12-03-02 Jont Committee Health & Public Safety and Residential Neighborhoods

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Joint Meeting of the Health and Public Safety Committee and the Residential Neighborhoods Committee December 3,2002 Page 3 the School Corporation is trying, however almost all school systems are being competitive in this area. Council Member Pfeifer then asked about Spanish. Dr. Raymond stated that Spanish will be required in Kennedy and LaSalle, and noted that it is cost prohibitive to offer Spanish at each school. Council President Kelly inquired about the reaction to having Tarkington as a traditional school where uniforms will be required. Dr. Raymond stated that the reaction has been"very positive". Council Member Kuspa stated that the success of the program will depend on the parents, and encouraged Dr. Raymond to continue to get parents behind the program. He added that he believes that Dr. Raymond is"doing a fabulous job". Dr. Raymond noted that the lack of respect by the students for teachers, authority figures and themselves is one of the key programs, a problem which has grown bigger over the past decade. Council Member White suggested increased parental involvement should be pursued and that the School Corporation should find ways to engage parents into the process since they are dealing with different sub-cultures. In response to a question raised by Council Member White with regard to safety, Dr. Raymond responded that the safety issue in the high schools is tough, however she has received a good response from Chief Fautz when called. Aspects of the student population are disrespectful and as a result security has been increased and additional counselors have been made. Adams is experiencing increased enrollment as well as dealing with construction. Dr. Raymond added that the"attitude of some of the young people is positively appalling", resulting in fights, food fights, unacceptable language and property damage. She is receiving daily reports on Adams High School, with new rules being implemented this week. Those who violate the rules will be expelled. She added that public education is a right but has responsibilities also. Teachers need support,however she noted that some teachers need additional sensitivity training. Council President Kelly stated that Dr. Raymond he believes is utilizing the right approach, noting that most"kids are great kids, and that using my way or the highway is the right approach". Linda Malone noted that she is from the north side of South Bend and attended the Clay Cluster meeting. The testing of children to remain in a program was the main concern raised. She stated that she believe it is unfair and would have an adverse effect on the student's self esteem. With regard to the situation at Adams High School, she stated that she was aware of a student seeing a gun. She contacted the principal and when she got no response then contacted Lyn Coleman. She did not get a response from the school until the next day. She inquired why a random metal detector could not be used. She hoped that a life would not have to be taken before such safety measures were implemented. She then requested the chain of command for reporting such instances. Dr. Raymond stated that the staff in place are the chair of command and that she could voice her concerns in person at the school. Linda Malone noted that she suggested that parents be allowed to volunteer in the schools as a