough to help with student
> achievement. Well, when are the Board Members
> like Stu and Liz helping students? All that I
> see them trying to do is attack high performing
> schools to LOWER the standards to meet low
> performing students. Why don't they ever focus
> on the LOW performing schools?


In Fairfax County, 37 out of 197 schools failed to meet AYP standards in 2009, yet what were the School Board Members spending the bulk of their time talking about? Closing Clifton Elementary and how to change TJ (both award winning schools). There is NO real leadership on the current School Board. They are simply master politicians who know how to divert focus off the real issues in the County. We need new leadership. I hope that Elizabeth SCHULTZ (not Bradsher) and Louise Epstein make it onto the Board during the next election.

Liz is bothered by all the "attention" the Blacks and Hispanics are getting already, so don't expect her to care about them.

**********************************************


From: Dale, Jack
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Sun Apr 11 11:31:11 2010
Subject: RE: Re: Clusters, 5, 6, 7




Thanks for sharing thoughts… some very good suggestions
_____________________________________________
From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Friday, April 09, 2010 4:52 PM
To: Dale, Jack; Moniuszko, Richard A..
Cc: Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member); Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member)
Subject: Re: Clusters, 5, 6, 7

Dear Jack and Rich,

I just wanted to catch up with you both on some issues that I see taking place in the system and specifically within my district. Before doing so I wanted to thank you for the opportunity to discuss Leadership Team performance. I believe with your management and direction FCPS has a first class educational Leadership Team and I appreciate what you have both done to make our school system one of the most successful system’s in the nation. Also, please know I do appreciate all that Leslie Butz, Betsy Fenske and Linda Burke have done for the students in Clusters, 5, 6, 7. I understand we all have different management styles and appreciate such differences, they seem to work well!

During the last two years I, like other Board members, have attended many meetings, listened to staff members and citizens on matters concerning instruction. All of this has been extremely educational however, what I have noted is that we spend an enormous amount of time on issues relating to a certain percentage of students in certain schools or areas within the county. Very little time is spent on discussing what is being done for the majority of our student population many of whom are A,B,C+ type students. It would be a change from the usual to discuss what we are doing to challenge these students and what happens when we hit the wall with the achievement bands for our A/B type students? How are we challenging these students through innovative curriculum offerings? These students I write about are not TJ bound; rather they work hard, get to school, conform and basically do the work. Little recognition seems to take place from our discussions and our public meetings about such students.

Furthermore, it remains extremely evident there is a School Board member most interested in certain demographic populations and our most “neediest” population. I too believe discussions on such topics are most important, however one might gather from Board notes and transcripts that this all we care about as a system and Board. We all know this is not the case. I wanted to take the time to make you aware of my concern and the need to discuss matters that pertain to all segments of our student populations. Refraining from topics that pertain to all segments of our student populations lends to the perception that the system and Board considers many of our schools and students to be on autopilot thus having minimal needs and therefore little if any discussion needs to take place.

With regard to school promotion I have been noticing there is more FCPS public promotion on certain schools versus others. It is rare to learn and see a dignitary visiting a school outside the beltway. It is rare for me to hear the Star Spangle Banner played or sung by a Springfield District school at our SB meetings. Also it is rare to see a Springfield, Braddock or Sully district school promoted on our FCPS website which promotes schools on a daily basis. Yes, there are times, but it remains rare. For your FYI the following are the schools that have been highlighted in pictures on the main page of the FCPS website during the past 2 weeks, not one Springfield District School nor Sully school was highlighted:

* Waynewood – Mt. Vernon District
* McNair – Hunter Mill District
* Woodburn – Providence District
* Mt. Vernon HS – Mt. Vernon District
* Forest Edge – Hunter Mill District
* Robinson Sec. - County Science Fair – Braddock District
* Forestville – Dranesville District
* Westlawn – Mason District
* Longfellow - Dranesville District, a frequent flyer on the website
* Baileys - Mason District - a frequent flyer on the website
* Twain MS - Lee District
* Springfield Estates - Lee District
* Cooper - Dranesville District

(Please note the school similarities as well as magisterial district similarities)

Finally, our budget this year and for the next several years to come will hit our students and parents hard. Our parents will be paying more and their student(s) may be getting less. Parents in my district will be supporting programs for others while still not having All Day K. We can’t continue to pay for special programs and ignore the expansion of Full Day K. I understand that this is not a budget matter for FY 2011 but we need to make it one in 2012 or at least have a plan. I hope you both understand my concern regarding this instructional issue.

I appreciate your consideration of my email concerns and views and welcome a time to further discuss if so needed, meanwhile, have a great weekend!

Liz B.

Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070

Bradsher quote from above letter:

"Furthermore, it remains extremely evident there is a School Board member most interested in certain demographic populations and our most “neediest” population. I too believe discussions on such topics are most important, however one might gather from Board notes and transcripts that this all we care about as a system and Board. We all know this is not the case. I wanted to take the time to make you aware of my concern and the need to discuss matters that pertain to all segments of our student populations. Refraining from topics that pertain to all segments of our student populations lends to the perception that the system and Board considers many of our schools and students to be on autopilot thus having minimal needs and therefore little if any discussion needs to take place."

I assume that she is referring to Tina Hone. Isn't it ironic that Hone voted against closing Clifton if demographics is all she cares about? Could it be that Hone would like to fix the problem rather than cover it up? As I recall, Hone also tried to be helpful during South Lakes.

