My name is Janet Stake and I have already spoken twice publicly in opposition to the Seven Oaks charter proposal. I do not believe that our community supports this charter school. A number of people spoke out and wrote letters of concern the last two times that this application was presented. Our community supports our high quality traditional public schools. We will be renewing our referendum soon in Monroe County and this charter proposal undermines that process. I would hope that you would look at all the previous evidence, including why the proposal was unanimously rejected and realize that many questions still remain concerning this current application.
For example: Is the designated building safe and habitable for children? Who will pay for any renovations necessary? Where is the market analysis showing that a significant number of people want this type of school in our area? Also, are the community partners listed on the application truly in support of the charter? Their list stretches the truth about who is a community partner. Many of those listed are nonprofits that merely donated items for a silent auction. It appears that The Seven Oaks board has also not continued to communicate with all of their supposed community partners, I know for a fact, that they haven’t spoken to some of them for over a year. What about their harsh disciplinary policies? What about the inadequate responses to the questions concerning compliance with federal and state law for special needs, high ability, and ENL students? And finally, why should you approve the use of our tax dollars so Hillsdale College, a private college in Michigan can greatly influence the curriculum and instruction of our local children?
I do not believe the Seven Oaks application adequately addresses any of these questions and concerns. Thank you for your time.
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For example: Is the designated building safe and habitable for children? Who will pay for any renovations necessary? Where is the market analysis showing that a significant number of people want this type of school in our area? Also, are the community partners listed on the application truly in support of the charter? Their list stretches the truth about who is a community partner. Many of those listed are nonprofits that merely donated items for a silent auction. It appears that The Seven Oaks board has also not continued to communicate with all of their supposed community partners, I know for a fact, that they haven’t spoken to some of them for over a year. What about their harsh disciplinary policies? What about the inadequate responses to the questions concerning compliance with federal and state law for special needs, high ability, and ENL students? And finally, why should you approve the use of our tax dollars so Hillsdale College, a private college in Michigan can greatly influence the curriculum and instruction of our local children?
I do not believe the Seven Oaks application adequately addresses any of these questions and concerns. Thank you for your time.
Return to Seven Oaks public comments page