I do not think that HOne is a one issue School Board member.

don't count on her caring Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Liz is bothered by all the "attention" the Blacks
> and Hispanics are getting already, so don't expect
> her to care about them.
>
> **********************************************
>
>
> From: Dale, Jack
> To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> Sent: Sun Apr 11 11:31:11 2010
> Subject: RE: Re: Clusters, 5, 6, 7
>
>
>
>
> Thanks for sharing thoughts… some very good
> suggestions
> _____________________________________________
> From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
>
> Sent: Friday, April 09, 2010 4:52 PM
> To: Dale, Jack; Moniuszko, Richard A..
> Cc: Smith, Kathy L (School Board Member);
> Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member)
> Subject: Re: Clusters, 5, 6, 7
>
> Dear Jack and Rich,
>
> I just wanted to catch up with you both on some
> issues that I see taking place in the system and
> specifically within my district. Before doing so
> I wanted to thank you for the opportunity to
> discuss Leadership Team performance. I believe
> with your management and direction FCPS has a
> first class educational Leadership Team and I
> appreciate what you have both done to make our
> school system one of the most successful
> system’s in the nation. Also, please know I do
> appreciate all that Leslie Butz, Betsy Fenske and
> Linda Burke have done for the students in
> Clusters, 5, 6, 7. I understand we all have
> different management styles and appreciate such
> differences, they seem to work well!
>
> During the last two years I, like other Board
> members, have attended many meetings, listened to
> staff members and citizens on matters concerning
> instruction. All of this has been extremely
> educational however, what I have noted is that we
> spend an enormous amount of time on issues
> relating to a certain percentage of students in
> certain schools or areas within the county. Very
> little time is spent on discussing what is being
> done for the majority of our student population
> many of whom are A,B,C+ type students. It would
> be a change from the usual to discuss what we are
> doing to challenge these students and what happens
> when we hit the wall with the achievement bands
> for our A/B type students? How are we challenging
> these students through innovative curriculum
> offerings? These students I write about are not
> TJ bound; rather they work hard, get to school,
> conform and basically do the work. Little
> recognition seems to take place from our
> discussions and our public meetings about such
> students.
>
> Furthermore, it remains extremely evident there is
> a School Board member most interested in certain
> demographic populations and our most
> “neediest” population. I too believe
> discussions on such topics are most important,
> however one might gather from Board notes and
> transcripts that this all we care about as a
> system and Board. We all know this is not the
> case. I wanted to take the time to make you aware
> of my concern and the need to discuss matters that
> pertain to all segments of our student
> populations. Refraining from topics that pertain
> to all segments of our student populations lends
> to the perception that the system and Board
> considers many of our schools and students to be
> on autopilot thus having minimal needs and
> therefore little if any discussion needs to take
> place.
>
> With regard to school promotion I have been
> noticing there is more FCPS public promotion on
> certain schools versus others. It is rare to
> learn and see a dignitary visiting a school
> outside the beltway. It is rare for me to hear
> the Star Spangle Banner played or sung by a
> Springfield District school at our SB meetings.
> Also it is rare to see a Springfield, Braddock or
> Sully district school promoted on our FCPS website
> which promotes schools on a daily basis. Yes,
> there are times, but it remains rare. For your
> FYI the following are the schools that have been
> highlighted in pictures on the main page of the
> FCPS website during the past 2 weeks, not one
> Springfield District School nor Sully school was
> highlighted:
>
> * Waynewood – Mt. Vernon District
> * McNair – Hunter Mill District
> * Woodburn – Providence District
> * Mt. Vernon HS – Mt. Vernon District
> * Forest Edge – Hunter Mill District
> * Robinson Sec. - County Science Fair –
> Braddock District
> * Forestville – Dranesville District
> * Westlawn – Mason District
> * Longfellow - Dranesville District, a frequent
> flyer on the website
> * Baileys - Mason District - a frequent flyer on
> the website
> * Twain MS - Lee District
> * Springfield Estates - Lee District
> * Cooper - Dranesville District
>
> (Please note the school similarities as well as
> magisterial district similarities)
>
> Finally, our budget this year and for the next
> several years to come will hit our students and
> parents hard. Our parents will be paying more and
> their student(s) may be getting less. Parents in
> my district will be supporting programs for others
> while still not having All Day K. We can’t
> continue to pay for special programs and ignore
> the expansion of Full Day K. I understand that
> this is not a budget matter for FY 2011 but we
> need to make it one in 2012 or at least have a
> plan. I hope you both understand my concern
> regarding this instructional issue.
>
> I appreciate your consideration of my email
> concerns and views and welcome a time to further
> discuss if so needed, meanwhile, have a great
> weekend!
>
> Liz B.
>
> Elizabeth T. Bradsher
> Fairfax County School Board
> Springfield District
> Phone: (571) 296-1875
> Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
>
> Phone: (571) 423-1070


This is what they spend time on - whose picture is on the website? Is she a child? Or maybe a child of legal drinking age?

Ms. Bradsher swore under oath in court yesterday that she doesn't
"do conference calls" and that she doesn't even know how.

Clearly, from the email below, she does "do" conference calls.




promises to SOAR Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> To: Tistadt, Dean
> CC:
> BCC:
> Sent: 6/23/2010 3:28:56 PM
> Subject: RE: Design-Build
>
> Attachments:
>
>
> I will call you I am furious. Telling SOAR people
> that they can take Clifton’s place on CIP.
> Continuing with design-build, said he passed
> something yesterday that the BOS agreed to look at
> CIP queue and work to increase pace of
> renovations. Said this was going to go to a vote?
> He is working on doing your job.
>
>
>
> Liz
>
>
>
> Elizabeth T. Bradsher
>
> Fairfax County School Board
>
> Springfield District
>
> Phone: (571) 296-1875
>
> Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative
> Assistant
>
> Phone: (571) 423-1070
>
>
>
> ________________________________
>
> From: Tistadt, Dean
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:06 PM
> To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> Subject: RE: Design-Build
>
>
>
> There is definitely a lesson to be learned in that
> experience…..
>
>
>
> From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:04 PM
> To: Tistadt, Dean
> Subject: RE: Design-Build
>
>
>
> Can’t believe he is on this call. I told him I
> had a conference call and he asked with “who”
> and I was too honest. CRAP!
>
>
>
> Elizabeth T. Bradsher
>
> Fairfax County School Board
>
> Springfield District
>
> Phone: (571) 296-1875
>
> Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative
> Assistant
>
> Phone: (571) 423-1070
>
>
>
> ________________________________
>
> From: Tistadt, Dean
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:03 PM
> To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> Subject: RE: Design-Build
>
>
>
> Can’t wait to hear the outcome. Hang tough.
>
>
>
> From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:02 PM
> To: Tistadt, Dean
> Subject: RE: Design-Build
>
>
>
> Have a conference call now with SOAR and guess who
> is on this call too???
>
>
>
> Elizabeth T. Bradsher
>
> Fairfax County School Board
>
> Springfield District
>
> Phone: (571) 296-1875
>
> Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative
> Assistant
>
> Phone: (571) 423-1070
>
>
>
> ________________________________
>
> From: Tistadt, Dean
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:01 PM
> To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> Subject: RE: Design-Build
>
>
>
> I hope he reads it before 4.
>
> Do you want to talk before that meeting?
>
>
>
> From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 3:00 PM
> To: Tistadt, Dean
> Subject: RE: Design-Build
>
>
>
> Lovely…
>
>
>
> Elizabeth T. Bradsher
>
> Fairfax County School Board
>
> Springfield District
>
> Phone: (571) 296-1875
>
> Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative
> Assistant
>
> Phone: (571) 423-1070
>
>
>
> ________________________________
>
> From: Tistadt, Dean
> Sent: Wednesday, June 23, 2010 2:54 PM
> To: 'pat.herrity@fairfaxcounty.gov'; Herrity, Pat
> Cc: 'Bulova, Sharon S.'; School Board Members;
> School Board Office; Dale, Jack; 'Griffin, Anthony
> H.'
> Subject: Design-Build
>
>
>
> Dear Supervisor Herrity,
>
>
>
> Several months ago you made mention to me in
> passing about the school system considering a
> change in its historical method of managing
> capital construction projects. Per Liz
> Bradsher’s request, I would like to provide
> additional information about our school
> construction expertise and offer further
> information regarding your comments that FCPS
> should consider “design-build” in lieu of our
> current practice of “design-bid-build”.
>
>
>
> The following definition of design-build has been
> extracted from Wikipedia:
>
> Design-build (or design/build, and abbreviated D-B
> or D/B accordingly) is a construction project
> delivery system where, in contrast to
> "design-bid-build " (or "design-tender"), the
> design and construction aspects are contracted for
> with a single entity known as the design-builder
> or design-build contractor. The design-builder is
> usually the general contractor , but in many
> cases it is also the design professional
> (architect or engineer ). This system is used
> to minimize the project risk for an owner and to
> reduce the delivery schedule by overlapping the
> design phase and construction phase of a project.
> Where the design-builder is the contractor, the
> design professionals are typically retained
> directly by the contractor. The most efficient
> design-builder has design and construction
> professionals working directly for the same
> at-risk entity. This is one of the oldest forms of
> construction since developing from the "master
> builder" approach.
>
>
>
> A primary advantage of design-build appears to be
> to shorten the delivery time frame of capital
> projects by overlapping the design and
> construction phases. Another significant benefit
> is that owners only have to contract with and deal
> with a single entity for the entire process versus
> having separate contracts for design and
> construction.
>
> It appears to me that design-build can be a very
> favorable strategy for organizations that have
> funds for a specific project or projects, have
> total control over the design of the those
> projects, and wants to move them to market as
> quickly as possible. Design-build also works well
> for organizations that lack internal expertise and
> thus lack the resources/talents to manage projects
> from start to finish.
>
> For Fairfax County Public Schools, none of those
> conditions exist that make design-build
> advantageous. For example:
>
> · Our main limiter for capital projects is
> not time to market but rather a lack of sufficient
> capital funding from the Board of Supervisors.
> Certainly, we could accelerate projects through a
> variety of mechanisms but we cannot do so if it
> would result in our exceeding the annual spending
> limit of $155 million. While I recognize that
> this amount from the Board of Supervisors is
> generous considering the budget situation and the
> County’s capital needs, this annual limit
> remains quite low when considering our capital
> improvement requirements even with the current
> excellent construction prices that we are
> obtaining.
>
> · We design our capital projects in
> collaboration with the school communities. It
> would be very difficult, if not impossible, to
> conduct simultaneous design with communities while
> already starting construction. The School Board
> continues to place a strong emphasis on community
> collaboration and transparency.
>
> · We have a great deal of internal
> expertise and have had no problems managing both
> design contractors (architects) and construction
> contractors. Our internal review, oversight, and
> control processes ensure minimal conflicts between
> architects and general contractors. In fact, many
> other school systems ask for our advice and
> expertise due to our excellent reputation for
> managing our construction program.
>
> · Finally, we perform phased occupied
> renovations of schools. This is a relatively
> unique renovation strategy about which very few
> design-build firms have expertise or experience.
> Phased occupied renovations require great
> attention to issues such as student/staff safety,
> indoor air quality, and project phasing. It would
> not be advisable for the school system to contract
> with a design-build firm that does not have the
> requisite experience.
>
> For these reasons, we don’t see design-build as
> being part of a strategy to address the school
> system’s capital program needs. This is not to
> say that we have not tried to be creative. We
> have sold surplus property as a means to raise
> revenue for capital projects. We executed an
> energy performance contract that resulted in over
> $20 million in improvements to nearly 100 schools
> entirely funded by the energy savings that
> resulted from the improvements. We acted as the
> general contractor for the Woodson High School
> renovation and saved approximately $8 million as a
> result. We have spent absolutely no capital bond
> funding to renovate any administrative centers to
> ensure that the bond funds we do have available
> are used strictly for schools. We closed and
> moved one elementary school scheduled for
> renovation due to significant site constraints
> that would have increased construction costs.
> Effective July 1, 2010, we are closing an
> alternative high school that will not only save
> operating funds but also will save over $6 million
> in capital improvements that had been scheduled
> for that school. Finally, staff has recommended
> closure of another elementary school with site
> constraints that will cause higher than typical
> renovation costs.
>
> I hope this adequately addresses any questions you
> might have on this subject. I would be happy to
> respond if you have further questions or need
> clarification.
>
> Thank you.
>
> Dean Tistadt

A STUDY OF INVIDIOUS RACIAL DISCRIMINATION IN ADMISSIONS AT THOMAS JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: MONTY PYTHON AND FRANZ KAFKA MEET A PROBIT REGRESSION

Lloyd Cohen*


In the mid-1980s, the state of Virginia established the Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (hereinafter TJ) in the suburbs of Washington D.C. as a magnet secondary school for the mathematically gifted and inclined. Each year the school admits slightly more than four-hundred freshmen from the three thousand who apply out of the twenty thousand available in the

Jefferson High School for Science and Technology (hereinafter TJ) in the suburbs of Washington D.C. as a magnet secondary school for the mathematically gifted and inclined. Each year the school admits slightly more than four-hundred freshmen from the three thousand who apply out of the twenty thousand available in the 1989, both the boys’ and girls’ crew teams have won numerous medals in various championship events.
What is the root of this success? To begin, we can reject the hypothesis that it is a great infusion of funds that is the cause. Expenditure per student at TJ is only slightly more than that at the average conventional high school in the region. Indeed, in part

because of the age and size of the facility, TJ actually has less in the way of physical resources than most of its neighbors.
While the faculty deserves some credit, its role should not be overstated. Although the high quality of the student body makes TJ an attractive place to teach, the faculty are, for the most part, neither chosen nor rewarded by criteria markedly different from those that prevail at any other northern Virginia high school. Indeed, in the early years immediately following TJ’s conversion from a neighborhood high school to a magnet school, there was little change in the makeup of the faculty.

The lion’s share of the credit for the success of TJ’s students rests with the students themselves. It is they who have made TJ what it is. Arriving on campus with an abundance of intellectual aptitude and good moral character, they create a culture that nourishes anreinforces those virtues.
For those with the requisite talent and character, the opportunity to attend TJ is a great privilege. It provides an intellectually, morally, and socially enriched environment. To avail themselves of this privilege however, selected students and their families pay a considerable price. First, because TJ draws its students from a wide geographic area, most students endure a long commute and have difficulty maintaining school friendships outside of the building. Second, it is believed—perhaps correctly—by some parents that it is somewhat more difficult for TJ students to gain admission to elite universities than it is for equivalent students from ordinary suburban high schools. But, despite these drawbacks, TJ remains a very attractive choice, and each year, close to three thousand of the brightest eighth graders in the region apply for the four-hundred-plus slots available.

The great success of TJ’s students might lead one to conclude that its admissions regime is a finely tuned machine designed to pluck out the best of the best. That conclusion would be unwarranted. Given the large and intellectually well endowed population on which it may draw, almost any admissions process that was not systematically perverse would yield an outstanding student body. But, that does not mean that the admissions decision is of no moment. For the student chosen—assuming he is a good fit—attending TJ is a valuable privilege. To deny him that privilege for some reason other than merit would be a grave and invidious act of discrimination. In addition, finding students who are best able to partake in the culture provides a real benefit to all the others; each member of the community adds to and supports the ethos of the institution.

We are pleased to announce that the registration is open for Elementary school students, two hours intensive course for 5th graders and one hour creative writing session for 3-4 grade students. The classes will be commencing from Sunday March 6th 2011.


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of our students were offered admission to TJHSST in 2010.

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Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology ( TJ ) is a Governor's school for Science and Technology in Northern Virginia offering admission to students from Fairfax, Arlington, Fauquier, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties as well as Falls Church City. Students are selected through a rigorous admissions process with an acceptance rate of around 18%; approximately one out of every six students who take the admissions test are admitted.

The TJ Admissions test covers a wide range of challenging topics. It can be very difficult to have a complete grasp of all of the subjects needed for the exam. As the admissions test is an important part of the Thomas Jefferson High School admissions process, you have to score high to ensure your position. Since it is a competitive exam, you may feel you need some help in order to achieve a higher score.


We strongly believe our conceptual teaching approach provide the needed foundation for any high school.


Ready to learn more? Take a look at our Preparation Strategy.

TJ admissions


TJ Hand book, understanding decision process and Important dates.


What is TJ? What is AOS? What is ACSL? What is USACO?


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Ms. Zylka

Ms.Zylka received her master’s degree from Syracuse University and is certified by New York and Virginia in English and Gifted and Talented education. Ms. Zylka has written curriculum for both NYS and Fairfax County. She has taught every grade level with a focus on AP Language, AP Literature, and International Baccalaureate English. With her years of professional tutoring experience, Ms. Zylka is a specialist in academic prep and has helped many students to get perfect scores in tests like the TJHSST admission test, SAT , PSAT and ACT. Aside from teaching at MyTjPrep, Ms. Zylka is actively involved in the development of our English curriculum.

Mr. Ram Mada

Ram has been teaching mathematics for over 15 years. He holds Masters Degrees in Mathematics and Education and a Pre-PhD in Education. Ram is one of the authors of Tests for Higher Standards, which are used by school boards in several states. He has experience as Department Chair and Team Lead in various high schools. Ram's approach combines a highly intuitive approach to mathematical problem solving and enthusiasm for the subject to help his students excel.

Dr. Suresh Subramaniam

Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the George Washington Univerity in Washington DC. Dr.Subramaniam joined GWU as an Assistant Professor after receiving his PhD degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Washington (Seattle) in 1997. At GWU, he conducts research into next-generation telecom and computer networks, and teaches courses on a wide variety of subjects including computer networks and computer organization.

Mr. Venkata Allamsetty

Venkata is an academician with passion for Mathematics. He holds Bachelors and Masters Degrees from the Indian Institute Of Technology, Madras ( IITM ) in Mechanical Engineering. He taught Mathematics in India for 11th and 12th graders preparing for IITJEE at reputed institutes like Ramaiah’s, Hyderabad and Brilliant Tutorials, Madras. Several of his students won various math competitions and got into prestigious colleges like IITs and NITs. He is an active volunteer for North South Foundation, Fairfax Chapter.

Ms. Dill

Ms.Dill has taught creative writing and studio art for the past eight years in private school settings. She was nominated for the Disney Teacher Awards, honoring creativity in teaching. An award-winning humor and inspirational writer, and director of a professional writers organization in the D.C. metro area, she has been published in newspapers, magazines, and anthologies such as Hallmark’s Laughing Out Loud.




Ms. Padgett



Ms.Padgett received her degree in English from James Madison University and has been teaching English in Fairfax County for fifteen years. She has her endorsement in Gifted and Talented Education and has specialized in International Baccalaureate English. Ms.Padgett has received extensive training in evaluating writing on the HL (higher level) exams and has written an IB Writing Manual. In addition, she has served as IB team leader and trained other teachers in evaluating writing.

Mr. Venkata Are




Co-Founder and strategic planner of MyTJ Prep. An experienced middle school math competitions coach, he has been training kids for over five years. Venkat introduced the MathCounts and AMC 8 programs at Oak Hill ES in 2008 and has coached their MathCounts team. He introduced the AMC 8 competition, "American Computer Science League" (ACSL) in Rachael Carson Middle school in the academic year 2009-2010 and the Team placed at 6th position internationally. He trained several kids in the Rachel Carson and Nysmith MathCounts teams. Venkat has been actively involved in the NorthSouth Foundation educational contests for several years and he is the regional coordinator for Virginia Chapter. Venkat holds a masters degree in Management Information Systems. He is also a successful TJ parent. Email Address: venkata.are@mytjprep.com




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Look at a map Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Isn't Clifton really just East Manassas Park?


Actually the Bloom's Crossing/Generals Ridge Golf Course section of Manassas Park is just a little more than a mile (as the crow flies) from the town of Clifton. The neighborhood is very similar to Little Rocky Run albeit slightly larger, more modern, and a tad fancier homes than those found in LRR.

This community should seriously consider "pulling a Little Rocky Run" and convert to the more prestigious Clifton Zip Code. However, in the future when these folks start bragging that they are from Clifton, they too like the LRR crowd, will have to be set straight.

TJ Admissions Statistics for Class of 2014

Fairfax County Public Schools has offered admission to 480 students for the class of 2014 at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology.

A total of 3,119 students applied for admission. The majority of the students offered admission reside in Fairfax County (80 percent); students from Arlington, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties and the City of Falls Church were also offered admission. Approximately 90 percent of students offered admission are currently attending public schools.

Gender Applicants Percent Admitted Percent
Male 1655 53.1% 272 56.7%
Female 1464 46.9% 208 43.3%
Total 3119 100.0% 480 100.0%
Ethnic Applicants Percent Admitted Percent
White 1277 40.9% 166 34.6%
African American 184 5.9% 4 0.8%
Hispanic 225 7.2% 13 2.7%
Asian 1243 39.9% 276 57.5%
Multiracial, Other* 190 6.1% 21 4.4%
Total 3119 100.0% 480 100.0%
School Type Applicants Percent Admitted Percent
Public 2839 91.0% 433 90.2%
Private 280 9.0% 47 9.8%
Total 3119 100.0% 480 100.0%
Math in 8th Grade Applicants Percent Admitted Percent
Algebra 1 1830 58.8% 99 20.6%
Geometry 1215 39.0% 334 69.6%
> Geometry 70 2.2% 47 9.8%
Total 3115** 480 100.00%
Applicants Percent Admitted Percent
Reduced Fee or Waived Fee Paid 332 10.7% 9 1.9%

* This category includes students who checked "Multiracial" on their application and/or students whose ethnic designation numbered five or fewer.

**Total does not include Math in 8th Grade information for four students who withdrew from the admissions process prior to the entry of math levels in the Admissions database from which these statistics are drawn.

herewegoagain Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Ms. Bradsher swore under oath in court yesterday
> that she doesn't
> "do conference calls" and that she doesn't even
> know how.
>
> Clearly, from the email below, she does "do"
> conference calls.

Add perjury to the bootlegging charge!

I wish that bitch would do jail time. It will never happen but I can still dream.

Lizzie, liar, liar, pants on fire knew the additions would cost booko bucks so why did she deny this fact as late as October???

*****************************************************************


From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member) [mailto:ETBradsher@fcps.edu]
Sent: Tuesday, May 18, 2010 10:48 AM
To: 'Erik & Mary Hawkins'
Cc: Hawkins, Erik; Cain, Debora L.
Subject: RE: School Board CIP Review in May Timeframe - Reengage SOAR Leadership



Hi Erik,

Until the budget deliberations are over it will be difficult for me to meet. Our meeting on the budget is this Thursday.



I know Kevin is working on the CIP as I write this to you. Many things are up in the air due to projections, discussions and funding streams. I hope to talk with both Kevin and Dean in the near future on the CIP to determine where staff is going and how we can address those schools in the queue. As it stands now WSHS is on the 2013 bond for planning, 2015 bond for construction funding and construction beginning the summer of 2016. This is approximately 30 years since the school’s last renovation which is standard for our schools but for you and I this time period can be debated with staff. (This economic climate has brought the renovations back into the timeline originally identified for school renovations.)



The Southwestern Study is going to drive certain CIP changes. I do encourage SOAR to study the possible resolves to this study. The reports from the Citizen Committees can be found online, staff will present their report at the June14th work session. Implications to the CIP will be discussed. If we renovate Clifton that will take $11 million and in doing so we will need to also add additions on to 4 other schools, costs about $12 million. We have several interesting funding line items that warrant discussion, 1) a reserve resulting from savings due to fluctuations of construction costs 2) The Undesignated Projects line item.



That is all I know now. I do know that some decisions need to be made by staff and the Board with funding for planning and also we need to discuss the reserve and allocations from the “Undesignated Projects” line item. Discussion for all of this is to take place in June according to Dean. I will know if we will be discussing this as “new business” as well as in our Work Session within the next several weeks and will keep you and SOAR informed.



Please don’t hesitate to continue your communications with staff. It remains important SOAR continue its positive rapport with staff and of course other Board members. We can meet on some strategy perhaps Friday afternoon if you and others are available.



Liz



Elizabeth T. Bradsher

Fairfax County School Board

Springfield District

Phone: (571) 296-1875

These emails are damning enough and they're just what they got from their initial FIOA request. Image what they'll find on the email servers that Liz and her cronies thought that they had deleted. Keep up the pressure Clifton. The rest of us are counting on you to stop this scheme before the other dominoes start to fall.

First of all, Manassas is in PW, not FFX, county.

Second of all, chances are good you aren't even from Clifton. Just trying to drum up the hate. That seemed to be a strategy for awhile - until everyone saw how Clifton was wronged via the FOIA'ed emails - and yes, starting considering how Clifton ES closing would affect them, too - as well as what could happen in the future - to any community - if this is allowed to pass.

you're late to the party/that's a tired see-through strategy. give it up.

the real Clifton Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Look at a map Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > Isn't Clifton really just East Manassas Park?
>
>
> Actually the Bloom's Crossing/Generals Ridge Golf
> Course section of Manassas Park is just a little
> more than a mile (as the crow flies) from the town
> of Clifton. The neighborhood is very similar to
> Little Rocky Run albeit slightly larger, more
> modern, and a tad fancier homes than those found
> in LRR.
>
> This community should seriously consider "pulling
> a Little Rocky Run" and convert to the more
> prestigious Clifton Zip Code. However, in the
> future when these folks start bragging that they
> are from Clifton, they too like the LRR crowd,
> will have to be set straight.

the real Clifton Wrote:
-------------------------------------------------------
> Look at a map Wrote:
> --------------------------------------------------
> -----
> > Isn't Clifton really just East Manassas Park?
>
>
> Actually the Bloom's Crossing/Generals Ridge Golf
> Course section of Manassas Park is just a little
> more than a mile (as the crow flies) from the town
> of Clifton. The neighborhood is very similar to
> Little Rocky Run albeit slightly larger, more
> modern, and a tad fancier homes than those found
> in LRR.
>
> This community should seriously consider "pulling
> a Little Rocky Run" and convert to the more
> prestigious Clifton Zip Code. However, in the
> future when these folks start bragging that they
> are from Clifton, they too like the LRR crowd,
> will have to be set straight.

If Manassas Park is that close, do FCPS and PWPS have some sort of reciprocity that you could send your kids to Manassas schools? That would be better than a 40 minute bus ride. Looks like there is Manassas Park ES 4 miles from downtown Clifton. That's probably where you go from groceries, etc. anyway.

At last Thursday's SB meeting Stuie blabbed on and on about how PTAs HAVE NO BUSINESS BEING INVOLVED IN BOUNDARY STUDIES.

Of course, he forgets how he corralled the entire South Lakes HS PTA in pushing his agenda a few years back...but heck, that's different....

Melody Rudy is the PTA head of Little Run Ekem.

Show us the outrage, Stu.

******************************************************************************




From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member) [ETBradsher@fcps.edu]
To: Melody Rudy
CC:
BCC:
Sent: 5/14/2010 3:24:55 PM
Subject: RE: School Board Note

Attachments:


Well said!





Elizabeth T. Bradsher

Fairfax County School Board

Springfield District

Phone: (571) 296-1875

Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant

Phone: (571) 423-1070



________________________________

From: Melody Rudy [mailto:melodyptsa@yahoo.com]
Sent: Friday, May 14, 2010 2:36 PM
To: Jennifer Broderick; Albert Francese
Cc: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member); aflagel@gmu.edu; larsen family; Vasapoli, Kathy; Alaine Walsh; Amy Riddick; Beth Hollander; Bob Larsen; Brenda Rudolph; Carina Wear; Carol Cleveland; Eatmon, Cassandra; Charlie Rau; Charlie Rau; Chelsea Cripps; David Lacey; David Villyard; Dawn Cassidy; Dawn Fraioli; Deborah Corcoran; Deidre Ray; Diane Saint Germain; Ellen Ryder; Ina Patton; Ina Patton; Jahae Phillips; Jason Ahn; Jean Naka; Jennifer Miner; John Morrison; John R. Valenzuela; John R. Valenzuela; Julie Young Sturans; Kara Prichard; Kelly Hutter; Kieran Hahne; Kim Luckabaugh; Lauren Wagner; Lisa Raisbeck; Lisa Schmidt; Melinda Thompson; Michael Swearingen; Mike Nicholson; Miriam Erickson; Nancy Rosene; Regina Seetoo; Richard Anthony; Sue Sarber; Susan Crystal; Wendy Havens; Yolanda Brooks; James, Denise; Rawat, Ajay; Tistadt, Dean
Subject: Re: School Board Note



Jennifer and Al,

I will give you that the wording should be changed, but it is no more a personal recommendation than that of the Clifton committee stating that closing Clifton would be devastating to the community environment. If you read all the reports they could be taken as personal. All of these ideas are "recommendations" backed up by facts. Everyone needs to step away from the issue personally and look at it all as to what is the best for the county and the majority in the long run.

Melody




________________________________

Liz's assistant asking her if she even wants to read emails from Clifton.....priceless......

********************************************************************************


From: Cain, Debora L. [DLCain@fcps.edu]
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
CC: Cain, Debora L.
BCC:
Sent: 6/10/2010 8:16:24 PM
Subject: RE: Response

Attachments:


OK. Do you want to continue to read the Clifton emails as they arrive and then flip them to me for the response? Or would you prefer not to read them, and I will just periodically check your inbox throughout each day and send responses as necessary?

On another note, please take a deep breath with regard to the red foyer. When the time comes, your vote will represent what is best for all students in FCPS. It will be borne as the result of careful consideration of the facts and figures – a decision that reflects your character, and not one reached through coercion.

________________________________________
Deb Cain
Executive Administrative Assistant to:
Elizabeth (Liz) T. Bradsher, Springfield District
Jim Raney, Member At Large
Patricia (Patty) S. Reed, Providence District
Fairfax County School Board Office
571.423.1070 (phone)
571.423.1067 (fax)



_____________________________________________
From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 7:55 PM
To: Cain, Debora L.
Subject: RE: Response


Looks excellent.

The foyer is full of red. They are loud and Herrity is here.

Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070




_____________________________________________
From: Cain, Debora L.
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 7:53 PM
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Subject: RE: Response

Liz – I added a bit to your draft response and replaced your link to the FCPS home page with a direct link to the Southwestern Regional Planning Study Community Engagement Process page. Let me know what you think:


Thank you for your email and concern with regard to the Clifton issue and others. At this time, no decision has been made to close Clifton ES. The issues in the southwestern portion of the county are complex and need resolve due to capacity concerns and facility issues. We are working through a process that has been established for the benefit of the public as well as the School Board.

I understand that school issues remain very emotional and decisions are often complex. It is my hope the decisions that will impact the southwestern schools and communities, to include Clifton, are decisions that will be reviewed in their entirety and will result in the best interest of our students and county residents.

Please know that the School Board is reviewing the issues very carefully and understands the decisions made will have implications for the county as a whole. All information and dates regarding action on this issue is available via our website at http://www.fcps.edu/news/swcountyschls.htm. Thank you again for taking the time to write.

________________________________________
Deb Cain
Executive Administrative Assistant to:
Elizabeth (Liz) T. Bradsher, Springfield District
Jim Raney, Member At Large
Patricia (Patty) S. Reed, Providence District
Fairfax County School Board Office
571.423.1070 (phone)
571.423.1067 (fax)



_____________________________________________
From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Thursday, June 10, 2010 3:26 PM
To: Cain, Debora L.
Subject: REsponse


Deb,

Here is the text for the email.

I appreciate your concern for this issue. At this time no decision has been made to close Clifton ES. We are working thought a process that has been established for the benefit of the public as well as the School Board. School issues remain very emotional and decisions are often complex. It is my hope the decisions that will impact the Southwestern schools and communities to include Clifton are decisions that will be reviewed in their entirety and will result in the best interest of our students and county residents.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Torpey Bradsher

What do you think Deb?

Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070

Didn't Liz say just yesterday that she doesn't violate sunshine laws by communicating with more than one member????

*******************************************************************************


From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member) [ETBradsher@fcps.edu]
To: James, Denise; Burke, Barbara; Hunter, Barbara M. (Gatehouse); Tistadt, Dean
CC: Raney, Jim (School Board Member); Wilson, Tessie (School Board Member); Janice Miller
BCC:
Sent: 4/14/2010 10:21:02 AM
Subject: RE: Robinson meeting

Attachments:


Good morning,

This is a very quick email “debrief” on my observations of the meeting last night. It was clear this first Ad Hoc Committee has wonderful co-chairs that are committed to the intent of the process. In addition the Community Outreach Subcommittee did a very professional job outlining the issues and setting up the focus groups. (I would have added additional facts on certain subjects but this was their presentation---not mine or FCPS’s) I know staff assisted with resources and I wanted all of you to know this morning that I am very grateful for all your hard work over the past several months. I realize this has been no easy task.

I am of course still concerned with the issues being presented as a School Board member and realize despite all our efforts we will never be able to separate bias and emotions from these school based issues. Upon reviewing the sign in sheets at the tables I noted about 50% of those attending were from the Clifton community. There was one table with a majority of parents from the Oak Hill community all of whom wanted to continue to attend Oak Hill and apparently were from an “island” within that boundary. At another table there were parents from the Sangster Community who live in Orange Hunt Estates and are the 10% of Sangster that go to Irving and WSHS and want to keep it that way. So what we got last night were residents all interested in keeping, for lack of a better phrase, “their little piece of the pie.”

The issue although about facilities and enrollment morphed into boundaries and as such the Clifton issue was one that was not reviewed based upon factual stats, etc. but rather emotion and also a very important piece, the subject of perceived community. If Clifton remains, thought many that would mean Oak Hill remains, Sangster remains, etc. I spoke to several parents from the Silverbrook community who chose to attend. In their words they said the “tables were stacked” with Clifton parents and their comments were not adequately presented.

I realize we have 3 more meetings and these will be of interest. However, if we can’t overcome tremendous personal/parent bias then I would have to say this form of engagement affords minimal information, despite offering such potential and valuable community awareness.

Liz
PS Perhaps I am having a bad day?


Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070

Why does Ilryong let Bradsher boss him around???

************************************************************

From: Moon, Ilryong (School Board Member) [IMoon@fcps.edu]
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
CC:
BCC:
Sent: 6/2/2010 4:57:52 PM
Subject: RE: RE: Clifton Discussion

Attachments:


Thank you. Just listen, that I can do. ^^



Sincerely,


Ilryong Moon
Member At Large
Fairfax County School Board
Joann V. Kinney, Executive Administrative Assistant
571.423.1065 (voice); 571.423.1067 (fax)
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From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member)
Sent: Wednesday, June 02, 2010 4:56 PM
To: Moon, Ilryong (School Board Member)
Subject: Re: RE: Clifton Discussion


On the front web page scroll down to Southwestern Study, click on it. Will take you to study page. Staff was working to place reports on line today.
Final reports should be at the bottom of the list of reports.

Note to the wise-- I know you are meeting with Clifton parents, they can sure talk for a long time---be sure you tell them your time schedule for the meeting!
As an FYI I have not made my mind up on this issue.
Liz


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Keep in mind that when liz's community was DEMANDING that a middle school be built, Dean Tistadt and staff recommended an addition to the school and said THEY DID NOT NEED A NEW MIDDLE SCHOOL.

How odd then that Liz would say that communities have no say in how renovations are handled.

I guess her friends and neighbors are special.


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From: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member) [ETBradsher@fcps.edu]
To: James, Denise; Tistadt, Dean; Sneed, Kevin
CC:
BCC:
Sent: 6/14/2010 7:41:22 AM
Subject: RE: Pertinent to June 14th Clifton ES Visit

Attachments:


You are correct about the tour.

BTW I would have a very hard time if we allowed community members to determine how a school was to be renovated. I don't believe South County was given the opportunity to decided how they wanted the school built? FCPS should be determining such need, materials used, etc.

I think Clifton residents have gone a bit too far with expectations and perceived demands. The school system works for the benefit of all children.

It is only 7:41 and I am a bit testy already!
Liz

Elizabeth T. Bradsher
Fairfax County School Board
Springfield District
Phone: (571) 296-1875
Debora L. Cain, Executive Administrative Assistant
Phone: (571) 423-1070



-----Original Message-----
From: Sneed, Kevin
Sent: Monday, June 14, 2010 7:36 AM
To: Bradsher, Elizabeth (School Board Member); Tistadt, Dean; James, Denise
Subject: RE: Pertinent to June 14th Clifton ES Visit

I see no reason to include this in today's session, especially the tour which I assumed was to only give the board a sense of scale regarding the school and grounds. Once we open the door to speculating about the billion possible ways to renovate the school we could be there for weeks. If the decision is made to renovate the school we might include input from the community/school.